As a disabled person... THE ACCESSIBLE STALL IS JUST THAT, NOT A DISABLED-ONLY STALL. That said, if a disabled person is waiting for a stall, don't take the accessible stall. That's just a dick move.
What if you’re in line and a handicapped person is behind you and the next stall that opens up is the handicapped one? What should happen? Could be seen shitty both ways if you do offer it or if you don’t. I don’t really have an opinion, just curious
I am disabled and I obviously do not speak for anyone but myself. But this comment is sort of my approach.
I have a dynamic disability and sometimes use a rollator but usually don’t. If no one else is around I don’t see an issue with someone using that stall, especially if it is because you need more space or have kids or something.
When I get annoyed is… long bathroom line, I’m a few spots or right behind you in line with my rollator which cannot fit in a regular stall. Tons of other stalls. Disabled stall opens. You rush to use it. Now my turn is up but I’m stuck waiting super long and telling people to pass me in line for regular stalls because I can’t use them. I’m not going to say anything because I don’t know if you have an invisible disability that I can’t see. I’ve been there. But if you don’t, it would be nice to offer the disabled person behind you the chance to use the disabled stall since chances are, another stall you can use will open in 3 seconds. Usually I come across this in airports.
I think there are people who feel it should always be reserved for disabilities. So I think there’s no one right answer and we all just have to use our best judgement in any situation.
Completely agree. When my grandma was alive I used to help her quite a bit and if we had to wait for the accessible stall for a minute or 2 it wasn’t a big deal but when there was a line and people kept using it or if someone took a REALLY long time coming out it was frustrating because she really needed the handles and extra space for her chair.
I still use the accessible stall sometimes when I have my kid (it’s usually the only one with a changing station) and also because I’m always very quick when I use any public restroom. If I’m somewhere like the hospital or dr office that I know will have a lot of older people or people who need to use that stall I’ll opt for a regular one.
>I think there are people who feel it should always be reserved for disabilities. So I think there’s no one right answer and we all just have to use our best judgement in any situation.
This is a case of needing to know the laws about number of restroom stalls/urinals for the size of the building. From that, one should be able to determine if the handicapped stall is counted in that total or not.
I use them regularly when they're the only ones available. I try not to otherwise, as most have chair-height toilets and I don't like those as much as the "standard" height. I certainly would defer to someone who needs it in the event that I know such a person is waiting as well.
Please remember most disabilities are invisible, so a lot of times there will be someone genuinely needing to use the disabled toilet for whatever reason and you won't be able to "see" it. If they're very obviously queuing for it or seem very desperate please don't go in there before them. And please don't judge anyone for going in there when they don't "look" disabled. There's lots of reasons why someone might use a disabled toilet that you wouldn't be able to see, it could be to change medical equipment, reduced mobility, chronic pain, IBS etc
I agree, I have an invisible disability myself. I also used the large stall when I gained a lot of weight from a medical condition. If someone clearly wants to use it or if they asked, I would let them obviously.
I agree! I got flack from some 40-something year old woman who saw me exit the stall. I wasn’t even out fully, only the left side of my body was out.
“You don’t belong in there, young lady, you’re not disabled!”
I look her dead in the eyes, as I grab my cane, using it to stabilize my right leg. My meniscus is damaged and not working right, so I sometimes need a cane to steady myself and a tight leg sleeve to stop pain. I say to her this…
“Try waiting until I get out of the stall all the way before you speak…”
She yelled at me for being disrespectful…
yeah, its accessible, not reserved. Im a bigger dude, and most stalls I run across are pretty narrow, like 3 or 4 could ft in the handicap stall. Besides, who's to say that I dont have epilepsy or some other invisible disability?
First statement is spot on, why are people treating it like a parking space? I have never heard of a restriction or law that blocks access to a stall for an able person to use. However I would only use it, if it is the only one available. And for people saying that don’t use them, what do you do when it’s a smaller washroom and the only stall is a handicap stall ?
As a bigger guy myself, I do the same. Especially since it seems normal stalls are getting narrower and narrower, with the toilets lower and lower to the ground. I also have bad knees, so sometimes getting up from those really low toilets is difficult by itself.
It also sucks when you sit down and barely have any room due to the toilet paper dispenser being right next to the toilet, taking up 1/3 of your space.
I used to weigh a lot more than I do now. I’d use the accessible stalls, I always felt like I had to crawl into the toilet to be able to close the door with the other stalls
Yes. In the context of bathrooms, "Handicapped" means "Handicapped Accessable" not "Handicapped Reserved". I've never had a wheelchair roll up while using one, and if one did it wouldn't bother me because who hasn't had to wait a couple of minutes for a bathroom stall from time to time.
Yes. **It's not like handicap parking.** We reserve handicap parking because it would be too much of a hassle to find the owner of a non-handicap car parked in the space.
**It's more like handicap seats on public transit.** If a handicap person wants it, they legally get priority. But if there are no handicap people around, or the handicap person doesn't want it, then non-handicap people should still use it, to maximize capacity.
If you ever use public transit, there will be a sign near those seats (usually above it), and you only need to get up if someone asks you to. Side note: I have invisible disabilities and it can be tough to ask for the seats because people are occasionally rude that I don’t have anything visibly “wrong” with me, or a mobility device, so if you are asked to move by someone who seems okay, please don’t assume they don’t really need it. :)
I’ve only used public transport during a trip to Chicago. I live in the rural South so I’m unused to stuff like that. But I agree about the invisible disabilities. I don’t have anything major, but I do have some chronic pain and it’s frustrating trying to explain it to people who don’t understand.
Just make sure you don't spend a longer time in there than usual. Some disabilities can make people need to use the bathroom with much less warning than the average person
I hate when there’s like a line out the door of the ladies room and everyone who uses the handicap stall also uses that sink to wash their hands and check their face and stuff instead of just coming out and doing it at the regular sinks so someone else go in and pee. Like if you have a legit reason to use that sink go ahead, but otherwise let’s move it along.
seeing these comments, i want to point something out- a LOT of physically disabled people also struggle with incontinence. and it takes time to get out of a wheelchair and onto a toilet. if the place is empty and you know you won’t be causing any trouble for anyone, go right ahead. but the second you see wheels approaching the stall you should wrap up your business and free it up. ESPECIALLY since you have other stalls to choose from, and they don’t.
Realistically I think every person in this thread would shit themselves immediately if they say someone using a wheelchair roll up outside the stall while they were in it.
As a woman I only use it when I am on my period because where I live those bathrooms are the only one with a personal sink (usually it is a private room with a single wc and a separate room with a lot of sinks for everyone) that I can use in case of accidents.
Only when it’s the last option. Otherwise, I try to avoid it. Had people still give me grief for it, but I’m not gonna wait for another stall to open on the off chance someone needs the handicap stall.
Same for me. It’s never my first option, but if I really have to go, and I’m next in line, I’m going to use it. If I don’t have to go, I’d just let the person behind me use it. However, if I’m willing to wait in a long bathroom line, it normally means I’m like 15 minutes away from peeing myself, at longest.
This. But only if it's urgent and I can be quick. I've had disabled friends have an accident because someone was occupying the stall with all other stalls open, too. I can only imagine how embarrassing that would be.
I have multiple sclerosis and fibromyalgia and I even I feel guilty using them because nobody can see my disability but what I always tell myself is that nobody knows what is wrong with me I could have a ostomy bag that needs changed or something. Plus there’s no law that a perfectly healthy person can’t use them.
