Bringing a Driving Simulation for Neurodiverse Drivers to Our Community
At Adaptable Driving we want to bridge the gap between rehearsal of driving skills and real- world driving practice by bringing a simulator to the community.
We are exploring the addition of a driving simulator specifically designed to support neurodiverse and autistic drivers. Before making this investment, we would love to hear from families, educators, therapists, and potential drivers who may be interested in participating.
To join our pilot program, please complete the interest form below. You will be added to our email updates and we will hold a spot for you in our program.
Helping Neurodiverse Drivers Build Confidence, Safety, and Independence
Our Mission
Learning to drive is one of the most important milestones in a young person’s life. It opens doors to education, employment, social opportunities, and greater independence.
For many neurodiverse teens and young adults—including individuals with autism, ADHD, learning differences, anxiety, and other developmental conditions—learning to drive can be especially challenging. Traditional driver education programs are often not designed to address their unique learning styles, sensory needs, processing speeds, or anxiety levels.
At Adaptable Driving, we believe every individual deserves access to safe, personalized driver education that meets them where they are and helps them achieve their goals.
That’s why we’re raising funds to purchase and implement the SANDI driving simulator.
What We’re Raising Funds To Do
Our goal is to purchase the SANDI driving simulator and software platform specifically designed to help new drivers who need additional driving simulation and support before beginning real world driving. Developed at Vanderbilt University, the SANDI driving simulator monitors visual tracking/eye gaze, physiological response to driving stimuli and helps to build foundational skills. There is an option to add on virtual reality for full field of vision and tracking of driving environment. Additional details about the simulator can be found at sandi.website.
The simulator will allow students to:
- Practice driving skills in a safe and controlled environment
- Build confidence before getting behind the wheel
- Experience realistic traffic situations without risk
- Learn how to manage distractions and challenging driving scenarios
- Develop decision-making skills through repeated practice
- Receive individualized instruction based on their needs
- Rehearse manual motor skills such as wheel turning, and gas/brake application
The funds raised will support:
- Driving simulator software
- Hardware and equipment
- Staff training and certification
- Program development and curriculum materials
Why We Care
Transportation is one of the biggest barriers to independence for many neurodiverse individuals.
Without access to driving, many people face limitations in employment, education, community participation, and social engagement. Families often become lifelong transportation providers, creating stress for both parents and young adults seeking greater independence.
We see this challenge every day.
Parents tell us they worry about safety but want their child to have the same opportunities as their peers.
Young adults tell us they want the freedom to get to work, attend college, volunteer, spend time with friends, and participate in their communities.
A driving simulator creates a bridge between learning and real-world driving. It provides a space where mistakes become learning opportunities rather than safety risks.
By helping even one new driver gain the skills and confidence needed to drive safely, we can change the trajectory of an entire family’s future.
How We Will Make It Happen
Adaptable Driving already provides comprehensive driver evaluations, driver training, and consultation services for individuals with medical, developmental, and cognitive differences.
Our implementation plan includes:
Phase 1: Develop interest list
“We are looking for 10 participants for our pilot program. If we receive interest from 10 individuals then we plan to move forward with purchasing and implementing the simulator program.”
Initial founding families receive a discounted per hour fee for 10 sessions on the simulator. Individuals will also receive priority scheduling during the pilot program. Evening and weekend times on simulator will be available exclusively at our Roswell, Georgia office.
We offering our pilot program to 10 individuals interested helping to kick start our new program. Space is limited.
Founding family commitments
Number needed
Item
Cost
10 individuals
10 session new driver package
Sessions are 50 minutes in length.
$800 each package
Phase 2: Purchase and install the simulator hardware and software.
Phase 3: Host a community event up to four weeks after install of equipment to celebrate and share simulator experience.
| Founding family commitments | Number needed | Item | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 individuals | 10 session new driver package Sessions are 50 minutes in length. |
$800 each package |
Host a local community event to allow all founding families and community members to come to our office and experience the simulator and it’s benefits at our Roswell office.
Phase 4: Pilot Program (Will run for 6 months)
Launch a pilot program serving 10-15 neurodiverse teens and young adults in the Atlanta area to determine continued need for service and provide access to equipment previously difficult to find in the community.
Phase 5: Community Expansion (Begins after initial pilot program ends at 6 months)
Develop partnerships with schools, vocational programs, therapists, disability organizations, and families to expand access throughout Georgia.
Our long-term vision is to create one of the region’s leading neurodiverse driver training programs, helping hundreds of individuals gain greater independence and mobility.
Who We Are
Adaptable Driving is a specialized driver rehabilitation and education program operated by Adaptable Therapy Services.
The program is led by Julia McVicker, MS, OTR/L, DRP, an Occupational Therapist and Driving Rehabilitation Professional with extensive experience helping individuals navigate driving-related challenges.
Our team works with teens, adults, older drivers, and individuals with disabilities to evaluate driving skills, provide driver training, recommend adaptive equipment, and support transportation independence.
We combine clinical expertise with practical driver education to create personalized programs that focus on safety, confidence, and real-world success.
As members of professional organizations including the Association for Driver Rehabilitation Specialists (ADED) we are committed to evidence-based practice and the highest standards of care.
Our Commitment
While challenges are inevitable, we are confident in our ability to successfully launch this program because we already serve drivers with diverse learning needs through our existing driver rehabilitation services. The driving simulator is not the start of our mission—it is the next step in expanding our ability to help neurodiverse individuals gain confidence, independence, and safe access to transportation.
Demand May Exceed Capacity
We anticipate strong interest in the program. During the initial launch phase, appointment availability may be limited as we ensure every participant receives high-quality instruction and individualized support. We will manage growth carefully to maintain program quality and safety. Our initial founding members will have scheduling priority.
Measuring Outcomes
Because every learner progresses at a different pace, success may look different for each participant. We are committed to tracking outcomes, collecting feedback from participants and families, and continuously improving the program based on data and real-world experience.
Affordability and Accessibility
One of our goals is to make this program accessible to families who may already face significant financial burdens related to therapy and support services. We will actively seek sponsorships, grants, and community partnerships whenever possible.
Equipment and Technology Implementation
Like any technology-based program, there may be challenges related to equipment setup, software updates, or technical support. To minimize these risks, we are selecting established simulator technology and working with experienced vendors who provide training and ongoing support.
Staff Training and Program Development
Successfully integrating simulator training into driver education requires specialized knowledge and curriculum development. Our team has extensive experience in driver rehabilitation and education, and we will complete all recommended training before implementing the program with participants.
Building Community Awareness
Many families and professionals are unfamiliar with how driving simulators can support neurodiverse learners. We plan to address this through community outreach, partnerships with schools and therapy providers, educational presentations, and demonstration opportunities.
To join our pilot program, please complete the interest form below. You will be added to our email updates and we will hold a spot for you in our program.
Thank you for your support!
For additional questions reach out to julia@adaptabledriving.com
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