On the highway, a 12-15 second scan typically covers what distance?

The idea behind scanning the highway for 12-15 seconds is to gain a sense of the environment and anticipate potential hazards or changes in traffic conditions. At a speed of around 60 miles per hour, which is common on highways, vehicles cover approximately 88 feet per second. Over a scan time of 12-15 seconds, this translates to a distance of about 1/4 mile.

When driving at higher speeds, the ability to see farther ahead within those crucial seconds allows drivers to make safer and more informed decisions, giving them adequate time to react to any issues that may arise. This proactive scanning technique enhances situational awareness and reduces the likelihood of accidents.

While other distances might seem plausible, they either exceed the typical scanning range for a driver at highway speeds or are simply not a recommended practice for effective driving.