What are the three events that occur when stopping a vehicle?

When stopping a vehicle, the three critical events that occur are perception, decision, and performance.

Perception refers to the driver's awareness of the surrounding environment and the recognition of the need to stop. This could involve noticing a stop sign, brake lights of the vehicle in front, or any other reason that requires the vehicle to halt. Effective perception is crucial because it triggers the subsequent actions needed to safely stop the vehicle.

Once the driver perceives the need to stop, the next stage is the decision-making process. This involves analyzing the situation and determining the appropriate response, such as whether to stop immediately or to reduce speed first. This decision is influenced by factors such as distance from the stopping point, traffic conditions, and the driver's own situation.

Finally, performance encompasses the actual execution of the decision to stop the vehicle. This includes physically engaging the brake pedal to initiate the stopping process. It takes into account the driver's skill and ability to control the vehicle effectively during braking.

Understanding these three stages is essential for drivers, particularly in the context of law enforcement, where making quick and informed decisions in high-pressure situations is vital for safety.