Good vision is essential for safe driving. Actually, staying safe on the road relies on a combination of a number of different visual abilities - for example, distance and near vision, side or peripheral vision, seeing at night and color vision, plus many others.
Distance vision is very important because it lets you observe the road ahead and detect any dangerous things that might be present. This allows you to act fast and stop any accidents. On the other hand, if you lack strong distance vision then there's a chance you might not be able to see the dangers until it's too late.
You also need peripheral or side vision, which allows you see either side of your vehicle, which is necessary to see other cars, animals and pedestrians without needing to even glance away from the road lying ahead. Strong peripheral vision is also important for switching lanes and making turns. Make sure you know how to use your rearview and side mirrors. Ensure they're well-positioned, to assist your view of the road to your sides and back.
Additionally, good depth perception is important for road safety. It lets you measure distances properly in dense traffic, change lanes and pass other vehicles. Accurate depth perception needs proper functioning in both of your eyes. If one lacks proper vision in one eye, it's advised to check with an eye doctor to determine whether it is okay for you to get behind the wheel. It may be suggested that you stop driving until a solution is found to correct your vision.
Accommodation also keeps you in good stead when driving. This is the capability to shift your focus from something in the distance to something near, such as from the distance ahead of you to the speedometer. If you've recently hit middle-age you might have a slight challenge with near vision, and you might need reading glasses or another corrective device to help you see objects up close. Make an appointment with your eye doctor to talk about the best option.
At the first sign of vision problems, consider how it affects your ability to drive. You never want to risk your own life or the lives of other people on the road! If you feel your vision isn't adequate, visit your eye doctor, and get a thorough eye exam as soon as you can.
