Kokonaispysähtymismatkaa

Kokonaispysähtymismatkaa, also known as stopping distance, is a critical concept in vehicle dynamics and road safety. It refers to the total distance a vehicle travels from the moment the driver applies the brakes until the vehicle comes to a complete stop. This distance is composed of two main components: perception-reaction time distance and braking distance.

Perception-reaction time distance is the distance a vehicle travels during the time it takes for a driver to perceive a hazard and begin to apply the brakes. This time can vary widely depending on factors such as driver alertness, the complexity of the driving environment, and the nature of the hazard. On average, this distance is approximately 20-30 meters (65-98 feet) for a typical driver.

Braking distance is the distance a vehicle travels from the moment the brakes are applied until it comes to a stop. This distance is influenced by several factors, including the vehicle's speed, the condition of the road surface, the effectiveness of the brakes, and the vehicle's weight. At 60 miles per hour (97 kilometers per hour), a typical passenger car may require around 120 meters (394 feet) to come to a complete stop.

The total stopping distance is the sum of the perception-reaction time distance and the braking distance. For example, at 60 miles per hour, the total stopping distance would be approximately 140-150 meters (459-492 feet). Understanding and calculating stopping distances is essential for road safety, as it helps drivers anticipate and avoid potential hazards, plan safe speeds, and maintain appropriate following distances.