At 40 mph, approximately what distance will it take to stop your vehicle under ideal conditions?

To determine the stopping distance of a vehicle traveling at 40 mph under ideal conditions, we must consider both the reaction distance and the braking distance. Under ideal conditions, the average stopping distance can be calculated based on typical braking performance and driver reaction time.

The stopping distance consists of two components: the distance traveled during the driver’s reaction time (which is around one second) and the distance it takes for the vehicle to come to a complete stop once the brakes are applied. At 40 mph, the vehicle travels approximately 58 feet in one second. Once the brakes are applied, the deceleration will typically bring the vehicle to a stop in about 70 to 100 feet, depending on road conditions and the vehicle's braking system.

When adding these two distances together, the total stopping distance generally falls within the range of 126 to 156 feet. This aligns with the choice marked as correct, making it the most accurate estimate for stopping distances at this speed under optimal conditions. Thus, choice B logically represents the typical stopping distance for a vehicle going 40 mph.