The Lehigh County Chiefs of Police Association in collaboration with Lehigh Valley Health Network is implementing a new program to help drivers with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) stay safe on the roads.
The blue envelope program helps facilitate communication between law enforcement officers and drivers with ASD during interactions such as a routine traffic stop. According to information about it shared recently by the Upper Saucon Township Police Department on their Crimewatch site, the envelopes indicate whether the driver is verbal or nonverbal and include instructions for what to do during a traffic stop.
Those instructions include the following advice, among other tips:
“When you get pulled over, keep your hands on the steering wheel until otherwise directed, even if the officer is not at your car.”
“When you get pulled over, the officer may shine a flashlight in your car, may have a radio and may have flashing lights on their car.”
“When the officer gets to your car, let the police officer know you have a blue envelope.”
Each envelope also includes a sheet that provides contact information for someone who would be able to provide additional information or assistance in interacting with the driver if necessary.
The back of each blue envelope contains tips for officers on how to conduct a smooth interaction with the driver. The envelopes can also be used to store important documents such as a vehicle registration card and proof of insurance.
The blue envelopes are available in both English and Spanish, and can be picked up at the Upper Saucon Township Police Department weekdays between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. or by contacting an officer after hours.
To see a sample copy of the blue envelope and its instructions, click here to visit the USTPD’s Crimewatch site.
This local news story was reported with generative AI assistance.
