Why Does Speeding Increase Reaction Distance?
1 Answers
Speeding increases reaction distance because the braking distance lengthens when the driver applies the brakes at higher speeds. Below are specific factors affecting vehicle braking: 1. Suspension System: During emergency braking, the vehicle's center of gravity shifts forward, compressing the front suspension. If the front suspension lacks sufficient support, the excessive forward shift of the center of gravity reduces rear wheel traction, weakening rear braking effectiveness and increasing braking distance. Some vehicles exhibit severe front-end dipping during braking, indicating poor front suspension support. 2. Vehicle Weight: Heavier vehicles have greater inertia, making them harder to stop, so weight directly impacts braking distance. However, heavier vehicles don't always have longer braking distances than lighter ones—for example, performance cars, though much heavier than compact family sedans, often have superior braking performance due to factors like tires and braking systems. The effect of weight on braking distance is most evident for the same vehicle under identical braking conditions: greater load mass results in longer braking distances. 3. Tires: Tires are the medium through which the braking system operates. Better tire traction allows for greater braking force during deceleration, shortening braking distance. For typical family cars, the primary tire-related factor affecting braking distance is tread width—wider tires provide larger contact patches and greater braking force.
