Detection Distances in the Presence of Glare

Glare reflected from rearview mirrors degrades the ability of the driver to detect objects in the forward field. Mirrors are now available which reduce this glare. This study looked at the effect of those mirrors on the driver's ability to detect a pedestrian-size target along the edge of the road; specifically, the distance at which drivers were able to detect the target. Detection distance was measured for two glare levels and two reflectivity levels: the standard reflectivity level and the reflectivity level designed for glare reduction. The results showed a loss in detection distance when glare was present. Higher glare levels resulted in larger losses. Use of the lower reflectivity level was able to reduce glare to the point where the loss in detection distance was almost eliminated.