An Introduction to Driving for Deaf 2012 - QEF

An Introduction to Driving for
People who are Deaf
or Hard of Hearing
An Introduction to Driving for
People who are Deaf
or Hard of Hearing
QEF Mobility Services 1

I'd like to learn to drive, I am deaf – What do I need to do?
There is no reason why a deaf person cannot learn to drive either a manual or
automatic car. However, you should be aware that if you pass your test in a car
with automatic transmission, you are only allowed to drive automatics and
would need to pass another test to drive a manual car. Whereas if you pass on
a manual car you can drive either. This is worth considering before you start
your lessons.
Where do I begin?
You need to apply for your provisional driving licence in the normal way. There
is no need to notify DVLA of deafness until the age of 70 for cars or motorcycles
(group 1 entitlement).
Finding a driving instructor
Queen Elizabeth’s Foundation Mobility Services have a database of driving
instructors who have completed a course of training, which includes advice for
teaching deaf or hard of hearing pupils. You can contact us at:
Queen Elizabeth’s Foundation Mobility Services
Damson Way
Fountain Drive
Carshalton
Surrey
SM5 4NR
Telephone; 020 8770 1151.
Website: www.qef.org.uk/mobilityservices
Email: info@mobility-qe.org
Please provide us with your postcode, whether you wish to drive a manual or
automatic and if you need any adaptations. We can then find driving instructors
in your local area who have experience of teaching deaf and hard of hearing
people to drive.
Some large driving schools have instructors who specialise in teaching people
who are deaf, so remember to inform them that you are deaf when applying for
driving lessons.
How will my instructor teach me?
The text on the pages to follow is the advice offered to Driving instructors on
our training course. You may find this useful to understand what you can
expect from your driving instructor.
I can sign
QEF Mobility Services 2

As far as British Sign Language is concerned, ‘signing’ cannot be used by the
instructor to assist the pupil whilst driving. This also applies to the examiner
when you are taking your test. There are specific directional signs that are
used for route directions. These are agreed between instructor and pupil at the
beginning of the course. Detailed instruction will be given when the car is
parked. During lessons, there will be some time spent stationary with the
instructor. Many deaf people are able to lip read to a certain extent and
instructors may also use written information and sketches to help teach pupils
to drive.
Technology
A choice of assistive listening products are available to help including in-car T-
loop systems.
Connevans Limited
54 Albert Road North
Reigate
Surrey
RH2 9YR
Tel: 01737 247571
Text/minicom: 01737 243134
Fax: 01737 223475
Email: mail@connevans.com
Website: www.connevans.com
Gordon Morris Ltd.
Unit 21,
Wessex Park,
Somerton Business Park,
Somerton,
Somerset, TA11 6SB
UNITED KINGDOM.
Telephone: + 44 (0) 1458 272121
FAX: + 44 (0) 1458 274545
E-mail: online@gordonmorris.co.uk
QEF Mobility Services 3

How will I know when to change gear?
Knowing when to change gear can be difficult to judge for any learner driver. It
isn’t a problem specifically for the deaf learner. The deaf driver learns to feel
the level of engine vibration. You will learn what it feels like when the engine
is revving enough to change gear.
How will I hear sirens?
Some students who are deaf have expressed concerns about not hearing police
sirens etc. There will be other clues to show that something is happening –
other drivers pulling over, for instance. Good observations and use of mirrors
are essential for safe driving. With the help of these you will spot the blue
flashing lights as others would if they were listening for sirens.
Breakdown Cover
The AA and RAC offer support to deaf customers in breakdown or accident
situations. You can contact either of them via SMS (text message) on your
mobile:
• The AA
SMS text messaging is available for use by deaf, hard of hearing or speech impaired
members in a breakdown situation by calling 07900 444 999.
Information is available in large print, audio and Braille on request. Call 0800 262 050
for details. Or if you have a textphone, call 0800 32 82 810.
If you have broken down and require assistance, contact the AA on 0800 887
766
• RAC
Offer a Breakdown Text Service.
Text 07855 828282.
Minicom Supertel service. Call 0800 626389 for assistance.
This number should be on the reverse of your membership card.
Taking your Theory test
The driving theory test was introduced in July 1996 as part of a package of
measures to help improve road safety. The theory test is intended to ensure
that all new drivers have a sound knowledge and understanding of driving and
road safety before they are issued with a full licence to drive unaccompanied.
Having successfully completed the theory test candidates must pass their
practical driving test within two years; otherwise they have to retake the
theory test.
QEF Mobility Services 4

