Date:         Sun, 14 Sep 2003 14:29:53 -0400
Reply-To:     David Brodbeck <gull@GULL.US>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         David Brodbeck <gull@GULL.US>
Subject:      Re: Headlamp upgrades to brighter lights - night vision
Comments: To: Andrew Grebneff <andrew.grebneff@STONEBOW.OTAGO.AC.NZ>
In-Reply-To:  <a06002010bb89524b9b6e@[203.167.180.43]>
Content-Type: TEXT/PLAIN; charset=US-ASCII

On Sun, 14 Sep 2003, Andrew Grebneff wrote:

> During which time you don't have binocular vision, have no sense of
> distance, cannot really tell what direction the oncoming car is going
> in and cannot avoid him if he crosses into your lane, or the road
> bends slightly and you fail to see this... BANG

Actually, binocular vision is only effective for judging short distances,
due to the relatively short distance between your eyes.  Over longer ones,
you're relying on perspective cues.  This is why it's perfectly legal for
people with only one eye to drive.

I'd find closing one eye all the time pretty distracting and annoying,
though.  I usually just look over at the fog line on my side of the road
until the car has passed.  Oncoming cars don't give me as much trouble as
the following ones that shine glare in my outside rear view mirrors.

> So wear sunglasses for night driving. Polarizing lenses are of no
> benefit, as the glare is not polarized light.

I think this would make matters worse.  Yes, the headlights won't be as
bright, but you won't be able to see the road and other objects as well.
This is also illegal in many states in the U.S., I think.


David Brodbeck, N8SRE
'82 Diesel Westfalia
'94 Honda Civic Si