DVSA Speed and Stopping Distances 2

Question 1

What is the overall stopping distance at 20 mph?

Accepted Answer

12 metres (40 feet)

Answer

At 20 mph, the overall stopping distance is approximately 12 metres (40 feet) — about 3 car lengths. This comprises 6 metres thinking distance and 6 metres braking distance.

Question 2

How does tiredness affect your stopping distance?

Accepted Answer

It increases thinking distance because your reaction time is slower

Answer

Tiredness slows your reaction time, which increases your thinking distance. A fatigued driver may take significantly longer to recognise a hazard and begin braking. Research shows tiredness can be as dangerous as drink-driving in terms of impaired reaction times.

Question 3

What is the 'two-second rule' and when should it be increased?

Accepted Answer

Keep at least a 2-second gap between you and the vehicle ahead — increase to 4 seconds in wet conditions and more in ice/snow

Answer

The two-second rule means maintaining a gap of at least 2 seconds between you and the vehicle ahead in dry conditions. In rain, double it to 4 seconds. In ice and snow, allow up to 10 times the normal distance. Pick a fixed point and count the gap.

Question 4

At 50 mph, what is the approximate braking distance?

Accepted Answer

38 metres (125 feet)

Answer

At 50 mph, the braking distance is approximately 38 metres (125 feet). Combined with a thinking distance of 15 metres (50 feet), the overall stopping distance is about 53 metres (175 feet) — roughly 13 car lengths.

Question 5

How does alcohol affect stopping distance, even below the legal limit?

Accepted Answer

It increases thinking distance by impairing judgement, reaction time, and coordination

Answer

Even small amounts of alcohol impair your reaction time, judgement, and coordination, increasing thinking distance. Your ability to judge speed and distance is reduced, and you may take risks you would not normally take. The safest option is to avoid alcohol entirely if driving.

DVSA UK Driving Theory Practice Test

DVSA UK Driving Theory Practice Test

DVSA Speed and Stopping Distances 2