A 2-minute lesson from the South Carolina course. Read the rules and examples, follow the handbook page references, and check your understanding before you move on.
Safe drivers see trouble early. Know what's happening ahead, beside and behind you before you start and the whole time you drive, so you have time to change speed or position instead of making an emergency move.
Know the rule
Look ahead, to the sides and behind your vehicle. Develop a searching pattern and use it every time you drive.
Looking well down your path gives you time to adjust and make better decisions, and may keep you from being forced into emergency braking and steering.
In cities and urban areas you may not see as far as on a highway. Avoid situations that limit your view, like following too close behind a larger vehicle, and adjust speed and road position to see best.
You're following a box truck in city traffic and can't see the signal ahead. Drop back and shift your lane position so you can see past it. You'll spot a stale green or a stopped car in time to react smoothly.
Check your understanding
Read the question, decide on an answer, then open it to check the explanation. These are Roadwise study questions based on the source handbook.
How far ahead should you ideally look while driving?
2 to 3 seconds
20 to 30 seconds in front of your vehicle
5 to 10 seconds
1 minute or more
Answer: 20 to 30 seconds in front of your vehicle
You should try to look at what is occurring 20 to 30 seconds in front of your vehicle.