Routine Traffic Stop Practice for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Fostering Positive Interactions Between Police Officers and People With Autism

This program is designed to alleviate some of the stress associated with a traffic stop by providing an opportunity for drivers and officers to interact in a safe, predictable manner.  This event allows participants to engage with an officer and experience a routine traffic stop in a controlled setting, events take place in a closed parking lot.  The goal of the program is to familiarize participants with the typical steps of a traffic stop and prepare them for the experience elsewhere.

Participants will learn how to effectively utilize the Blue Envelope when stopped by a police officer. Blue Envelopes will be available for drivers should they choose to use them. The Blue Envelope is a Connecticut DMV resource that provides a blue-colored envelope with written instructions to assist a motorist with autism spectrum disorder navigate a traffic stop. The envelope also alerts police officers that the individual has autism so that enhanced communication can be reached between the two. You can read more at the DMV Website here.

Participants can be drivers or passengers for this program. They will utilize their own vehicle while being pulled over in a closed parking lot allowing for the safest possible scenario. Before the traffic stops, participants will review the steps of a routine traffic stop, and also how to use the DMV Blue Envelope. Drivers and Police Officers will also have the opportunity to meet and engage informally before the traffic stops.  

If you would like more information or to set up an event in your community please contact us at asd-center@southernct.edu