Your overall stopping distance comprises thinking distance and braking distance. You’re on a good, dry road surface, with good brakes and tyres. What’s the typical braking distance at 50 mph?

Explanation: Various factors - such as weather and road conditions, vehicle condition and loading - affect how long it takes you to stop. You also need to add reaction time to this. The overall stopping distance at 50 mph includes a thinking distance of 15 metres (the reaction time before braking starts) plus your braking distance of 38 metres, giving a typical overall stopping distance of 53 metres (175 feet) in good conditions.

Category: Safety margins

References: The Official DVSA Guide to Riding: Section 8, Highway Code: Rule 126