Handicap Placard Infraction Defense

Once or twice a year a client or friend (or both) will call our office and explain that one of their parents received a “Parking in a Handicapped Zone” ticket. They will further explain that their parent has a valid handicapped placard, but the one that was displayed in the vehicle was expired. Hence, their fixed income parent received a whopping $450 dollar ticket. In this scenario, people are cited under the “unauthorized use” subsection, which is listed below.

Elements for a Handicapped Placard Violation – RCW 46.19.050

Unauthorized use. Any unauthorized use of the parking placard, special license plate, special year tab, or identification card issued under this chapter is a parking infraction with a monetary penalty of two hundred fifty dollars. In addition to any penalty or fine imposed under this subsection, two hundred dollars must be assessed. For the purpose of this subsection, “unauthorized use” includes (a) any use of a parking placard, special license plate, special year tab, or identification card that is expired, inactivated, faked, forged, or counterfeited, (b) any use of a parking placard, special license plate, special year tab, or identification card of another holder if the initial holder is no longer eligible to use or receive it, and (c) any use of a parking placard, special license plate, special year tab, or identification card of another holder even if permitted to do so by the holder.

The Remedy

If the individual does have a valid placard at the time of the citation, most courts will dismiss the ticket for no fee. If you have not been successful by reaching out to the court, you can reach out to our office for infraction defense.

Witt Law Group handles traffic tickets in Kitsap District Court only. If you need assistance outside of this court, we may be able to offer a recommendation. (360) 792-1000