Which elements make up your total stopping distance?

The total stopping distance of a vehicle is a comprehensive measure that encompasses all phases involved in bringing the vehicle to a complete stop.

When considering perception distance, it refers to the distance a vehicle travels during the driver's recognition of a hazard. This is followed by reaction distance, which is the distance covered while the driver is reacting to that hazard by applying the brakes. After the driver has initiated braking, the vehicle continues to travel a certain distance known as braking distance, which is the distance required to stop once the brakes are applied.

By adding these three critical components—perception distance, reaction distance, and braking distance—you arrive at the total stopping distance. The inclusion of brake lag distance is generally unnecessary in this context as it accounts for delay in braking response rather than contributing directly to the actual stopping distance.

Thus, the correct answer consolidates all the vital distances that contribute to stopping a vehicle, making it the most accurate representation of total stopping distance. Understanding these components is crucial for assessing how various factors, such as speed and driver alertness, impact stopping efficiency and safety on the road.