When a motor vehicle is traveling at 50 mph, it typically takes around 229 feet to come to a complete stop under favorable conditions, such as having good brakes and a dry road. This stopping distance includes the distance traveled during the driver's reaction time, as well as the braking distance once the brakes are applied.
At higher speeds, the amount of space required to stop increases significantly due to the kinetic energy of the vehicle. The formula for stopping distance takes into account both the reaction time (the time it takes for a driver to perceive a need to stop and to react) and the braking distance (the distance the vehicle travels while coming to a stop).
In ideal conditions, factors such as weather, road conditions, and vehicle maintenance (such as having well-functioning brakes) contribute to achieving this distance. A stopping distance of about 229 feet at 50 mph is consistent with safety assessments and drivers' education guidelines, reinforcing the importance of understanding your vehicle's capabilities and maintaining safe following distances.