Legal Question in Disability Law in Pennsylvania

Discrimination?

I have applied for assigned handicap parking on the state owned street with the borough here in Bernville,Pa only to be denied because they said that it wouldn't be reserved just for me and anyone with a state issued placard could park there. I understand that but where I live the likelyhood of someone else parking there with a placard is about 0. they said I could appeal it but it wouldn't do any good. Seven other people also applied here in the borough and all were denied. How can I get what I am legally entitled to and is this discrimination? I have called the Dept of justice and they referr me to HUD fair Housing and when I call HUD they referr me to the Dept of Justice. I just keep getting the run around and each department states that there is no law that pertains to a public street. I seem to be fighting a losing battle. I need a ramp built outside so I can get my power chair in and out of my apt and my landlord basicaly told me to move to a place that could acommidate me. i sent him a letter asking permission to install the ramp at my expense but he has yet to respond. I called fair housing and they stated that I don't even have a case because I don't have the money at this time to have it built. What do I do now?


Asked on 8/16/07, 1:45 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Roger Traversa Arjont Group (Law Office of Roger Traversa)

Re: Discrimination?

You asked about accommodations for disabilities.

I'm not certain if you asked for a handicap spot to be located near your residence, or for a reserved handicap spot. The first is usually accommodated but most municipalities do not recognize reserved public handicap parking. It is always first-come, first-serve.

As to rental housing, if the apartment owner is required under the ADA to have accommodations then it is mandatory and at their expense. If the apartment owner is not under the ADA then there's nothing you can do.

Regards,

Roger

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Answered on 8/16/07, 6:21 pm


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