On city roads at low speeds, how far ahead should you look?

• A. 4 blocks
• B. 1 block
• C. 6 blocks
• D. 2 blocks

Answer: (D)

In city driving, you need to scan far enough ahead to see hazards before they catch you by surprise. When you’re moving at low speeds, looking about two blocks ahead gives you time to notice upcoming traffic signals changing, pedestrians about to cross, cars turning, or someone dooring a parked car. This distance lets you ease off the throttle, adjust your lane position, and slow smoothly if needed, rather than reacting abruptly at the last moment.

Focusing only on what’s right in front of you won’t give you time to react to what's coming next block, and looking too far ahead isn’t practical here because urban streets can change quickly from block to block with intersections, buses, cyclists, and parked cars. So two blocks ahead strikes a good balance, keeping you prepared for hazards while you stay attentive to what’s happening on the current block.