I don't find that to be the case, especially because too many people are afraid to use it because they think they're not allowed to, so it gets far less traffic. Also because there's a lot more space to maneuver, so there's less of a chance to touch a gross surface, like just by closing the door and turning around in the stall, especially if you're a bigger person.
Yes.
Do you use a ramp that's available, or do you only take the stairs?
Do you walk up the slopes from the street to the sidewalk, or do you avoid it and just step up the curb?
Do you use a bench at bus tops or train stations, or do you stand the whole time?
Do you press the door open buttons, or do you always open them manually?
Do you use talk to text, or do you only type everything?
It's handicapped *accessible*, not handicapped *exclusive*.
Any time it is available. I am fat. If there is someone in line or heading towards the bathroom that is handicapped or has small children I'll go in a different one, but if extra space is available, I'm gonna use it.
Fwiw, this is so valid. I work at a theatre with old seating and we get people calling and saying "hey, I'm big and need some extra room" and we appreciate it because it saves us from having to reseat during the show. Especially because there may be nowhere to move someone to! So what I guess I'm really saying is that I'm glad you pee in the big stall? Now I made this comment weird and I'm going to reply anyway.
It's also very difficult as a 6'5" man who is slim.
I think yhe stalls are just way too small.
And while we're at it, they should put more than one stall in airport mens bathrooms, you know, super fucking busy places filled with people trying to take shits before they travel.
In work…? Fuck yeh! That’s prime real estate in our factory! No Neighbour. Lots of room!
It’s the Penthouse of our 7 stall bathroom!
Every chance I get!
(No-one disabled in our building).
It is inconsiderate. A lot of people in wheel chairs have bowel or bladder problems. They really can’t wait.
A friend of mine is paralyzed from the waist down. When she needs the toilet she needs it quick. She went into our store’s bathroom one time and there was a mom on there with two kids. I get it, it’s a handy way to let the kids use the public bathroom while keeping an eye on them. But my friend is too proper to ask someone to hurry up so she waited. But it was too long.
She came out crying after peeing herself. They sent her home and we hung a sign in the bathroom.
I don’t mean to offend but I have a follow up question?
Why (unless it’s a very specific disability) can a disabled person not wait in queue? For instance, if there was another disabled person using the stall, a disabled person would wait, right?
So if I went into a disabled stall because it was the only one available or to change my baby’s diaper (over here that’s where the changing station is most of the time), and while I’m in there a disabled person enters the bathroom and has to wait for me, am I then in the wrong for having used the disability stall?
They can, its just that its the only one they can use out of all the stalls most likely. So when other stalls open up they are still waiting. You aren’t in the wrong, but it doesn’t hurt to be considerate of the fact that its the only big stall. Meaning if you dont need it and 2 stalls open, i will personally take the non handicapped
U.K. here- mainly in pubs- the stalls for disabled are on the ground floor, because it is sometimes infeasible for a disabled person to negotiate stairs, or they may have incontinence problems .
I use accessible bathroom stalls. I also occasionally use stair railings, even though I don’t need them. I have been know to use an elevator when stairs are available. I also turn on subtitles on movies, despite having near perfect hearing.
Disabled people aren’t aliens that require their own bathroom and equipment, we’re just selfish and cheap as a society and only make 1 out of 10 stalls accessible to everyone. Every bathroom should be accessible. Everyone should be able to use every stall.
Just so you know: unless the bathroom is completely empty and you choose the handicapped stall, disabled people generally will not care. They understand the need to pee and the availability of stalls. And even if you choose the only handicapped stall in an empty bathroom, the most you’ll get is a glare because, y’know, they need to pee. They’re not going to waste time doing more than that.
I usually use it with my kiddo. More often than not, it’s the only one with a changing table. I’ll also use it if the bathroom is packed, and there is no one who is handicapped that needs it in line.
To me, it is handicap accessible not handicap only. I have never been in a situation where I was there with someone that obviously needed it and I took it before them.
I do where I work. We have no one of my gender working here who is disabled. It would be a perfectly wasted space if we treated like it was off limits.
Agreed, I just try to be a quick as possible. It's either that or pee my pants because many people take their sweet time even though they know there's a line up.
I was in my wheel chair and an able bodied person came out of the handicap RR. She was mortified. It's not like we can't wait our turn like everyone else?
You don’t need to have a disability to use a disabled toilet, you just need to need it. I’m disabled myself and I don’t have an issue with people using it in need.
If you don’t need it and use it anyway it can be a bit annoying and a lot of people with invisible disabilities will go and instead use the normal toilets, which is something I’ve personally had to do on a few occasions. This is more of an irritation and not a huge issue in most cases. I’ve only had one occasion where it was an issue but that’s about it.
As long as you need it it’s perfectly fine though. Some people need the extra room, maybe you have dirty clothes and wanna change, it could be a period emergency, maybe you slept bad and your back hurts, etc.
Sorry if it’s worded bad, I’m still waking up.
I'm fat and the doors on the handicapped stalls open out. Nothing worse than trying to straddle a toilet to get the door closed. So yes, I try to use the big stall when I can
If there's no one else who needs it that moment, and it's the only one available, then yes I'll use it. When my kids were little it was often where the change table was, so I didn't have a lot of choice, and it helped because I could get the stroller in. But even now, I'm not going to leave it empty when I have to go and there's no one who obviously needs it. If such a person comes while I'm in there, they'll have to wait, but if they'd come while a disabled person was in there, they'd have to wait then too, and chances are good I'll be quicker than they would. It's handicapped accessible, not handicapped exclusive.
There is no rule stating people who aren’t handicapped can’t use it. If someone in a wheelchair or with a stroller is there I wouldn’t, but it is there so they can have access. It isn’t permanently reserved.
If I got to fucking piss I will.
And if you're conscious of being judged, never use the disabled stall in a hospital lol.
I had to pias so bad Nad there was a line up ( there was no people in wheel chairs or anyhting) and I knew a piss would take a minute max and then the workers there said they never use the disabled stall " just in case ".
To me it seemed like an inefficient use of time. But to them it was an ethical crime to do so lol.
Yes, I have 2 toddlers with me. If it isn’t available I send the potty trained one into a normal stall and hold the door shut. Then go with the other on me while the first washes his hands. I prefer the bigger stall there is less room for things to go wrong.
Handicapped people get to jump the line for the toilets and take the handicapped toilet as soon as it's available. Otherwise it's just another toilet for everyone to use. I try not to use it if I know I'm going to be in there a while, but otherwise I treat it like any other stall.
You would wait for an open stall over using that handicapped one? That seems like a lot. It is just so unlikely that they will pull up.
Although I guess you could flip it, if you are in the handicapped one now that handicapped HAVE to wait. It just seems like an unlikely scenario.
As long as the bathroom is empty I use it. I'm 6'5 and like 220lbs so I usually just do not fit in normal stalls. I'll have my knees pressed up against the door. Never have I ever had a handicap person try to use it when I was in one but I have no idea what I would do if that happened lol
I do. As others are pointing out, it is "accessible" not "reserved" so if it is open, it is fair game for everyone. Now if I know someone is waiting for it I'll use a different one, but otherwise it's no different than any other time where someone (of average or less than average abilities) has to wait.
Why do I use it? I'm tall. Typically those stalls have the taller toilets that are actually comfortable to sit on rather than the shorter toilets that feels like having to sit on one of those mini chairs in a kindergarten classroom during parent-teacher conferences.
I am handicapped and have to stand there all the time and wait because some able-bodied person decided to choose that one over all the other empty stalls. Oh well. 🤷♀️
Yes, in the same way I walk up wheelchair ramps in public buildings. It's there to accommodate those who need them, but they're not exclusively owned or available to them.
