Murphy – Snagging a parking space downtown can be difficult at times, local retiree Gerald Nichols said. But finding a handicap-accessible parking space can be a real problem, especially when delivery vehicles utilize the few spots available.
“It’s against the law, period,” Nichols said.
Although he and his wife are not disabled, he believes anyone could need handicap parking in the future. After repeatedly witnessing United Parcel Service and Federal Express trucks parked in such spots, he was so irritated that he stopped to speak with the drivers.
When they were unhelpful, Nichols said he reached out to UPS and FedEx, but didn’t get a satisfactory response. Nichols said he also called local law enforcement to complain. Misusing a handicap parking space in North Carolina can result in a fine of $100-250.
“The lack of safe, wheelchair-accessible parking in Murphy creates inconvenient and even dangerous situations for our county’s disabled population,” local resident Zoe Titlebaum wrote to the Cherokee Scout. “Communities strengthen together and weaken together.”
Assistant police chief Dustin Smith said while he has not personally seen delivery vehicles utilizing handicap spots downtown, his officers will intervene if they see the marked parking spaces being misused.
Responding to an inquiry from the Cherokee Scout, Dan McMackin with UPS Public Relations said their drivers are taught to obey all parking regulations. The company will follow up with employees who deliver to the area.
About 20 percent of the population nationwide has a disability, according to Barry Whaley, project director for the Southeast ADA Center. Out of those, only 8 percent use mobility aids like wheelchairs. Others with handicap placards could be deaf, have cognitive issues or have a medical condition.
While enforcement of handicap parking violations can be difficult in any community, Whaley wants drivers everywhere to be thoughtful of others. “The Golden Rule applies here,” he said.
For details regarding ADA guidelines or violations, visit adata.org, call the center at 800-949-4232 or email Whaley at adasoutheast@syr.edu.
By Tracy Barnes / Staff Correspondent