While handicapped parking spaces help exponentially, they can't prevent every blocking-in instance. However, this frustrating reality doesn't mean there's nothing we can do to make it happen as infrequently as possible. If you know the best tricks, you can prevent a lot of headaches. Check out these accessible parking tips that do their best to make sure you're never left in the lurch because of a bad parking job.
The cone blockade
If you've been blocked in before and are ready to take the big step in making sure it never happens again, it might be time to think about making yourself a cone blockade (that you will use whenever you park). I can't take credit for this idea (Rosemarie Rossetti, a universal accessibility specialist from Ohio, invented it), but I have to admit, it's really smart.
Essentially, what it is is two sets of two cones with a medium-thick rope tying them together. After she parks, she takes out her rope-cones and sets them out on the pavement next to her van, extending them outwards, so drivers will easily understand what she's trying to do (keep the space next to her clear). It may seem overboard, but with the poor attention drivers have these days, you can never be too careful.
Double park if you must
Sometimes places just doesn't have adequate accessible parking spots. When that happens, when of your best options is to double park. I'm sure I've upset many drivers doing this (I don't do it often), but if you're in a pickle and can't find a spot anywhere that will work for you, there's honestly not much else you can do except to double park. Hopefully, anyone about to call the store owner or a traffic cop to report you will see your disability parking placard or plate and leave you alone. And if you ever end up getting a ticket for double parking, you will most likely be able to get it rescinded if you explain your situation (you use a wheelchair and could not find an accessible parking spot).
Back lot parking
When I do have to double park, I like to park at the back of the parking lot, far away from people's eyes (and one of the least likely places to annoy people). For a lot of people who use wheelchairs, being close to the store isn't as important as having an accessible spot, which is why parking in the back can be a great idea if you don't get tired easily. There is usually always a few spots in the back that will work, especially the last spots that are near the curbs.
Street parking
Parking on the street can cause some issues. You may never get blocked in by another car (if you use a side-entry vehicle), but you can get blocked in by the elements. If you live in a place where it snows, sometimes parking on the street is an impossibility in the winter. Snow can pile up making it impossible to park or get out of your car safely. If you absolutely need to park on the road but the snow is blocking you from the sidewalk, you may have to consider looking for parking in which your ramp deploys out to the road � but make sure to watch for traffic! And if all else fails, consider asking for help or calling ahead!
Parking is one of the least enjoyable things about driving; a necessary evil for sure. But if you're vigilant, aware of your surroundings, and always expect the unexpected (therefore always parking safely), fingers-crossed, your adventures in parking will be less adventure, and more parking and getting the heck out of there.