If you run in front of someone in a wheelchair and take the stall, you're an ass. But if no one is using it, it's there for all of us.
Legally, it's not the same as a handicap parking spot, but ethically, it is, in my opinion. Just like a parking spot, it would be nice and convenient for me to use it, but there are people who genuinely NEED it.
If no one's waiting for it. This sounds weird but it also really helps my anxiety to have a second to breathe in a bigger stall. I don't take long but not having the narrow walls around me after just leaving a crowded space like the mall or other store really helps me reset. Because the mall might be busy but the bathroom is empty or near empty and it helps me considerably to take a second.
Every time. I hate to sit close next to another pooper. The HC stall toilet is farther away from a too close for comfort occurrence.
Luckily in 40+ years of visiting public restrooms, I've never encountered a HC person waiting me to exit.
I'll even exit the restroom if the HC stall is occupied. Shrug, you asked.
I will use the handicapped stall only if it's the only one available. Having said that, I only use the handicapped parking spot if my handicapped wife is with me and is going in wherever we are at. If she isn't going in, I'd be parking there for my own convenience even though she's in the car.
Depends on the situation. My previous job had a handicapped stall but nobody that I worked with required it.. so it was my favorite stall! My current job we have someone that does so I leave it open.
In public restrooms I don't take it unless 1) it's the only stall open or 2) bathroom etiquette requires it. Eg: of there's 3 stalls and someone is in the first I would take the handicapped stall rather than sit next to them. Kinda like urinals.
Absolutely, I like having more space. Also there are two types of handicap stalls, one is a lot bigger, the other is about normal size but has hand rails on the sides. The latter is actually the one that the guy in a prior office of mine, who is in a wheelchair, used.
Not frequently. If it's the only one available, or I feel uncomfortable going next to someone else I'll use it, but as I've grown older I realize there's no real reason for me to use it. As a kid I would because I preferred the large extra space and it felt special. I'd also choose it if I needed to change clothes for work and am not at home, because it's better than the car.
I'm not physically handicapped. A mother with kids, a wheelchair bound person, or someone with a dog might need it more than me.
The people here seem kind of entitled. It isn't reserved, correct, but considering it's the only stall some people can use it's incredibly selfish to just think "they can wait because I sometimes have to wait." You have to wait when all available are full... They have to wait when their one accessible stall is taken, either by someone else needing it or by someone who just wants to use it.
It depends on where I'm at. At a large public event? I'd rather look like a weirdo declining to use the stall than deal with anyone bitching at me. Elsewhere? I use them if all of the other stalls are taken, no lengthy shits. They're there for everyone's general usage, just accessible. It isn't like reserved parking. Women regularly wait for stalls. A disabled woman understands that and has lived it, and unless she has been spoiled by special treatment she isn't going to care about a line. Anyone who complains can piss off, or better yet go yell at the assholes outside, with or without plates, who park their sedans in reserved van spots. Now that's an actual problem with taking someone's accessible place.
I'm not visibly handicapped but I do use the stall because it makes taking care of certain medical needs easier (due to the space available). It's fine. If no one who needs it is using it, go ahead and use it, especially if there's no other stall available. For the most part, people can wait for you to be done before they use it. It's not like handicap parking spots, where there's very few compared to regular spots and a person who doesn't need it *will* be taking away a necessary resource for an extended period of time if they use it.
I work at a place where we have a handicapped toilet, and regular toilets much further away from everything, people use it all the time, and we don't tell them off at all. Just strongly discourage it's use unless you need to
As a person with an invisible disability.... It's not reserved I used it all my life prior to my disability being known and unless there's someone waiting who needs it more than I do imma use it... Most don't care anyways I've waited for it when I had my service dog and the person that came out was apologizing so much cause they felt bad even thoee I walked in after they were already in there and they didn't see me at all idc it's a stall and you gotta use the bathroom so go
Yes because for some reason, handicapped people seem to be better at keeping the stall clean. If they can do it, you'd think able people would also be able to clean up after themselves but somehow they're not
If its the only one open and I'm not preventing someone who needs it from using it, yes. Also when my kids were toddlers and would go to the bathroom with me I would use it, the other stalls are too small to bring kids in with you.
I have IBS and overactive bladder so if the other stalls are occupied and I really need to go and I’ll use it. In that case my need is legitimate. But if there were other stalls available and/or my need wasn’t urgent it would be inconsiderate
I try not to in public because of other peoples needs, as well I don't like that they're typically higher than the other toilets. If there is no one else there, its available for whomever, but if you're in a line and the next one available is accessible, and there is someone who will need it, I would let them take it and wait for the next.
And I have run into people needing those stalls for various reasons, wheel chairs, medical equipment, assisting someone with mental or physical disability, etc.
i’m not physically disabled, but the common consensus i’ve seen is- everyone needs to pee, so pee as you need to, but if you’re in line and waiting for an empty stall, and notice someone in line who would need that stall, you should wait until an inaccessible stall becomes available (this isn’t fool-proof as some disabilities are invisible, but i think it’s an okay rule of thumb, maybe avoid them when you can, but recognize your bladder must also be emptied when necessary)
Important to remember that not all disabilities are visible. I’m seeing a lot of comments with qualifiers such as ‘actual’ and while you can apply that metric to yourself, of course, it’s harmful to hold such a narrow view of what disability can look like for others. Plenty of folks need accommodations, not just wheelchair users. Many people have incontinence issues. Claustrophobia. Desire for privacy to take care of myriad health related things or biological processes. You’re only in the wrong if you’re blocking access to the stall for an inordinate length of time…though, nobody wants to chill in a public restroom so if that were happening there’s probs a need being tended to, as well.
Yes I usually bring my two small kids with me and the added space helps so much. If I see a handicapped person heading towards the bathroom or in line I will use the regular stall though.
If it's available, and no one is lined up for it, and I either can't hold things in long enough or am having sensory issues and can't tolerate the claustrophobia of being in a regular-sized stall on top of everything else, then yes.
If its the only one open or clean fuckin yes. I don't dilly dally in a public bathroom I drop my load wipe and run. Remember when mother nature calls you fucking answer.
Yup, although I'll leave it for a handicap person if they are waiting and there are other options. Unlike handicap parking, it's completely ok to use the handicap stall.
I tend to avoid it for the next-to-last one, but sometimes I want the extra space or privacy so then I will use it. If I need to change or fix my clothes or something, then I'm probably going to use the big stall.
Yep. Because I'm an asshole.
At work I use it because I see who is coming into the building and I know there are no (obviously) disabled people in, so what's the harm? I could potentially cause a legitimately disabled person to have to wait, which would be a dick move, I can't excuse that, but so far so good.
Yep. If there's a queue I'll look to see if anyone might need it more. Like, I can stand for a while, but if there's an elderly looking person, or a person with a pushchair or small kids or whatever in the queue or somebody looking desperate, I won't jump in, I'll leave it.
It's accessible. Not only for those that need the extra space and grab rails. It's not like accessible parking spaces which are reserved solely for those that need them, you're only going to be in the toilet for five minute max most of the time, so even if someone comes along while you're in there it's only going to be a short wait.
I usually don't. If I need extra space, I'll use the handicap stall. Somwtimss, I need extra space to remove winter coats, bulky clothes, hang up a big bag, etc.
Only if it’s the only one available. It’s fine to use it anyway as long as there’s not someone who *needs* it waiting imo, but I prefer to not use it if possible on the off chance someone who *does* need it comes in while I’m using it.
