LGV Safe Braking Distances 4

Question 1

What is a 'retarder' on a modern LGV?

Accepted Answer

An auxiliary braking device (hydraulic or electromagnetic) that supplements the main brakes, especially on long descents

Answer

A retarder is an auxiliary braking system fitted to many modern LGVs. Hydraulic retarders use fluid resistance and electromagnetic retarders use electromagnetic drag. Both slow the vehicle without using the main friction brakes, preserving them for emergency use.

Question 2

At 40 mph, how far does a vehicle travel during a 1-second reaction time?

Accepted Answer

Approximately 18 metres

Answer

At 40 mph, a vehicle travels approximately 17.9 metres per second (40 mph ≈ 17.9 m/s). During a 1-second reaction time, the vehicle travels approximately 18 metres before braking begins.

Question 3

How does driving with a fully loaded trailer affect the stopping characteristics compared to the tractor unit alone?

Accepted Answer

The combination has greater mass and momentum, significantly increasing stopping distance and requiring anticipatory braking

Answer

A fully loaded articulated combination has vastly more mass than the tractor alone. The increase in kinetic energy means stopping distances are proportionally much longer. Both tractor and trailer brakes are needed, and brake balance (EBS) is critical to prevent jack-knife.

Question 4

What is 'progressive braking' and why is it important for LGV drivers?

Accepted Answer

Gradually increasing brake pressure to slow smoothly — prevents wheel lock-up, jack-knife, and cargo shift

Answer

Progressive braking involves gradually increasing brake pressure from light to heavier application. This gives time for brake balance systems (EBS) to adjust, prevents cargo from shifting, and reduces jack-knife risk. It is a fundamental professional driving technique.

Question 5

What is the Highway Code's stopping distance at 30 mph?

Accepted Answer

23 metres (75 feet)

Answer

At 30 mph, the Highway Code gives a total stopping distance of 23 metres (75 feet): 9 metres thinking distance plus 14 metres braking distance. This is for a car in ideal conditions — a loaded LGV would need considerably more.

UK LGV Theory Practice Test

UK LGV Theory Practice Test

LGV Safe Braking Distances 4