Freezing conditions will affect the distance it takes you to come to a stop. You should expect stopping distances to increase by up to _________.

Related Information

Factors Affecting Braking Distance

Car Condition

The condition of your car will also have a significant impact on the efficacy of stopping it. Your braking distance is affected by the condition of your tyres and brakes. Excessive tyre wear can increase braking distance by up to 40%.

It is critical that these are tested and maintained on a regular basis. This is why we inspect all Bill Plant tuition vehicles on a regular basis and repair parts and even automobiles as needed.


Weight in the Car

A heavier automobile is more difficult to stop than a lighter one due to the momentum created by travelling at high speeds. While your thinking distance should remain constant regardless of vehicle weight, your braking distance will change, resulting in longer overall stopping distances.


Road Condition

Poorly maintained roads will make stopping your car more difficult. Loose components such as gravel, mud, and dirt will present minimal resistance to your movement. These reduce tyre contact with a solid surface, restricting grip and stopping capabilities.


Stopping Distances in Weather Conditions

Stopping Distances in Rain

When driving in wet or rainy situations, the Highway Code recommends that your total stopping distance be at least double that on a dry surface.


This is due to two major factors. The first is that a wet road surface is more slippery, resulting in decreased tyre grip and increased braking distance. Furthermore, unfavourable weather conditions such as heavy rain can significantly impair visibility on roadways, increasing your response time before braking.


Stopping Distances on Ice

When driving on ice and snow, the Highway Code recommends that your braking distance be TEN TIMES greater than on a dry road. This means the equation for stopping in icy weather is:


Thinking Distance + (Stopping Distance x10) = Total Stopping Distance