What is the origin of the idiom "down the road" and when to use it?

The idiom "down the road" originated from the literal sense of traveling or moving along a road or path. It is commonly used to refer to future events or consequences that will occur at a later time or in the future. It is used when talking about things that will happen in the future. It can also be used to discuss the consequences of a decision or action, or when talking about future plans or expectations.