By Michael Harvey August 26, 2009 11:31pm
HEAVIER fines and loss of licence demerit points are being urged for able-bodied drivers who hog disability parking bays. Federal frontbencher Bill Shorten says rampant abuse of the scheme is "obscene". Mr Shorten, the Parliamentary Secretary for Disabilities, is overhauling eligibility rules for parking permits and is incensed by motorists who illegally use disabled bays.
He will write to state and local government leaders - who are responsible for enforcing and collecting fines - urging a new get-tough approach. The existing fine for illegally parking in a disability bay is $117.
"Increase the fines to $250 for a first offence - points off your licence for a second," Mr Shorten told the Herald Sun.
"Daily discrimination against legitimate impaired drivers by unthinking citizens is obscene."
To read more, follow the link
1 comment:
I fully support this. Having worked with so many people who have mobility issues as well as family members who have mobility issues - and the difficulties this presents for everyday life - it is extremely frustrating if someone is illegally parking just for convenience to them without thought for other legitimate users. Raise the stakes and bring in demerits!
Post a Comment