The Art Of Braking - Learning The Proper Braking Techniques
Braking is a lost skill
Braking is a lost skill. Although this is unfortunate, it is not unfounded. Most cars today are equipped with an anti-lock braking system (or ABS) so drivers simply slam on the brakes in any given situation. While this is not an entirely flawed technique, it may not be the best solution because handling capabilities are reduced, putting you in greater danger. Thus, learning to brake properly is important to ensure safety and control. It is also important in driver etiquette.
What is ABS?
ABS is one of the most significant safety advances in automotive engineering in recent decades. First developed in 1936, ABS is designed to prevent skidding. It helps drivers maintain steering control when they have to perform an emergency brake. Because the wheels don't lock when the driver steps on the brakes, the driver has the ability to steer around hazards if they cannot stop in time.
Braking Tips
Avoid riding the brake and brake checking. To ride the brake is to keep your foot on the brake, applying it even when it is not needed. Brake riding confuses the driver behind you because he or she will not be able to figure out what you are doing or about to do.Meanwhile, a brake check is when you hit the brakes abruptly. This can cause serious accidents, not to mention upset other drivers on the road. Instead of brake checking and riding, try braking moderately and slowly. Not only is this the safest way to apply your brakes, it also increases the lifespan of your brakes by allowing the brakes to cool. This will save you some money in the long run.
Brake earlier, not later. Apply your brakes firmly and early, not at the very last minute. This allows for a smooth stop and it increases safety by allowing sudden stops if required. Moreover, braking early gives the driver behind you ample warning to apply their brakes and prevent them from crashing into you. By braking late, you also risk stopping too close to the car in front of you and a backward jolt will occur when you come to a complete stop.
Do not brake and turn at the same time. Your car may not turn as well and may not slow down as much if you brake and turn at the same time. Even racecar drivers have learnt the skill of separating turning and braking, and these racers are always on the edge with their vehicles! What you will learn with a good
driving school about braking and turning is important if you want to prevent accidents in the future. Essentially, when making a corner, apply your brakes before you make the turn.
Expect the unexpected. Ideally you should always look as far down the road as possible so that you are aware of the obstacles, if any, you may face. Having said that, we all make mistakes, including experienced drivers. Always be prepared to stop abruptly. To do this, hit the brake pedal firmly and as early as possible to give you the most braking control. If you brake too late, you could still lock the brakes, your tires will skid, and you will lose control of the vehicle. The earlier you are able to brake, the more control you will have. While you are doing this, keep both hands firmly on the steering wheel because the car will most likely swerve and if that happens, you will need to have maximum control over where you are driving.
Practice, practice, practice. It is good to get a feel of your car's maximum braking potential and one way to do this is to practice braking in an empty parking lot. Start by intentionally over-applying the brakes then reducing your braking force. Accelerate to a safe speed and apply your brakes as hard as you can. You should hear a good amount of squealing. Do this over and over again, applying the brakes less each time until you can barely hear the squealing. This is the absolute limit of your tires traction and the quickest way to stop.
It's never too late to learn how to brake properly. If you're a learner driver taking
driving lessons, you should be taught the proper braking techniques. The thing to remember is to always focus on where you want to go and not on what you want to avoid.
by: Julia Cleanthous
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