What three components contribute to total stopping distance?

The total stopping distance of a vehicle is comprised of three distinct components: perception distance, reaction distance, and braking distance.

Perception distance refers to the distance a vehicle travels during the time it takes for the driver to see and recognize a potential hazard. This includes the moment it takes for the driver to notice a situation that requires stopping.

Reaction distance is the distance a vehicle travels while the driver is reacting to the event. This reflects the time it takes for the driver to move their foot from the accelerator to the brake pedal after they have perceived the need to stop.

Braking distance is the distance the vehicle travels from the moment the brakes are applied until it comes to a complete stop. This component is heavily influenced by factors such as the speed of the vehicle, road conditions, and the efficiency of the braking system.

Understanding these three components is crucial for drivers, especially commercial drivers, as it helps them calculate how much distance is necessary to stop safely in various driving conditions. This knowledge ensures they can maintain safe following distances and adjust their driving accordingly in different situations.