North Carolina Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) State Practice Exam

Which factors are primarily involved in determining stopping distance?

1. Speed, Weight, Traction

2. Perception, Decision, Performance

3. Road conditions, Vehicle condition, Weather

4. Driver experience, Reaction time, Vehicle speed

The correct answer is: Speed, Weight, Traction

The primary factors involved in determining stopping distance are speed, weight, and traction. Speed is significant because the faster a vehicle is moving, the longer it will take to stop. This is due to the physics of motion; as speed increases, the kinetic energy of the vehicle also increases, which means that more distance is needed to bring that energy to a halt. Weight plays a crucial role as well; heavier vehicles require a longer stopping distance compared to lighter ones because greater force is needed to stop a heavier mass. Traction, which refers to the grip that the tires have on the road surface, directly influences how effectively a vehicle can decelerate. If traction is low due to factors like wet or icy roads, the stopping distance will be increased, while good traction conditions can reduce the distance required to stop. Understanding these elements enables drivers and law enforcement officials to evaluate stopping distances in various driving scenarios, aiding in safer driving practices and accident prevention.