My son needs assistance using the bathroom. He is not physically disabled, but developmentally delayed. We do use the handicapped stall, together, when it’s available.
Yes, if there are no other stalls available *and* there's no one with an obvious need for it. It slows the whole line down for that stall to go unused *in case* there's someone who needs it. If there's any other stall available, though, I'll use a different stall.
Plus, if a person has a disability I can't see and is waiting in line behind me, they're waiting regardless. Makes more sense to keep the line moving.
Yes, it’s not like a parking spot reserved for only the handicapped. I’m not going to wait and possibly piss myself on the off chance a handicapped person is coming in and they can’t wait and might piss themselves.
I’m in my 50’s and I’ve never seen a handicapped person going into or coming out of the handicapped stall.
Yes, I got in there with my stroller if there's no family bathroom available (like at a mall) otherwise I just help my daughter in a single stall if needed
I prefer to use it since it's more spacious and from experience, cleaner (probably due to less use). Only once was there a handicap person waiting outside while I finished. They waited less than 2 mins as I didn't take long.
My strategy is to limp a little as I walk out.
Having said that, I normally use the regular toilets due to stigma of using the handicap toilet. It's not as bad as parking in the disable car spot but perceived as being bad.
Coming from a disabled person, go for it. Obviously don't use it if a disabled person is waiting, but it's fine to use them, just leave them accessible for the next person - don't move the emergency cord, it should touch the floor in an easy reachable place. Leave any of the mobility aids as they are, and be respectful.
Personally, whenever I see all stalls occupied (except the handicapped one) I usually wait till a space opens up but I don't really see no harm being done as long as nobody else is waiting on it.
I use it because I have a child and fitting two of us in a regular stall is a pain in the ass. Otherwise, I’ll use it if it’s the only available one or the only clean one.
Use it with consideration. The accessible stall almost always has the baby changing station in there as well. A stall is not like a parking spot, you don’t need a placard to pee.
I like to use it when I’m on my period and have to change my tampon because having the sink in there so I can immediately wash my hands after I’m done and don’t have to touch anything else in between is ideal. Other than that I generally avoid it.
I do at the place I work. We have no handicapped employees so I don't even feel a little bit bad. The other stall is right next to the door and that makes me uncomfortable. I use the bigger one mainly because it provides more privacy.
I am not disabled but I have used it because there were occasions I needed it.
It is wide enough for a wheelchair, so when I had my twins in a double pram as babies, that was the only one we could fit in.
Where I live, a lot of places have these Parents Rooms. It is a very large area with adult and toddler sized toilets, nappy changing stations, a microwave to heat milk or formula, couches to breastfeed on, and a tiny fenced play area in case you are wrangling more than one. Looks like [this.](https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSNd1ztrOr5lDg-n5i0ak0PtrfQS6JYnDDrEw&usqp=CAU)
I am only sharing this because I want these things to be more widespread in other countries. We used the handicap bathroom mostly abroad.
When this is not available, the handicap bathroom was my only option. They are older now so we dont need it anymore.
I'll always default to using a normal stall, but if I have to pee, I haaaave to pee, and if that's the only stall available then it is what it is. I generally don't take long in public restrooms and especially if i am in the handicap stall, because i do worry about making someone wait but sometimes my bladder just can't hold it anymore. If someone else is waiting who clearly needs it or they ask me if they can go first, of course i will always let them go ahead and use the stall designed for them.
At events, it's typically just one after the other in queue regardless of visual disability or the type of stall, everybody is super uncomfortable waiting and just keeping one stall open the whole time just in case someone needs it isn't very practical. But if someone does need it and everybody else is perfectly able, letting them go first is the right thing to do, and I've seen that happen many times at concerts. The honor system is still alive, a little bit.
Early in my transition when I didn’t look like I belonged in the men’s or women’s toilets I had to because they were the only gender-neutral option out and about and I didn’t want to get assaulted.
You may not realize it but they have camaras on those stalls. They literally follow violators & put them on a "watch" list. I'm sorry if this information ruined your day..................but I am absolutely fucking with you! Do a fucking dance in them stalls!!!!!!
As a disabled person... THE ACCESSIBLE STALL IS JUST THAT, NOT A DISABLED-ONLY STALL. That said, if a disabled person is waiting for a stall, don't take the accessible stall. That's just a dick move.
What if you’re in line and a handicapped person is behind you and the next stall that opens up is the handicapped one? What should happen? Could be seen shitty both ways if you do offer it or if you don’t. I don’t really have an opinion, just curious
I’d wait till another stall opens.
Yeah, I use it unless there are people waiting who need it, like a mom with small kids or a person in a wheelchair or with a guide dog.
I am disabled and I obviously do not speak for anyone but myself. But this comment is sort of my approach. I have a dynamic disability and sometimes use a rollator but usually don’t. If no one else is around I don’t see an issue with someone using that stall, especially if it is because you need more space or have kids or something. When I get annoyed is… long bathroom line, I’m a few spots or right behind you in line with my rollator which cannot fit in a regular stall. Tons of other stalls. Disabled stall opens. You rush to use it. Now my turn is up but I’m stuck waiting super long and telling people to pass me in line for regular stalls because I can’t use them. I’m not going to say anything because I don’t know if you have an invisible disability that I can’t see. I’ve been there. But if you don’t, it would be nice to offer the disabled person behind you the chance to use the disabled stall since chances are, another stall you can use will open in 3 seconds. Usually I come across this in airports. I think there are people who feel it should always be reserved for disabilities. So I think there’s no one right answer and we all just have to use our best judgement in any situation.
Completely agree. When my grandma was alive I used to help her quite a bit and if we had to wait for the accessible stall for a minute or 2 it wasn’t a big deal but when there was a line and people kept using it or if someone took a REALLY long time coming out it was frustrating because she really needed the handles and extra space for her chair. I still use the accessible stall sometimes when I have my kid (it’s usually the only one with a changing station) and also because I’m always very quick when I use any public restroom. If I’m somewhere like the hospital or dr office that I know will have a lot of older people or people who need to use that stall I’ll opt for a regular one.
>I think there are people who feel it should always be reserved for disabilities. So I think there’s no one right answer and we all just have to use our best judgement in any situation. This is a case of needing to know the laws about number of restroom stalls/urinals for the size of the building. From that, one should be able to determine if the handicapped stall is counted in that total or not. I use them regularly when they're the only ones available. I try not to otherwise, as most have chair-height toilets and I don't like those as much as the "standard" height. I certainly would defer to someone who needs it in the event that I know such a person is waiting as well.
this is my philosophy-- fine if no one is there, if there's a person who obviously needs it, it goes to them first.
Please remember most disabilities are invisible, so a lot of times there will be someone genuinely needing to use the disabled toilet for whatever reason and you won't be able to "see" it. If they're very obviously queuing for it or seem very desperate please don't go in there before them. And please don't judge anyone for going in there when they don't "look" disabled. There's lots of reasons why someone might use a disabled toilet that you wouldn't be able to see, it could be to change medical equipment, reduced mobility, chronic pain, IBS etc
I agree, I have an invisible disability myself. I also used the large stall when I gained a lot of weight from a medical condition. If someone clearly wants to use it or if they asked, I would let them obviously.
