(NAPSI)—In the harried competition for close spots, normally courteous drivers engage various parking taboos, many involving the use of parking spaces designated for the more than 30 million Americans with mobility-impairing disabilities. However, the nonprofit Accessible Parking Coalition (APC), established by the International Parking and Mobility Institute, is promoting a national effort to eliminate disabled placard abuse and make accessible parking more accessible.

Here are seven reminders for every driver:

  1. Remember that marked accessible parking spots are for people with disabilities. 
  2. Unless authorized, don’t park in an accessible parking space—not even for a minute. 
  3. Never infringe on van-accessible parking spaces designed for ramp- or lift-equipped vehicles.  
  4. Never park, block, or leave a shopping cart in the access aisle zones with cross-hatching next to accessible parking spots.  
  5. Don’t borrow others’ disabled parking placards or use yours after it has expired and is no longer necessary. 
  6. Follow the rules, but don’t become a parking vigilante. If you suspect someone is using a spot illegally, take a photo of the license plate and contact local law enforcement.  
  7. Remember that not all disabilities affecting mobility are visible. Don’t assume someone is illegally parking in an accessible spot. For example, a person with a respiratory or other condition that makes walking difficult may be eligible for a disabled placard.  

About 80% of people with parking placards agree that illegal accessibility parking fraud is common. Abusing disabled placards and unlawfully using accessible parking spaces are offenses that result in penalties. Many jurisdictions are increasing fines—some exceeding $1,000 per violation—and implementing sting operations to catch violators.

For more facts, news, and advice on this topic, visit www.accessibleparkingcoalition.org.