Which three factors will affect your stopping distance?

Stopping distance is the total distance a vehicle travels from the moment a driver perceives a hazard until the vehicle comes to a complete stop. This distance is influenced by several factors, and among them, weather conditions play a critical role.

Weather conditions can significantly affect road traction. For example, in rain or snow, the road surface can become slippery, which can increase stopping distance. Reduced visibility during foggy conditions can also lead to delayed reactions, further increasing stopping distance. Understanding how weather impacts driving is essential for safe driving practices.

While the weight of the vehicle, the tyres on your vehicle, and your speed can also affect stopping distance, they are not the only factors at play. For instance, heavier vehicles typically require more force to stop, while the condition of the tyres can influence grip. Speed directly relates to how quickly a vehicle can stop; the faster you are going, the longer it will take to come to a halt. However, the immediate and fluctuating nature of weather conditions is a critical factor that affects traction and driver response, making it especially significant when considering stopping distances.