Visor Card for People with Hearing Loss

Hearing loss can be a scary thing. You’ve been struggling to hear simple sounds like the doorbell or your alarm clock, but hearing loss isn’t just an inconvenience. Hearing loss can be a real safety hazard when on the road. Think about the last time a car pulled out in front of you, but you didn’t hear the warning honk. Or that time you were driving through a playground zone and didn’t hear the child shouting as their ball rolled into the road. Not only that, but hearing loss can be a real concern when you’re pulled over by the cops.

The Risks of Driving with Hearing Loss

Driving is already quite dangerous, with numerous accidents and collisions happening every day. Not only that, but for a hard of hearing person, a routine traffic stop can be challenging. If you can’t hear the law enforcement officer clearly, you could find yourself in some hot water. For example, an officer could ask you if you know your tail light is out, but you think they’re asking for your registration and insurance. If you reach for the glove box without answering, you can see how this could be perceived as a threat.

Protect Yourself – Get a Visor Card!

We know you’re compliant, and have every intention of following the officer’s orders. But what happens if you just can’t hear the orders? You try to tell them you’re hard of hearing, but they aren’t understanding, or think you’re just being difficult. The solution is easy.

Get a visor card! This simple piece of paper on your visor has the power to clear up communication with law enforcement officials and even save your life. The visor card is a simple note that says you’re hard of hearing, and gives the officer some tips on how to effectively communicate with you.

Where to Get a Visor Card

If you want to get a visor card stating you’re hard of hearing, you can download one for free here. Just print out the 2 pages on regular paper or, better yet, card stock paper. You can print it double-sided, or glue the 2 pages back to back. Congratulations, your visor card is ready!

How to Use Your Visor Card

Simply place your visor card on your sun visor. It’s hidden most of the time, but easily available when you need it. Make sure the right side is facing up when the visor is down, and secure it to the visor with 2 elastic bands. It will be out of sight out of mind, but ready at a moment’s notice when you need it. If you have to go rummaging through your bag or glove box, valuable time is lost and could even be read as threatening to law enforcement officers.

If and when you are stopped by the police, using your visor card is a breeze. Stop as soon as you realize the officer is flagging you down. Unclip your sun visor and swing it towards your side window. Roll your window all the way down and wait. Put your hands on the steering wheel and leave them there until the officer has talked to you and realizes you’re not a threat. The officer may give you instructions on the loud speaker, but if you’re not 100% confident about what’s been said, continue to wait in your vehicle, with hands in plain sight. Wait for the officer to approach your vehicle. When the officer has read your visor card, enjoy a peaceful conversation, working together to communicate effectively.

For more tips, have the officer remove the visor card and read the back so they will know how to help you hear. You may never be pulled over, but if you are, this card will make all the difference.

Stay Safe by Addressing Hearing Loss and Getting a Hearing Aid

If you’re struggling to hear, your safety is at risk everywhere you go, not just in the car. Missing the stove alarm, not hearing the smoke detector, or even missing a phone call can put your safety at risk. It is important to address your hearing loss as soon as you experience changes. To be safe both at home and on the road, visit Orange County Physicians’ Hearing Services to get a hearing test and get fitted for a device that will help you hear in every situation.