If you’re learning to drive, you’ve probably come across the phrase stopping distance. This is the distance a driver covers when they attempt to come to a quick stop. It's a combination of the...  

Thinking distance – the distance the car travels before the driver thinks to apply the brakes.

Braking distance – the distance the car travels after applying the brakes.

The faster you’re going, the longer the stopping distance. Maximum speed limits are there to ensure the safety of both pedestrians and drivers; disobeying the maximum speed limit can put you and other road users at risk.

Why is a lower maximum speed limit being enforced?

A lower maximum speed limit is usually enforced for a number of reasons:

• Blind turns
• Limited road space
• Built up or busy areas
• Collision history and severity
• Ecological impacts (noise, pollution)
• Road works

It's the details that matter

According to ROSPA, the difference between the stopping distance of 30 mph and 35 mph is around 21 feet (about the size of a large caravan). That's pretty significant considering it's only a 5 mph difference, but it's the small details that make the difference. It's estimated that simply shaving 1 mph off everyone's normal driving speed could lower accident rates by 5%! Still not convinced? Then have a quick look at our info-graphic. It may shed some light on why controlling your speed is so important. (DataSources: SafeSpeed, Brake, Gov) Remember that maximum speed limits exist for a reason - keep safe, mind your speed. Additionally, if you think there are any roads around you that need to be changed, contact your local council to look into getting it changed