When entering an intersection at 30 mph, how far would you likely be able to stop safely?

When entering an intersection at a speed of 30 miles per hour, understanding stopping distance is crucial for safety. The stopping distance is comprised of two main elements: the perception-reaction distance and the braking distance.

At 30 mph, the perception-reaction distance typically allows for about 44 feet before a driver reacts. Once the brakes are applied, the braking distance also needs to be calculated, which generally amounts to about 79 feet for a vehicle traveling at this speed under ideal conditions.

Adding these two values together gives a total stopping distance of approximately 123 feet. This calculation illustrates the importance of recognizing how distance can increase depending on speed and environmental factors such as road conditions and vehicle capability.

Therefore, the correct answer reflects the combination of these distances, providing a realistic scenario of how far a driver would need to safely stop when approaching an intersection at that speed.