Speed and Safe Distances Flashcards

Unless signs say otherwise, the default speed limit in a built-up area in NSW is:

Answer: 50 km/h

In a built-up area (where there are buildings next to the road or street lighting at intervals of less than 100 metres), the default speed limit is 50 km/h unless a sign shows a different limit.

The recommended minimum following distance in good conditions is at least:

Answer: A 3-second gap behind the vehicle in front

A 3-second gap gives you time to react and stop. Pick a fixed point, and when the vehicle ahead passes it, count three seconds. In poor conditions you should at least double this gap.

When driving in rain, fog or on a wet road, you should:

Answer: Reduce your speed and increase your following distance

Wet, foggy or slippery conditions increase stopping distances and reduce visibility. Slow down and at least double your following distance so you have more time to react and stop safely.

A learner driver (L plates) in NSW must not exceed a speed limit of:

Answer: 90 km/h

In NSW, learner licence holders must not drive faster than 90 km/h, even where a higher limit is signposted. P1 drivers are limited to 90 km/h and P2 drivers to 100 km/h.

Speed limits in a school zone in NSW typically apply:

Answer: During the signposted times on school days (commonly mornings and afternoons)

School zone speed limits (usually 40 km/h) apply during the times shown on the signs on gazetted school days, typically the morning and afternoon periods when children are arriving and leaving.

Your stopping distance is made up of:

Answer: Your reaction distance plus your braking distance

Total stopping distance is reaction distance (how far you travel before you begin braking) plus braking distance (how far the car travels while braking). Both increase as your speed increases.

Travelling at higher speed affects a crash because:

Answer: The higher the speed, the greater the force of impact and the longer it takes to stop

The faster you travel, the further you go before stopping and the greater the energy in a crash. Even a small increase in speed greatly increases the severity of a collision.

You are driving in a 100 km/h zone but heavy traffic and rain mean it is unsafe to do so. You should:

Answer: Drive at a slower speed that is safe for the conditions

A speed limit is the maximum, not a target. You must always drive at a speed that is safe for the road, weather, traffic and visibility, which may be well below the posted limit.