Seeing
Seeing is the fourth domain of the Louisiana CDL General Knowledge exam. It tests your visual search habits: how far ahead you look, how you use mirrors, and how you detect hazards before they become emergencies.
Aim high and scan
Look 12–15 seconds ahead-about one to two blocks in the city and roughly a quarter mile at highway speed. Scan the whole scene, not just the vehicle ahead. Watch for brake lights several vehicles ahead, pedestrians at corners, cyclists in the shoulder, and vehicles entering from side streets.
Mirrors and blind spots
Check mirrors every 5–8 seconds and before any lane change, turn, or stop. Know that large vehicles have deep blind spots on both sides, directly behind, and in front. Do not stare into a mirror; a glance is enough to update your picture.
Intersections
At an intersection, search left-right-left, check for pedestrians and cyclists, and identify an escape path before you enter. If traffic is backed up beyond the intersection, do not enter even on a green light.
Worked example
A driver approaching a green light sees the cross street is gridlocked and a car is edging into the intersection. The driver covers the brake and slows rather than proceeding. The reasoning: the green light gives permission to enter only if there is space to clear the intersection; blocking it is unsafe and often illegal.
Traps
Target fixation-staring at one hazard-only watching the vehicle directly ahead, skipping mirror checks because the road is empty, and entering an intersection without an escape route are common errors.