Breaking down misconceptions about deaf drivers

Some people may be unaware that deaf people in the United States (and many other countries) are able to get drivers’ licenses. People cite the necessity of being able to hear in many driving-related situations, including:

  • when emergency vehicles are on the road
  • when their car breaks down
  • when they are pulled over by an officer
  • when their car is making noises
  • trying to sign or read lips while driving

With training and special devices (in some instances), however, it’s easy for deaf drivers to deal with these concerns and drive at least as well as hearing drivers. Deaf drivers make use of panoramic mirrors to watch for emergency vehicles and unexpected situations on the road around them.During driving education courses, deaf students generally come up with hand signals for turning, stopping, accelerating, and slowing down. As with any student driver, instructors will have a brake on the passenger side to ensure safety during these learning experiences.Hearing disabilities are noted on the deaf driver’s license, specifically in case the driver ever gets into an accident or is pulled over by police. Recently, some states are coming up with other ways to notify police of a deaf driver’s status. For example, in 2009, the Maryland Sheriffs’ Association developed a Deaf Driver Visor card which is placed on the car’s windshield. This quickly informs officers of the situation, and avoids any miscommunication between sides.Despite the special training that deaf drivers receive, some people may still be wary of seeing someone signing in the car ahead of them. As others point out, though, think of all the sounds that hearing drivers experience in the car, whether it’s loud music, air resistance in convertibles or from open windows, and conversations with people in the car or even over the phone. Deaf drivers do not have to worry about these distractions, and are generally already skilled in using their peripheral vision to stay aware in the environment. As far as driving goes, deaf drivers are certainly capable of meetingand possibly even surpassingthe safety standards which hearing drivers take for granted.