How far ahead should a driver scan for traffic hazards?

Scanning ahead for traffic hazards is an essential part of safe driving practice. The recommendation to scan approximately 12 seconds ahead allows drivers to identify potential hazards early enough to react appropriately. This time frame generally reflects a distance of about one city block or a quarter of a mile on highways, giving a good visual range to anticipate and respond to changing road conditions, other vehicles, pedestrians, and potential obstacles.

Being proactive in your scanning means that you can adjust your speed, change lanes, or prepare for any necessary stopping well in advance of encountering a situation that requires immediate action. This strategy enhances overall road safety for the driver, passengers, and other road users by promoting a more defensive and attentive driving style. Other suggested scanning distances, such as 6, 15, or 30 seconds, don't provide as effective a buffer for awareness and reaction time, making 12 seconds the optimal choice for anticipating hazards effectively.