Final answer:
Empathy is the least important skill for driving among the options provided. Seeing well, reaction time, and hearing well are all directly essential for safety in operating a vehicle, whereas empathy is beneficial but not essential.
Step-by-step explanation:
The skill that is least important in driving out of the options provided would be C) empathy. Although being empathetic can contribute to courteous and safe driving habits, the other skills listed are directly related to the act of operating a vehicle safely.
For example, seeing well is essential for observing road conditions, traffic signs, and other vehicles. Reaction time is crucial for responding to sudden changes on the road, such as another driver braking abruptly. Moreover, hearing well can help drivers recognize important auditory cues like the Doppler shift in an ambulance siren, alerting them to clear the way for the emergency vehicle. Therefore, while empathy can be seen as a beneficial trait, it's the least essential for the mechanical and safety aspects of driving.