Theorio

Safety Margins

Keeping safe distances and adjusting to road conditions.

Key Points

  • 1

    In dry conditions, keep at least a two-second gap from the vehicle ahead. Double it in rain.

  • 2

    On icy roads, stopping distances can be up to ten times longer than on dry roads.

  • 3

    Reduce speed in fog, rain, and at night. Use dipped headlights in poor visibility.

  • 4

    Aquaplaning happens when water builds up under your tyres — ease off the accelerator if steering feels light.

  • 5

    Leave extra space when following motorcyclists, cyclists, and horse riders in windy conditions.

  • 6

    When driving uphill, leave a larger gap behind the vehicle ahead in case they roll back.

  • 7

    Speed limits are the maximum, not a target. Always adjust your speed to the conditions.

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Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. These summaries are for study purposes and do not replace the full Highway Code.