POLOKWANE – Being able to run from point A to B and maneuver in tight spaces is often something an able-bodied person will often take for granted. And when it comes to finding parking at a local mall or shopping centre, the trend is to find the parking bay which is closest to the entrance to avoid walking a distance to our destination.
You might also want to read: Report misuse of disabled parking with hotline
The parking bays closest to the entrance of a mall or store are normally set aside for persons with severe mobility impairment. Unfortunately many able-bodied motorists will still ‘make a quick’ stop in these special spaces because it is convenient, not considering that it may inconvenience those who actually need the parking space.
Review spoke to Tracy Moolman (not her real name) about the challenges she experiences… she is wheelchair-bound and the parking issue is a frustrating one to her.
She explained that it is very difficult to get out of a car if you do not have enough space to move. “As a disabled person, I cannot twist and turn my body like able-bodied people to squeeze through small openings and need ample space next to the car in order for me to get into my wheelchair. If the disabled parking bays are occupied we need to park over two parking spaces to have enough place to open the door fully and station the wheelchair next to the car. However when you double park, you get complaints. Sometimes it feels as if we cannot win,” she said.
Review also spoke to Maria Stone from APD about accessible parking bays for people with disability.
“Each time a non-disabled person parks in a parking bay reserved for persons with disabilities, a barrier is created that prevents that person from freely participating in society.”
People do not often realise the difference between a special parking bay and a normal parking pay.
Stone explains it as follows:
• Parking bays reserved for persons with a disability are wider than normal parking bays. This is to accommodate a person who needs to move from the car to the wheelchair and back.
• These reserved parking spaces are close to entrances to minimise fatigue to persons with severe mobility impairment.
Persons with a disability pay a fee to obtain and renew their parking permits. To qualify for a parking permit, you need to use a wheelchair; a walking frame or two crutches and you must be older than three years old.
The appliance procedure is not difficult. There is a screening meeting, held once a month. New applications are R100 and renewals are R50. A permit needs to be renewed every two years and applications must be accompanied by the correct fee and two recent ID photos.
She concluded and warned residents that fines can be issued for those that park on a reserved parking and reminded them that their car may be towed.
For more information contact Maria Stone at (015) 291 1787 or socialwork@apdlimpopo.co.za
