Polarising lenses and driving

Kathy Delargy presents the results of a study comparing the comfort of polarising lenses against conventional sunglasses for a group of professional drivers in Northern Ireland

Driving is a highly demanding activity which requires maximum vigilance. Ninety per cent of the information for decisions and actions while driving comes from the eyes of the driver,¹ yet visual requirements are quite low. Currently in the UK the numberplate test is used to determine visual fitness to drive. This equates to approximately 6/9-2 on the Snellen Chart.

References
1 Vue et conduite, Au Volant la vue c'est la vie. www.chez.com/ophtasurf.
2 Department of Vehicle Licensing Authority. www.dvla.gov.uk
3 Smith G. Disability glare and its clinical significance. Optometry Today, 19 April 2002.
4 Theeuwes J, Alferdinck JW, Perel M. Relation between glare and driving performance. Human Factors, 2002; 44(1): 95-107.