According to a U.S. Census Press Release (May 2008), 12 percent of people age 16 to 64 have a disability. Meeting the needs of those drivers can be complicated.
Evaluating Drivers with Special Needs
The ADED (the Association for Driver Rehabilitation Specialists) website has Disabilities and Driving Fact Sheets which include information for assessing would-be drivers with cerebral palsy, spina bifida, and those with ADHD. Considerations include how the person moves, the individual’s ability to see and judge how far away things are, and his ability to concentrate and make timely decisions.
The ADED provides a checklist of considerations for the driver with physical disabilities or ADHD. In addition, the ADED offers a special certification for instructors who have been trained in assessment would be drivers with disabilities and needed vehicle adaptations. Professionals with the certification are Certified Driver Rehabilitation Specialists.
Equipment for Drivers with a Physical Disability
Some teens have physical limitations that will need to be evaluated for ability to move quickly and with sufficient range to drive safely. In the case of a teen with a physical disability adapted equipment might be recommended, including a spinner knob, hand accelerator and brakes, and adapted mirrors.
Strategies for Drivers with Hearing Loss
For some teens, such as those with a hearing loss or a learning disability, the language of the test may be confusing. Getting a driver’s assessment study book is one of the first steps. It will tell the would-be driver:
- Road signs and their names
- Types of maneuvers expected on the behind-the-wheel assessment
- Practice test questions
- State websites with online practice tests
Practice for the driver assessment should include on the road practice, paper pencil practice from the state driving manual, and completion of available online tests. Making flashcards with the practice test questions will increase confidence with the wording and the information used for the test.
Drivers with Low Vision
Some students with low vision may need special mirrors to compensate for difficulties with visual perception and acuity. They may require different glasses when driving. They may require an attachment to their usual glasses to enhance vision.
School districts usually require students to pass the written driver education test prior to graduation. In some instances, this applies to all students, including those who are blind. If the school district does not waive the written driver test requirement, a parent may need to ask for such a stipulation in the student’s Individualized Education Plan.
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