Texas Drivers Ed Written Practice Test

Not including thinking and reaction distance, at 20 mph, lawful brakes must stop a car within:

1. 20 ft

2. 40 ft

3. 50 ft

4. 25 ft

The correct answer is: 25 ft

At a speed of 20 mph, the distance required for a vehicle to come to a complete stop is influenced by factors such as the vehicle's braking system and the condition of the road. When conditions are ideal, lawful brakes are designed to effectively stop a car within a reasonable distance, ensuring safety on the road. Stopping distances generally increase with speed; however, at lower speeds like 20 mph, the stopping distance is relatively shorter. Therefore, 25 feet is a practical distance that reflects the effectiveness of standard braking systems under typical conditions, including factors such as friction, weight of the vehicle, and tire traction. The other distances provided are either too short or too long to represent the realistic stopping capability for a vehicle traveling at 20 mph under normal conditions. A stopping distance of 25 feet provides a balance that emphasizes the importance of safe brakes while also considering real-life driving scenarios.