Normal braking ... OOPS!

So just occasionally, you're going too fast and find that you need to lose speed quickly, what do you do?

Whatever the situation, you need to get as much grip as possible as quickly as possible. This means that you can forget the finesse mentioned on the previous page.

Hit the brakes hard and fast.

Optimum grip is gained just before the wheels lock, this is why many advanced driver trainers suggest 'cadence' or 'pulse' braking (pumping the brakes) for stopping quickly and maintaining steering control; on race tracks drivers use 'threshold braking' (braking just to the limit point without locking the wheels).

The best thing to do is 'slam' on the brakes and slide - at least apply hard controlled pressure. Even though you won't have absolute maximum grip (as with threshold braking), you will be making maximum use of the available grip (not wasting it by releasing the brakes).

If you are heading towards an obstacle, or too fast into a bend, look for the way out, slide the car in a straight line for as long as possible (while turning the steering wheel) and release the brakes at the last moment. Keep a firm grip of the wheel because the rear end of the car might object to this treatment and try to overtake the front!

Very slippy?

On ice and snow, keep your speed under control. In this instance sensitive, balanced braking will give maximum grip. Because of the extended stopping distance, you will not gain efficiency by sliding.

Anti lock braking systems and traction control systems will often improve stopping efficiency, especially in poor conditions, but they do not offer a substitute for safe driving.