At 20 mph, how many feet does it take for an average driver to apply their brakes once danger is detected?

At 20 mph, how many feet does it take for an average driver to apply their brakes once danger is detected?

• A. 22 feet
• B. 44 feet
• C. 66 feet
• D. 88 feet

Answer: (B)

At a speed of 20 mph, it takes an average driver approximately 44 feet to come to a complete stop after detecting danger and applying the brakes. This distance includes both the perception-reaction time (the time it takes for the driver to recognize the need to stop and react) and the actual braking distance. Under typical conditions, a driver usually has a perception-reaction time of about 1.5 seconds. During this time, the vehicle continues to travel, covering a specific distance before the driver even starts to brake. After the brakes are applied, the vehicle will then decelerate over a certain distance. The combination of these distances results in the 44 feet required to stop at that speed. Understanding this concept emphasizes the importance of maintaining a safe following distance and being aware of your speed, as stopping distances can vary significantly based on speed and road conditions. This information serves as a valuable reminder for all drivers to stay alert and ready to react to any potential hazards on the road.

At a speed of 20 mph, it takes an average driver approximately 44 feet to come to a complete stop after detecting danger and applying the brakes. This distance includes both the perception-reaction time (the time it takes for the driver to recognize the need to stop and react) and the actual braking distance.

Under typical conditions, a driver usually has a perception-reaction time of about 1.5 seconds. During this time, the vehicle continues to travel, covering a specific distance before the driver even starts to brake. After the brakes are applied, the vehicle will then decelerate over a certain distance. The combination of these distances results in the 44 feet required to stop at that speed.

Understanding this concept emphasizes the importance of maintaining a safe following distance and being aware of your speed, as stopping distances can vary significantly based on speed and road conditions. This information serves as a valuable reminder for all drivers to stay alert and ready to react to any potential hazards on the road.