People depend on their hearing in a number of situations, making it difficult to perform some basic tasks if your hearing is damaged. Many people with hearing problems find that driving a car can become a challenge. Fortunately, just because you have difficulty hearing does not mean that safe driving isn’t possible. Follow some simple driving tips and you can drive perfectly safely.
Keep up with car maintenance: Unusual noises are a common warning sign that something is not quite right with your automobile. If you aren’t able to hear when something is wrong with your engine you run the risk of driving an unsafe vehicle. Stay up to date with routine maintenance to make sure your car is in proper condition.
Don’t drive if you are not comfortable: If you’re not at ease driving a vehicle with hearing loss, don’t do it! There are many alternatives to owning an automobile, including public transportation. You are more likely to make dangerous mistakes if you drive while stressed, so only drive when you feel confident and safe.
Eliminate distractions: When your hearing isn’t great you’ll have to be more reliant on your other senses, including vision. Distractions that take your eyes off the road, such as food or electronic devices, can avert your eyes and put you and your passengers in danger. Similarly, listening to the radio can make it even more difficult to hear sirens, horns, and other important traffic cues. By cutting out these distractions while you’re behind the wheel you can make sure you’re taking in all the information you need.
Be mindful of your hearing aid: If you have a hearing aid be sure you don’t get behind the wheel without it. It’s also important to make sure your car’s environment is conducive to proper hearing aid functioning. Don’t be afraid to switch on the AC rather than driving with the windows open. Your hearing aid can become less effective if it is buffeted by a draft from an open window, impairing your hearing and putting you at risk.
Hearing loss doesn’t have to keep you from driving if your doctor approves. Stay safe out there!
