At a speed of 20 mph, what is the stopping distance for the bus?

The correct stopping distance for a bus traveling at 20 mph is 45 feet. This figure takes into account both the perception-reaction time and the braking distance required to come to a complete stop safely.

At 20 mph, a driver typically requires a short distance to perceive a hazard and react, which adds to the overall stopping distance. The formula for calculating stopping distance involves considering the speed of the vehicle and the braking effectiveness of the bus. For a school bus, which is typically larger and heavier than a regular vehicle, the stopping distance will be greater due to its mass and the additional safety considerations involved in transporting children.

The range of stopping distances varies based on conditions like road surfaces, weather, and the bus's maintenance state, which means that the 45 feet figure is a guideline based on average circumstances. It helps ensure that bus drivers maintain enough space between their vehicle and any obstacles or children crossing the street, ensuring heightened safety while driving at lower speeds.

Other stopping distances, such as 30 feet, 60 feet, or 75 feet, would likely not be appropriate for a school bus at that speed, as they either underestimate the necessary distance to stop safely or overestimate, minimizing safety margins.