Stopping distances
Drive at a speed that will allow you to stop well within the distances you can see to be clear.
You should:
- Leave enough space between you and the vehicle in front so that you can pull up safely if it suddenly slows down or stops. The safe rule is never to get closer than the overall stopping distance.
- Allow at least a two-second gap between you and the vehicle in front on roads carrying fast traffic. The gap should be at least doubled on wet roads and increased still further on icy roads.
- Remember, large vehicles and motorcycles need a greater distance to stop.
Typical stopping distances
Stopping distances simulator
If you would like to see how effective stopping distances are, please click on the following link:
ROSPA/THINK! stopping distances simulator