Quality and field of vision - a review of the needs of drivers and riders: phase 1 report.

It is the responsibility of the Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions (DETR) to promote safe use of the UK road network. Driver vision has been identified as major determinant to this and factors which impede it require further investigation. This project is specifically concerned with the effect on driver / rider vision of: • windscreen and visor tinting, installed light transmission, haze, abrasion, damage and repair, • the use and positioning of wider structural member (particularly A-pillars) to improve crashworthiness, aerodynamics and rigidity. The first phase of the work is to understand the current status regarding the above factors and the rationale for it. A variety of sources have been consulted for this information including: • establishing contact with interested parties, • reviewing and establishing the basis of EC Directives and other regulations, • reviewing and summarising previous, current and proposed research, • analysing available accident data, • interviewing drivers and riders. A detailed work plan for the remainder of the project has been developed based on the results of the Phase 1 findings and on the professional experience ICE Ergonomics has in this field.