There are many opinions on the topic of texting and driving. The goal of this blog is to explore the effects on vision during texting.

So why does texting make you more likely to crash from a visual perspective? The problem lies in distraction from driving. For example, it takes a fast texter approximately 20 seconds to read and reply to a text. At 55 mph on the highway, a driver glances away from the road for approximately one-third of a mile. When the driver is focusing on their screen, this essentially gives the driver tunnel vision, causing the visual system to essentially use peripheral vision for driving. Your central vision is used to detect depth perception, detail, and colors such as red or green. So when texting, your depth perception, or 3-D vision, is altered and if cars are stopped ahead or closing in rapidly, it's not as easily detected. Colors, such as red brake lights or traffic signals, are not as easily noticed.

Next time you encounter situations with texting and driving, know that the visual system was designed to perform advanced visual perception while using central vision. This includes detail vision, depth perception, and color vision....all of which are placed on hold while texting and driving.

For more information on texting and driving see:

www.itcanwait.com

US Dept. of Transportation

www.AAA.com

 

The content of this blog cannot be reproduced or duplicated without the express written consent of Eye IQ.


Read full article on Gold/Platinum Eye IQ


Spring Hill Office

Spring HIll Map

 

View Map

2707 Forest Road
Spring Hill, FL 34606
P: 352-683-2020  Fax: 352-683-3168

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 6pm
Friday 9am - 5pm
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed

Featured Video

glasses eyechart

Meet Dr. Weber

Dr. Weber received his Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of Florida, graduating with honors. He received his Doctorate from the Southern College of Optometry in Memphis Tennessee, graduating in the top two percent of his class. During his twenty five plus years in practice Dr. Weber has been committed to providing “state of the art” comprehensive eye care.

Dr. Weber has lived in the Tampa Bay area with his wife and daughter for over twenty five years. When not practicing the doctor enjoys golf, boating, cooking, and motorcycling cross country.

Latest News

Macular Degeneration, Cataracts, and You
March 27, 2024
We are frequently asked if it’s wise to have cataract surgery if you have Macular Degeneration. Let’s start with some background. Cataracts and Age-related Macular Degeneration (A...
Eye Safety for the Upcoming Solar Eclips...
March 20, 2024
Mark your Calendars!!! On Monday, April 8, a solar eclipse will be visible across the entire continental United States and most of Canada. A solar eclipse occurs when the moon blocks any part of th...
12 Terrible Eye Jokes
March 13, 2024
Why did the guy try to avoid eye surgery by rubbing ketchup in his eyes?  He had heard that Heinz sight was 20/20. Patient: “Doc, I get a stabbing pain in my eye every time I take a si...