DISABILITIES & DRIVING
Mobility Independence
Can individuals on the autism spectrum drive?
Yes, many people on the autism spectrum are able to learn to drive safely and independently. Because autism is considered a spectrum condition and all individuals are unique, a comprehensive evaluation by a driver rehabilitation specialist is necessary to determine if you are candidate for driving. The assessment should include a review of medical history and medication, functional ability, vision, perception, assessment of life skills, activities that assess visual and cognitive processing skills for driving, and a behind-the-wheel evaluation. After this assessment, the driver rehabilitation specialist will create a customized training program to address issues with driving and help you identify what accomodations may be needed to acheive independent, safe driving.
Resources
Additional Resources for Driving and Autism
The organizations listed below can provide more resources and information on learning for individuals on the autism spectrum.
Association of Driver Rehabilitation Specialists (ADED)
ADED — The Association for Driver Rehabilitation Specialists is a professional organization that represents individuals who specialize in working with individuals with disabilities to evaluate their driving skills and provide rehabilitation services. The mission of the ADED is to promote safe and efficient mobility for individuals with disabilities through education, advocacy, and the advancement of the driver rehabilitation specialist profession.
The organization provides its members with a variety of resources and opportunities, including educational events and workshops, a professional certification program, a peer-reviewed journal, and access to a network of professionals who are knowledgeable in the field of driver rehabilitation. ADED also works with government agencies and other organizations to advance policies and programs that support the needs of individuals with disabilities who require driver rehabilitation services.
Autism Alliance of Michigan (AAoM)
The Autism Alliance of Michigan (AAoM) is a non-profit organization that works to support individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their families in Michigan. AAoM was founded in 2010 and has since become the state's leading autism advocacy organization, with a focus on providing resources, services, and support to families and individuals affected by autism.
The organization's mission is to lead collaborative efforts across Michigan to improve the quality of life for individuals with ASD and their families through education, comprehensive services, community awareness, inclusion efforts, and coordinated advocacy.
Some of the services provided by AAoM include autism assessments, resource navigation, parent support groups, recreational programs, and community events. The organization also works to promote autism awareness and acceptance in the community through various initiatives and partnerships with businesses, schools, and other organizations.
Overall, the Autism Alliance of Michigan is a valuable resource for individuals with autism and their families in Michigan, providing them with the support and resources they need to lead fulfilling lives.
National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association (NMEDA)
NMEDA stands for the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association. It is a non-profit trade association that represents businesses in the United States and Canada that sell and service wheelchair accessible vehicles and adaptive mobility equipment.
The mission of NMEDA is to promote safe and reliable wheelchair accessible vehicles and adaptive equipment for people with disabilities. They work to ensure that individuals with disabilities have access to the best mobility solutions and to support their independence and quality of life.
NMEDA members include mobility dealers, manufacturers, and rehabilitation professionals who work together to provide customized solutions for individuals with disabilities. They provide education, training, and certification programs to ensure that their members have the knowledge and skills necessary to provide quality products and services to their customers.
Additionally, NMEDA engages in advocacy efforts to promote policies and regulations that support the needs of individuals with disabilities. They work to improve access to transportation and to ensure that individuals with disabilities have equal opportunities to participate in all aspects of society.