Alberta Class 7 License Practice Test

Total stopping distance is calculated as the sum of perception distance, reaction distance, and braking distance.

Perception distance is the distance a vehicle travels during the time it takes for a driver to notice a hazard and recognize the need to stop. Reaction distance is the distance the vehicle continues to travel while the driver is reacting to the hazard and actually moving their foot from the accelerator to the brake pedal. Finally, braking distance is the distance a vehicle travels from the moment the brakes are applied until it comes to a full stop.

By combining these three components, drivers can better understand and estimate the total distance needed to stop safely under various conditions. This total stopping distance is crucial for safe driving, allowing drivers to maintain adequate space between their vehicle and the one ahead, especially in emergencies. Understanding each of these segments helps enhance overall road safety by promoting timely and effective responses to potential hazards.