Handicap parking.

[Jackrabbit379]

This thread probably makes about as much sense as throwing a stick in a creek, but I have a question.
Our warehouse is right behind the Flyin J (Lubbock). The warehouse was running behind last night, so I bob-tailed over to the J, just to look around inside. I pulled in the back entry/exit, and parked up front where the RVs, etc park. As I made my way though the parking lot, towards the fuel island, I noticed a couple of handicap spots in the (truck) parking lot, on the corner of the front row.
I guess that is the first time I've seen 'handicap parking' in a truck stop parking lot.
Dumb question- Why are there 'handicap' parking spots in truck stops? Does the FMCSA allow those who are handicapped to drive (trucks)? I'm sure there are a lot of drivers that are handicapped in the head. I know there are lots, and lots of 'older' drivers out there that don't 'get around' quite like they used to, which I understand. I am sure I will follow my parents' footsteps. I am only 35 and I can tell ya when the weather is going to change. Are those spots for those that have 'the most experience', you might say? Or could it be the fact that the federal law requires 'handicap' parking?
I just couldn't imagine seeing some driver getting out of his truck, and then sit down in a wheel chair, or using a walker. No disrespect meant, and not that one couldn't do it, but that would be a scary thought.

[thebaldeagle655]

I've seen handicap spots in almost all truckstops. One thing you have to remember, it may not be the driver that is handicapped. The driver may have a wife or child with him/her that has a disability.

[Jay B]

I used to think those spots were a waste of good parking space, too. One day I saw a guy with one leg and a crutch climb out his truck at the fuel island. He had a sticker on the side of the cab that said something like "The driver of this vehicle carries a DOT medical waiver."
But I would guess that like all handicapped parking spots the person who parks in it is only borrowing a mirror tag from their mother in law (who only has it because she weighs 550 lbs and can't take 3 steps without running out of air).

[ssoutlaw]

Being handicapped doesn't mean you have to be in a wheelchair!!! or missing a leg for that matter!!!
Take me for instance, I have had 3 knee surgeries and walking long distances is rough because of the arthritis, sure I am sore at the end of the driving day, but am still a productive member of our society!!
I think they need more handicapped spaces closer to the truck stop facility's. I was your age once, so treasure the freedom your body gives you now!

[Jackrabbit379]

I was thinking about the 'older' drivers. I know there are many out there that may not be able to walk across the parking lot from the back row. I guess I didn't think about the passenger.

[RostyC]

so treasure the freedom your body gives you now!

You ain't kiddin'
I think I'm starting to lose my hearing a little.

[geeshock]

I'm still fully functional but I have seen plenty of ppl that have issues that handicap them but don't put them in a position to disqualify them from driving a truck.