What is the effective braking distance at 60 mph on dry pavement?

At a speed of 60 mph on dry pavement, the effective braking distance is approximately 300 feet. This distance reflects the time it takes for a vehicle to come to a stop once the brakes are applied, taking into account the speed of the vehicle and the coefficient of friction between the tires and the pavement.

Generally, the braking distance increases with speed; therefore, at higher speeds, such as 60 mph, a longer distance is needed to safely stop the vehicle. The 300 feet figure is derived from typical braking distance calculations, which account for factors like perception time and reaction time in addition to the actual brake engagement.

Understanding effective braking distance is crucial for safe driving and helps drivers maintain appropriate following distances behind other vehicles. It is important to remain aware of speed limits and stopping distances, especially in varying road conditions.