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What to do when you have to break suddenly?

There are times when we need to break suddenly and get our cars to stop quickly. Here are some ways you can break your vehicle when you need to stop in a short period of time.

Know the Type of Brake System You Have

If you don’t have ABS or anti-lock brakes press and release your brake pedal in succession. If you do this you’ll pump the breaks and keep the vehicle under control. If you slam on the breaks you can skid and it’s harder to control.

Steering When You Skid

If you skid on wet or icy roads look in the direction that you want to go and steer that way. You may have to do this a few times as your car may keep skidding.  Keep adjusting your steering to compensate for the skids. Don’t use the brakes when you skid as this may make things worse.

Brake Failure

It’s possible that you may have brake failure in one or more brakes. Switch to a lower gear to slow yourself down and try to get the vehicle services as soon as possible. Your stopping distance will be increased if you have brake failure.. If it’s possible try to get off to the side of the road if you expect your bakes are failing you. Don’t drive if you have brake problems.

Blown Tire

If this happens the vehicle will pull to one side if it’s a front tire. If the tire is the back the vehicle will drop suddenly and the back will wobble. Don’t apply the break but instead ease your foot off the gas and drive to the side of the road. If you need to break be sure to do this very gently so you maintain control.

Incoming Traffic

If a car is approaching you head-on, don’t apply the brakes. Move to the other lane if possible and be sure to ho k your horn to warn the other driver.

Know Your Brakes

To brake the right way you need to know the brakes of your vehicle and how they handle. Some cars can have completely different baking system that handle in different ways. Practice stopping in a safe area away from traffic and see how the brakes perform.

Don’t Panic

The worst thing you can do is panic when you need to break. Act calmly and break responsibly and you can avoid accidents. Never just slam on the brakes.