How far ahead should a commercial driver normally scan while driving?
Correct answer: C – 12 to 15 seconds
West Virginia’s CDL manual recommends looking at least 12 to 15 seconds ahead—the distance the vehicle will travel during that time. This is about one block at lower speeds and roughly one-quarter mile at highway speeds. Drivers must also continue shifting their attention between nearby conditions and the roadway farther ahead.
Source: West Virginia Commercial Driver’s License Manual with AAMVA Booklet — § 2.4.1, “How Far Ahead to Look”


