You see a retired SSG parking in a handicap parking spot, but see him/her doing an intense cross-fit workout for 30 mins. What do you say?

But do you really need that spot then?

LCpl Jeff Moore - As a person with a handicapped parking permit, let me answer your question. Some days yes the space is needed and some doays no the space is not really needed. somedays start out good but go down hill quickly.

SSG Larry Sellars - Yup. THREE back surgeries (none worked), hip replacement, etc. Some days are better than others; most are not.

I am not disabled but would routinely park in a handicapped spot (with a handicap placard showing) and then help my severely disabled mother slowly walk into whichever store or hair appointment was on the docket that day. I would then return to my car and depart; but not without getting some evil stares or even threats to "handcap" me from passersby. Later, I would return to pick Mom up, park in a handicap spot, and run the gauntlet again to go get her and escort her back to my car. Just because the driver is capable doesn't mean their passenger isn't handicapped.

as being a combat veteran in the infantry and having 3 knee surgeries at the age of 53 and the last surgery was a complete replacement I now have a handicap placard but only use it when its really bad! probably 10 % of the time because I feel others are worse off than myself. its called respect and manners. personally I have called police and informed establishments if I see a car in a handicap spot w/o a sticker

I do have a service connected disability for which I draw VA compensation due to an AO related condition, however I only use my parking permit on days I feel I need to. Rest of the time I park close as I can to my destination and walk. My feeling is there may be someone in worse condition than I and they will need it.

Well said Capt Mark Strobl
Its not my spot, so I don't get heated and not having it available to park in.
That said, I want that spot available for a handicap person to park in, so I am apt to say something if NO plate or decal is visible.
The best "encounter" I ever witnessed was a Medically retired triple amputee who asked the able bodied person driving "moms" car if she really needed that up close handicap spot all that bad, she could have his....The blubbering response about how she is "allowed" because the car has the plate and so don't talk to me ..was just bizarre...
The Vet responded that being "allowed" to do something is not the same as should do something ... I have no legs, and no arm...and I don't NEED that spot..whats your excuse?

I came across an issues like yours SGM; however, an unmarked police car and plain clothed officer was park in the apposing parking spot. He was the one that stopped the young girl. OF course, she got mouthy and processed to get a few tickets. That was followed by spitting on the officer... LOL, she spent the weekend in jail and mommy's car got towed.
Ahhhh the things you see when your waiting in the truck for someone to comeback out.

Bingo. Handicap doesn't mean totally handicapped 100% of the time. There are varying degrees of disability. Some handicaps you can see, some you cannot. I have had days when it takes me 30 minutes to put on a shirt.

I also knew one guy that had both legs amputated, but unless he wore shorts, no one would ever know. He could walk, run, and exercise in the gym the same as anybody else. Nevertheless, I know he had bad days and absolutely deserved a disabled sticker for when he needed it. He didn't need to lift his pant to show his prosthetics to anyone.

PO1 Philip Wolters - I with you there PO1 Wolters, I had spine surgery that went every direct but forward. Lost the use of my right arm and the total left side of my body is numb. Stay strong!

SGT William Shelton The handicap placards are for a physical disability not mental.

If someone has a DP placard, leave them alone. If you have ever applied for one, you have to have one or sometimes two doctors certify you as disabled. My disability is respiratory related and some days I can almost walk fast but usually not and sometimes I have to use a cane or walker to get around. I feel bad enough without someone harassing me for using what I rightly deserve.