Abstract
One of the problems brought into focus by the development of navigation and other ITS devices is that the operation of such devices draws the driver's eye from the visual field where it belongs while driving and creates a visual distraction that may impede safety. The article provides background information and summarizes worldwide trends in research on accident rates, the special characteristics of visual behavior and the effects of visual distraction on drivers and vehicle behavior. It also reports on the state of ISO standardization efforts and related technological trends. Finally, it defines a number of topics for future research in the field of human engineering. (Author/publisher).