What’s a Safe Braking Distance?

One of the most common accidents we see here at the shop is a rear end collision. It’s also probably one of the most avoidable. So exactly how far ahead should the car in front of you be? What happens if someone cuts you off? Read on and find out!

While this is not an exact science, a good rule of thumb is to stay 2-4 seconds behind the person in front of you no matter what speed you’re going. Find a landmark, or sign, and let the person in front of you pass it, then count and see how many seconds it takes you to pass that same item.

When the weather is bad (rain, sleet, snow, fog, etc.) you should have a minimum of 4 seconds, but preferably 6-10 seconds, between you and the car in front of you.

We know that there are times in heavier traffic when you keep such a distance between you and the car in front of you that someone may cut in front of you. It may be hard to allow this because your probably in a hurry, but please let them and then back off and allow the safe stopping distance between you and them.

This safe stopping distance gives you time to steer clear if there is a problem ahead of you. You will also find that it will not take you much longer to reach your destination, and that you will be more likely arrive there safely. Safe travels!

Written by Tiffany Brown

I’m a military wife and mom of 3 boys. I’ve been with OCR for 2 years now, and I absolutely love it! I love how Offutt Collision is so involved in the community and with the military. I couldn’t imagine my life without OCR in it! Chad is an amazing owner who leads from the front, and truly cares about his customers. I know this is what makes us so special!

January 6, 2020

You May Also Like:

Deer Hits and How To Avoid Them

Deer Hits and How To Avoid Them

Imagine you are driving down the road at night and suddenly you see two green eyes and then a deer steps out in front of you! It’s very likely that most of us have had...

Update Promise

Update Promise

Offutt Collision Repair in Bellevue, NE is always looking at ways to improve our customer service experience.  Last July OCR started a new program that allows us to...