Learning to drive can be exciting as well as stressful and challenging for a lot of individuals but even more so with Autistic patients. The major skills to possess while driving is: Motor coordination, the ability to focus, the ability to multitask, key attention to detail, social judgment, pre-planning, and the ability to set priorities but these may pose difficult challenges for autistic patients while learning how to drive. Let’s learn more about Autism and driving.
Patients with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) mostly have motor coordination challenges, and sleep disorders and are usually delayed in making decisions that will affect them while driving. However, with highly trained professionals, and determination on the part of the individual, a person with autism can drive safely. There are also occupational therapists and driving school instructors that can help improve the ability of an autistic patient to drive.
A study conducted by the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) shows that one in every three teenagers with Autism has a driver’s license and is authorized to drive.
Is it legal for a person with Autism to drive?
Yes, there is no legal offense for an Autistic person driving. Once they have passed the requirements needed by their state to obtain a driver’s license, they are free to drive. Although, it may take some autistic patients a longer time to pass their driving tests, with the assistance from proper trainers, and patience, it is achievable.
Challenges a person with Autism may face while driving
- They can easily be distracted while driving
- It may take them a while to detect road signs and road hazards
- They may lack proper concentration while they are behind the wheel
- They may find it difficult to identify certain social clues such as tailgating.
- They may not have confidence in themselves while driving
- They may become nervous or ridden with anxiety
Advantages a person with Autism has while driving
- They will strictly follow the traffic rules and regulations
- Most often, they would not want to take any risk and drive within the normal speed limit
- They can remember little details for a long time
- They pay closer attention to their environment
- They are less likely to receive traffic tickets
Online resources for an Autism patient to lean driving
DriversEd.com
On this site, driver’s education courses are offered to the individuals learning how to drive. Included in these courses are: traffic rules, DMV information, in-car driving lessons, and practice permit tests
Virtual Drive USA
This site allows you to complete your driver’s education online. You can take the courses offered at your own pace as guides and study materials are provided to aid in your learner’s permit test.
TeenDriving.com
This site offers information on driving education, driving test, driving experience, and graduate license programs. A list of different study guides is also included to practice.
Driving Tests
Driving Test offers free practice tests and study helps to guide you on how to pass your DMV exams.
Driving schools available for people with Autism
- Knepler Driving School. They have branches in Connecticut, Stratford, Boca Raton, Monroe, and Florida
- Modern Driver Institute in South East Pennsylvania
- The Next street: Drivers rehab services in Watertown, Connecticut
- Maxwell Motorsports and Driving school in Memphis, Tennessee
- Colonial Driving School in Colonial Heights, Virginia
Important tips to know when teaching a person with ASD how to drive
- Have a lot of practice sessions
- Allow for breaks between these practice sessions so as not to overwhelm them
- Drive through roads they are familiar with
- Start with the basics
- You can give them driving simulation games to practice with
- Give them both visual and verbal information
- Be very patient with them
- Use real-life examples to explain certain driving rules to them
- Give them room for mistakes
- Do not be harsh on them when they make mistakes
- Keep giving them positive and encouraging words
- You can break down the skills into understandable steps to help them process and learn easier.
conclusion
we know that individuals with Autism will face unique challenges when learning how to drive. It is therefore important that you give them the best training possible and guide them in this learning process.
Autistic patients can be the best drivers on the road with the right guidance and assistance. There are various driving schools available for people with Autism. You can reach out to them and start your journey but remember, Safety is the most important thing.
Frequently asked Questions
Question 1: Can someone with Autism drive Safely?
Answer: With proper guidance and assistance, yes, an individual with autism can drive safely.
Question 2: Is it legal for someone with Autism to drive?
Answer: There is no law preventing an autistic patient from driving
Question 3: Can someone with ASD get a driving license?
Answer: Once they have passed the requirements needed by their state, they can obtain a driver’s license and are free to drive
