01/31/2026
Promoting safe traffic stops for autistic drivers
Autistic drivers may obtain a blue envelope stored in their vehicles to improve safe communications with law enforcement officers during traffic stops.
Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office’s Community Engagement Unit partners with the KTG Foundation of Harriman, Tenn., to supply the free blue envelopes to autistic drivers.
The envelope advises autistic drivers to notify the officer they have a blue envelope and how the autistic driver will communicate through vocal speech, sign language, pictures, an electronic device or writing.
Officers are advised the driver may:
• Show signs of anxiety due to the flashing blue lights and noises from the radio.
• Display repetitive body movements of fidgeting and have unusual eye contact.
• Have unusual responses to authority figures.
Officers are requested to allow the driver extra time to respond, speak simply and show patience.
If the driver becomes upset, the officer may call the person listed on the contact card in the envelope for help.
The blue envelope packet may be picked up for free from the Sheriff’s Office Community Engagement Unit at 940 New Salem Highway in Murfreesboro.
Also, the Tennessee Department of Revenue has the Precious Cargo program, which makes traffic stops safer for autistic people and others with disabilities, as well as their families.
This is a voluntary program to add a private note to a vehicle’s registration. The note informs officers and emergency responders someone in the vehicle has a disability or medical condition and may need extra time, patience or help.
The person registering the vehicle, parents or legal guardians can apply for the designation through the Department of Revenue.
This program helps people with autism, Alzheimer’s disease, Down syndrome and other medical conditions.
To enroll:
· Fill out the application
· Ask a doctor to complete the medical section
· Turn in the signed form to your local county clerk
Here is the link to register:
