As summer fast approaches, many teens will hit the road with their learner permits with the hopes of obtaining their driver’s license before heading back to the fall. Teen s with ADHD and other executive functions disorders will no doubt be among these group of teens. Teen drivers with ADHD and other executive functions require additional training to ensure that they are better equipped to handle the rigors of driving.
ADHD teens are more likely to have greater issues with driving because of ADHD core symptoms such as the inability to concentrate, impulsivity, and easy distractions. ADHD teens as a group are overrepresented in accident statistics due to these hindrances. Many ADHD teen drivers are often mistaken for drunk drivers when pulled over by the police for traffic violations.
“Difficulties in executive function and other systems to include poor judgment, risk-taking and thrill-seeking tendencies all contribute to these increased risks. Inattention can lead to distraction and impulsivity can lead to poor reactions to other drivers or traffic conditions. Your teen may overestimate how well she drives, even though she may have poorer driving experiences than other teens.” -CHADD.ORG
According to Behind The Wheel With ADHD:
- ADHD teens are seven times more likely to have been in two more accidents.
- Four times more likely to have been at fault in an accident.
- Six to eight more times likely to have their license suspended or revoked.
- Twice as likely to receive multiple citations for speeding.
- ADHD teens are routinely pulled over and mistaken for drunk driving.
There are several ways to mitigate these dangers to ensure that ADHD is safe and confident when driving and not just hoping for the best. One of the most effective ways of best preparing ADHD team is partnering with an ADHD certified driving school for initial skills training and maintenance lessons over a 6-12 month timeframe. These tailored programs are designed to be a collective effort between the certified driving school, the parent and the student.
What Can Parents Do To Mitigate ADHD effects:
- No passengers or only select passengers with the ADHD teen.
- Music may be a distraction to some teens with ADHD.
- Limit radio use to preset stations on the dial.
- Make sure the teen knows the route by using familiar routes whenever possible.
- Ensure medications are used as prescribed by a doctor.
- Devise and implement a long-term training plan with a certified driving school.
Certified ADHD Driving School
The Wiser Driver Driving School is the first driving school of its kind in the state of Georgia. In collaboration with Behind The Wheel With ADHD, our program includes a tailored effort that includes a 30 hour Driver’s Education Course, Behind the Wheel Training (BTW) along with a long tern maintenance plan that includes a monthly driving session over a 12 month period to ensure these safe practices are being applied properly.