Answer :
Final answer:
The minimum safe distance to park from a stop sign, traffic control signal, or crosswalk is not definitively provided here due to varying local regulations; however, a minimum of 5 meters is suggested for safety, considering driver reaction times and stopping distances. For pedestrian crossing safety, a minimum of one car-length should be maintained.
Explanation:
The safe parking distance from a stop sign, traffic control signal, or crosswalk may vary by jurisdiction, but if we base the decision on the physics of stopping distances and driver reaction times, we can infer a safe minimum distance. Considering a car traveling at a speed limit of 60 km/hr (which is approximately 16.67 m/s), and assuming an average reaction time of 0.5 seconds, the car will travel roughly 8.34 meters before the driver even begins to apply the brakes (driver reaction distance).
After the brakes are applied, the stopping distance is affected by road conditions and the vehicle's speed. Assuming that the road is dry, and based on Figure 2.5.11 where a car traveling at 30.0 m/s has certain braking distances, it's reasonable to expect that the braking distance at half the speed (16.67 m/s) would be significantly less—but still substantial. Therefore, being well away from these boundaries is crucial for safety. If we consider safety margins and potential legal requirements, a minimum distance of 5 meters would possibly be the safest minimal bet to avoid infringing on this safety zone—although local regulations should always be consulted for the exact distances.
When considering the safety distances for crossing, if a car is going the speed limit and it requires 4 meters for you to safely cross in front of it, this distance can be taken as approximately one car-length ahead for safe pedestrian crossing. Hence, if a car is 28 meters away, which is the length of 7 average cars, you would have sufficient distance to cross safely—assuming the car maintains the current speed and you immediately begin crossing.
