The Avon Lake Police Department's free Blue Envelope Program is designed to enhance communication between police officers and drivers with disabilities that that might require additional accommodations or awareness during traffic stops, such as autism, dementia, physical disabilities, or mental health conditions.
The Blue Envelope contains the driver's important documents, including a copy of the driver’s license, proof of insurance, vehicle registration, and emergency contacts. Communication guidelines to assist both the driver and the police officer are written on the outside of the Blue Envelope.
Having important documents organized and prepared within the Blue Envelope will make traffic stops streamlined for all involved, reduce anxiety, and help police officers better understand and communicate with the driver.
Quick Links
Get a Blue Envelope | Preparing Your Blue Envelope | Tips for Traffic Stops | Key Objectives
Get a Blue Envelope
Blue Envelopes are available for free at the Avon Lake Police Department located in the city's Safety Center at 32855 Walker Road, Avon Lake, Ohio 44012.
Once you have your Blue Envelope, the next step is to prepare it properly to ensure it serves its intended purpose during a traffic stop.
- Collect Your Documents | Collect copies of your current driver's license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance.
- Place Documents Inside | Insert these documents into the Blue Envelope. The envelope's design ensures that your documents are secure and easily retrievable.
- Place Your Envelope in a Visible Location in Your Vehicle | Make sure your Blue Envelope is placed somewhere that is easy to access inside your vehicle, such as the sun visor on the driver's side. This placement ensures that the envelope is readily available should you need to present your documents quickly. The envelope is designed to be easily noticed by law enforcement, signaling them to adjust their communication approach.
- Inform Family and Friends | If you share your vehicle with family or friends, inform them about the Blue Envelope and its purpose. This is crucial for ensuring that anyone driving your vehicle knows where the documents are and understands the importance of the envelope.
- Make Sure Your Documents are Up-to-Date | Make sure to replace any documents in the Blue Envelope with their current versions. Keeping your information up-to-date is essential for avoiding any complications during a traffic stop.
Remember, the Blue Envelope is more than just a holder for your documents; it's a communication tool designed to bridge the gap between drivers on the autism spectrum and law enforcement.
Tips for Traffic Stops
- Stay Calm | Try to remain as calm as possible. Deep breathing can help manage stress levels.
- Use Your Blue Envelope | When the officer approaches your car, say "I have a Blue Envelope". Keep your Blue Envelope in an easily accessible, visible place like the sun visor. If the officer is unaware of the purpose of the Blue Envelope, politely request that they read it.
- Follow Instructions | Listen to the officer’s instructions and try to follow them as best as possible. If you don’t understand something, asking for clarification is okay.
- Wait | When the officer needs to return to their cruiser, you will need to wait in your car for them until they come back. When the officer comes back, they will explain the end of the stop and tell you when to leave. Please note, a traffic stop may end with a traffic citation or a traffic warning.
- Safety First | Always keep your hands visible and avoid making sudden movements. Keep your hands on the steering wheel until otherwise directed, even if the officer is not at your car.
- Flashing Lights and Noise | Remember that the officer may shine a flashlight in your car, may have a radio, and may have flashing lights on their car.
- Call Your Contact | In a situation where you feel overwhelmed or unable to communicate clearly, you can ask the officer to contact the designated emergency contact listed on your envelope.
Key Objectives
The Blue Envelope program addresses several key objectives:
- Understanding | By providing officers with immediate, accessible information about autism, the Blue Envelope aims to promote empathy and patience, leading to more positive interactions.
- Reducing Stress | Traffic stops can be particularly stressful for individuals with autism. The Blue Envelope serves as a visual cue that helps officers adjust their communication style, thereby reducing anxiety for the driver.
- Communication | The guidelines on the envelope offer practical tips for officers, making it easier for them to communicate effectively with individuals with autism.
- Preparedness | For individuals with autism and their families, the Blue Envelope is a tool that encourages preparedness. By keeping their important documents in the envelope and understanding how to present it during a stop, drivers can feel more confident and secure.
