Which braking approach is recommended on icy roads?

Which braking approach is recommended on icy roads?

• A. Hard and rapid braking
• B. Brake softly and steadily
• C. Pumping the brakes
• D. Release brakes completely

Answer: (B)

On icy roads, the goal is to keep the tires rolling and maintain the ability to steer. Brake softly and steadily because gentle pressure avoids locking the wheels, which is what causes a skid on slippery pavement. Hard, rapid braking can overwhelm the limited grip and push the car into a skid. Pumping the brakes is an older technique meant to prevent lock, but on ice it can lead to uneven braking and a loss of control. Releasing the brakes completely stops deceleration and lets you coast into danger without reducing your speed. Using a light, steady brake pressure keeps traction and control, allowing you to slow down smoothly and maintain direction. If your car has anti-lock brakes, you’d want to press the pedal firmly and let ABS manage the braking to prevent wheel lock while still slowing you down.

On icy roads, the goal is to keep the tires rolling and maintain the ability to steer. Brake softly and steadily because gentle pressure avoids locking the wheels, which is what causes a skid on slippery pavement. Hard, rapid braking can overwhelm the limited grip and push the car into a skid. Pumping the brakes is an older technique meant to prevent lock, but on ice it can lead to uneven braking and a loss of control. Releasing the brakes completely stops deceleration and lets you coast into danger without reducing your speed. Using a light, steady brake pressure keeps traction and control, allowing you to slow down smoothly and maintain direction. If your car has anti-lock brakes, you’d want to press the pedal firmly and let ABS manage the braking to prevent wheel lock while still slowing you down.