What does a substantial visual field of view allow a driver to do?

A substantial visual field of view is crucial for safe driving as it enables a driver to monitor their surroundings effectively, particularly by keeping track of peripheral hazards. This broad field of vision means that a driver can notice objects, movement, or potential dangers that are not directly in front of them but are still within their view. By being aware of these peripheral elements, a driver can react appropriately to various driving situations, such as pedestrians crossing the road, vehicles merging into their lane, or any other hazards appearing outside their direct line of sight.

Other options like focusing on the road directly ahead, judging distances accurately, or seeing more colors, while important aspects of driving, do not specifically highlight the benefits of having a substantial visual field. These functions can be limited in effectiveness without a broad visual perception that encompasses both direct and peripheral vision, which is critical for anticipating and responding to unexpected developments on the road.