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Sound Matters
Hearing-impaired drivers face unique challenges.
Q I have been hard of hearing for some time. That means I have trouble hearing the turn signal clicker, so I often fail to turn it off if it does not cancel after a turn. I also have trouble hearing sirens until the emergency vehicle is almost on top of me. Is there anything that can help?
A It is estimated that nearly 28 million Americans, more than 9 percent of the population, suffer from some sort of hearing loss, so you are not alone. Fortunately, there are devices available that may be able to help you drive more safely.
The turn signal flasher unit in most cars controls both the flashing of the turn signal lights and makes the distinctive clicking sound that alerts drivers with normal hearing of its operation. Some auto parts stores sell flashers that are noticeably louder than others, so you may want to see if a replacement part is available for your car.
Flasher units simply plug into an electrical socket, so making the swap should be easy – once you locate the unit. Finding it, however, can be a challenge. Vehicle makers hide it in a wide range of locations. Fortunately, finding a working unit is made easier by the ability of the mechanic doing the work to zero in on the sound it makes when operating. Many auto parts stores also have charts showing the location of the turn signal flasher in many makes and models.
At one time, some manufacturers offered turn signal flashers that clicked louder after they had been on for about 45 seconds. Also, there are relatively easy to install warning lights, available at some auto parts stores and from mail-order suppliers, that are far brighter than the pale green turn signal indicator lights on the instrument panel.
As for sirens, there are special devices that warn a hearing-impaired driver of an approaching emergency vehicle. Some units are so sophisticated that they can distinguish between a wailing siren and the blare of car horn. For more information, contact the appropriate social services organization in your area for referrals to companies that provide products and services for hearing-impaired drivers.
(This article is from AAA Journeys, AAA Journeys Magazine - Zip Code Verification)
Hearing-impaired drivers face unique challenges.
Q I have been hard of hearing for some time. That means I have trouble hearing the turn signal clicker, so I often fail to turn it off if it does not cancel after a turn. I also have trouble hearing sirens until the emergency vehicle is almost on top of me. Is there anything that can help?
A It is estimated that nearly 28 million Americans, more than 9 percent of the population, suffer from some sort of hearing loss, so you are not alone. Fortunately, there are devices available that may be able to help you drive more safely.
The turn signal flasher unit in most cars controls both the flashing of the turn signal lights and makes the distinctive clicking sound that alerts drivers with normal hearing of its operation. Some auto parts stores sell flashers that are noticeably louder than others, so you may want to see if a replacement part is available for your car.
Flasher units simply plug into an electrical socket, so making the swap should be easy – once you locate the unit. Finding it, however, can be a challenge. Vehicle makers hide it in a wide range of locations. Fortunately, finding a working unit is made easier by the ability of the mechanic doing the work to zero in on the sound it makes when operating. Many auto parts stores also have charts showing the location of the turn signal flasher in many makes and models.
At one time, some manufacturers offered turn signal flashers that clicked louder after they had been on for about 45 seconds. Also, there are relatively easy to install warning lights, available at some auto parts stores and from mail-order suppliers, that are far brighter than the pale green turn signal indicator lights on the instrument panel.
As for sirens, there are special devices that warn a hearing-impaired driver of an approaching emergency vehicle. Some units are so sophisticated that they can distinguish between a wailing siren and the blare of car horn. For more information, contact the appropriate social services organization in your area for referrals to companies that provide products and services for hearing-impaired drivers.
(This article is from AAA Journeys, AAA Journeys Magazine - Zip Code Verification)
Always be alert of your surroundings and keep checking your instrument board time to time, that's not hard to do.
