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New Mexico Class D Written Test Practice
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Passing target: 70% (21/30)
Observation, Speed & SpaceStandalone practice
You are driving at 50 mph on dry pavement, and your tires and brakes are in good condition. A hazard appears ahead. About how much distance can you need to react and bring your car to a stop?
Correct answer: About 400 feet, or about the length of a city block
Why
This is why you must be able to see far enough ahead for your speed: with less than about 400 feet of clear view, 50 mph may not be a safe speed. At night your headlights let you see about 400 feet ahead, so the manual links night driving to a speed of about 50 mph. The distance includes the time before your foot reaches the brake, so distraction or fatigue makes it longer, and wet roads, worn tires or weak brakes add more.
Verified against New Mexico Driver Manual · Seeing and stopping · p. 25, 26
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