The Driving Standards Agency (DSA) provides a number of facilities for people
with special requirements: these include foreign language voiceovers, extra
time, British Sign Language interpretation and translator assisted tests.
The theory test is made up of two parts; the multiple choice part and the
hazard perception part. You need to pass both parts to pass the theory test.
Once you have passed the theory test, you can apply to take your practical
driving test.
Physical Disabilities
Most theory testcentres are accessible by wheelchair. Where a candidate’s
nearest test centre is not wheelchair accessible, the DSA will arrange for an
alternative accessible venue to be used or, in very special cases, can arrange
for the test to be conduced at the candidate’s home.
The theory test is based entirely on multiple choice questions that require
correct answers from a number of options. Candidates do this by touching a
square (like a computer key) on the screen. However, if a candidate has
difficulty doing this, a member of the test centre staff will be on hand to
provide help.
Deaf Candidates
You can ask to take the theory test in British sign language (BSL). The BSL
interpretation will be alongside the standard test questions and answers. If you
do not use BSL, an interpreter can be taken into the test centre. This can be
arranged through the theory test customer services section. There is no extra
fee for either requirement.
Tests can be booked on: www.dsa.gov.uk
Highway Code and Theory Test: There are videos, CDs and DVDs available to
view. You will find these in your local bookshop. TSO sell the official DSA
theory test for car drivers CD Rom or DVD
If you have a general enquiry regarding product availability or would prefer an
alternative payment procedure, contact Customer Services by telephone +44
(0)870 600 5522.
Speech impaired customers can also communicate via text telephone on tel:
+44 (0)870 240 3701.
You can practice the multiple choice test online through the DSA website:
www.dsa.gov.uk/mockpaper/theoryintro.htm
QEF Mobility Services 5

The touch screen computer testing equipment has a facility for a BSL signer in
the corner of the screen for those with reading difficulties.
The test is presented one question at a time and candidates respond by
touching the correct answer on the screen.
City Lit: (The centre for adult learning) run Deaf Education and Learning
Support Course Driving Test Theory for terminology and understanding the test
questions. The course is taught in British Sign Language.
For more details contact City Lit:
City Lit
Keeley Street
Covent Garden
London
WC2B 4BA
Web: www.citylit.ac.uk
Switchboard: 020 7492 2600
Enrolments: 020 7831 7831
Fax: 020 7492 2735
Deaf Education
Tel 020 7492 2725
Fax 020 7492 2745
textphone 020 7492 2746
deafedu@citylit.ac.uk
The minicom number 0870 0106372 is available for test bookings and enquiries
or you can email: customercare@pearson.com
Dyslexia and other reading difficulties
People with dyslexia, or who have other reading difficulties, can listen to the
questions on headphones with an English or Welsh voiceover. They can also
request double the normal length of time to complete the multiple choice part
of the theory test. However, they will be required to provide a written
statement for their requirements from a teacher, educationalist or other
suitably qualified professional. If a candidate cannot provide such a statement
they should call the theory test enquiry line on 0870 01 01 372 and speak to a
member of the ‘Special Needs’ team to agree what other form of requirement
can be accepted.
MORE ABOUT THE TEST
Booking a Test
QEF Mobility Services 6

To book a theory test you will need:
• a valid UK driving licence
• a valid debit or credit card for payment.
Theory Test telephone booking no:
You can book a theory test online, over the phone or by post at:
Driving Standards Agency
Customer Services
PO BOX 381
Salford
Postcode: M50 3UW
Email: customercare@pearson.com
Phone: 0300 200 1122
Minicom: 0300 200 1166
Fax: 0300 200 1177
Welsh Speakers: 0300 200 1133
In addition to English and Welsh, voiceovers are available in the following
languages: Albanian, Arabic, Bengali, Cantonese, Dari, Farsi, Gujarati, Hindi,
Kashmiri, Kurdish, Mirpuri, Polish, Portuguese, Punjabi, Pushto, Spanish,
Tamil, Turkish, Urdu.
Candidates who wish to take the theory test in another language may need to
arrange for an interpreter to accompany them – they should call the Helpline
for further details.
Practical Test telephone booking no:
You can book a practical driving test online, over the phone or by post at the
address below. You will need a valid debit or credit card and your driving
licence number.
If you book a test by post you will need to download an application form or
obtain one from your driving instructor or your local practical test centre.
Driving Standards Agency
PO Box 280
Newcastle-upon-Tyne
Postcode:NE99 1FP
Email: bookings@dsa.gsi.gov.uk
Phone: 0300 200 1122
Minicom: 0300 200 1144
QEF Mobility Services 7

