Georgia Commercial Driver License Practice Test

What is meant by reaction distance?

1. The distance your vehicle travels before you turn

2. The distance traveled after hitting the brakes

3. The distance traveled before hitting the brakes after seeing a hazard

4. The distance traveled while changing lanes

The correct answer is: The distance traveled before hitting the brakes after seeing a hazard

Reaction distance refers to the distance that a vehicle travels from the moment a driver perceives a hazard to the moment they begin to take action, such as applying the brakes. This distance is crucial because it encompasses the time it takes for a driver to recognize a potential danger and decide to respond to it, which can vary based on factors such as the driver's alertness and the speed at which they are traveling. In the case of a driver encountering a hazard, the reaction distance is influenced by how quickly they identify the hazard and how quickly they can initiate a response. This can significantly affect stopping distance and overall road safety. Understanding reaction distance helps drivers recognize the importance of maintaining safe following distances and being aware of their surroundings, especially in high-speed driving situations where reaction time is even more critical.