OBJECTIVES
To examine the rationale of width of disabled parking space and to identify factors which may be associated with selection of standard disabled parking space used by different categories of drivers in China.
Method
a) Inviting individuals with disabilities to alight into different sizes of parking spaces in an experimental survey. b) Sociodemographic and transport variables relative to the selection of width of 'disabled parking space' were compared by using logistic regression model.
Result
a) The current disabled parking spaces were oversized for most individuals with disabilities. b) Physical body traits, types of aids (i.e. the degree of disability) and driving experience were potential factors which caused individuals to select wider or narrower parking spaces.
Discussion
Existing disabled parking facilities and policy about width need to be adjusted to meet requirement of individuals with differing degrees of disability. We have proposed a reconfiguration of the disabled parking system that may diminish the conflict between wheelchair users and other users. Our study has the potential to contribute to the design of effective disabled parking spaces in order to enhance health and encourage travel for individuals with disabilities.
Language: en
Keywords
Disability; Parking; Wheelchair user; Width of disabled parking space