Just 6% of UK drivers know how far it takes to stop on wet roads

More than eight in 10 UK drivers believe they are in full control of their car's stopping distance, yet just 6% know how much further it takes to stop on a wet motorway, according to new research from tyre safety charity TyreSafe.

The survey found that 83% of drivers were confident in their ability to stop safely, despite widespread misunderstanding of how braking distances change in real-world driving conditions.

The findings point to a nationwide problem with driver awareness, particularly when it comes to wet roads and the importance of maintaining tyres, warns TyreSafe.

What are the Highway Code stopping distances?

The Highway Code sets out typical stopping distances at different speeds, combining the distance a vehicle travels while the driver reacts with the distance needed to brake to a complete stop.

At 20mph, the total stopping distance is 12 metres, made up of six metres of thinking distance and six metres of braking distance. At 30mph, this increases to 23 metres, almost twice as far.

At the motorway speed limit of 70mph, a driver travels around 21 metres before reacting, followed by another 75 metres while braking. That gives a total stopping distance of 96 metres, equivalent to around 24 Volkswagen Polos parked end to end.

These figures are only a guide. Actual stopping distances can be affected by road conditions, weather, tyre condition and how quickly the driver reacts.

How much longer does it take to stop in wet weather?

According to the Highway Code, stopping distances are at least doubled on wet roads. That means a car travelling at 70mph could need at least 192 metres to stop in wet conditions, compared with the typical 96 metres in the dry.

It's a significant difference, yet TyreSafe's research found that only 6% of drivers could correctly identify the additional stopping distance needed at motorway speeds.

The Highway Code advises drivers to leave a greater gap to the vehicle in front, reduce their speed and take extra care around vulnerable road users when conditions deteriorate.

Why tyre condition matters for stopping distances

TyreSafe says properly maintained tyres are essential for safe braking, particularly as wetter autumn weather increases the risk of losing grip.

Stuart Lovatt, chair of TyreSafe, said: "Many drivers and riders believe they are in control – but that confidence is often misplaced. Stopping distances in wet conditions can be far greater than expected, and tyres play a critical role in that equation."

He added: "If your tyres are not properly maintained, your ability to stop safely is significantly reduced – no matter how confident you feel behind the wheel."

As part of Tyre Safety Month, the charity is reminding drivers to follow its ACT tyre-checking advice:

• - A – Air pressure: Check that your tyres are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended pressures. These can usually be found in the owner's manual, on a label inside the driver's door or behind the fuel filler flap.

• - C – Condition: Inspect tyres for cuts, bulges, cracks and objects embedded in the tread. Check their age and seek professional advice if they show signs of deterioration.

• - T – Tread depth: The legal minimum for car tyres is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tread and around its entire circumference. A quick check involves inserting a 20p coin into the main tread grooves. If the coin's outer band is hidden, the tread is likely to be above the legal minimum.