Braking distance
Speed and braking distance
See how your speed affects the distance it takes you to stop in slippery conditions.
Braking distance
The braking distance of a winter tire compared to an all-season tire, depending on speed and road conditions can be up to 25% shorter, or two vehicle lengths. For added safety, driving experts recommend increasing your following distance by 3.5 times in typical winter conditions.
What you need to know
- It's essential to anticipate. Assess the necessary braking distance, then slow down.
- Braking must be very gradual to stop the wheels locking. If the wheels lock-up, the vehicle will slide and you will lose control.
- If the wheels lock and the car slides, release the brake pedal to recover traction, then gradually apply pressure to the brake pedal.
- To decrease the risk of the wheels locking when going downhill, use a lower gear than you would when travelling in dry weather.
- Before tackling any difficulty (major bend, slowing down, etc.) anticipate your braking and make it as gradual as possible.
Braking distance and speed
The faster you are travelling, the longer the distance required to bring your vehicle to a full stop.
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