When I have my eyes focused on the horizon I’m headed for, I’m noticing obstructions and unevenness in the ground long before I get to it and have already plotted a route to avoid same. I’m also noticing the other people (if relevant) and the angles and speed of their motion, and that of cars in my vicinity.
Those of you who watch your feet as you walk… I’m a bit worried about how you drive. Please tell me you don’t focus your eyes on the asphalt immediately in front of your car’s hood!
Nope; they look at the hood ornament. If a car or pedestrian appears in the background seen through the hood ornament, hit the brakes. Just after crushing whatever it was.
I swear half of Greater Miami drives by that technique.
Ahead, and around. My head and eyes are movable. I make use of this to try to take in my surroundings - both for the purpose of seeing where I am going, and also noticing what is happening around me, that may present a risk to me, or may just be interesting to see.