Defensive driving is a set of driving skills and techniques that prioritise safety and anticipate dangers while driving. The aim of defensive driving is to reduce the risk of accidents and follow safe driving practices. Staying alert, maintaining a safe distance, being aware of the surroundings, and adapting to road conditions all come under this technique.
The purpose of the blog is to educate readers about the dangers of speeding and its impact on stopping distance. As speed increases, the time and distance required to stop the vehicle also increases. Driving at high speeds reduces your ability to stop the vehicle in time before an accident occurs.
What is Speeding and Stopping distance ?
Stopping distance is the distance the vehicle travels after you apply the brakes, until it stops. The stopping distance comprises thinking distance and braking distance.
Factors affecting stopping distance are road condition, vehicle condition, the driver's reaction time, and the coefficient of friction between the tires and the road.
Speed significantly increases stopping distance because braking distance is directly proportional to the initial speed of the vehicle. This shows that a small increase in speed results in a longer braking distance. Less reaction time also leads to an increased braking distance.
Let’s look at an example. Imagine a car travelling at a speed of 30km/h. The reaction time (distance covered while you react) is 9m and the braking time (distance covered before stopping) is 4m. Therefore the stopping distance is 13m.
Defensive driving tips for safe stopping
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Avoid tailgating and increase the distance from the car in front of you. Stopping distance increases with speed. Therefore avoid driving at high speeds. Staying aware of the surroundings helps you apply brakes and decreases reaction time.
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Avoid hard braking. Maintaining a safe following distance helps you apply the brakes smoothly and maintain control of your vehicle. It also helps you stop the vehicle safely in case of sudden braking by the vehicle in front of you.
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Ensure that your vehicle is in good condition. Check the brakes regularly and make sure they work well. Properly inflated and well-treaded tires provide better traction, especially in wet or slippery conditions. Ensure brake fluid, engine oil, and power steering fluid are at proper levels.
The dangers of speeding
Speeding is the main cause of accidents happening worldwide as it increases the chances of collisions and injuries. When you drive at high speeds, your ability to control your vehicle reduces and you will get only a short time to react. If a collision happens at a high speed, the damage will be severe for both you and your vehicle.
Adhering to speed limits helps you avoid accidents to some extent. Keep your pace under the speed limit, especially in school zones and residential areas. This allows you to brake safely in the time of an emergency.
The outcomes of speeding can be lethal. It can lead to injuries, property damage, legal and financial consequences. Speeding can cause fatal crashes, not only for you but also for other road users. Speeding injuries can result in broken bones, head trauma, spinal injuries, and internal bleeding.
In this blog we have discussed defensive driving tips and safe driving practices for a better driving experience. Be aware of stopping distance and the dangers of speeding. Ensure that your vehicle is in good condition, especially the brakes and tires. Follow defensive driving practices for safe stopping without losing vehicle control. Remember that road accidents can be harmful not only for you but also for other road users. Hence drive responsibly to ensure safety.