Zoning out while driving

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OP is describing a form of dissociation which is a state that both NT's and ASD's are capable of experiencing. If dissociation is very frequent or severe it may be secondary to psychological trauma.

Sounds like some of my psychologists; " So you were abused as a child? Well that's the problem, no need to look further." And it's a really good thing that so many of us don't believe the sentiment stated in your signature line. Sorry to jump on you, but the whole post was both dismissive and negative. And I haven't known any NT's that have experienced this IRL. Could be that they just don't admit to it, though.

Well I can say right now that I was not diagnosed with any PTSD or anything like that. Just ASD,ADD, and GAD.

I don't know if I do this or not, because I never allowed that to happen. Back when I had a driver's license I never drove for more than 20 minutes at a time, so I could keep my focus properly. I also never drove alone, always had someone else sitting there beside me watching out for signs and exits. And they better not talk to me at all other than pointing out road signs. I can't multi-task. Aside from the possibility of sensory overload, and zoning out, I also have poor reflex and coordination. (Mixed up gas and brake many times.) I didn't renew my license when it expired. It was too stressful. Nobody forgave me for that. It's been 9 years since I gave up my license and I still got nagged by everybody for not driving.

*Oh by the way I passed my driving test with flying colors only a few weeks after learning to drive. It doesn't mean I was good at driving, though, just good at taking tests.

Yeah, I persistently zone out between destinations. I always get caught up staring at mundane little things and thinking about how they were made, how they got there or what they're for, which is great fun I'll add. I'll also say that this is among the long list of reasons I'm not allowed to drive.

Being in autopilot is an accident waiting to happen but I don't know what it's like where you live. I have heard America has huge roads and the roads are empty compared to congested cramped England.

i also often drive on autopilot (same thing when i'm using a bike or just walking, actually), but i always have some danger detecting on; as soon as something gets close or there is as ound/motion i didn't expect; i instantly wake up into maximum attention.
i realised i zoned out on the first day of drivers ed, but i was better at seeing other cars and possible accidents then my instructor, so i dont think it's a dangerous state; not in my case at least.