Question

In order to avoid last minute braking, or the need to turn, you should look down the road at least ________.

1) 5 seconds
2) 10 seconds
3) 15 seconds
4) 20 seconds

Answer 1

To avoid last minute braking or the need to turn, one should look at least 10 seconds down the road, which allows time to react to changing traffic conditions and maintain safe driving distances.

Step-by-step explanation:

In order to avoid last minute braking, or the need to turn, you should look down the road at least 10 seconds ahead. This is based on the general driving principle that scanning the road ahead allows for ample time to react to traffic conditions and maintain a safe following distance. Bridget's observation, where cars took 3 seconds to travel 50 meters, can help us understand that the actual distance covered in 10 seconds would be significantly larger, emphasizing the importance of looking ahead to allow for safe stopping distances and reaction times, particularly when driving at higher speeds or in less than ideal road conditions such as wet or slippery roads. The reaction time, typically around 0.5 seconds, should also be factored into this safety measure to account for the driver's ability to perceive and then act upon any potential hazards on the road.