MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Pa. (KYW Newsradio) — A Montgomery County resident with autism spectrum disorder has helped bring a new program to police departments across the county.
Drivers with autism, dementia, anxiety, or other communication challenges can get a blue envelope free of charge from police departments across Montgomery County thanks in part to 25-year-old Ben Hartranft.
Inside the envelope, drivers are asked to keep a copy of their license, registration, proof of insurance, and a form that explains any special needs, including a contact person to help with the interaction if needed. It’s an effort aimed at helping drivers and police officers during stressful traffic stops.
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On the outside of the envelope, drivers are to indicate if they have any conditions – autism, dementia symptoms, or if they are verbal or non-verbal – that might affect their communication.
It has instructions for both the driver and the officer, telling the driver to keep their hands on the steering wheel and to present the blue envelope when asked for their driver’s license. It also says an officer may shine a light in the car, but it tells the officer the driver may show certain signs of anxiety to lights or noise, and may not maintain eye contact.
It also says to clearly indicate when the traffic stop is complete and the driver can leave.
Two states – Connecticut and New Jersey – currently have the program. Pennsylvania is the third.
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