Visual Looming

'Visual looming' refers to changes in optical size as an object approaches. It allows us to perceive the speed at which an object is approaching us.

Crucially, evidence suggests that these skills are not fully developed among children - they cannot reliably detect that a vehicle is approaching at speeds above 25mph. Children therefore cannot make accurate judgements of approach speeds.

The implication is that where children have to cross roads, speeds should be lowered, and if not, grade separation should be employed.