I have just logged on for the first time in ... months. My apologies.
I feel sorry for Jamers dilemma in the car park, there is no excuse for bad parking, just bad drivers. I also agree that parking bays are generally too small. You see people carriers, 4x4s and other larger vehicles more often nowadays then you did 10 or 20 years ago, yet the parking bays have not grown any bigger.
What does sadden me (in this thread) is some of the ignorance shown towards disabled people. Being disabled does not mean having no use of the legs; in fact being disabled is not always physical, it can be a mental disability.
You do not have to look disabled to be disabled.
Ignorance. You do not have to look disabled to be disabled.
Only disabled people who get the highest rate of the mobility component of DLA (Disability Living Allowance) are entitled, if they so choose, to use their allowance to lease a vehicle on the motability scheme. If they choose a more expensive vehicle then they must make up the difference with an upfront payment.
Being disabled, people are more vulnerable and need a vehicle that is reliable. A new vehicle is generally more reliable (and under warranty) than a second-hand vehicle. It could be dangerous or life threatening if a disabled person broke down in their vehicle in the middle of nowhere, which is why a reliable vehicle is a must.
Able-bodied people can also lease a vehicle, if they so choose, but not through the motability scheme, which is a charitable organisation.
Ignorance. You do not have to look disabled to be disabled. The disabled bays are larger so that the disabled person can get in and out of a vehicle more easily. Often the car door needs to be fully open.
Playing devils advocate here, I would say if you have a large vehicle and you are not disabled; then the onus is on you to park correctly.
Ignorance. You are not aware of the Mr Grumpy or his disability or the car he uses.