How do you stop in an emergency situation if you have an anti-lock braking system (ABS)?

Applying continuous, firm, hard pressure to the brakes is the correct approach when operating a vehicle equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS) during an emergency stop. ABS is designed to prevent wheel lock-up during braking, which helps maintain steering control and stability of the vehicle.

When you apply strong and continuous pressure to the brake pedal, the ABS system engages and modulates the braking force automatically. This means it can rapidly pump the brakes for you, allowing you to stop effectively while still being able to steer. This is especially crucial in an emergency situation where avoiding obstacles is necessary.

Other methods, such as pumping the brakes or quickly releasing and reapplying them, could disable the ABS functionality or increase the stopping distance, which is not ideal in emergencies. Lightly tapping the brakes may also prevent the ABS from functioning effectively, leading to potential loss of control during a critical moment. Understanding the proper use of ABS can significantly improve safety on the road.