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.