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Police crackdown on handicap parking tickets

Posted by JLo
Tuesday, November 22, 2011

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In an online poll conducted by the Reeve Foundation in May, it was determined that the number one thing that annoys wheelchair users most is the able-bodied individuals taking accessible parking spots.

This story coming out of Bridgewater, New Jersey is one that those living with disabilities have been waiting to hear about. It is being reported that a record number of parking tickets have been given to "drivers faking their way into handicap spaces by using state-issued hang tags that belonged to dead relatives."

Jackie Jackson, a social worker and disability advocate from South Plainfield, called the crackdown “a model for other police departments.”

Jackson, 53, who uses a wheelchair and drives a van with hand controls, said she often has to park at an angle and take two regular spaces because the handicap spots are taken.

“When I do that I get nasty notes on my windshield,” she said. “I would not have to park like that if there more spaces available.”

“I think there should be a movement,” she added. “This is a great opportunity for other police departments.”

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Janelle

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