Interaction Between Police and Drivers Who are Deaf
Texas PSA on Drivers Who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing
A new 30 second PSA was recently launched in Texas alerting the +7% Texas citizens who are deaf or hard of hearing that a special Driver’s License Code applies to them. Sponsored by Asperger’s 101, the 30 second PSA is now running on many TV/Radio stations across the State of Texas. See the spot at “Driving with Autism” and other Communication Impediments – Deafness PSA
Texas Drivers: Deaf or Hard of Hearing Visor Card
The Texas Health and Human Services, Office for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services (ODHHS), offers drivers who are deaf or hard of hearing a visor card to carry in their vehicle to identify themselves as being deaf or hard of hearing. For more about the program and to apply for the visor card go to ODHHS Driver’s Visor Card Application. (3955 Application 3955)
https://hhs.texas.gov/sites/default/files/documents/laws-regulations/forms/3955/3955.doc
US Department of Justice Guidance for Law Enforcement
At some point in their career, law enforcement can expect to come into contact with people who are deaf or hard of hearing. It is estimated that up to nine percent of the population has some degree of hearing loss, and this percentage will increase as the population ages. It’s important to become familiar with agency policy regarding communicating with people who are deaf or hard of hearing. Equally important is becoming familiar with the US Department of Justice guidance for Law Enforcement Officers Communicating with People Who Are Deaf or Hard of Hearing. For more information contact the DOJ at 1-800-514-0301.
https://www.ada.gov/lawenfcomm.htm
Police Giving Deaf Drivers Cards to Help Them Communicate
A police department is giving deaf drivers a new tool to improve communication during traffic stops: laminated visor cards with symbols that officers can point at to indicate speeding, running a red light and other common violations. Read more at US News and World Report.