Sight Distance Design

Comprehensive Sight Distance Calculator

Calculate Stopping (SSD), Decision (DSD), and Intersection (ISD) Sight Distances with automated grade and vehicle adjustments.

SSD Parameters

Stopping sight distance is the total of reaction distance and braking distance.

Default values: t = 2.5 s, a = 11.2 ft/s²

1.0 Design Speed

Design speed is a speed selected to determine the various geometric design features of a roadway.

Table 1. Design Speeds

Ref: Street Development Standards. City of Des Moines

Road Type Design Speed Posted Speed
Principal ArterialPosted + 535 - 45
Minor CollectorPosted + 535 - 40
CollectorPosted30 - 35
Neighborhood CollectorPosted25 - 30
Local RoadPosted (25)25
AlleyPosted (20)20

Note 1: Not all Local Roads will be posted.
Note 2: Speed Limit Signs shall not be posted on Alleys.

Result

Total Stopping Sight Distance

0 ft

Distance Breakdown

React
Brake
0 ft 0 ft
Reaction Distance 0 ft
Braking Distance 0 ft

Formula: 1.47×V×t + V² / [30×((a/32.2) ± G)]

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