What is Braking Distance? - Theory Test Questions
What Is Braking Distance? (UK Theory Test Guide)
What Is Braking Distance? (UK Theory Test Guide)
Braking distance is the distance a vehicle travels from the moment the brakes are applied until the vehicle comes to a complete stop.
It is one part of the overall stopping distance, which consists of:
Thinking Distance – the distance travelled while reacting to a hazard.
Braking Distance – the distance travelled after the brakes are applied.
Formula:
Stopping Distance = Thinking Distance + Braking Distance
Why Is Braking Distance Important?
Why Is Braking Distance Important?
Understanding braking distance is essential for both the UK Theory Test and safe driving.
Many drivers underestimate how far a vehicle travels after the brakes are applied. Even modern vehicles cannot stop instantly.
If you leave insufficient space between your vehicle and the one ahead, you may not have enough room to stop safely if traffic suddenly slows down.
Highway Code Braking Distances
Highway Code Braking Distances
Speed Braking Distance
20 mph 6 metres
30 mph 14 metres
40 mph 24 metres
50 mph 38 metres
60 mph 55 metres
70 mph 75 metres
Notice that when speed doubles, braking distance increases dramatically.
At 70 mph, your braking distance is more than five times greater than at 30 mph.