Vehicle Condition: Worn brakes or tires reduce braking effectiveness.
Gradient: Uphill roads decrease stopping distance, while downhill roads increase it.
Driver Reaction Time: Can be affected by age, alertness, distractions, or impairment.
Safe Following Distance
A good rule of thumb is the "3-second rule" - maintain at least 3 seconds of following distance between your vehicle and the one ahead. In poor weather or road conditions, increase this to 5-6 seconds.