About how many feet does a car traveling at 70 mph take to stop after brakes are applied?

When a car is traveling at 70 mph, it requires a significant distance to come to a complete stop after the brakes are applied. This stopping distance can be influenced by various factors, including the vehicle's speed, road conditions, weather, and the car's braking system.

At 70 mph, the stopping distance is primarily determined by the speed itself; the higher the speed, the longer it takes to stop due to the increased kinetic energy that needs to be dissipated. The typical stopping distance for a car reaching this speed is approximately 387 feet when accounting for reaction time and braking distance. This includes the distance traveled during the driver's reaction to the situation before the brakes are engaged, along with the additional distance taken by the car to come to a halt once the brakes are applied.

Understanding this concept is crucial for safe driving, as it highlights the importance of maintaining a safe following distance and adjusting speed according to road and traffic conditions. Being aware of how far it takes to stop can help drivers make better decisions, especially in emergencies.