Vehicle stopping distance

• What is meant by the stopping distance of a vehicle?

  The total distance from spotting an obstruction to stopping
• How does the stopping distance vary with speed?

  It increases as speed increases
• What are the two parts of stopping distance?

  Thinking distance and braking distance
• What is braking distance?

  The distance traveled after applying the brakes
• What is thinking distance?

  The distance traveled during the driver's reaction time
• How do thinking distance and braking distance relate to stopping distance?

  They together make up the stopping distance
• What is the typical stopping distance for a family car at 30 mph?

  23 meters
• How many car lengths is 23 meters at 30 mph?

  Six car lengths
• What is the typical range for a person's reaction time?

  0.2 to 0.9 seconds
• How can you measure a person's reaction time using a ruler?

  Drop the ruler and catch it
• What factors can increase a driver's reaction time?

  Alcohol, drugs, and distractions
• How do wet or icy conditions affect braking distance?

  They reduce friction and increase braking distance
• What effect do worn tires have on braking distance?

  They increase braking distance due to reduced friction
• How do worn brakes affect braking distance?

  They increase braking distance
• What are the factors affecting thinking distance?

  • Driver's alertness
  • Alcohol consumption
  • Drug influence
  • Distractions (e.g., mobile phone)
• What are the factors affecting braking distance?

  • Road conditions (wet or icy)
  • Tire condition (worn tires)
  • Brake condition (worn brakes)
• What should a driver do to minimize stopping distance?

  • Stay alert
  • Avoid alcohol and drugs
  • Maintain vehicle condition