Ensuring that workplaces in California are inclusive and accessible is not just about fairness; it is the law. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) establishes clear guidelines and regulations for accessible parking in employment settings to ensure that individuals with disabilities have adequate and reasonable parking access. Accessible parking lots must meet specific dimensions and striping requirements, as well as have an adjacent access aisle to provide navigational freedom for people with disabilities.
Whether you are an employer aiming for full compliance in your parking lot or an employee seeking clarity on your rights, speak with the lawyers at Blackstone Law to understand the ins and outs of handicap and accessible parking laws that may be applicable to you. You may be eligible to recover damages if your employer failed to adhere to ADA regulations.
What Is an ADA-Compliant Parking Lot?
ADA-compliant parking ensures accessibility for individuals with disabilities. As stated in ADA guidelines, all parking facilities on a property should offer accessible spaces, which encompass the following facilities:
- Public or guest parking
- Employee spaces
- Parking lots and garages
- Temporary and unpaved lots
It is essential that unpaved parking areas have firm, non-slip surfaces. For instance, a gravel lot, regardless of designated accessible parking dimensions, would hinder a wheelchair user. Enhancing such lots with wheelchair-friendly surfaces boosts accessibility.
ADA Design Standards for Handicap and Accessible Parking
When developing or renovating parking areas, make sure to follow ADA’s design standards, which may include the following:
- Standard accessible space dimensions should span at least 96 inches in width, coupled with a 60-inch-wide access lane.
- A certain number of van-accessible spots, a minimum of 132 inches wide with a 98-inch vertical clearance, is mandated. The additional 36 inches can be incorporated into the access aisle.
- Every accessible spot, aisle, and pathway must adhere to slope guidelines, which include the maximum slope ratios of 1:48 for parking spots and aisles and 1:12 for ramps and pathways.
Accessible spots must feature a neighboring access lane, easing navigation for disabled individuals. This aisle links the parking space to an accessible pathway to the facility. The essential guidelines for these aisles include:
- Positioning: Although aisles can be shared between accessible spaces, each spot needs an aisle on one side minimum. Angled van-accessible spots necessitate a passenger-side aisle.
- Barrier-free: Aisles must be free of obstructions like pillars or signs.
- Markings: Aisles should have clear markings to discourage parking.
- Pathway Links: Aisles should lead to an accessible path, a minimum of 3 feet wide. If curbs or stairs are present, they must be replaced with ramps. Ramps should not impede aisle space and should conclude with a 36-inch landing. Alternatively, ramp flares can ease wheelchair transition onto the access route.
When marking your parking area, ensure access aisles are distinctly striped to deter vehicles. Diagonal markings are common for such aisles. Consideration should be given to whether spots are angled. While accessible spaces can be angled, van-accessible angled spots require a passenger-side aisle. Incorporating aisles on both sides, though optional, heightens parking lot functionality.
Typically, the width requirement for each spot originates from the stripe’s center. If a space lacks adjacent spots or aisles, the entire stripe width might be considered. Lastly, clearly mark all accessible spaces and aisles.
Speak With the Disability Discrimination Lawyers at Blackstone Law
Designing and maintaining accessible parking in the workplace is essential for inclusion and safety. If your employer violated ADA’s parking regulations, the lawyers at Blackstone Law are here to help you obtain justice. We have helped countless victims recover damages as a result of employment discrimination.
Schedule a complimentary consultation today by calling (310) 956-4054 or filling out a contact form to understand your legal options.