Oxnard – On June 20, 2017, California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) investigators contacted drivers parking at an Oxnard Walmart store in spaces designated for those with Disabled Person Parking Placards (DPPP) or plates.   The goal was to identify and cite those who illegally parked their vehicles in marked handicapped spaces.   Investigators issued citations to a total of 18 people, 16 who used a DPPP that wasn’t theirs and two others who did not possess one. One additional person was cited for driving without a license.

The enforcement effort followed two previous DPPP operations that took place in Ventura on May 22 and April 18, which resulted in the issuance of 13 and 22 citations respectively.

“DMV investigators conduct these enforcement operations year-round,” said Kenny Ehrman, president of the Association of Motor Vehicle Investigators of California (AMVIC).  “For the sake of those who truly need these parking spaces, we need to curb the abuse that takes place.  People are using DPPPs that aren’t theirs to park close businesses or to park for long periods of time and for free at metered spaces.”

Offenders must appear in court to face possible fines that range from $250 to $1,000. While the misdemeanor offense will appear on an offender’s driver record, no points will be assessed because it is not a moving violation.

During the months of April and May, DMV investigators issued 552 misdemeanor citations throughout the state for misusing Disabled Person Parking Placards.

The level of reported or observed misuse of DPPP varies from area to area.  Most violations involve people using disabled parking placards issued to family or friends to avoid paying parking fees, as well as obtaining convenient and/or unrestricted parking.  California Vehicle Code Section 4461(b) (c) prohibits anyone from lending their placard, knowingly permitting the use of their placard, or allowing anyone else to use it while they are not present.  In addition, a person shall not display a disabled person placard that was not issued to him or her or that has been canceled or revoked.

Anyone who thinks someone has been issued a Disabled Person Parking Placard in error or suspects placard misuse is urged to contact their local DMV Investigations office and submit a written complaint by filling out a Record of Complaint Form 172A or email placard.misuse@dmv.ca.gov. The complaint can be anonymous.