Which type of vision is essential for judging depth and position while driving?

Central vision is crucial for judging depth and position while driving because it allows you to focus directly on objects and details in your line of sight. When you use your central vision, it enables you to accurately estimate distances, assess the speed and movement of other vehicles, and make informed decisions about lane changes or passing. This type of vision is what you rely on primarily when looking straight ahead, observing traffic signals, reading road signs, and gauging the position of other vehicles relative to your own.

While peripheral vision, which encompasses your ability to see objects outside your direct line of sight, also plays a role in driving by helping you be aware of your surroundings, it is not as effective for depth perception and precise positioning. Side vision is a concept that overlaps with peripheral vision but focuses more on your ability to detect movement and objects to the sides. Narrow vision is not a recognized term in the context of vision and driving; it doesn’t contribute effectively to depth perception. Therefore, central vision is the key component you rely on most to ensure safe driving and accurate judgment of space and distance.