This coaching tip isn’t just for your teen, it’s for everyone that drives (even you!). When you’re driving on the road, the road is not the main focus. (Of course, you need to scan the road for debris, potholes, etc.,)
The traffic scene – more specifically, the “relevant” parts of the traffic scene. Where are the threats most likely to come from? Yes, pedestrians and other drivers need most of your attention. Keep your eyes moving every few seconds, clearing the intersections, checking the blind spots, checking your mirrors. This will keep you from getting tunnel vision as you target up ahead in your intended path, and will keep your peripheral vision working. You need that peripheral vision to tell you when something’s about to enter your path from the side.
The road will be there in front of you (most likely!), so remember that the most likely source of any collision you might get into is going to come from the other drivers and/or pedestrians around you.
Watch this video to see Patrick Barrett, the Driver Education Guru, explain more about keeping your eyes moving to keep your peripheral vision strong.