California DMV Permit Test (Class C)Safe Driving PracticesMedium
You are driving a vehicle equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) on a wet road and need to perform an emergency stop. What is the correct braking technique?
- ALightly tap the brake pedal to slow down gradually.
- BTurn off the ABS system before applying the brakes.
- CApply firm, continuous pressure to the brake pedal.
- DPump the brake pedal rapidly to prevent wheel lock-up.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Apply firm, continuous pressure to the brake pedal.
ABS is designed to prevent wheel lock-up during hard braking, allowing you to maintain steering control. With ABS, the correct technique is to apply firm, continuous pressure, letting the system modulate the braking force.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Light tapping is insufficient for an emergency stop and will not activate ABS effectively.
- B. ABS is a safety feature and should never be turned off during an emergency; most vehicles don't even have this option.
- D. Pumping the brakes is for vehicles without ABS; it interferes with the ABS system's function.
ABS Emergency Braking
When performing an emergency stop in a vehicle with ABS, apply firm, continuous pressure to the brake pedal and let the system modulate the braking force to prevent wheel lock-up.
- ABS prevents wheel lock-up.
- Allows steering control during hard braking.
- Requires firm, continuous pedal pressure.
- Do not pump the brakes with ABS.
Memory trick: Press it steady, ABS is ready.