Fax: 0300 200 1155
Welsh Speakers: 0300 200 1133
When booking a practical driving test you must inform the DSA of any special
requirements or disabilities. Extra time for the test is allowed so that the
examiner can talk to you about your disability and any adaptations fitted to the
vehicle. Regardless of the type of disability, you will still take the same
driving test as any other candidate.
Someone with mild hearing impairment should advise the DSA, so that the
examiner may speak more loudly or turn towards them when speaking.
For a person with profound deafness, examiners have cards with written
instructions which can be used. Alternatively you are entitled to take an
interpreter with you to translate instructions into sign language. The
interpreter must be at least 16 years old and must not be the driving
instructor. They must also not interfere with the test in any way.
The candidate must provide the interpreter as the DSA does not employ them,
and the person booking the test must also inform DSA at the time of booking
that there will be an extra person in the car. See below for further information
on interpreters.
If a test cannot be conducted due to a lack of communication between
candidate and examiner then it must be terminated for safety reasons. It is
therefore in the candidate’s interest to provide the DSA with all the relevant
information when booking the test.
Interpreters for Practical Tests
RNID
You can contact the Information Line free by telephone or textphone, or send
an email, fax or letter:
19-23 Featherstone Street, London EC1Y 8SL
Telephone: 0808 808 0123 (freephone)
Textphone: 0808 808 9000 (freephone)
Fax:: 020 7296 8199
SMS: 0780 000 0360
Email: informationline@rnid.org.uk
Whichever way you choose to contact them, please include your full postal
address as they often only send information through the post. They also provide
a lot of relevant information on their website.
QEF Mobility Services 8

Signature
Signature was formally established as the Council for Advancement of
Communication with Deaf People in 1982 by a partnership of organisations
working with and representing deaf and deaf/blind people. They have
administered the national registers for BSL/English interpreters, Lipspeakers
and other communication professionals since 1992.
Language Service Professionals (LSPs) – lip speakers as well as sign language
interpreters will require payment for their services.
Problems paying for an Interpreter:
From October 1999 the Disability Discrimination Act stipulates that service
providers must make reasonable adjustments, and the provision of an LSP
would count as such. Lip speakers are often used to assist in the theory test
and this can be paid for by the DSA.
Contact Details:
Signature
Mersey House
Mandale Business Park
Belmont
Durham DH1 1TH
Tel: 0191 383 1155
Text: 0191 383 7915
Fax: 0191 383 7914
Email: durham@signature.org.uk
Advice for Driving Instructors
Deafness is not classed as a driver disability. No restrictions are placed on a full
licence when a deaf driver has passed the driving test. The profoundly deaf
(those who have no hearing at all) do benefit when filling in the Department of
Transport’s application form for the driving test by disclosing that they are
totally deaf. This ensures that the Driving Examiner is properly prepared and
extra time is allocated for slower communication.
Driving instructors are not often called upon to tackle this type of training and
some are reluctant to undertake the task because of their limited experience.
Deafness can make communication with a hearing driving instructor more
difficult at first. It requires the instructor to be able to adapt their teaching
technique slightly. The instructor does not need to learn sign language but the
instructor’s face should be seen clearly by the learner. Your pupil cannot lip-
QEF Mobility Services 9

ead you and watch the road at the same time. You will not be able to give
instructions while the pupil is driving along. Wait until the car has stopped at a
quiet part of the road.
When you speak to a deaf person, remember to:
• Speak clearly
• Do not shout
• Keep your head still
• Do not speak until the deaf person can see your lips clearly. Try to move
your lips a little more than you normally do
• Be patient
It is vital to realise that lip-reading is largely guesswork because so many words
look the same. For example, the sounds, M, B and P look exactly the same and
the lip-reader cannot SEE any difference between the words PETER, BETTER
and METER. There are thousands of such ambiguities – compare COLD, OLD,
HOLD and GOLD. Lip reading is made more difficult because sounds such as N,
T, D, K, L, G are ‘invisible’. The lips do not move when these sounds are made.
Some deaf people are very good at lip reading so clear speech is important.
Face to face conversation, demonstration, written notes and the use of visual
aids will cover all requirements. Unsatisfactory response is likely to be the
fault of the instructor rather than the learner.
At the outset it is necessary to establish what is the best means of
communication. For example, putting a thumb up will mean "good" whereas
putting a thumb down will mean "bad".
Introduction to Controls
Introduction to controls of the vehicle, as is the practice, will be by
demonstration when the car is stationary. Emphasis must be made to show
which limb has to operate each control, as demonstration is the method which
will be used to communicate. For instance, the right leg being the limb used
for the accelerator and the footbrake: tap your own right leg as you place it
over the accelerator and the footbrake. Similarly when demonstrating the use
of the clutch, tap your own left leg as you demonstrate to the pupil how to
operate this pedal. This will establish to the pupil what is being asked when
you tap either leg.
Mirrors
Explain the need for effective use; pointing first towards the eyes and then to
the mirrors can be a good reminder.
Steering
QEF Mobility Services 10

