Blinded by Surprise (03-18-10)

We are temporarily blinded by surprise, and a research team based at Vanderbilt University has recently investigated this phenomena.  This blindness has implications for the design of spaces in which people are likely to be startled, such as near fire stations or entertainment venues where images flash on screens.  In these spaces, it is important that temporary blindness not result in injury.

“Why Surprises Temporarily Blind Us.”  2010.  Press release, Vanderbilt University, http://sitemazon.vanderbilt.edu.