5 Driving Tips for Autistic People

Nowadays, almost everyone can drive a car. However, some autistic people might find driving as a challenging task. It is because of the skills needed in order to drive like multi-tasking, nonverbal communication, quick decision capabilities and many more.

Some autistic people, on the other hand, are now competent drivers and even instructors. If you are one of the people with autism and is willing to learn how to drive, check out the procedures below brought to you by Philkotse.com.

1. Step 1: Study the rules and regulation of driving

Consult your personal doctor first or therapist before attempting on learning how to drive. This is the first and foremost step you need to do in order to know if you are capable of driving on the roads. For safety purposes, a driver should be attentive all the times and can react fast during emergencies.

Consult your personal doctor first or therapist before attempting on learning how to drive

Grab a copy of a driver’s manual. You can order these online and visit a local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office to get this manual. On the other hand, this manual can be known for a different name in other countries. For example, it is called the Highway Code in the United Kingdom.

You can visit a local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office to get the manual

Read the driver’s manual. The manual is like a bible about driving. This is made by the DMV of a particular state to provide information on the driving laws of the state. You will learn the different rules and regulations on the road like the do’s and don’t’s. If you want for a more realistic action about the laws, you can search for videos online about driving and watch it.

>>> Read more: A drivers' guide to the traffic signal lights in the Philippines.

You will learn the different rules and regulations on the road like the do’s and don’t’s

Sign up on an educational course about driving. Choose a driver’s ed class that will entertain people with disabilities (PWD). The course may be a little expensive but this can help you a lot and gain the confidence to drive.

Take the necessarily written exam. You can search on the internet for some reviewers about this exam. After passing the test, it is advisable to tell the interviewee that you are an autistic person when they ask about your health condition.

2. Step 2: Prepare for the skills test

Practice slowly but surely. Start driving in a place that has a big space then gently proceed to smaller spaces and highways.

Do your driving practice more often. This will help you to easily familiarize yourself in driving. You can level up also your driving by practicing more on highways and downtown. You can also ask your friend or a family member to come with you when practicing. They can help you learn faster by being your guide.

Do your driving practice more often will help you to easily familiarize yourself in driving

Enroll on driving lessons. If you have the money, it is helpful to do some lessons in order to build your skills and comfort while driving on the road. You can also ask your instructor to assess you as a real assessor would do.

Enroll on driving lessons and earn advice from the instructor 

Try to learn some new skills. These skills may not be included on the test but it may come in handy under some circumstances. Some of these skills you may want to learn are parallel parking and driving in poor visibility.

Make criticism from others as your motivation. It is normal to make mistakes especially when you are just starting. Accept it and stay calm. Listen to the different feedbacks given to you and use it to improve your skills.

Take the driving skills test once you are ready. Set an appointment at the DMV office or at your ed school. Make sure to bring all required documents like permit, proof of identity, and forms.

Take the driving skills test once you are ready

Also, bring your own car if you are going to have your skills test at the DMV. Be relaxed and stay focused while taking the test. Apply what you have learned in your practice. If you fail, don’t lose hope. It is not unusual for people to fail for the first time. Practice again and focus on the things you need to improve.

Once you pass, you will finally receive your driver’s license. You may have to be asked again about your health conditions. As stated earlier, it is best to tell that you are an autistic person.

3. Step 3: Drive on your own

Make yourself familiar with the car. Be aware of the different features in the car such as AC and heater, high and low beams, the dashboard, and the windshield wipers. It is very important especially for autistic people because you need to do multitasking while on the road. You may experience difficulty if you are not familiar with your car.

Study the car’s engine. Driving on your own means there will be no one for you when trouble comes. Thus, familiarising yourself with the components of your car like radiator, battery, and the engine is a must. You may ask help from a family member, local technician, or even search on the internet for some knowledge.

Familiarising yourself with the components of your car like radiator, battery, and the engine is a must

Ensure that you are comfortable with your car. Before going on a drive, make preparations for your car so that you will not face any difficulties when driving. Then drive slowly and always be attentive to the surroundings and observe the speed limit. If you have an appointment to attend, leave early to avoid rushing.

Moreover, using navigation apps as a guide while driving is necessary just in case you will be in a hurry and nervous. If your car doesn’t have one, you can use a GPS app or map on your phone. This will help you to arrive at your destination safely and faster.

4. Step 4: Take note tips about driving on different conditions

Avoid driving during rush hour. Driving during these hours can be stressful because of the heavy traffic. Then remind yourself to drive slowly when it is raining or the road is slippery. Not only that, drive carefully when passing by in a construction area.

Remind yourself to drive slowly when it is raining or the road is slippery

Of course, there are cases that everyone should follow strictly such as obey traffic enforcer when they are directing you to an alternative route. If you Take additional precautions when you are driving during nighttime. Turn on your car’s high beans to read correctly the road signs and check the road for any obstruction.

5. Step 5: Learn how to handle emergencies

Always bring car emergency supplies with you including first aid kit, water and food, car insurance policy, and a spare tire.

Do not panic during an accident. Stay calm and assess the situation. Call for help and also your insurance company.

If you believe in yourself, anything is possible

Ask for help if your car has a problem. If it is emitting black smoke, run away to a safe distance because the car might be on fire. If you believe in yourself, anything is possible. It doesn’t matter if you are an autistic person or not. There are no things in the world that you can’t learn if you put your all.

Yes, it is difficult in the start especially for people with autism but once they are well practiced and experienced, they can drive normally too. However, you must first consult your therapist to determine whether you are ready to drive or not.

Follow Philkotse.com for helpful driving tips and stay safe behind the wheel!