Stopping Distance: A Quadratic Equation

A typical passenger car traveling at 20 mph should be able to halt within 25 feet. Heavier vehicles or those towing others require more distance to stop. Remember, the best way to brake is to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.

Excessive speed, inattention, and tailgating contribute significantly to vehicular accidents in Florida, accounting for about 22%. Adjust your speed based on driving conditions, considering traction, visibility, traffic environment, and your speed. These factors influence your vehicle’s stopping distance.

The four components of stopping distance are:

• Perception Distance: The distance your vehicle covers from the moment you spot a hazard until your brain processes it.
• Reaction Distance: The distance covered from when your brain commands your foot to move from the accelerator to when your foot actually presses the brake pedal.
• Braking Distance: The distance your vehicle travels from the moment the brakes are applied to when it comes to a complete stop.
• Total Stopping Distance: At 55 mph, it takes about six seconds to stop, and the vehicle will cover a distance equivalent to a football field.

Doubling your speed quadruples the stopping distance and the potential destruction in a crash. Higher speeds significantly increase the stopping distance.