Demonstrate to the pupil. It is important to use illustrations and visual aids.
Establish at the outset, while stationary, how important it is to look well
ahead. If it is seen that the eyes have dropped with the resultant wander of
the vehicle, point to pupil’s eyes followed by a hand movement straight ahead.
Visual aids can also assist in showing the correct way to turn the steering
wheel.
Gears
Following explanation of the positions of each gear and their uses, establish the
method to be used to communicate which gear needs to be selected when on
the move.
Speed first – then gear
Recognising when it is necessary to change gear will be known by the
awareness of different speeds, but also by feel.
QEF Mobility Services 11

Clutch
Locate with left foot, tapping left leg; explain use and how to operate, again
using visual aids. Establish the code which will be used for instruction on use of
the clutch when the vehicle is moving. Place left hand horizontally, as near to
the dashboard as possible. When requiring the clutch to be pressed, palm
facing down, move hand downwards. For lifting the clutch, palm facing down,
move hand upwards very slowly.
Accelerator
Having explained what this is, where it is and how to use it, establish the
method you will use to indicate when you require more or less pressure. Raise
right hand in horizontal position with palm facing downwards. As advised with
left hand for the clutch, move right hand up or down to demonstrate the
pressure required.
QEF Mobility Services 12

Footbrake
Following introduction to the use, make sure your pupil knows what will be the
signal you will use when braking is required. Raise right hand again in
horizontal position, with palm facing downwards, but this time locate your
hand a little further to the left in order to indicate the use of the middle
pedal. As advised with left hand for the clutch, move hand up or down to
demonstrate the pressure required.
Clutch and accelerator co-ordination
Use both hands (palms facing down) extended horizontally and work in unison –
one up and other down like a see-saw. Biting point is shown to be when hands
are level.
QEF Mobility Services 13

Stopping
While stationary, demonstrate by raising the right foot from the accelerator
and transferring it to the footbrake, followed by progressive pressure. Later,
when on the move, the right hand will be used as already described. How much
pressure required will be shown by the amount of downward movement of the
hand. Just before the vehicle is stationary and the left foot is required to press
the clutch, the left hand should be raised alongside the right and pressed down
fully.
Positioning
Use the right hand (back of hand facing pupil) with fingers extended. To
indicate necessity to move further to the right, move hand towards the right.
Similarly, when requiring the vehicle to travel nearer to the left, move hand
towards the left.
Turning corners
QEF Mobility Services 14

When requiring a pupil to take a road on the left:
a) If it is the first road:
Place right hand up to the windscreen with one finger pointing upwards,
immediately followed by moving the whole hand to the left.
When requiring the pupil to take a road on the right:
a) If it is the first road:
Place right hand up to the windscreen with one finger pointing upwards,
immediately followed by moving the whole hand to the right.
b) If it is the second road:
Place right hand up to the windscreen with two fingers pointing
upwards, immediately followed by moving the whole hand to the right or left.
Ensure the two fingers are clearly visible and not held at an angle so they look
like only one finger.
QEF Mobility Services 15

Roundabouts
Make a round movement with your hand and hold up the number of fingers to
show which exit: 1st, 2nd, 3rd etc.
Traffic lights
With palm upward and fingers closed, ‘explode’ fingers outwards to describe
the light coming on. You can describe the light more fully by doing three lights
one beneath the other like on the real thing. Then give the direction in the
usual way.
QEF Mobility Services 16

Further signals for instructions
When requiring the car to stop at the side of the road, use the same movement
with the arm as advised for positioning and follow this by an up and down
movement, similar to the Highway Code signal for “I am going to slow down or
stop”.
Work on your signing together
Whilst QEF has taken every care to provide the information in this
document, we cannot in any circumstances accept liability arising out of or
in connection with the use of this information or any reliance placed on it
by any person. QEF does not endorse or make any representation to the
quality, cost or availability of the services listed.
Further Information
The Queen Elizabeth’s Foundation Mobility Services run a one day training
course accredited by the Open College Network for people who are deaf or
hard of hearing and are looking to start driving:
Benefits
A Practical Approach to Driving for Deaf People
one-day workshop (awaiting OCN accreditation)
A Practical Approach to Driving for Deaf People provides delegates with the
information they need: from finding a driving instructor to choosing and
maintaining their first car.
Course Overview
QEF Mobility Services 17

The programme includes:
• The practicalities of owning a car
• Alternatives to driving
• Getting your first licence
• Getting your first car
• Practical driving session
• Basic car maintenance
• What makes a good driver
Course information
Duration
Location
1 day
Queen Elizabeth’s Foundation Mobility Services, Damson Way,
Fountain Drive, Carshalton, Surrey SM5 4NR
How to apply
Please contact: Queen Elizabeth’s Foundation Mobility Services for more
information:
Telephone: 020 8770 1151
Fax: 020 8770 1211
Email: info@mobility-qe.org
QEF Mobility Services 18