What is the useful field of view for a driver?

The useful field of view for a driver typically encompasses an area that allows them to effectively monitor their surroundings while driving. A range of 20-30 degrees is considered optimal because it provides sufficient peripheral vision to notice other vehicles, pedestrians, and any potential hazards on the road. This range strikes a balance between central focus, which is crucial for tasks like identifying road signs and traffic signals, and peripheral awareness, which helps in maintaining safety by noticing movements or objects outside of direct sight.

This understanding emphasizes the importance of having a wide enough field of view while driving to respond appropriately to the dynamic conditions of the road without causing distractions or losing focus on the primary driving task. A field of view that is too narrow could significantly hinder a driver's ability to react in time to unforeseen events.