Driving distances

Key ideas

Reaction distance is the distance the car travels from when you notice a hazard until you start braking or swerving.

Stopping distance is the sum of reaction distance and braking distance.

Fatigue can slow your reaction and therefore increase reaction distance.

Being ready to act and anticipating hazards can reduce reaction distance.

Reaction time depends on the person. Tyre condition instead affects, among other things, the car's grip and braking distance.

Applying what you learned

Stopping distance has two parts: the distance travelled before you start to act and the distance travelled while braking. Tiredness and distraction can lengthen the first part; speed, grip and road conditions also affect the space you need. Spotting a possible hazard early lets you prepare and reduce speed before emergency braking becomes necessary.

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