A lot of people have found themselves in the position of being behind schedule and needing to make a quick stop. All the parking spots are full except for the handicapped one. What harm could it do to park there for a few minutes while you run in and conduct your business? The truth is that, in the state of California, this is considered committing handicap parking fraud. You may assume that the maximum punishment is a stiff fine, but the reality can be much harsher.
Only certain people are eligible for a handicap license plate or placard
A person can get a handicap placard by applying to their local Department of Motor Vehicles. While anyone can apply, only certain people qualify. They include people who have seriously impaired mobility, a visual impairment such as blindness or partial-sightedness, or the loss of one or both of their legs or arms. A medical professional must sign a section of the application known as the Doctor’s Medical Certification section.
California law is specific about the illegality of inappropriately using a handicapped placard
According to the California Vehicle Code, it’s illegally to park in a handicapped space if a disabled person or handicapped person isn’t on board (even if you have a placard), to park in a space designated for or display a placard issued to a person who’s not driving or a passenger, to use a placard that’s been revoked or cancelled, and to lend out your handicapped placard to an unauthorized person.
Penalties for violating this vehicle code
If you’re caught violating the above described vehicle code then you could face a civil fine or a misdemeanor charge. If you receive a civil fine, which is essentially like a parking ticket, you could be paying a fine of at least $250 but up to $1,000. If you don’t pay that or go to court then you can be charged with failure to appear or pay a traffic citation. That is reported to the Department of Motor Vehicles and can result in additional penalties, up to and include having your license suspended.
If you’re charged with a misdemeanor, then you could be spending up to six months in jail and paying a fine of at least $250 and as much as $1,000. As you can see, this is a serious matter and requires the advice and counsel of a criminal defense attorney. Call us at 714-760-4088 to get started.
Do not face handicap parking fraud charges on your own
Even if you’re “only” issued a citation, any type of handicap parking fraud in California can result in significant fines. If the situation is more serious, then you could find yourself in jail. This is not a situation to take lightly. Before you pay any ticket, or face any judge, you need to have a criminal defense attorney on your side.
When you reach out to Chambers Law Firm at 714-760-4088, we’ll provide a free case evaluation. Simply call us today and tell us your story. We can break down your options to ensure you make the most informed decision about how to handle your case.
