BDA Statement on Dyslexia and Driving Study

Media Release

3 February 2005

BDA Statement on Dyslexia and Driving Study

The BDA is aware of recent media coverage highlighting dyslexia and driving. An exceptionally small study, undertaken at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, looked at reaction times of 17 drivers, six of whom are claimed to have been dyslexic. The BDA believes this study is too small to provide reliable, scientific results. It would be unrealistic to make broad assumptions about the general driving ability of dyslexic drivers, based on this study.

The UK driving test includes a hazard test during which learners, including dyslexic learner drivers, have to react to a wide range of potential hazards in all sorts of driving conditions. If they do not pass this test they will not be issued with a full UK driving licence.

Reaction times have not been consistently shown to be a good predictor of driving performance according to the UK’s department of Transport. Many other skills come in to play.

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Notes to the Editor

For further information contact Carol Youngs on 0118 966 2677

The British Dyslexia Association is the voice of dyslexic people

The BDA is a registered charity (number 289243).

The charity offers advice, information and help to dyslexic people, their families and the professionals who support them, our helpline number is 0118 966 8271

Alongside this practical help, the BDA works towards raising awareness and understanding of dyslexia in education and the workplace to effect change.

The BDA has 96 Local Associations throughout the UK.