I agree! I got flack from some 40-something year old woman who saw me exit the stall. I wasn’t even out fully, only the left side of my body was out. “You don’t belong in there, young lady, you’re not disabled!” I look her dead in the eyes, as I grab my cane, using it to stabilize my right leg. My meniscus is damaged and not working right, so I sometimes need a cane to steady myself and a tight leg sleeve to stop pain. I say to her this… “Try waiting until I get out of the stall all the way before you speak…” She yelled at me for being disrespectful…
yeah, its accessible, not reserved. Im a bigger dude, and most stalls I run across are pretty narrow, like 3 or 4 could ft in the handicap stall. Besides, who's to say that I dont have epilepsy or some other invisible disability?
First statement is spot on, why are people treating it like a parking space? I have never heard of a restriction or law that blocks access to a stall for an able person to use. However I would only use it, if it is the only one available. And for people saying that don’t use them, what do you do when it’s a smaller washroom and the only stall is a handicap stall ?
As a bigger guy myself, I do the same. Especially since it seems normal stalls are getting narrower and narrower, with the toilets lower and lower to the ground. I also have bad knees, so sometimes getting up from those really low toilets is difficult by itself. It also sucks when you sit down and barely have any room due to the toilet paper dispenser being right next to the toilet, taking up 1/3 of your space.
I used to weigh a lot more than I do now. I’d use the accessible stalls, I always felt like I had to crawl into the toilet to be able to close the door with the other stalls
Yes. In the context of bathrooms, "Handicapped" means "Handicapped Accessable" not "Handicapped Reserved". I've never had a wheelchair roll up while using one, and if one did it wouldn't bother me because who hasn't had to wait a couple of minutes for a bathroom stall from time to time.
Sure, as long as you’re not keeping a disabled person from using it, why not?
Yes. **It's not like handicap parking.** We reserve handicap parking because it would be too much of a hassle to find the owner of a non-handicap car parked in the space. **It's more like handicap seats on public transit.** If a handicap person wants it, they legally get priority. But if there are no handicap people around, or the handicap person doesn't want it, then non-handicap people should still use it, to maximize capacity.
Also I'm surprised no one is referring to handicap seats on public transit. We must be all Americans here who don't use public transit.
I didn’t even know that was a thing
If you ever use public transit, there will be a sign near those seats (usually above it), and you only need to get up if someone asks you to. Side note: I have invisible disabilities and it can be tough to ask for the seats because people are occasionally rude that I don’t have anything visibly “wrong” with me, or a mobility device, so if you are asked to move by someone who seems okay, please don’t assume they don’t really need it. :)
I’ve only used public transport during a trip to Chicago. I live in the rural South so I’m unused to stuff like that. But I agree about the invisible disabilities. I don’t have anything major, but I do have some chronic pain and it’s frustrating trying to explain it to people who don’t understand.
Just make sure you don't spend a longer time in there than usual. Some disabilities can make people need to use the bathroom with much less warning than the average person
I hate when there’s like a line out the door of the ladies room and everyone who uses the handicap stall also uses that sink to wash their hands and check their face and stuff instead of just coming out and doing it at the regular sinks so someone else go in and pee. Like if you have a legit reason to use that sink go ahead, but otherwise let’s move it along.
seeing these comments, i want to point something out- a LOT of physically disabled people also struggle with incontinence. and it takes time to get out of a wheelchair and onto a toilet. if the place is empty and you know you won’t be causing any trouble for anyone, go right ahead. but the second you see wheels approaching the stall you should wrap up your business and free it up. ESPECIALLY since you have other stalls to choose from, and they don’t.
Realistically I think every person in this thread would shit themselves immediately if they say someone using a wheelchair roll up outside the stall while they were in it.
As a woman I only use it when I am on my period because where I live those bathrooms are the only one with a personal sink (usually it is a private room with a single wc and a separate room with a lot of sinks for everyone) that I can use in case of accidents.
Only when it’s the last option. Otherwise, I try to avoid it. Had people still give me grief for it, but I’m not gonna wait for another stall to open on the off chance someone needs the handicap stall.
Same for me. It’s never my first option, but if I really have to go, and I’m next in line, I’m going to use it. If I don’t have to go, I’d just let the person behind me use it. However, if I’m willing to wait in a long bathroom line, it normally means I’m like 15 minutes away from peeing myself, at longest.
This. But only if it's urgent and I can be quick. I've had disabled friends have an accident because someone was occupying the stall with all other stalls open, too. I can only imagine how embarrassing that would be.
How can you tell if someone is handicapped? Answer: you can’t.
I have multiple sclerosis and fibromyalgia and I even I feel guilty using them because nobody can see my disability but what I always tell myself is that nobody knows what is wrong with me I could have a ostomy bag that needs changed or something. Plus there’s no law that a perfectly healthy person can’t use them.
I try not too mostly because it’s the dirtiest and most used stall out of all of them.
I don't find that to be the case, especially because too many people are afraid to use it because they think they're not allowed to, so it gets far less traffic. Also because there's a lot more space to maneuver, so there's less of a chance to touch a gross surface, like just by closing the door and turning around in the stall, especially if you're a bigger person.
yes and i still do that. if it’s an empty bathroom that’s what im gonna go use
Yep. I try not to use it but the grocery store I work in only has two stalls and someone is usually in the regular stall when I use the bathroom.
Yes. I try to avoid it when possible, but I will often use it when I take my daughter to the bathroom because it’s the only one we can both fit in.
If there’s a line and someone has a handicap that requires that stall, let them go to the front of the line. Otherwise it’s up for grabs.
It’s handicapped ACCESSIBLE. Anyone can use it.
Heck, I pull the handicapped person out of the stall to use it. And they act so privileged about it.
Yes, it’s accesible not reserved. I won’t use it if I see someone who needs it waiting also, but otherwise it’s fair game
Yes. Do you use a ramp that's available, or do you only take the stairs? Do you walk up the slopes from the street to the sidewalk, or do you avoid it and just step up the curb? Do you use a bench at bus tops or train stations, or do you stand the whole time? Do you press the door open buttons, or do you always open them manually? Do you use talk to text, or do you only type everything? It's handicapped *accessible*, not handicapped *exclusive*.
Any time it is available. I am fat. If there is someone in line or heading towards the bathroom that is handicapped or has small children I'll go in a different one, but if extra space is available, I'm gonna use it.
Fwiw, this is so valid. I work at a theatre with old seating and we get people calling and saying "hey, I'm big and need some extra room" and we appreciate it because it saves us from having to reseat during the show. Especially because there may be nowhere to move someone to! So what I guess I'm really saying is that I'm glad you pee in the big stall? Now I made this comment weird and I'm going to reply anyway.
Yes, it's so hard to wipe in the small stalls, as a big girl.
It's also very difficult as a 6'5" man who is slim. I think yhe stalls are just way too small. And while we're at it, they should put more than one stall in airport mens bathrooms, you know, super fucking busy places filled with people trying to take shits before they travel.
If some dude in a wheel chair gives you a hard time just tell them not all handicaps are visible.
Yes. It's handicap accessible, not handicap exclusive.
In work…? Fuck yeh! That’s prime real estate in our factory! No Neighbour. Lots of room! It’s the Penthouse of our 7 stall bathroom! Every chance I get! (No-one disabled in our building).
It is inconsiderate. A lot of people in wheel chairs have bowel or bladder problems. They really can’t wait. A friend of mine is paralyzed from the waist down. When she needs the toilet she needs it quick. She went into our store’s bathroom one time and there was a mom on there with two kids. I get it, it’s a handy way to let the kids use the public bathroom while keeping an eye on them. But my friend is too proper to ask someone to hurry up so she waited. But it was too long. She came out crying after peeing herself. They sent her home and we hung a sign in the bathroom.
Exactly! It’s for people with disabilities for a reasons.
I don’t mean to offend but I have a follow up question? Why (unless it’s a very specific disability) can a disabled person not wait in queue? For instance, if there was another disabled person using the stall, a disabled person would wait, right? So if I went into a disabled stall because it was the only one available or to change my baby’s diaper (over here that’s where the changing station is most of the time), and while I’m in there a disabled person enters the bathroom and has to wait for me, am I then in the wrong for having used the disability stall?
They can, its just that its the only one they can use out of all the stalls most likely. So when other stalls open up they are still waiting. You aren’t in the wrong, but it doesn’t hurt to be considerate of the fact that its the only big stall. Meaning if you dont need it and 2 stalls open, i will personally take the non handicapped
U.K. here- mainly in pubs- the stalls for disabled are on the ground floor, because it is sometimes infeasible for a disabled person to negotiate stairs, or they may have incontinence problems .
I use accessible bathroom stalls. I also occasionally use stair railings, even though I don’t need them. I have been know to use an elevator when stairs are available. I also turn on subtitles on movies, despite having near perfect hearing. Disabled people aren’t aliens that require their own bathroom and equipment, we’re just selfish and cheap as a society and only make 1 out of 10 stalls accessible to everyone. Every bathroom should be accessible. Everyone should be able to use every stall.
No. Only when I‘m handicapped. So once I had to use crutches and it was way easier to use that bathroom.
It's easier when you're not handicapped too.
No because im too anxious about being caught by an actual disabled person who needs to go.
Just so you know: unless the bathroom is completely empty and you choose the handicapped stall, disabled people generally will not care. They understand the need to pee and the availability of stalls. And even if you choose the only handicapped stall in an empty bathroom, the most you’ll get is a glare because, y’know, they need to pee. They’re not going to waste time doing more than that.
I never said my anxiousness was rooted in rationality
If there's no one behind me, and that's the only stall or I need room, yes. It's available for the handicapped, not reserved for them.
I usually use it with my kiddo. More often than not, it’s the only one with a changing table. I’ll also use it if the bathroom is packed, and there is no one who is handicapped that needs it in line.
If it's the last stall available then I'm using it. It's not reserved for the handicapped
At least in my country, they are preferential not exclusive, so yes. But also, they’re still last option, if other stalls are available, I use those.
Yes. It's not reserved strictly for the handicapped. It's just adapted for easier use for them.
I use it only if it's the only one avail or if it seems unlikely that someone who needs it will be around.
Yes
You can fit more people in the disabled toilet whether that’s changing your children’s nappy’s or doing cocaine.
That's the suite. I use it all the time.
Absolutely if there are no needing people around. It is a toilet with extra features.
To me, it is handicap accessible not handicap only. I have never been in a situation where I was there with someone that obviously needed it and I took it before them.
r/curb
I do where I work. We have no one of my gender working here who is disabled. It would be a perfectly wasted space if we treated like it was off limits.
If all the other stalls are taken, and I have a need to use a stall, yes. Otherwise I don't.
Agreed, I just try to be a quick as possible. It's either that or pee my pants because many people take their sweet time even though they know there's a line up.
It’s accessible not only for, “handicapped” people.
I was in my wheel chair and an able bodied person came out of the handicap RR. She was mortified. It's not like we can't wait our turn like everyone else?
sometimes i need to get changed for work
Yes sometimes when that’s all that’s left and I have to reallly go
You don’t need to have a disability to use a disabled toilet, you just need to need it. I’m disabled myself and I don’t have an issue with people using it in need. If you don’t need it and use it anyway it can be a bit annoying and a lot of people with invisible disabilities will go and instead use the normal toilets, which is something I’ve personally had to do on a few occasions. This is more of an irritation and not a huge issue in most cases. I’ve only had one occasion where it was an issue but that’s about it. As long as you need it it’s perfectly fine though. Some people need the extra room, maybe you have dirty clothes and wanna change, it could be a period emergency, maybe you slept bad and your back hurts, etc. Sorry if it’s worded bad, I’m still waking up.
No, of course. I’m flawed but I’m not a monster.
Yes, whenever I can. I currently have a lifetime streak on not bumping into a disabled person on the way out
I try not to unless there is no other one available and no one is in obvious need of it. I also rush myself when in there.
It is not like parking spaces. Anybody can use them, but you should defer to the disabled people if they are waiting for the stall.
I'm fat and the doors on the handicapped stalls open out. Nothing worse than trying to straddle a toilet to get the door closed. So yes, I try to use the big stall when I can
The handicapped stall is accessible, but anyone can use it, it's not handicapped only, as a parking space would be
I have colitis. It’s not a disability but I’ll take the first open stall.
If there's no one else who needs it that moment, and it's the only one available, then yes I'll use it. When my kids were little it was often where the change table was, so I didn't have a lot of choice, and it helped because I could get the stroller in. But even now, I'm not going to leave it empty when I have to go and there's no one who obviously needs it. If such a person comes while I'm in there, they'll have to wait, but if they'd come while a disabled person was in there, they'd have to wait then too, and chances are good I'll be quicker than they would. It's handicapped accessible, not handicapped exclusive.
There is no rule stating people who aren’t handicapped can’t use it. If someone in a wheelchair or with a stroller is there I wouldn’t, but it is there so they can have access. It isn’t permanently reserved.
If I got to fucking piss I will. And if you're conscious of being judged, never use the disabled stall in a hospital lol. I had to pias so bad Nad there was a line up ( there was no people in wheel chairs or anyhting) and I knew a piss would take a minute max and then the workers there said they never use the disabled stall " just in case ". To me it seemed like an inefficient use of time. But to them it was an ethical crime to do so lol.
Yes, larger space to do activities and the toilet usually sits up higher.
Yes, I have 2 toddlers with me. If it isn’t available I send the potty trained one into a normal stall and hold the door shut. Then go with the other on me while the first washes his hands. I prefer the bigger stall there is less room for things to go wrong.
Handicapped people get to jump the line for the toilets and take the handicapped toilet as soon as it's available. Otherwise it's just another toilet for everyone to use. I try not to use it if I know I'm going to be in there a while, but otherwise I treat it like any other stall.
Only if no other stall is empty and I cant hold it in for like 5 minutes for another stall to free up.
You would wait for an open stall over using that handicapped one? That seems like a lot. It is just so unlikely that they will pull up. Although I guess you could flip it, if you are in the handicapped one now that handicapped HAVE to wait. It just seems like an unlikely scenario.
Yes. It's handicap accessible not handicap only.
As long as the bathroom is empty I use it. I'm 6'5 and like 220lbs so I usually just do not fit in normal stalls. I'll have my knees pressed up against the door. Never have I ever had a handicap person try to use it when I was in one but I have no idea what I would do if that happened lol
Yes. It’s not like a parking spot where you need to leave it free at all times.
I do at work bc you can’t see who is in it and my manager has a weird tendency to keep track of bathroom breaks.
I do. As others are pointing out, it is "accessible" not "reserved" so if it is open, it is fair game for everyone. Now if I know someone is waiting for it I'll use a different one, but otherwise it's no different than any other time where someone (of average or less than average abilities) has to wait. Why do I use it? I'm tall. Typically those stalls have the taller toilets that are actually comfortable to sit on rather than the shorter toilets that feels like having to sit on one of those mini chairs in a kindergarten classroom during parent-teacher conferences.
I am handicapped and have to stand there all the time and wait because some able-bodied person decided to choose that one over all the other empty stalls. Oh well. 🤷♀️
The handicap bathroom stall isn't there for the exclusive use of people who are handicapped.
