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Abstract
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OBJECTIVE: To determine the effects of visual field defects upon safe driving.
METHODS: A random sample of 109 drivers found to have visual field defects that rendered them unfit to drive according to the QC medical standards was analyzed in order to determine if specific characteristics could be used to identify those drivers who can, or cannot, demonstrate safe driving despite their handicap. Visual field tests, the medical dossier demographic data and evaluation results were analyzed.
RESULTS: The QC evaluation process eliminates drivers with neglect or cognitive limitations affecting driving. All the drivers with a visual defect who began the evaluation process passed. The type and the degree of visual defect had no influence on safe driving. Sex and age also had no influence although female drivers were over-represented in the group that decided not to request evaluation.
CONCLUSIONS: Drivers with the capacity to compensate for their visual field handicap are capable of driving safely. The type and degree of the visual field defect have no impact upon safe driving for the driver who is capable of compensating. Age and sex also have no impact although female drivers are more likely to not undertake the evaluation process. |