Stopping Distance, How to Improve it!

Stopping distance is the amount of time it takes to completely stop your vehicle. It is the thinking distance and braking distance added together. Many accidents occur on the road from following cars to closely, also known as tailgating. It is one of the leading causes of road accidents within the UK. It is important to know your stopping distance even if you are a new driver or a driver for years.  

What is Thinking Distance?

Thinking distance is the distance travelled from when you realise you need to brake, and then actually hit the brake. There are many things that can affect your braking distance. If you’re tired your brain thinks slower, so you won’t be able to hit the brakes as soon. Another factor is alcohol, it can affect how you judge hazards. You are less accurate under the influence, so the braking on occasions braking is late or missed. Drugs, they make you less aware and less alert. Even legal drugs can affect you. Some pain-killers and hay-fever tablets may affect reaction times.  Lastly distractions. Things like music, phones or loud talking can take your mind off the road and any distractions ahead.  

What is Braking Distance?

Braking distance is the distance travelled once the brakes are applied to when the car comes to a complete stop. There are a few factors that can affect your braking distance. When you are travelling faster your car will take longer to stop. For example, if you are travelling 50mph it will take you 53 meters to come to a complete stop. Poor conditions such as icy and wet surfaces will also increase the braking distance, this is because surfaces will be more slippy. Conditions such as bald tyres, poor brakes or added weight will also increase the braking distance.