North Carolina Basic Law Enforcement Training (BLET) State Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT one of the three main factors influencing stopping distance?

1. Speed

2. Weight

3. Performance

4. Decision

The correct answer is: Weight

The correct choice indicates that weight is not one of the three main factors influencing stopping distance. Stopping distance is primarily influenced by speed, which determines the momentum of the vehicle, performance factors such as the condition of the brakes and tires, and the decision-making capability of the driver, which includes their ability to perceive hazards and react accordingly. Weight affects how a vehicle handles and can impact braking effectiveness, but in the context of the primary factors that directly determine stopping distance, it is often overshadowed by the more immediate effects of speed, performance, and decision-making. Understanding this distinction is crucial for recognizing the practical applications of these factors in real-world driving situations, particularly for law enforcement officers focused on safety and accident prevention.