Final answer:
When driving on a highway, you should look ahead at least 10 to 15 seconds to watch traffic patterns. This allows you to anticipate and react to any upcoming situations, such as slow-moving vehicles or lane closures. Regularly checking your mirrors and scanning the road ahead helps maintain situational awareness for a safe journey.
Step-by-step explanation:
When driving on a highway, you should look ahead at least 10 to 15 seconds to watch traffic patterns. This means you should scan the road ahead for any potential hazards or changes in traffic flow. Looking ahead allows you to anticipate and react to any upcoming situations, such as a slow-moving vehicle, a lane closure, or sudden braking by another driver.
The 10 to 15-second viewing range is recommended by experts to give you enough time to assess the road conditions and adjust your driving accordingly. For example, if you notice brake lights ahead, you can start slowing down gradually to maintain a safe following distance. Looking ahead also helps you identify possible escape routes or alternate paths in case of emergencies.
It's important to note that the distance covered in 10 to 15 seconds will vary depending on your speed. At higher speeds, such as on a highway, this time range will cover a greater distance. It's a good habit to regularly check your mirrors and scan the road ahead to maintain situational awareness and ensure a safe and smooth journey.