Vision and audition in driving : Henderson, R.L. and Burg, A. Nov 1974, 309 pp; abstr in Government Reports Announcements (Report No PB-238 278/6GA)

Abstract

A systematic analysis was made of the visual and auditory requirements of automobile and motorcycle driving which resulted in the identification of visual performance parameters that appear important to driving but that are not currently considered in the visual screening of driver license applicants. These include such parameters as perception of motion, dynamic performance of the total visual system, visual performance under low levels of illumination of in the presence of glare, and useful peripheral vision. The analysis did not identify similar requirements of auditory performance. A device was designed and constructed to test performance on the new visual functions as well as on selected conventional measures. Performance on these tests was measured on 669 licensed California drivers and compared with past accident record. The results show that poor performance on several of the new vision tests is associated with poor driving record. Further, it was shown that some vision test score serve as better predictors of accident involvement than such measures as age, sex, annual mileage or other biographical variables generally considered to be the best available predictors. It is concluded that if the results of the study are verified and cross-validated on a much larger sample of the driving population, a basis will exist for developing and implementing a standardized visual screening program for driver license applicants that could contribute to improving highway safety.