How can clues to possible changes in speed or position of other vehicles be gained?

Observing traffic patterns is a fundamental way to gain insights into the potential changes in speed or position of other vehicles. By analyzing the behavior of surrounding vehicles, you can notice trends such as when vehicles tend to accelerate, decelerate, or change lanes. This might involve watching how groups of cars interact at intersections, paying attention to the spacing between vehicles, or noting the flow of traffic relative to signals or road conditions. Such observations allow a driver to anticipate actions that other drivers may take, enabling more proactive and safer driving decisions.

Other methods, such as guessing a driver's intentions, may lead to misunderstandings and unsafe situations due to their inherently speculative nature. Relying on GPS offers important navigation information but does not provide real-time feedback about the actions or speeds of nearby vehicles. Following a vehicle too closely can be dangerous and limits your reaction time, making it harder to respond to sudden changes in traffic around you. Therefore, honing your skills in observing traffic patterns is crucial for safe and perceptive driving.