stopping distance

Question 1

what is stopping distance

Answer 1

the total distance travelled during the time it takes to stop in an emergency

Question 2

how do you calculate stopping distance

Answer 2

Thinking distance + Braking distance

Question 3

what is thinking distance

Answer 3

the distance travelled in the time it takes the driver to react to an emergency and prepare to stop

Question 4

main factors affecting thinking distance (2)

Answer 4

The speed of the car

The reaction time of the driver

Question 5

Reaction time is increased by (3)

Answer 5

Tiredness

Distractions (e.g. using a mobile phone)

Intoxication (i.e. consumption of alcohol or drugs)

Question 6

what is braking distance

Answer 6

the distance travelled under the braking force in metres (m)

Question 7

factors affecting stopping distance (4)

Answer 7

Vehicle speed

The greater the speed, the greater the vehicle’s braking distance will be

This is because the brakes will need to do more work to bring the vehicle to a stop

Vehicle mass

The more massive the vehicle, the more distance it will travel as it comes to a stop

Road conditions

Wet or icy roads make the brakes less effective and the vehicle travels further as it comes to a stop

Driver reaction time

Thinking distance is increased if the driver is distracted, for example by a phone, satnav, radio or a person

Thinking distance is increased if the driver is tired, on certain types of medication, or is under the influence of alcohol or drugs