Hearing Loss: How to Improve Your Driving

Until you begin to experience hearing loss, you may not realize how much you depend on hearing sounds while driving.

Although driving heavily relies on your visual abilities, being able to hear is also important. Here are some driving tips if you experience hearing loss.

Talking to other Passengers

Communicating with others while driving is difficult for anyone, no matter how good your hearing is. 

If you need to read lips, it is very difficult to understand what others are saying while focusing on driving. Using assistive listening devices, like Phonak’s RogerTM Select Mic. Your passengers can speak directly into the device, and their speech sounds will transfer to your hearing aids. It is very important to stay focused on the road when driving. If you are having an important discussion that requires your undivided attention, pull the car over to a safe area. 

Here are some additional tips. 

Warning Sirens

The inability to hear sirens from emergency vehicles that are approaching is a fear for drivers who have hearing loss. Not knowing whether to pull over or continue driving through intersections can cause anxiety. You can avoid this by being aware of your environment. Frequently check your rearview and side mirrors for oncoming vehicles. Your surroundings can quickly shift. You should ask your passengers to listen for approaching vehicles with sirens to warn you.

Being Pulled over by the Police

This is going to happen at some point or another. Be prepared to immediately let the officer know that you have hearing loss. There is a visor card for the deaf/hard of hearing, that will help the officer understand your communication needs. 

Be Aware of Honking

Some drivers who have difficulty with hearing, are concerned about honking drivers. The honking sounds make them feel vulnerable as they drive. Keep your eyes on the road and drive your best to avoid the honks altogether. 

If you or a loved one, experience hearing loss contact us at Pure Sound Hearing for a free hearing test and consultation. We offer a variety of hearing aid brands including HANSATON, Oticon, Phonak, ReSound, Rexton, Signia, Starkey, Unitron, and Widex.        

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