NSAM - Reaction Time Test

NSAM

North Staffs Advanced Motorists
'Skill with Responsibility'

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The Highway Code sets out typical stopping distances for a range of speeds. This stopping distance is made up of a "Thinking Distance" component and a "Braking Distance" component.

Much has been done by car manufacturers to reduce the distance require to brake a car to a stop but the thinking distance is solely dependant upon the driver identifying a reason to brake and starting to take action.

At each range of speeds the Highway Code utilises a thinking distance that equates to around 0.7 seconds. If you, as a driver, can't observe and react within this period of time then your thinking distance will be somewhat further then that suggested by the Highway Code.

Follow this link to test whether your reactions fall within 0.7 seconds. Good luck!

http://www.bbc.co.uk/science/humanbody/sleep/sheep/

Here are a few post-test questions:-

1) Do I apply as much concentration to my driving as I did during this test?

2) What would my score be if I were looking in the rear view mirror or changing radio station?

3) Would I score as well if I was talking on the phone or had been drinking alcohol?