A good driver is always constantly critically observing the road ahead and using their skill to anticipate the effect of any potential hazards on their progress, and reacting accordingly before the need to brake sharply. However the unexpected can still happen and knowing how to brake safely in an emergency will ensure you stop safely and remain in full control of your vehicle.

The first important factor in safe braking is to always try and get all of the braking done in a straight line. If you brake whilst cornering you will transfer the weight of the car to the front, whilst making the back go light. This effect, combined with the fact the tyres have extra demands placed upon them, because they are being required to both brake and corner at the same time, means that you could easily enter a skid or spin.

If you are forced into braking heavy when cornering, you will need to gently and progressively apply the brake, this will reduce the sudden transfer of weight to the front and allow you to maintain control.

All or most cars manufactured today have ABS or anti lock braking system. This system is designed to help keep control and stability in your hands when you have to brake heavily, even on curves. There are limitations with the ABS system.

The ABS system has a detection segment for when the wheels actually lock. The brakes will release. This release is short, but it helps keep the wheels from locking up. The system repeats this hundreds of times a second to ensure the wheels do not lock. It is a faster option than what a regular driver can handle.

ABS establishes a situation in which the wheels will continue to revolve, without locking up, when heavy braking is needed. It allows steering to remain in your control, the tyres to grip the road, and you to avoid any danger.

A driver can feel when the ABS kicks in because there is a gentle pulsing in the brake pedal or a grinding sound. When you hear these sounds or feel the pedal pulse you should not remove your foot from the brake. Instead continue with your braking, allowing the vehicle to stop in a short distance while using the ABS.

ABS is a most effective system for heavy or emergency braking. It makes sure you can brake in a safe and controlled manner. You must realise that it cannot defy physics, which means driving to quickly on wet roads can lead to accidents even with ABS.

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