DVSA Speed and Stopping Distances 3

Question 1

What effect does a worn tyre tread have on braking distance?

Accepted Answer

It significantly increases braking distance, especially in wet conditions, because the tyre cannot disperse water effectively

Answer

The tyre tread pattern is designed to channel water away from the contact patch. With worn tread, water cannot be dispersed effectively, leading to reduced grip and much longer braking distances, especially in wet conditions. The legal minimum tread depth is 1.6 mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre.

Question 2

What is the minimum legal tyre tread depth in the UK?

Accepted Answer

1.6 mm

Answer

The minimum legal tyre tread depth in the UK is 1.6 mm across the central three-quarters of the breadth and around the entire circumference. Driving with tyres below this limit is illegal and carries a fine of up to £2,500 and 3 penalty points per tyre.

Question 3

How do ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) brakes help in an emergency stop?

Accepted Answer

They prevent the wheels from locking, allowing you to maintain steering control while braking hard

Answer

ABS prevents the wheels from locking during heavy braking by rapidly releasing and reapplying the brakes. This allows you to maintain steering control so you can steer around an obstacle while braking. ABS does not necessarily reduce braking distance — on loose surfaces like gravel, it may increase it.

Question 4

How does driving downhill affect your braking distance?

Accepted Answer

It increases braking distance because gravity is pulling the vehicle forward

Answer

Driving downhill increases braking distance because gravity adds to the vehicle's momentum, working against the brakes. The steeper the gradient, the greater the effect. Use a lower gear to help control speed on long descents rather than relying on brakes alone.

Question 5

What factors can increase your thinking distance?

Accepted Answer

Tiredness, distractions, alcohol, drugs, illness, and age

Answer

Thinking distance is affected by anything that impairs your mental alertness and reaction time: tiredness, distractions (mobile phones, passengers, sat nav), alcohol, prescription or recreational drugs, illness, stress, and age. Speed also increases thinking distance proportionally.

DVSA UK Driving Theory Practice Test

DVSA UK Driving Theory Practice Test

DVSA Speed and Stopping Distances 3