Key learning points

1. Stopping distance is the distance travelled both as a drive reacts and then for the brakes to bring a vehicle to a stop
2. Reaction time of a drive can be affected by tiredness, drugs, alcohol or distractions
3. Braking distance can be affected by adverse road and weather conditions and the condition of the vehicle
4. When braking, work is done on the brakes that heats them up
5. If brakes overheat they can stop working effectively and lead to a loss of control

Keywords

• Reaction time - for driving is the time between noticing a hazard and taking an action to deal with it

• Thinking distance - is the distance a vehicle travels while a driver reacts; the vehicle does not slow during this time

• Braking distance - is the distance a vehicle travels between the brakes being applied and the vehicle coming to a stop

• Stopping distance - is the sum of the thinking and braking distances

Common misconception