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Real members of MyAutismTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
A MyAutismTeam Member asked a question 💭
Chittenango, NY

This just came to me today. My 7 yr old has a bad habit of darting when we are in a parking lot. Even if I explain that there are alot of cars, it's dangerous, etc. I have child safety locks always engaged. But as soon as I open the door. Off he goes running. I literally can not keep him more than an arms length away from me. My question is, does anyone know if that would qualify me to get a handicap plaque for my car? So I can be closer to the door & I have more time to explain to him the… read more

December 19, 2012
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Answer Summary

Members strongly supported a parent asking whether their 7-year-old child who darts unpredictably in parking lots might qualify for a handicap... Read more

Members strongly supported a parent asking whether their 7-year-old child who darts unpredictably in parking lots might qualify for a handicap parking placard, with many confirming that yes, this safety concern can absolutely qualify with a doctor's approval. Several members shared that they successfully obtained placards (both temporary and permanent) for their children with autism by having neurologists, developmental pediatricians, or other specialists sign the required DMV paperwork. Practical strategies also emerged, including using child safety leashes (with one member sharing how she creatively turned them into a game), exploring autism service dogs trained specifically for children who bolt, and holding brief "safety meetings" before entering or leaving stores to reinforce awareness.

A MyAutismTeam Member

It is just a matter of getting a doctor to sign the state DMV required paperwork for it. If you explain this to your pediatrician, (preferably a developmental pediatrician or a DAN/MAPS doctor, they will understand better) they should be able to sign and you can get the plaque. At least that's the way it worked out for us in California.

December 20, 2012
A MyAutismTeam Member

yes...download the paperwork,we had our neurologist fill it out, and we have had one for about 5 years now. It is a permanent one, so a new one comes every year without filling out more paperwork.

December 21, 2012
A MyAutismTeam Member

I saw a link on the Autism Speaks website about service dogs being used for children who bolt. Don't know if this interests you as an option for keeping your son safe, but here is a link that may be helpful. http://www.pawswithacause.org/

December 23, 2012
A MyAutismTeam Member

Yes, we got one for our DD as she has a neurological condition (autism) that makes it a safety risk to have to walk far in a crowded parking lot. The DMV approved her for a 1 year plate so I assume that we will need to re-apply if she still has issues with bolting when the time is up.

December 21, 2012
A MyAutismTeam Member

@ I would very much like more information on this please We have the same issue

December 21, 2012

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