Safety Margins
Stopping distances, braking in rain or ice, the two-second rule.
What this topic covers
Stopping distances, braking in rain or ice, the two-second rule. The full Driving Theory Test app contains 59 questions on this topic, drawn from the official DVSA bank.
Worked examples
Here are a few practice questions from this topic. Try answering each before reading the explanation.
Example 1
Braking distances on ice can be
- A. twice the normal distance
- B. five times the normal distance
- C. seven times the normal distance
- D. ten times the normal distance ✓ correct
Example 2
In very hot weather the road surface can become soft. Which TWO of the following will be most affected?
- A. The suspension
- B. The grip of the tyres ✓ correct
- C. The braking ✓ correct
- D. The exhaust
Example 3
You are travelling at 50 mph on a good, dry road. What is your typical overall stopping distance?
- A. 36 metres (118 feet)
- B. 53 metres (175 feet) ✓ correct
- C. 75 metres (245 feet)
- D. 96 metres (315 feet)
Example 4
In heavy motorway traffic the vehicle behind you is following too closely. How can you lower the risk of a collision?
- A. Increase your distance from the vehicle in front ✓ correct
- B. Operate the brakes sharply
- C. Switch on your hazard lights
- D. Move onto the hard shoulder and stop
Get all 59 questions on this topic in the Driving Theory Test app.
