Queen: A recent column focused on disabled parking spaces and what to do when a seemingly able-bodied person parks in a disabled parking spot. A lot of people depend on those spots: Currently, 101,759 Alameda County residents, 76,229 Contra Costa County residents and 52,694 San Francisco County residents have permanent disabled placards, according to the Department of Motor Vehicles. Here are some responses from readers with disabilities:

Commuter: I have had a handicapped parking placard since 1984. I've seen too many people get out of their cars (in a handicapped space) without the placard displayed. How to handle it?

First, I glance at the license plate. If they have a handicapped sticker on their plate, then I keep going. If no plate or placard, I smile and say (very nicely), "Oh — don't forget to put your placard up!" I won't do this if the person has seen me getting out of my car. I am afraid they might key it.

Over the years of doing this, only a few have thanked me and displayed their placard. (Sometimes they give me) a big glare, but they move their car. Twice I have actually had folks tell me, "Mind your own business." I find this quite incredible, as I have been on crutches and will remain on them permanently.

While it doesn't always work, I know I've made them think. I don't hesitate to then leave their sight and call the police.

SR in San Ramon

Queen: SR, that's

If a person appears able-bodied and has no placard, the police can issue a warning or a ticket if that person's vehicle is parked in a disabled person parking spot. If the person appears able-bodied but has a placard, officers can check with the Department of Motor Vehicles via their onboard computers to determine who owns the placard in question, or more likely, simply ask to see the documentation that verifies placard ownership.

Every person who is properly certified and sent a placard is also sent an identification document that lists the serial number of the placard, the name of the owner and other details, Steven Haskins of the DMV told the Queen. If the name or number on the paper and placard don't match other identification, there's a problem. Those who have placards must carry the identification documents with them.

Commuter: Lots of people who don't appear to have disabilities may be qualified to have a placard. I have a placard and I have two scars for surgeries on my back (including a spinal fusion), but someone might assume that I'm faking it by looking at me. I don't use my placard a lot, but when my back or legs are throbbing, I absolutely do.

Steve, Dixon

Queen: Steve's situation illustrates how important it is not to assume someone doesn't deserve a disabled spot. Here's another reader in a similar situation:

Commuter: I'm one of those people who legitimately have a blue disabled person placard, but have no outward appearance of a disability. I usually walk with a cane if I know I'm going to have to walk a ways, such as at Sunvalley mall, but not if I'm just going into a Raley's-type store for a few minutes.

While I could legally park in a blue-marked spot, I usually leave them for somebody who may need it more than I. Readers, if you do have a placard but don't really need to use one of those spots that particular time, please leave it for someone who may really need it.

Michael, Concord

Queen: Another tip from a reader with disabilities:

Commuter: Those of us parking in these (disabled) spots typically have a physical disability, which makes driving more of a challenge than other drivers. Please realize we may not reverse as quickly as you might like, we cannot see individuals walking behind us, please don't try and squeeze your car behind us (you might find yourself hit). I have great difficulty turning my neck in order to reverse.

Amy, Livermore

HOW TO CONTACT THE QUEEN

Got questions about your commute? Whether you drive, ride, bike or walk, write the Queen at The Commuter Page, c/o The Times, P.O. Box 8099, Walnut Creek, CA 94598, or ccncommuter@bayareanewsgroup.com. Visit her at www.contracostatimes.com/queen-of-the-road.