1.19 describe the factors affecting vehicle stopping distance including speed, mass, road condition and reaction time
The stopping distance is the sum of Thinking distance and Braking distance.
Thinking Distance: The distance travelled after seeing an obstacle and till reaction.
Braking Distance: The distance travelled after the brakes are applied.
The thinking distance depends on the following factors –
- Whether the driver is tired or has taken alcohol or drugs.
- On the visibility power of the driver.
- On the speed of the car.
The braking distance depends on the following factors –
- Speed of the car: The more the speed is, the more the braking distance will be; S α V2.
- Mass of the car: As acceleration is equal to F/m, for constant braking force, the more is the mass, the less is the deceleration, the more is the braking distance.
- Road condition: If the road is rough, the braking distance will be less.
- Tyre condition: If the tyre is new (rough), there will be less braking distance.
- Braking system: For loose braking system, the braking distance will be more.