Final answer:
When traveling at 55 mph, you will cover a certain distance over a given time. To pass an oncoming vehicle safely, you will need more distance to ensure there is enough space between the vehicles.
Step-by-step explanation:
When traveling at 55 mph, you will cover a certain distance over a given time. The distance covered is based on the time taken and the speed traveled. If an oncoming vehicle is also traveling at 55 mph, it will cover the same distance as you. To pass the oncoming vehicle safely, you will need more distance to ensure that there is enough space between the vehicles. This extra distance is necessary to account for reaction time and to allow for a safe passing maneuver.
Let's consider an example:
If you are traveling at 55 mph, you will cover approximately 80 feet per second. Suppose the length of the oncoming vehicle is 15 feet. To pass safely, you will need to provide a safe buffer distance, such as 20 feet, between the two vehicles. Therefore, you will need a total of 35 feet of distance to pass safely.
Summary:
At 55 mph, you will travel over a certain distance. So will an oncoming vehicle. To pass safely, you will need more distance between the vehicles.