Braking Distance

Reaction Distance

how far you will continue to travel after seeing the hazard until you physically hit the brakes. The average driver has a reaction time of ¾ second to 1 second. At 50 mph this accounts for 55 feet traveled.

Perception Distance

how far your vehicle travels—in ideal conditions—from the time your eyes see a hazard until your brain recognizes it. Perception distance can be affected by mental and physical conditions, medication, as well as visibility and the hazard itself. The average perception time for an alert driver is ¾ second to 1 second.

Braking Distance

how far your vehicle will travel—in ideal conditions— while you are braking. At 50 mph on dry pavement with good brakes, it can take about 158 feet.

Total Stopping Distance

the total minimum distance your vehicle will travel—including perception distance, reaction distance, and braking distance—until you can bring your vehicle to a complete stop. At 50 mph, you will travel a minimum of 268 feet...nearly the length of a football field.

Making Turns

• You must use vehicle directional signals or hand signals to show other drivers that you are about to turn. • Turn signals are required by law when changing lanes or overtaking a vehicle. • You must give a turn signal for at least 100 feet BEFORE you make your turn. • It is against the law to use your directional signals to tell drivers behind you that they can pass. • Hand signals must be given from the left side of the vehicle.