Accessibility Parking Question

[Ernie]

I was at Wide World of Sports 3 days ago to watch my 2 sons run the Mickey Mile. While waiting, I went back to our car to leave a few items. While returning back, and crossing at a marked crosswalk, a truck stopped at the stop sign and then accelerated rapidly, striking me.
Not a good thing.
The hospital concluded that while breaking no bones, all of the ligaments in my left leg were torn, and I should not put any weight on that leg for about 6 weeks. (They also advised I contact an orthopedic surgeon when I get home, as I may need their services).
My question is, how do I get a pass to part in the Accessibility Parking area. We have rented a wheelchair, and it is physically impossible for me to transfer to a tram.
We went to Animal Kingdom today and the castmember at the parking booth said to just go ahead and park - there should be no problem.
I'm not confident she's right.
So, does anyone know how we get a parking permit for the 2 weeks we still have left here?
Thanks

 

[Cheshire Figment]

I don't think the Florida is set up for that.

However, when you get to the person directing traffic in the parking lot explain that you now have a wheelchair but no parking permit. Each row has a space marked "Reserved" at the start of the row. They should send you forward and have you park in one of the reserved spaces which will be almost as close to the front as disabled parking.

The problem with parking in Disabled Parking without a proper tag is the lots are patrolled by Orange County Sheriff's Office and it is a $250 ticket to park illegally in disabled parking.

 

[mechurchlady]

The only way to get a permit is to get one at home for your province and use that, get a Florida residence and driver's license or state ID then a permit, or apply as a frequent traveler who is from out of state but that would not apply in this case.

Best to do as Cheshire said. You can park near the trams and put the wheelchair on the tram or ask to park in the disabled parking area and park in a space with no blue disabled parking signs or markings. You can also use the drop off area at TTC which will put you near the TTC and avoid that steep and long walk from the disabled parking lot, oy.

 

[ireland_nicole]

I agree that the best thing is to have DH drop you off at the entrance, there's usually a drop off point- esp. at the TTC; that is a long, steep walk. I am so sorry this happened to you. I certainly hope the police were notified and appropriate action is being taken.

 

[Ernie]

Thank you to everyone for their suggestions. I'm still kind of stuck. They have put my left leg into a restraining device that keeps it perfectly straight, and have told me that I must put absolutely no weight on it. To say that mobility is a problem is an understatement. It takes me about 10 minutes to get into or out of our vehicle. Because it is my left leg, I can drive fine once I'm in position. (Thankfully we have a GMC Yukon, and there's lots of leg room.)
I really don't think that I could make it up into a tram, or get down from one.
The drop-off idea would be great if there was a second person licensed with us. But I'm it.
Given that the accident happened on Disney property, I was very hopeful that Disney would have a mechanism to issue a temporary disability parking permit. I need it for only on their property.
It might be good for this to consider this option for people injured while on vacation.
Thanks again.

 

[mechurchlady]

The disabled parking permits are issued by each state so Disney cannot help you there. You can check with the Florida DMV but as I said that is not much help. If you have money to burn you could take a taxi to the drop off point. Disney does allowed guests to park in the medical/disabled parking spot that is close to all parks but the TTC and MK area.

As for blame it was the driver's fault and not Disney. Disney will do everything they can to help guests though. You can find in FAQs or talk to the front desk of your hotel about anything you may need such as an accessible shower. If you are staying on site there is the buses that you could use and the monorails. You could park at Epcot then take the monorail from there to TTC then to MK thus avoiding the hike up and down the TTC monorail station and parking lot.

hugs and good luck
Laurie

 

[Mary976]

As others have noted, parking passes for disabilities (even temporary ones) are regulated by the state. But hopefully Disney can get you parked in the close-in "reserved" section. It's right up with the disability parking. Although at the MK, it's still a hike to then get to the entrance.

Good luck. I hope the rest of this trip goes more smoothly for you.
Mary

 

[McCall]

Are you staying on property? if so then taking the bus in your WC may be the best bet even though it is a pain. No transfering and no driving.

 

[Ernie]

Well, everything worked out today.
As Cheshire Figment mentioned, there is a 'Reserved' row adjacent to each of the Accessability Parking rows.
At both Epcot and DHS I explained my situation to the parking attendant, and they directed me to that row. One of them said that row is kept there for people in situations such as mine. The two rows are so close together that they might as well be the same. It worked great.
Now, if that leg will just quit hurting.
Thanks again everyone.

 

[mechurchlady]

Glad to hear the good news and the best medicine for pain is chocolates. That or another type of pain but that is me, lol. My nose stopped throbbing and boom my knees and hand started yelling for attention.

Lots of chocolate and laughter are the best medicine. Hoping you get well soon.

Laurie