bremselængden

Bremselængden, often translated as braking distance, refers to the distance a vehicle travels from the moment the brakes are applied until it comes to a complete stop. It is a critical factor in road safety and is influenced by several variables. The primary factor is the vehicle's speed; braking distance increases significantly with higher speeds. For example, doubling the speed does not just double the braking distance, but often quadruples it due to the relationship between kinetic energy and speed.

Another major influence is the condition of the tires and the road surface. Worn tires or slippery surfaces like rain, ice, or gravel greatly increase braking distance. This is because the friction between the tires and the road is reduced, making it harder for the brakes to grip and slow the vehicle. The type and condition of the braking system itself also play a role. Properly maintained brakes will provide more effective stopping power than worn or faulty ones.

The mass of the vehicle is also a factor. A heavier vehicle possesses more kinetic energy and therefore requires a longer distance to stop. Driver reaction time, the period between perceiving a hazard and applying the brakes, is technically part of the total stopping distance but is often considered separately from the pure braking distance. Understanding and accounting for these factors is essential for safe driving practices.