We've all been there: driving slowly up and down the parking lot looking for a handicapped space or any space near the entrance of your destination. But, it always seems that someone else is occupying the coveted space.
After checking both the license tag and looking for the familiar blue placard hanging on the rearview mirror, you console yourself thinking that at least, a handicapped person is using the spot. As you continue looking for a parking space closer to the entrance, you notice a young man in his 20s walking out to the car with the placard. Your first thought is, He must be borrowing the placard from someone who is handicapped.
This may be your first inclination to think that the young man isn’t handicapped. But let us remember that some handicapped persons may not show an "obvious" sign of being physically challenged. For example, some Parkinson's patients may have days when balance is good and they can get around without a cane or walker. But, they aren't able to walk very far. The key to remember is giving the benefit of the doubt.
What if you feel that the person occupying the handicapped space is perfectly healthy? Should you question them directly? There isn't an official protocol for this scenario, but I do believe there is a tactful way to handle this situation. First of all, don't demand that the person reveal their disability to you. If you feel they are parked illegally, jot their license plate number and report it to the police later. This protects the person parked (whether legally or illegally) and it protects you; it places the issue precisely where it needs to be: in the hands of the police officers.
So remember, some disabilities aren't obvious to everyone, so leave it to the experts!