Quick answer
Overall stopping distance combines thinking distance and braking distance. Learn the official typical figures, but also understand that speed, tyres, brakes, weather and attention change the real distance.
Use the official pattern
Typical overall distances rise sharply with speed: 12 m at 20 mph, 23 m at 30, 36 m at 40, 53 m at 50, 73 m at 60 and 96 m at 70.
Remember time gaps
The Highway Code advises at least a two-second gap on high-speed roads and in tunnels with reduced visibility. At least double it when wet and allow up to ten times more on ice.
Know what lengthens stopping
Tiredness, distraction, alcohol and poor visibility affect thinking. Tyres, brakes, road surface, gradient and weather affect braking. A memorised table is not a safe following-distance calculator.
Common questions
Does wet weather double stopping distance?
The Highway Code says the following gap should be at least doubled on wet roads.
Is the table exact for every car?
No. It gives typical distances; actual performance varies with conditions and the vehicle.
Sources and editorial approach
This article was written as an independent study aid and checked against the official references below. We review time-sensitive facts when the article is updated. Read our editorial policy.