City urges drivers not to take parking bays for disabled
The City of Hamilton is to step up enforcement of the illegal use of designated disabled parking bays.
The bays ensure fair access to services, especially for those who face mobility challenges, a spokeswoman said.
She added that parking enforcement officers continued to observe widespread misuse of the bays by drivers without permits, as well as individuals abusing temporary or “borrowed” disabled parking badges.
Those found in violation may be subject to a $75 penalty.
The parking bays are marked with the international symbol of access: a blue wheelchair.
The City of Hamilton said designated disabled parking bays are strictly reserved for individuals with a valid Disabled Parking Permit.
It applies for use 24 hours per day, seven days per week, including Sundays and after regular business hours.
The City of Hamilton uses the definition of “disabled” in Britain's Disability Discrimination Act, 1995, as follows: “A disabled person is a person who has a physical or mental impairment which has a substantial and long term effect on his or her ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities.“
Dwayne Caines, the chief executive of the City of Hamilton, said: “Creating a city that is accessible for all means holding the line on fairness.
“These parking bays are not optional guidelines — they are legal designations that exist to protect the rights and dignity of individuals with disabilities.
“We are especially concerned about reports of people misusing temporary permits or using someone else’s badge while the permit holder is not present.
“That is abuse and it deprives those who genuinely need these spots. Our enforcement teams have been directed to take a stricter approach to violations going forward.”
Mr Caines said there was no “quick stop” exception to the use of the bays.
He added: “The rules apply at all times, and our message is simple: if you do not have a valid disabled parking permit and are not transporting the person it’s issued to, do not park there.
“Also, we must be reminded that disabilities can’t always be seen. We shouldn’t assume that because someone is not in a wheelchair or walking with a cane that they do not have a disability.”
The City said the Disabled Parking Permit was issued to a specific individual, not to a vehicle and should be used only when that individual is being transported.
It said misuse of the permits — especially by friends, family or caregivers running errands alone — may result in its revocation.
The City said it was working to make Hamilton as accessible as possible.
Recent infrastructure enhancements include additional accessible parking bays, upgraded curb cuts and tactile pavers to assist visually impaired pedestrians.
If someone is observed misusing a disabled parking permit or parking illegally in an accessible bay, call the City of Hamilton at 292-1234 or make a report to police.
• To learn more or apply for a Disabled Parking Permit, visitwww.cityofhamilton.bm
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