Categories: Driving News

How Far Away Should I Brake?

The 3-Second Rule (Normal Conditions):

  • Pick a fixed point (like a sign or tree).

  • When the vehicle in front passes it, count: “One-thousand-one, one-thousand-two, one-thousand-three.”

  • If you reach the same point before you finish counting, you’re too close.

  • This gives you enough time to react and brake safely in ideal conditions.

Increase to 4-6 Seconds:

  • In poor weather (rain, snow, ice)

  • At night

  • On gravel or wet roads

  • When driving behind large vehicles that block your view

Braking Distance (More Precise):

Here’s a rough idea of how much space is needed to stop, based on speed:

Speed Safe Braking Distance (dry road)
50 km/h ~25–30 metres
80 km/h ~60–70 metres
100 km/h ~90–100 metres

Like always, if you need to better your understanding of the road beyond hitting the brakes, I would suggest you attend a Defensive Driving Course or even Driver’s Education!

Mike Markos

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