Ch. 5 · Driving Method

When a driver is fatigued, it takes longer to recognize and judge danger, so the reaction distance (free-running distance) becomes longer.

[True / False · Easy]

Answer: ✓ True

Explanation

Chapter 5, Section 4, 2(2) of the Rules of the Road states that when a driver is fatigued, it takes longer to recognize and judge danger, so the reaction distance (free-running distance — the distance the vehicle travels before the brakes take effect) becomes longer. Fatigue delays reaction time, which in turn increases the overall stopping distance.

Driving school curriculumStage 1 – Topic 7: Safe speed and following distance

Hikari

Fatigue makes braking distance longer, so… braking distance, right?

Misaki

This is true, but it's specifically about reaction distance — the space you travel before you even hit the brakes. Fatigue slows your recognition and judgment.

Hikari

So I'm coasting forward longer before I react?

Misaki

Precisely. That delayed reaction adds distance before braking even begins, increasing total stopping distance.

Source: Ch. 5 Driving Method · Section (第４節安全な速度と車間距離) · 2(2) 運転者が疲れているときは、危険を認知して判断するまでに時間がかかるので、空走距離は長くなります。

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Source content excerpted from the NPA “Rules of the Road” instructional manual, in the public domain under Japanese Copyright Act Article 13(2). Explanations are AI-assisted and copyrighted by the MenkyoQuest editorial team.