The ability to drive safely is closely related to effective visual function. Approximately 90% of the information a driver receives is visual, making good eyesight essential for operating a vehicle. Key functions that contribute to safe driving include:
- Peripheral Vision: The awareness of the surrounding environment to detect potential hazards from the left and right sides.
- Visual Acuity: The clarity of an individual’s vision, which is essential for recognizing and reading road signs, cues from other drivers, as well as reading the dashboard and touch screens inside the vehicle.
- Scanning & Tracking: The ability to continuously monitor your surroundings while driving, including pedestrians and other vehicles.
- Contrast Sensitivity: The ability to distinguish objects from their background, especially at night time or in challenging weather conditions.
- Visual Perception Skills: The skills that help individuals interpret visual information – crucial for decision making while driving, such as understanding what a sign means even if partially covered by a tree.
- Depth Perception: The ability to understand the space and distance between objects. This is crucial for braking distance and understanding the space between yourself and other vehicles.
Conditions like macular degeneration can severely impact a number of these visual processes above, in turn, affecting an individual’s ability to drive. Understanding these effects and knowing when to seek assistance can help you or your loved one stay safe on the road.
Recognize The Warning Signs of Visual Decline
It’s important for drivers and their loved ones to understand the warning signs that may indicate a decline in visual functioning. Some of these signs can include:
- Changes in Depth Perception
- Inability to Read Signs at a Distance
- Difficulty Driving at Night
- Collisions or Near Misses
- Problems with Vision in Inclement Weather
- Difficulty Seeing Faded Lane Markings
If any of these signs are observed in either yourself or a loved one, it may be time to contact an Occupational Therapy Driver Rehabilitation Specialist (OT DRS) for a comprehensive driving evaluation.
Seeking Professional Driving Evaluation Services
An OT DRS can provide a thorough assessment for individuals with macular degeneration. These experts can evaluate a person’s ability to drive safely and have a deep understanding of underlying conditions that can impact driving. During their comprehensive driving evaluations, the OT Driver Rehabilitation Specialist will work with the driver to understand the impact that their condition may or may not be having on their safe driving behaviors. An OT DRS will look for patterns in driving habits and help to determine if the individual demonstrates fitness to drive, or if it is time to start exploring driving retirement. Find an OT Driver Rehabilitation Specialist near you!
Vision specialists may also be consulted to verify an individual’s visual function and recommend specialized lenses, such as bioptic lenses. Prioritizing safety not only ensures the well-being of your loved one, but also the safety of everyone on the road.