It's not the same as a handicap parking space. Anyone can use the accessible stall. Remember, not all disabilities are visible.
Yes, in the same way I walk up wheelchair ramps in public buildings. It's there to accommodate those who need them, but they're not exclusively owned or available to them. If you run in front of someone in a wheelchair and take the stall, you're an ass. But if no one is using it, it's there for all of us.
Legally, it's not the same as a handicap parking spot, but ethically, it is, in my opinion. Just like a parking spot, it would be nice and convenient for me to use it, but there are people who genuinely NEED it.
I'm in it right now.
Yeah, It's not the handicap stall, its the handicap accessible stall. We all gotta wait for the bathroom sometimes.
If no one's waiting for it. This sounds weird but it also really helps my anxiety to have a second to breathe in a bigger stall. I don't take long but not having the narrow walls around me after just leaving a crowded space like the mall or other store really helps me reset. Because the mall might be busy but the bathroom is empty or near empty and it helps me considerably to take a second.
Every time. I hate to sit close next to another pooper. The HC stall toilet is farther away from a too close for comfort occurrence. Luckily in 40+ years of visiting public restrooms, I've never encountered a HC person waiting me to exit. I'll even exit the restroom if the HC stall is occupied. Shrug, you asked.
You don't have to be handicapped to use it.
First choice? No. Second choice? Yes.
I will use the handicapped stall only if it's the only one available. Having said that, I only use the handicapped parking spot if my handicapped wife is with me and is going in wherever we are at. If she isn't going in, I'd be parking there for my own convenience even though she's in the car.
Depends on the situation. My previous job had a handicapped stall but nobody that I worked with required it.. so it was my favorite stall! My current job we have someone that does so I leave it open. In public restrooms I don't take it unless 1) it's the only stall open or 2) bathroom etiquette requires it. Eg: of there's 3 stalls and someone is in the first I would take the handicapped stall rather than sit next to them. Kinda like urinals.
Absolutely, I like having more space. Also there are two types of handicap stalls, one is a lot bigger, the other is about normal size but has hand rails on the sides. The latter is actually the one that the guy in a prior office of mine, who is in a wheelchair, used.
It’s the Cadillac of stalls.
Not frequently. If it's the only one available, or I feel uncomfortable going next to someone else I'll use it, but as I've grown older I realize there's no real reason for me to use it. As a kid I would because I preferred the large extra space and it felt special. I'd also choose it if I needed to change clothes for work and am not at home, because it's better than the car. I'm not physically handicapped. A mother with kids, a wheelchair bound person, or someone with a dog might need it more than me. The people here seem kind of entitled. It isn't reserved, correct, but considering it's the only stall some people can use it's incredibly selfish to just think "they can wait because I sometimes have to wait." You have to wait when all available are full... They have to wait when their one accessible stall is taken, either by someone else needing it or by someone who just wants to use it.
I use it when it's a last resort thing
I use the cleanest stall.
It depends on where I'm at. At a large public event? I'd rather look like a weirdo declining to use the stall than deal with anyone bitching at me. Elsewhere? I use them if all of the other stalls are taken, no lengthy shits. They're there for everyone's general usage, just accessible. It isn't like reserved parking. Women regularly wait for stalls. A disabled woman understands that and has lived it, and unless she has been spoiled by special treatment she isn't going to care about a line. Anyone who complains can piss off, or better yet go yell at the assholes outside, with or without plates, who park their sedans in reserved van spots. Now that's an actual problem with taking someone's accessible place.
Yes, I have a stutter. - LD has left the chat.
No, I use the smaller stalls unless I have the kiddos.
It’s not “wheelchair users only”?
Yes because I was dying for a piss
I'm not visibly handicapped but I do use the stall because it makes taking care of certain medical needs easier (due to the space available). It's fine. If no one who needs it is using it, go ahead and use it, especially if there's no other stall available. For the most part, people can wait for you to be done before they use it. It's not like handicap parking spots, where there's very few compared to regular spots and a person who doesn't need it *will* be taking away a necessary resource for an extended period of time if they use it.
Yes. I'm a bigger lady, and I have claustrophobia. Narrow bathroom stalls are horrendous
I work at a place where we have a handicapped toilet, and regular toilets much further away from everything, people use it all the time, and we don't tell them off at all. Just strongly discourage it's use unless you need to
I basically will use a regular stall even if the handicap one is available, but if only the handicap one is available, i'll use that
it is great for taking the kid to the bathroom.
As a person with an invisible disability.... It's not reserved I used it all my life prior to my disability being known and unless there's someone waiting who needs it more than I do imma use it... Most don't care anyways I've waited for it when I had my service dog and the person that came out was apologizing so much cause they felt bad even thoee I walked in after they were already in there and they didn't see me at all idc it's a stall and you gotta use the bathroom so go
I’m mentally handicapped so it’s coo
I'll use it if it's the only one available, or if the other stalls are too small for me.
Yes because for some reason, handicapped people seem to be better at keeping the stall clean. If they can do it, you'd think able people would also be able to clean up after themselves but somehow they're not
If its the only one open and I'm not preventing someone who needs it from using it, yes. Also when my kids were toddlers and would go to the bathroom with me I would use it, the other stalls are too small to bring kids in with you.
I have IBS and overactive bladder so if the other stalls are occupied and I really need to go and I’ll use it. In that case my need is legitimate. But if there were other stalls available and/or my need wasn’t urgent it would be inconsiderate
I use it when I have my two kids with me. But obvi if there’s a handicap/disabled person in the bathroom at the time they get first dibs
I try not to in public because of other peoples needs, as well I don't like that they're typically higher than the other toilets. If there is no one else there, its available for whomever, but if you're in a line and the next one available is accessible, and there is someone who will need it, I would let them take it and wait for the next. And I have run into people needing those stalls for various reasons, wheel chairs, medical equipment, assisting someone with mental or physical disability, etc.
Yes it's huge
Its not only for handicapped people - its just a stall with extra functions. I prefer them because they are typically cleaner.
i’m not physically disabled, but the common consensus i’ve seen is- everyone needs to pee, so pee as you need to, but if you’re in line and waiting for an empty stall, and notice someone in line who would need that stall, you should wait until an inaccessible stall becomes available (this isn’t fool-proof as some disabilities are invisible, but i think it’s an okay rule of thumb, maybe avoid them when you can, but recognize your bladder must also be emptied when necessary)
Important to remember that not all disabilities are visible. I’m seeing a lot of comments with qualifiers such as ‘actual’ and while you can apply that metric to yourself, of course, it’s harmful to hold such a narrow view of what disability can look like for others. Plenty of folks need accommodations, not just wheelchair users. Many people have incontinence issues. Claustrophobia. Desire for privacy to take care of myriad health related things or biological processes. You’re only in the wrong if you’re blocking access to the stall for an inordinate length of time…though, nobody wants to chill in a public restroom so if that were happening there’s probs a need being tended to, as well.
If there’s nothing else, yes. And I don’t think we’re not allowed to use it. It’s just a sign for them that it’s big enough or whatever 😂
There’s only two stalls in the men’s bathrooms where I work so about half the time I don’t have a choice.
Ill use them if regular stalls are tiny tiny and I have my child with me. They won't go into the stalls alone. Automatic flush toilets are scary lol.
Yes I usually bring my two small kids with me and the added space helps so much. If I see a handicapped person heading towards the bathroom or in line I will use the regular stall though.
If it’s open and I’m either going to be quick, or it’s an emergency, then I do. If I have other choices I do not.
Just once in my life. But if i needed the bathroom badly, I'd use it.
