Children diagnosed with Autism and children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (“ASD”), experience a range of neurological differences that affect how they communicate, interact, and perceive the world. The challenges and strengths of each child can vary greatly. Children diagnosed with Autism or ASD can experience many difficulties when near motor vehicles, such as:
Sensory Overload: Loud engines, honking horns, flashing lights, or even the smell of exhaust can be overwhelming and may trigger distress or an episode.
Safety Awareness: Some children with these medical conditions may not fully grasp the dangers of traffic. They might dart into the street impulsively or struggle to judge the speed and distance of oncoming vehicles.
Wandering: Some children with these medical conditions tend to wander, which can be especially dangerous near busy roads or parking areas.
Executive Functioning Challenges: Planning and sequencing actions—like waiting for a walk signal, checking both ways, and crossing quickly—can be difficult to coordinate.
Fear or Anxiety: Crowded sidewalks, unpredictable vehicle movements, or unfamiliar environments can cause anxiety, making it hard to stay calm and focused.
Motorists may be alerted to areas where children diagnosed with these medical conditions live and play, so that they might reduce their speeds and be vigilant, for everyone’s safety. However, the effectiveness of these types of “warning” signs as a deterrent to pedestrian/vehicle crashes has been difficult to measure. The Child with Autism warning sign is not intended to regulate speed and is not a guarantee that pedestrian/vehicle crashes will be avoided. Additionally, the Child with Autism warning sign may bring unwanted attention to the area and/or child.
Parents or legal guardians are allowed to apply for these signs to be installed on state-maintained roadways when they are in a permanent residence.
The approved sign assembly for DelDOT installations will consist of a Watch Children sign with a plaque underneath that states Child with Autism.
Step 1: Verify you meet the criteria below.
You are the parent or legal guardian of a child under the age of 18 diagnosed with Autism or ASD.
Step 2: Have your child’s physician complete the below medical certification. Please have this document ready when you complete the online application.
Step 3: Get a letter of support from your Homeowners' or Civic Association.
If you live in a development with no HOA or Civic Association, please contact your local senator or representative for assistance.
Find My Legislator - Delaware General Assembly
You will need the letter to complete the application.
Step 4: Complete the online appliction accessible below.
Once completed you will receive an email notification from the DelDOT Traffic Studies team to review and process.
If installation is feasible, the appropriate location of the sign(s) will be in accordance with traffic operations and terrain within the proximity of the residence.
It is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to notify DelDOT Traffic Engineering if any of the following occur:
- They are moving to a new location.
- They determine the sign is no longer needed.
- Their contact information changes.
- The child reaches age 18.
