Stopping Distances

• Stopping distance


  The total distance traveled from when the driver first spots the obstruction to when the car stops
• Stopping distance


  1. Thinking distance

  2. Braking distance
• Thinking distance


  The distance travelled by the car during the driver's reaction time
• Reaction time


  The time taken for the driver to spot the obstruction, make a decision, and then move their foot to the brake
• Reaction time varies from person to person, typically between 0.2 and 0.9 seconds
• Reaction time can be measured using a ruler drop test
• A shorter reaction time is better for drivers
• Factors that increase reaction time include alcohol, drugs, and distractions in the car
• Braking distance


  The distance the car travels from when the driver applies the brakes to when the car stops
• As vehicle speed increases

  Stopping distance increases
• A common speed limit in the UK is 30 miles per hour, at which a typical family car takes around 23 metres to stop
• Wet or icy conditions, worn tires, and worn brakes increase the braking distance