The limit is not a target
Even below the posted limit, slow down when the layout, traffic, weather, darkness or vulnerable road users make the higher speed unsafe.
Zambian Highway Code · Rule 140Study topic 5
Speed, braking & following distance
Learn speed limits, stopping distances, safe following gaps and braking techniques for different conditions.
By the end, you should be able to
- Treat a speed limit as a maximum, not a target
- Use the two-second following rule
- Recall the Code’s shortest overall stopping distances
Two seconds, then more
Leave at least two seconds on fast dry roads. At least double the gap on wet roads and increase it further where grip or visibility is worse. The gap must still allow you to stop safely if the vehicle ahead stops suddenly.
Zambian Highway Code · Rule 141Thinking distance plus braking distance
Overall stopping distance combines the distance travelled while reacting with the distance travelled while braking. At 60 km/h the Code gives 12 m plus 21 m: 33 m overall. These shortest distances assume a dry tarred road, an alert driver and a vehicle in good condition, with good brakes and tyres. Poor conditions increase them.
Zambian Highway Code · Rule 141 table and noteShortest overall stopping distances
These shortest distances assume a dry tarred road, an alert driver and a good car with good brakes and tyres. They are not guarantees in real conditions: wet or slippery roads, tiredness and poor vehicle condition increase stopping distance.
| Speed (km/h) | Overall distance (m) |
|---|---|
| 30 | 12 |
| 40 | 18 |
| 50 | 25 |
| 60 | 33 |
| 70 | 43 |
| 80 | 54 |
| 90 | 66 |
| 100 | 79 |
| 110 | 93 |
| 120 | 108 |
Brake progressively for normal stops
Start braking early and lightly, increase pressure as you slow and ease off just before coming to rest. This helps you stop smoothly and under control.
Zambian Highway Code · Rule 134Emergency braking with ABS
With anti-lock braking, press the footbrake rapidly and firmly in an emergency. Maintain pressure until the vehicle has slowed as required; do not pump the pedal or release it merely because ABS activates.
Zambian Highway Code · Rule 137Check brakes after deep water
Water can reduce braking effectiveness. Test the brakes gently at the first safe opportunity. If they are weak, light pedal pressure while moving slowly can help dry them.
Zambian Highway Code · Rule 138Recover from a rear skid
Ease off the brake or accelerator and steer smoothly in the direction the rear is sliding. If the rear slides right, steer quickly and smoothly right. Harsh braking, acceleration and steering can cause skids.
Zambian Highway Code · Rule 136Gravel-road speeds
Rule 185 recommends a maximum of 60 km/h on gravel roads outside residential areas. It gives 40 km/h as the limit in residential areas. Always reduce speed further when the surface, visibility or other road users require it.
Zambian Highway Code · Rules 140 and 185Topic check
Answer 9 questions on speed & braking
Every answer includes an explanation and a Highway Code rule reference.
Practise this topic