Assured clear distance ahead

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Assured Clear Distance Ahead (ACDA) is a traffic law that requires a driver to maintain a safe distance between their vehicle and the vehicle in front of them, taking into account the speed, traffic, and conditions of the road. This law is designed to prevent rear-end collisions and ensure the safety of all road users.

Overview[edit | edit source]

The principle of the Assured Clear Distance Ahead rule is that a driver should be able to stop their vehicle safely if the vehicle in front stops suddenly. The distance should be enough to allow the driver to stop without causing a collision, even in unexpected situations. This distance varies depending on factors such as the speed of the vehicle, the condition of the road, and the current traffic situation.

Factors affecting ACDA[edit | edit source]

Several factors can affect the Assured Clear Distance Ahead, including:

  • Vehicle speed: The faster a vehicle is moving, the longer the stopping distance will be. Therefore, a higher speed requires a greater assured clear distance ahead.
  • Road conditions: Wet or icy roads can increase the stopping distance of a vehicle. In such conditions, drivers are advised to increase their assured clear distance ahead.
  • Traffic conditions: In heavy traffic, maintaining a safe distance can be challenging. However, it is crucial to ensure that there is enough space to stop safely to avoid a collision.

Legal implications[edit | edit source]

In many jurisdictions, failure to maintain an Assured Clear Distance Ahead can result in a traffic violation. If a driver is involved in a rear-end collision, they may be held liable if it is determined that they did not maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front.

See also[edit | edit source]

Template:Road safety

Assured clear distance ahead Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD