Omaha, Nebraska – Parking in a city can often be a hassle, and for drivers with disabilities, the challenge becomes even more pronounced. Snagging the right parking spot, only to see it taken away by someone else, is a frequent disappointment. Recognizing this, the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office has declared its intent to address accessible parking violations head-on in the month of October.
“You never know when somebody is going to need that space,” remarks Sharon Ohmberger from Disability Rights Nebraska, emphasizing the significance of these parking spots. The Community Action Team, a unit of the sheriff’s office, recently announced on social media its decision to intensify monitoring efforts. They will be keeping a close watch on businesses, apartments, and recreational zones, ensuring ADA-accessible parking spots are utilized only by those with the requisite placards displayed on their rear-view mirrors.
Ohmberger asserts that this move isn’t just about parking; it’s about inclusion. She states, “This is an important initiative because having access is essential to some people to be able to maintain their independence and make it such that they don’t need to rely on others to get where they need to be.” When unauthorized vehicles occupy these spaces, it inadvertently deprives those in need from accessing various businesses and services, thus compromising their participation in society.
Sheriff Aaron Hanson concurs with Ohmberger’s sentiments. According to Hanson, these violations directly affect the quality of life for those with disabilities. The sheriff’s office often finds itself inundated with complaints regarding accessible parking violations. Sheriff Hanson noted the vital nature of handicap parking, saying, “Our Community Action Team was designed to address these very types of quality of life issues and we want to be responsive to our community.”
Statistics show that nearly 13% of Nebraska’s residents live with a disability, translating to almost 60,000 individuals in Douglas County alone. The importance of these spots becomes even clearer when looked at these numbers.
Ohmberger leaves the community with a simple yet potent message, urging them to introspect before parking. “Be kind, think about what if that were a friend or a family member or a close neighbor who needed that space, and just be kind about it,” she suggests.
For those thinking of flouting the rules, there’s a stiff penalty awaiting. The Sheriff’s Office warns that fines for parking violations in accessible spots can reach between $150 to $500.
