An automated glare sensitivity-testing procedure based on contrast discrimination under variable glare was examined in a partially hierarchal experiment with 13 male and 17 female subjects comprising three homogeneously aged groups of 10 subjects each (m age equals 17, 42.2, and 69 years). Analysis of variance indicated significant (pless than .01) differences between age groups and a small but significant (p less than .01) practice effect. Correlations between successive test scores varied from .92 to .80, and the difference betweenmean scores of the oldest and youngest groups closely approximated that found in an earlier, clinical study. The technique is considered sufficiently accurate for quantifying glare sensitivity and identifying individuals who possess elevated glare sensitivity. Issues to be addressed in the future development of minimum standards for night driving are enumerated. Direct requests for reprints to samuel p. Sturgis, liberty mutual research center, 71 frankland road, hopkinton, massachusetts, 01748.
Abstract