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Rules of the Road

RSA handbook · 292 pages · 271 embedded images

Speed limits

Page 123

Once you apply the brake pedal it will take time for your vehicle to react. This depends on the condition of your vehicle and, in particular, the condition of the braking system.

The final factor that determines your total minimum stopping distance is the vehicle’s braking capability. This depends on many things, for example: brakes; tyre pressure, tread and grip; the weight of the vehicle; the vehicle’s suspension; and road surface.

Table 5: The RSA recommends you allow a minimum stopping distance under dry conditions of (see table below):

  • Minimum Braking

Total Minimum Stopping

Speed (km/h) Minimum Reaction

Distance (m)

Distance (m)

Distance (m)

Extracted from the RSA Rules of the Road, Revision 9, May 2026. Source PDF · reuse permission unconfirmed.