Oct 26, 2006 7:12 pm US/Eastern
Many Towns Hiking Illegal Handicap Parking Fines
by Joe Shortsleeve
WALTHAM (CBS4) ―
You might want to think two or three times before you park in a handicap space. The fines are tripling in some communities to $300.
Waltham is the lastest community to consider such a fine.
"It's quite bad. Last Tuesday I issued eleven parking tickets," said Jerry LeBlanc, Waltham's handicap commissioner.
LeBlanc cruises parking lots making sure only the handicapped park in handicap spots.
Jerry carries a badge and can write $100 tickets but that fine could triple next month.
"It's a wake up call. We want people to be aware of the increase in fines, aware you are not suppose to park here," said Mark Johnson, Chairman of Waltham's handicap commission.
Waltham police say valid handicap placcards are often used illegally. "But there is also people who abuse or misuse the placcards. They will be driving a relative's car and they will use that and they will park in the space," said Lt. Joe Brooks.
Other cities have already started imposing $300 dollars fines. Foxboro, Medford, Chicopee, Attleboro and Waltham could be on the list by the end of next month.
(© MMVI, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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