What constitutes an actual or potential hazard in driving?

An actual or potential hazard in driving encompasses any object or scenario that poses a danger to the driver, passengers, or other road users. This definition extends to various situations and objects on or around the roadway that could lead to accidents or may require the driver to take evasive action.

In this context, hazards can include decreased visibility due to weather conditions, pedestrians in the roadway, parked cars that may obstruct visibility or create unexpected situations, but fundamentally, it is the broad category of hazards—like traffic conditions, pedestrians, road signs, and weather-related issues—that collectively underscores the essence of what constitutes a driving hazard. Thus, recognizing that hazards can be a variety of conditions or objects reinforces the importance of vigilance and adaptability on the road for safe driving practices.