What happens to peripheral vision at high speeds?

At high speeds, peripheral vision becomes narrower and depth perception can be less accurate. As a driver accelerates, the brain prioritizes central vision, which is responsible for detail and focus on what's directly ahead. This means that the peripheral vision field, which encompasses what is seen outside of the direct line of sight, is reduced.

Moreover, as the speed of the vehicle increases, the human eye and brain may struggle to process the information coming from the sides effectively. This results in diminished awareness of objects that are not directly in front of the driver, making it harder to judge distances and approach speeds of nearby vehicles or obstacles. This is crucial for law enforcement officers, as high-speed driving often requires quick decision-making and heightened awareness of the environment.

Maintaining effective driving techniques at high speeds necessitates understanding this limitation, allowing for strategies that can help mitigate reduced peripheral vision, such as scanning the environment frequently and being aware of potential hazards.