How far does your full target range extend?
a) About 11-20 ft. in front of you
b) About 21-30 seconds in front of you
c) About 21-30 ft. in front of you
d) About 11-20 seconds in front of you
Answer: c) About 21-30 ft. in front of you
The total A-Zone or the area of sight or the visual aiming area extends up to the range of approximately 6.1 to 9.14 meters or 20-30 feet ahead of a driver. This range is important also in driver safety as it implies an area where a driver can visibly detect any potential dangers or changes in the traffic flow patterns. How and when this range is used is also a part of knowledge which constitutes defensive driving. Within this area, drivers can predict distances, velocities, or motions of the other traffic participants or objects. For instance, the range required while driving a car in large cities to see signals changing, pedestrians crossing roads or other cars slowing down. In highway driving, it allows enough space to observe the tail lights of cars in front or obstacles on the road. The range that stands out most, and is representative is quantitated at 21-30 feet, which corresponds to the average distances that are required at moderate speeds to come to a stop. For example, at 30 mph the average thinking distance is 30 feet and the average braking distance is 45 feet, for a total stopping distance of 75 feet. Thus, having a wider view of the target range, the driver provides enough time to assess the situation, make a decision, and act aiming at addressing possible risks. Regarding the visibility range, it is necessary to state that whereas drivers must remain aware of virtually everywhere outside the windshield, the full target range defines the area primarily relevant to immediate decision-making and manoeuvring.
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