Chief’s Corner

By Chief Steven J. Wojnar

Dudley Police Department

            Disability placards, or what are commonly referred to as handicap placards, were the subject of a recent discussion.  These items are issued to individuals with certain conditions to authorize parking in specially marked spaces.  I was asked to explain the qualifications for these permits.
            The Registry of Motor Vehicles rules and regulations 540CMR17.03 provides the general requirements and eligibility standards for issuance of a number plate or placard.  In order to qualify, a person must meet one or more of several conditions.  (1) A person cannot walk more then 200 feet without assistance from another person or other assistance as a result of a clinical diagnosis.  (2) Cardiovascular disease as classified as a Class III or IV by American Heart Association standards.  (3) Has a pulmonary disease which meets certain criteria at rest or minimal exertion even with supplemental oxygen.  (4) The person meets certain vision criteria.  (5) Has lost or has permanently lost the use of one or more limbs.  These conditions must be certified by a health care professional on a designated form.  This must also include an opinion as to whether or not the person in question can safely operate a vehicle.  People may be required to perform a road skills test under certain conditions as well.
            License plates can be issued to those individuals who are the registered owners of a vehicle.  Placards are issued to a person and not a vehicle.  These can be very useful as they allow a person to travel in different vehicles and still enjoy the privilege of convenient parking.  Strict standards are in place to allow certain individuals the ability to enjoy conveniences most of us take for granted.  If you believe you may qualify for this or have further question, ask your doctor or contact the nearest registry office for further information. 

            I wish to take a moment to congratulate our local Elementary, Middle School, and High School students who are wrapping up the school year.  It has been a long year and I am sure everyone is looking forward to the break.  All the graduates can look forward to college or the beginning of a new career.  On behalf of the men and women of the Dudley Police Department, I wish everyone a happy, healthy, and most important, safe summer.

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