Approximately how many feet does it take to stop a vehicle when traveling at 55 mph?

When a vehicle is traveling at 55 mph, it typically takes about 228 feet to come to a complete stop. This calculation considers several factors, including perception time, reaction time, and braking distance.

At 55 mph, the time it takes for a driver to recognize a hazard, decide to brake, and then actually apply the brakes contributes to the overall distance needed to stop. This is known as the reaction distance and varies based on the driver's alertness and the conditions of the road. Once the brakes are applied, the vehicle will continue to travel a further distance before it comes to a stop, which is known as the braking distance.

Understanding that both the reaction distance and braking distance contribute to the total stopping distance highlights the importance of maintaining an appropriate following distance and being aware of road conditions. The figure of 228 feet is a standard reference point widely used in defensive driving strategies, emphasizing the need for drivers to be prepared for sudden stops and to drive with caution, especially at higher speeds.