Handicapped Signs

When you're in a parking lot and you see a handicapped sign, you might be surprised at just how many rules and regulations there are. Creating a suitable handicapped parking spot is not as simple as just buying a handicapped sign from ParkingSignCorner.com and putting it in front of the space. The Americans with Disabilities Act has set forth some very specific guidelines for these spots. First of all, accessible parking with a handicapped sign must be located within the shortest distance to the entrance. A marked access aisle must be provided if individuals will need to cross traffic.

Handicapped Parking Guidelines

As we all know here at ParkingSignCorner.com, the first rule of creating an appropriate handicapped parking spot is to have a handicapped sign with the international symbol of accessibility. This sign must be located in front of the parking space, and it needs to be high enough so that it will not be hidden by a parked vehicle. It is interesting to note that there are no ADA guidelines for having a painted handicapped logo on the pavement. The first key to a good parking space is a handicapped sign!

Parking spaces with a handicapped sign should be on level ground. If there isn't any level ground near the entrance, then the closest level ground is acceptable. Additionally, the route between the handicapped space and the entrance must have no steps or steeply sloped surfaces. The ground must be firm, stable, and slip-resistant. The spots must have at least five feet on either side so that individuals have enough space to get in and out of their vehicles.

Many spaces with a handicapped sign are also van accessible. These spaces must have an access aisle that is at least eight feet wide, and it must be clearly marked as “van accessible.” One out of every eight handicapped spaces must be van accessible. If the van accessible spots are in a covered parking garage, then there must also be at least a 98 inch high clearance. This will allow for the easy usage of wheelchair lifts and other equipment. There is a special handicapped sign for van accessible spots. Like any other sign, this must be mounted high enough so that it is clearly visible over a parked vehicle.

It takes a lot of work to make a handicapped accessible parking spot. A handicapped sign from ParkingSignCorner.com is just the first step— but it's an important one!