What three components make up total stopping distance?

Total stopping distance is a critical concept for drivers, particularly those with a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). It consists of three key components: perception distance, reaction distance, and braking distance.

Perception distance is the distance a vehicle travels while the driver is recognizing a hazard. This involves the time taken to see and identify a potential danger on the road, such as a stop sign or another vehicle. Reaction distance follows, representing the distance covered while the driver moves their foot from the accelerator to the brake. This accounts for the time it takes to respond once a hazard is recognized.

Finally, braking distance is the distance traveled from the time the brakes are applied until the vehicle comes to a complete stop. This distance can be influenced by factors such as the vehicle's speed, weight, and road conditions.

Understanding these three components is essential for safe driving and allows a driver to estimate how far they will travel before coming to a stop, which is crucial for maintaining safety on the road. Other options mentioned do not accurately reflect the standard components of total stopping distance, lacking one or more of the essential elements needed for a comprehensive understanding.