Module 5: Safety Margins

Stopping distance is the total distance your vehicle travels from the moment you react to the moment the vehicle comes to a complete stop. It includes:

• Thinking Distance: distance travelled while the driver reacts
• Braking Distance: distance travelled once the brakes are applied
• Higher speeds and poor conditions significantly increase stopping distance
• Avoid tailgating — always maintain a safe gap

A simple way to remember: the faster you drive, the greater the stopping distance grows — often much more than you expect.

Different weather conditions can dramatically affect visibility and tyre grip. You must adjust your driving accordingly:

• Rain: increases stopping distances and risk of aquaplaning
• Snow & Ice: stopping distances may be up to 10× longer
• Fog: reduces visibility — use fog lights when necessary
• Strong Winds: especially hazardous for high-sided vehicles

Always slow down in poor conditions and increase the gap between you and the vehicle ahead.

Aquaplaning occurs when your tyres lose contact with the road surface due to a layer of water. Signs include:

• Steering becoming light or unresponsive
• Sudden increase in engine sound
• Loss of control when accelerating or braking

If your vehicle starts to aquaplane:

• Ease off the accelerator — do NOT brake harshly
• Hold the steering wheel steadily
• Allow speed to reduce naturally until grip returns

Skids happen when tyres lose grip, often due to harsh braking, sharp steering, or slippery surfaces. To prevent skidding:

• Brake and accelerate gently
• Avoid sudden steering movements
• Slow down before bends
• Use anti-lock braking systems (ABS) correctly

If your vehicle begins to skid:

• Steer gently in the direction of the skid
• Avoid braking hard
• Regain control gradually

Safe overtaking requires good judgement, forward planning, and clear visibility. Before overtaking:

• Check mirrors and blind spots carefully
• Ensure the road ahead is clear — never overtake near bends or junctions
• Allow plenty of space when pulling out and returning to your lane
• Do not overtake if you are unsure or road markings prohibit it

Only overtake when it is safe, legal, and necessary.

Module 5 Quiz