> there is no real point to handicapped plates. They let you park in
> handicapped spots. Period.
>
> The hanging placards are removable. When hung from the rear-view
> mirror, they let you park in handicapped spots.
>
> If there is a difference, please explain.

The laws vary, so the differences may vary from state to state. When my wife broke her leg, the doctor signed the form for us to get a handicapped placard while she was wheelchair bound (it was broken too severely for either a walker or crutches). This let us park in a handicapped space and get her to and from the doctor's office more conveniently for example. It was a temporary need, hence a placard. I understand also that some states issue placards if the qualifying person does not own a car. Whoever is transporting them gets to use the placard.

Plates may be issued for permanent needs.

> And just because you haven't been a victim yet, doesn't mean you
> won't be one tomorrow.

This is so general that it fails to have meaning. I have never been struck by lightning, never been run over by a car, and of _course_ that doesn't mean I won't be struck by lightning nor run over by a car. Conversely, it doesn't require that I will be struck by lightning or run over by a car. I haven't won the lottery, and the fact that I never buy tickets _may_ have a bearing on not winning, but I don't think buying a ticket will prevent me from losing. :->

My question remains, what are the odds? I have never seen any information that people with handicap placards or plates are more subject to attacks because of that sign. I have doubts. If there's more information than has been given, I'd be very interested in reading up on it.

But I'm not living my life based on the theory that just because I haven't been hit by lightning or murdered so far doesn't mean I won't be. I've seen the numbers, and I know the odds.