For automated visual range measurement by a LIDAR system, a distance measuring range is first determined through repeated evaluation of a voltage level U(R) which indicates the intensity of a threshold value. After random initialization of a start value, the start value is then replaced each time with a new mean visual range, resulting in iterative improvements, and the mean visual range in the determined range is then displayed automatically as soon as the visual range lies within the measuring range of the LIDAR system. Using the Klett method, the accuracy can be determined with the aid of a breaking-off criterion in the form of a threshold value with respect to a deviation percentage between a new and a previous calculation. With this method the deviation can be identified to an order of magnitude of about 10%.