Tips for driving with hearing loss

If your hearing is impaired, you'll want to take these steps to be a safer driver: Getty Images WORK WITH AN AUDIOLOGIST. Many of us know people who have hearing aids they never use

because they found them more annoying or distracting than their hearing loss. Hearing-aid technology has improved enormously, but there's still a learning and adaptation curve when you

first get the devices, Wolf says. “Without the appropriate follow-up care and procedures, people have very little success with hearing aids. It takes time to learn how to use and fine-tune

them. A doctor can help with the proper procedures." HAVE YOUR VISION CHECKED. When one sense is diminished, the others pick up the slack, and vision is your most important sense behind

the wheel, says Bill Van Tassel, AAA manager of Driver Training Programs. “If your hearing is going, make sure your vision is as sharp as possible while you're driving." EXPAND

YOUR FIELDS OF VIEW. Because you're relying more on your eyes, you want to be able to take in as much visual information as possible. A clip-on, wide-angle rearview mirror can help you

see more of and process your surroundings. Some states, such as New York, require drivers who report hearing impairment to use a larger full-view rearview mirror. REDUCE THE NOISE. The more

auditory distractions you have, the harder it will be to pick up the sounds you need to hear for safe driving. Keep the windows closed and lower the volume on the radio to help you

concentrate. If you have hearing aids, you may be able to program them to use directional microphones or use a remote microphone accessory to hear the passengers in your car without needing

them to speak loudly. MINIMIZE DISTRACTIONS. This is important for everyone, regardless of how well they can hear, and it's even more essential if your hearing is diminished. Keep phone

use to an absolute minimum. If you must talk to someone while you're behind the wheel, hearing aids with Bluetooth technology that sync to your phone make it easier and safer to take a

call.