The stopping distance a vehicle corresponds to the distance traveled during the reaction time of the driver to which is added the braking distance.
- Reaction time : it is estimated that 1 second time – minimum – necessary for the driver to react in the event of an incident or the appearance of an obstacle and, in the best conditions. During this time, the vehicle continues to race. It is only once the information is assimilated, that the driver really starts to brake.
- Braking Distance : the length varies according to the speed of the vehicle, the efficiency of the braking system, of the slope...
Remember : Stopping Distance = stopping distance + distance traveled during the reaction time
Take your marks
The Code of the road has set a clear rule : the range of security has to be struck between you and the vehicle in front of you is, at least, the distance that you will travel in 2 seconds. The higher your speed, the more this distance must be large.
For heavy-duty vehicles (GVW > 3.5 T) or those whose length exceeds 7 m, the sets of vehicles (car + caravan) and camping-cars, this distance is less than 50 meters.
How to evaluate a good safe distance ? Take a visual reference point on the side of the road, like a tree or a road sign. Once the vehicle in front of you is passed on to its height, count 2 seconds. If your vehicle passes the marker before this deadline, you are too close.
Another tip : on the highway, the lines delineating the stop band emergency measure 39 feet, and are spaced between them, of 13 metres. A 130 km/h, you need to at least allow an interval of 2 lines, is approximately 90 metres to stop your vehicle without hitting the one in front of you.
Many elements influence your reaction time and braking distance of your vehicle. You have to adapt your driving by increasing your distance of safety, because the 2 seconds regulations will not always suffice.
Fatigue and attention to the road
When you're tired, your reflexes are slower, and your concentration on the road is reduced. Your reaction time will be longer.
The vehicle
The braking system of your vehicle is perfectly maintained ? Regularly check the condition of your brake pads and tires.
The floor, the infrastructure
The condition of the road varies from one road to another. Be especially careful in areas of under-wood, conducive to the ice or fog.
The weather
The landmark regulatory 2 seconds has been calculated on the dry soil and in weather conditions that were ideal. Wet pavement has the effect of doubling the braking distance, including on the highway. In the city or on a country road, you should also think about another user or a barrier can occur at any point on your path.
In the fog, at night or when visibility is poor, your perception of the distances change. Reduce your speed and increase your safety distances is essential.
