Stopping Distances and Rwaction Times

Stopping distance

Thinking distance + Braking Distance

Thinking Distance

The distance the car travels in the driver's reaction time

The two main factors affecting thinking distance

1) Reaction time - increased by tiredness, alcohol, drugs and distractions

2) Speed - the faster you’re going, the further you'll travel during your reaction time

Braking Distance

The distance taken to stop once the brakes have been applied

The four main factors affecting the braking distance

1) Speed - the faster you’re going, the longer it takes to stop

2) The mass of the car - a car full of people and luggage won’t stop as quickly as an empty car

3) The condition of the brakes - worn or faulty brakes won’t be able to brake with as much force

4) the amount of friction between tyres and road - high risk of skid if the road is dirty, icy or wet or if the tyres are bald