ADVANCED DRIVING & RIDING

North Devon Advanced Drivers & Riders - Car and Motorcycle Groups

BRAKES AND STOPPING DISTANCES

Compilers of the new Highway Code (September 2007) were asked to consider revising the stopping and separation distance information in the light of improved braking technology. They declined; why?

1. Thinking distances remain the same... Human brain technology is the same as it was in 1931, when the first Highway code was produced.

2. Servos, ABS, and the like do not provide more braking power so they do not significantly shorten the braking distance although they may improve the way that the brakes are applied.

The Driving Standards Agency quotes, “stopping distances are dependent on the condition of the road surface, the vehicle and tyres, the weather and the driver’s concentration.”

STOPPING SAFELY:

1. Have your brakes regularly inspected. The MOT is only proof that they will stop the car on test day. The pads could be worn out shortly afterwards.

2. Stay Alert. Expect to have to stop for every hazard you can see until you are sure that you will be able to continue.

3. Keep your distance. It is no good having excellent brakes if you do not give yourself time to apply them.

4. Avoid sudden braking. Progressively increase the pressure.