Shoppers Continue to Break This Law in Lafayette Parking Lots

(Lafayette, Louisiana) - We have a problem in Lafayette parking lots, and this isn't the first time we have addressed what some drivers continue to do when parking their vehicles.

Let me start by saying that this isn't just an issue in Lafayette; it's widespread across Acadiana. In recent months, I have seen more and more people violate this state law in parking lots.

I know that we are all super busy these days, and life comes at us fast, but that doesn't warrant breaking this law and putting those in need in unfortunate situations. What I am talking about are those who occupy parking spaces reserved for people with disabilities.

Too often, I see people just parking between the blue lines and running into the store without any regard for the reserved parking space they just took. Let me note that those who just park in these reserved spots often do not have the proper tags or license plate to occupy the space.

I only bring this up because I recently saw an elderly gentleman circle the reserved parking spots he was legally assigned to use, only to have to park much farther from the store's front doors. It was sad to see this older man have to struggle across the parking lot because the space where he was going to park was occupied by someone without the proper tags.

We must be better than this and respect the reserved parking spaces for those with any type of disability. Sure, there could be someone without the proper tags for the reserved spots who needs the space, but if police ever decide to really enforce these parking violations, it can be very costly.

Fines For Parking in Handicapped Spots in Louisiana

According to the Louisiana Legislature, a person who occupies a reserved parking spot for those with disabilities can be fined $275 for the first offense. Subsequent violations increase to a $500 fine.

Violators may also be responsible for towing fees, and repeat violators can face jail time if found guilty of parking in designated parking spaces that they are not allowed to occupy.

So, let's be a better Acadiana and keep those reserved parking spots open for those who truly need them. After all, what's a few more steps if it means assisting someone with a disability?