Safe following distance
Stopping Distances in Northern Ireland
Stopping distance depends on speed, reaction time, tyres, brakes, weather and road conditions. The Highway Code also gives a simple following-gap rule.
Two-second rule
Keep at least two seconds behind on faster-moving roads.
The Northern Ireland Highway Code says to allow at least a two-second gap between you and the vehicle in front on roads carrying faster-moving traffic and in tunnels where visibility is reduced.
Wet roads
Double the gap on wet roads.
The following gap should be at least doubled in wet conditions because tyre grip and braking performance are reduced.
Ice
Increase the gap even further in icy conditions.
Stopping distances can increase dramatically on ice, so a much larger safety margin is required.
Visibility
Always be able to stop within the distance you can see to be clear.
Safe speed is not just about the posted speed limit. You should drive at a speed that allows you to stop within the clear distance visible ahead.
Related guides
More Northern Ireland road rules.
Official source:
nidirect / Northern Ireland Highway Code
.
Always follow current road signs, legislation and official instructions.
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