Stopping distances
20 mph stopping distance
12 metres/40 feet (6+6)
30 mph stopping distance
23 metres/75 feet (9+14)
40 mph stopping distance
36 metres/118 feet (12+24)
Average car length
4 m
50 mph stopping distance
53 metres/175 feet (15+38)
60 mph stopping distance
73 metres/240 feet (18+55)
70 mph stopping distance
96 metres/315 feet (21+75)
What gap should you leave?
At least a 2 second gap between you and the vehicle in front on roads carrying faster-moving traffic and in tunnels where visibility is reduced. The gap should be doubled on wet roads and increased still further on icy roads. (Remember 'only a fool breaks the 2 second rule.')
Stopping in a tunnel
If you have to stop in a tunnel, leave at least a 5 metre gap between you and the vehicle in front.
Stopping distance for large vehicles and motorcycles
They need a greater distance to stop. If driving a large vehicle in a tunnel, you should allow a 4 second gap between you and the vehicle in front.
Stopping distance
Thinking distance + braking distance
What does stopping distance depend on?
Your attention, the road surface, the weather conditions and the condition of your vehicle.