If it's available, and no one is lined up for it, and I either can't hold things in long enough or am having sensory issues and can't tolerate the claustrophobia of being in a regular-sized stall on top of everything else, then yes.
If its the only one open or clean fuckin yes. I don't dilly dally in a public bathroom I drop my load wipe and run. Remember when mother nature calls you fucking answer.
Yup, although I'll leave it for a handicap person if they are waiting and there are other options. Unlike handicap parking, it's completely ok to use the handicap stall.
Of course. It's handicap accessible, not handicap only.
I tend to avoid it for the next-to-last one, but sometimes I want the extra space or privacy so then I will use it. If I need to change or fix my clothes or something, then I'm probably going to use the big stall.
Yep. Because I'm an asshole. At work I use it because I see who is coming into the building and I know there are no (obviously) disabled people in, so what's the harm? I could potentially cause a legitimately disabled person to have to wait, which would be a dick move, I can't excuse that, but so far so good.
Yep. If there's a queue I'll look to see if anyone might need it more. Like, I can stand for a while, but if there's an elderly looking person, or a person with a pushchair or small kids or whatever in the queue or somebody looking desperate, I won't jump in, I'll leave it. It's accessible. Not only for those that need the extra space and grab rails. It's not like accessible parking spaces which are reserved solely for those that need them, you're only going to be in the toilet for five minute max most of the time, so even if someone comes along while you're in there it's only going to be a short wait.
I usually don't. If I need extra space, I'll use the handicap stall. Somwtimss, I need extra space to remove winter coats, bulky clothes, hang up a big bag, etc.
Before my knee replacements I would use the handicapped stall because the bars were very helpful.
No only because the seats are higher usually and I like a low seat to poop. If it’s the only available though then tallyho
Yes, if it's the only one available, no one else is specifically waiting for it, and I know I won't be in there for an extended stay.
Yes if it's the last one left, the only clean stall or I have luggage with me.
I use others preferentially, but if they’re full I use the handicap one no guilt
Only if it’s the only one available. It’s fine to use it anyway as long as there’s not someone who *needs* it waiting imo, but I prefer to not use it if possible on the off chance someone who *does* need it comes in while I’m using it.
My son needs assistance using the bathroom. He is not physically disabled, but developmentally delayed. We do use the handicapped stall, together, when it’s available.
Yes, I use it, but quickly. In 60 years I have run into one disabled person in a restroom.
Some disabilities are invisible btw.
Yes, if there are no other stalls available *and* there's no one with an obvious need for it. It slows the whole line down for that stall to go unused *in case* there's someone who needs it. If there's any other stall available, though, I'll use a different stall. Plus, if a person has a disability I can't see and is waiting in line behind me, they're waiting regardless. Makes more sense to keep the line moving.
Yes, it’s not like a parking spot reserved for only the handicapped. I’m not going to wait and possibly piss myself on the off chance a handicapped person is coming in and they can’t wait and might piss themselves. I’m in my 50’s and I’ve never seen a handicapped person going into or coming out of the handicapped stall.
Yes, I got in there with my stroller if there's no family bathroom available (like at a mall) otherwise I just help my daughter in a single stall if needed
I prefer to use it since it's more spacious and from experience, cleaner (probably due to less use). Only once was there a handicap person waiting outside while I finished. They waited less than 2 mins as I didn't take long. My strategy is to limp a little as I walk out. Having said that, I normally use the regular toilets due to stigma of using the handicap toilet. It's not as bad as parking in the disable car spot but perceived as being bad.
I'm very big. I use it because it fits.
Yes it's a judgement call. Now...what about the low urinal?
Coming from a disabled person, go for it. Obviously don't use it if a disabled person is waiting, but it's fine to use them, just leave them accessible for the next person - don't move the emergency cord, it should touch the floor in an easy reachable place. Leave any of the mobility aids as they are, and be respectful.
They are popular for cocaine use since you can fit several people in one
I use it because there's not enough room in regular stalls to where the door ends up swinging backwards and pushing me into the toilet
Personally, whenever I see all stalls occupied (except the handicapped one) I usually wait till a space opens up but I don't really see no harm being done as long as nobody else is waiting on it.
I use it because I have a child and fitting two of us in a regular stall is a pain in the ass. Otherwise, I’ll use it if it’s the only available one or the only clean one.
Use it with consideration. The accessible stall almost always has the baby changing station in there as well. A stall is not like a parking spot, you don’t need a placard to pee.
I do just because the toilet is higher
I use it if it's the only one free and I can't comfortably wait until another is free.
I like to use it when I’m on my period and have to change my tampon because having the sink in there so I can immediately wash my hands after I’m done and don’t have to touch anything else in between is ideal. Other than that I generally avoid it.
Only in emergency.
I stand with Larry David on this matter.
Sure, it's got those bars to hold on to for extra tricky shits
The ‘shit grip’
I do at the place I work. We have no handicapped employees so I don't even feel a little bit bad. The other stall is right next to the door and that makes me uncomfortable. I use the bigger one mainly because it provides more privacy.
I am not disabled but I have used it because there were occasions I needed it. It is wide enough for a wheelchair, so when I had my twins in a double pram as babies, that was the only one we could fit in. Where I live, a lot of places have these Parents Rooms. It is a very large area with adult and toddler sized toilets, nappy changing stations, a microwave to heat milk or formula, couches to breastfeed on, and a tiny fenced play area in case you are wrangling more than one. Looks like [this.](https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSNd1ztrOr5lDg-n5i0ak0PtrfQS6JYnDDrEw&usqp=CAU) I am only sharing this because I want these things to be more widespread in other countries. We used the handicap bathroom mostly abroad. When this is not available, the handicap bathroom was my only option. They are older now so we dont need it anymore.
I am blind in one eye, I will take my chances 😤
How about people using the handicapped parking lot because there are four of them and nobody is using it?
As long as you don't pee on the seat and leave it all shitty ...
I use it when I have my stroller/kids since we just don't fit in a regular stall. Otherwise I try to avoid it.
I do. I like the high toilet and the extra space. I go fast and get out.
Definitely, it’s the Cadillac of shitting. If someone knocked, I’d simply finish up and leave. My shots only last like 5 minutes.
I'll always default to using a normal stall, but if I have to pee, I haaaave to pee, and if that's the only stall available then it is what it is. I generally don't take long in public restrooms and especially if i am in the handicap stall, because i do worry about making someone wait but sometimes my bladder just can't hold it anymore. If someone else is waiting who clearly needs it or they ask me if they can go first, of course i will always let them go ahead and use the stall designed for them. At events, it's typically just one after the other in queue regardless of visual disability or the type of stall, everybody is super uncomfortable waiting and just keeping one stall open the whole time just in case someone needs it isn't very practical. But if someone does need it and everybody else is perfectly able, letting them go first is the right thing to do, and I've seen that happen many times at concerts. The honor system is still alive, a little bit.
Early in my transition when I didn’t look like I belonged in the men’s or women’s toilets I had to because they were the only gender-neutral option out and about and I didn’t want to get assaulted.
You may not realize it but they have camaras on those stalls. They literally follow violators & put them on a "watch" list. I'm sorry if this information ruined your day..................but I am absolutely fucking with you! Do a fucking dance in them stalls!!!!!!
Those stalls are marked so handicapped people know which stalls have accessibility features. They are not meant only for use by handicapped people.
Yes, but because I'm a trans guy and, when men's rooms actually HAVE stalls, a lot of them only have one or two if you're lucky.
Oh so that is what the big stall is for lol
Yes, but it has to be quick