True or False: Perception distance + Reaction distance + Braking distance = total stopping distance.

The statement is true because it accurately describes how total stopping distance is calculated. Total stopping distance encompasses three critical components: perception distance, reaction distance, and braking distance.

Perception distance is the distance a vehicle travels while the driver is realizing that they need to stop. This is influenced by factors such as speed and the driver's attentiveness. Reaction distance refers to the distance traveled while the driver is physically reacting to the situation, typically where they move their foot from the accelerator to the brake pedal. Lastly, braking distance is the distance the vehicle continues to travel after the brakes are applied until it comes to a complete stop. This distance can vary based on the vehicle’s speed, weight, road conditions, and braking efficiency.

Combining these three distances gives a comprehensive measure of how far a vehicle will travel from the moment a hazard is perceived to the point it stops, highlighting the importance of each element in ensuring safe driving practices.