What is it called when you are looking side to side, near, and far while you drive?

The term that best captures the action of looking side to side, near, and far while driving is known as scanning. Scanning is a crucial driving technique that involves continuously and efficiently observing the road, other vehicles, pedestrians, and any potential hazards in various zones around your vehicle. This practice helps drivers maintain awareness of their surroundings, anticipate possible changes in traffic conditions, and react promptly to any situations that may arise.

While searching, observing, and checking are related actions that imply looking or monitoring, they do not fully encapsulate the comprehensive and systematic nature of scanning as it pertains to safe driving practices. Scanning emphasizes the proactive visual technique that ensures drivers have a complete understanding of their environment and can make informed decisions on the road. By regularly scanning, drivers significantly improve their situational awareness, thereby enhancing safety for themselves and others.