What is the maximum stopping distance at 20 mph?

• A. 30 ft
• B. 40 ft
• C. 35 ft
• D. 45 ft

Answer: (C)

Stopping distance is the total distance your vehicle travels from the moment you spot a hazard to the moment it fully stops. It adds together the distance you cover while you perceive and react to the hazard, plus the distance you travel while braking. At 20 mph, allowing about one second to recognize and react leaves roughly 30 feet for the initial travel. When you apply brakes under normal conditions, you add enough distance to bring the vehicle to a stop, and the Emergency Vehicle Driver standards set the maximum stopping distance at 35 feet at this speed. So, 35 feet is the best answer because it reflects the total distance under typical conditions you should be prepared to stop within. Distances shorter than that don’t fully account for reaction and braking, while longer distances exceed the standard maximum for 20 mph.