Don’t Let Speed Prevent You from Stopping on Time

Did you know that according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the average driver requires approximately 1.5 seconds to perceive, react, and apply the brakes? The distance the vehicle travels during those 1.5 seconds depends upon the speed the vehicle was traveling, which causes it to continue heading towards the hazard, another vehicle, or person.

Below is a chart depicting varying speeds, and the amount of distance it takes to stop on dry pavement.

As shown in the chart above, under ideal environmental conditions, speed plays a large part in the distance it takes you to stop your vehicle. In retrospect, saying to yourself: “I’m only going 10 miles over the speed limit,” can make a vast difference in whether you are in a collision or not.

The chart below shows that sometimes environmental conditions can be less than favorable. It is important to note that the chart shows the stopping distance of a vehicle traveling 35mph. As environmental conditions deteriorate, the stopping distance increases. Even though, South Georgia does not often experience ice on the roads, we have rain year-round and other road debris, which also can increase stopping distances. As depicted in this example, the simple introduction of leaves on wet pavement increases the stopping distance tremendously. This is a good chart to keep at the top of your mind when traveling under various environmental conditions with family members, friends, or by yourself.

On behalf of Landings Security, thank you for reducing your speed and operating your vehicle in a safe and responsible manner.