Speed Limits and Safe Following Distances
Limits versus safe speed
A speed limit is a maximum for ideal conditions, not a target. In the Maldives, limits are set for built-up areas and roads, but narrow lanes, pedestrians, scooters and sand on the surface often mean the safe speed is well below the posted limit. Always drive to conditions.
The two-second rule
The standard following-distance guide is the two-second rule: pick a fixed point ahead (a sign, a tree), and when the vehicle ahead passes it, count "one thousand and one, one thousand and two". If you reach the point before finishing the count, you are too close. In rain, at night, or when following a motorcycle, double it to four seconds.
Stopping distance
Total stopping distance = thinking distance + braking distance. Thinking distance grows with speed and fatigue; braking distance grows with the square of speed and with wet or loose surfaces. Doubling your speed roughly quadruples braking distance.
Speed and vulnerable road users
Near schools, markets, ferry terminals and residential lanes, slow down sharply. A pedestrian struck at 50 km/h is far more likely to be killed than one struck at 30 km/h.
Traps in questions
- The two-second rule is a minimum in good conditions, not a maximum.
- Speed limits do not override the need to slow for hazards.
- Following a motorcycle too closely is dangerous because riders may brake or swerve suddenly.
Rule of thumb
If the vehicle ahead passes a marker before you finish counting two seconds, ease off and rebuild the gap.