You are travelling at 30 km/h. According to the rule of thumb, the braking distance is 9 metres when braking normally. How long is the braking distance under the same conditions when travelling at 60 km/h?

When traveling at 30 km/h, the braking distance is approximately 9 meters. According to the physics of motion, when the speed doubles to 60 km/h, the braking distance does not just double but increases by a factor of four due to the formula for kinetic energy.

This means that the braking distance at 60 km/h is about 36 meters. Therefore, it’s crucial to understand that higher speeds significantly increase stopping distances. This principle is essential in German traffic regulations to ensure safety on the roads, as it highlights the necessity for drivers to maintain appropriate speeds according to road conditions and traffic regulations.

When answering questions about braking distances, it's important to consider the increasing effects of speed on stopping distance, helping reinforce safe driving practices.