Final answer:
The correct stopping distance on a rural highway when facing a stopped vehicle on the opposite side is not specified by the provided information. However, general safety recommendations suggest at least 20 meters to ensure a safe buffer zone for reaction time and unexpected events.
Step-by-step explanation:
When stopping on a rural highway where a vehicle is stopped on the opposite side, the minimum distance from the other vehicle that you should stop is typically specified by local traffic laws, which can vary by region. However, for the purpose of this question and lacking specific regional guidelines within the provided information, we can consider general safety practices. These practices suggest that keeping a safe distance is essential to provide an adequate buffer in case of any sudden events or emergencies. A common recommendation is to leave at least one car length for every 10 mph of speed. As a result, a distance of 20 meters (d) would generally be a safe bet to allow for potential deceleration time and unforeseen hazards, considering the average car length and typical reaction times. It's also large enough to make sure you are visible to the other driver and to any other traffic participants that might be approaching.