Chapter 4 of 617% of exam
Speed Limits & Stopping Distances
Speed limits and stopping distances change with the road and the weather.
Default speed limits
Unless otherwise posted, built-up areas are 50 km/h, rural local roads are 60 km/h (reduced in 2025), regional roads are 80 km/h, national roads are 100 km/h and motorways are 120 km/h.
Stopping distance
Stopping distance is your thinking distance plus braking distance, and it grows sharply with speed. In the wet, braking distances can double, so allow much more room.
Following distance
Keep at least a two-second gap from the vehicle ahead in dry conditions, and at least double it in rain, ice or fog. This gives you time to react and stop safely.