Parking lots are often overlooked when considering pedestrian safety, but they are busy areas with constant interaction between vehicles and pedestrians. This interaction can be hazardous, especially for individuals with visual impairments. Ensuring that these environments are safe and accessible for everyone is not just a legal requirement but a moral imperative. Detectable warning surfaces (DWSs) are worthwhile in achieving this goal, providing necessary cues to navigate these spaces safely.

The Americans with Disability Act outlines the standards required to make a parking lot ADA compliant, specifically when it comes to restriping the parking spots. Over time, the paint in parking lots fades, and it becomes more and more difficult to determine the parking spots. At this point, businesses are required to restripe their parking lot and to ensure that the parking lot is ADA compliant.

Accessible parking spots are the key to mobility for individuals with disabilities who visit all of life’s essential businesses. From school to grocery shopping to entertainment, accessible parking means that everyone is welcome to enjoy living. But when it comes to accessible parking lots, it’s not a one-size-fits-all situation.

In fact, accessible parking lots often have parking that is designated for different types of vehicles. Moreover, the Americans with Disabilities Act outlines certain standards for public parking lots.