Legal Question in Disability Law in California

Mr. Nelson: Your response greatly appreciated but unfortunately not quite on point. I know that I must show I'm a student to park on the college lots. What I don't know is: (emphasis added)

" . . . with a valid state issued handicapped parking placard, Under ADA IS IT LEGAL FOR A COMMUNITY COLLEGE TO DEMAND THAT I PROVIDE MY VEHICLE MAKE/MODEL AND LICENSE PLATE NUMBER before allowing me to park on college property with my placard displayed?" Unlike a handicapped license plate, a handicapped placard is issued to a person, not a vehicle, yes?

Thanks very much in advance

Answer (1 of 1)

Yes, if the lot owner restricts access to students only, and most do by 'permit', you have to prove you are a student to park there, with or without handicap placard.

Terry A. Nelson


Asked on 8/05/11, 6:32 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Michael Stone Law Offices of Michael B. Stone Toll Free 1-855-USE-MIKE

The college might be trying to do you a favor. Lots of college students try to scam handicapped parking, for example by using a relative's placard, and maybe this is the college's way of attempting to prevent this.

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Answered on 8/05/11, 9:38 pm
Terry A. Nelson Nelson & Lawless

As I said, it is not unreasonable for the school to require your vehicle be ID'ed to them in advance, so they can verify student status when checking the handicap spaces. Mr. Stone's answer is exactly on point. With limited number of spaces, the school must try to insure access for those actually qualified. If you intend to use more than one vehicle, then you will have to work it out with the school and provide a list. If you intend to use 'random' numerous vehicles, then you, not the school, are creating a problem for yourself.

If you are trying to make out a case that they are discriminating against all handicap students, I disagree. If you are trying to make out a case that they are discriminating against you individually, I disagree, unless you can show you are the only handicap student being so treated.

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Answered on 8/06/11, 12:50 pm


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