Can ABS cause side skidding during emergency braking when steering?

[Julie]

ABS can cause side skidding during emergency braking when steering. The following is an introduction about ABS: ABS stands for Anti-lock Braking System. During vehicle braking, it automatically controls the braking force to prevent wheel lock-up, keeping the wheels in a state of rolling and sliding (with a slip ratio of about 20%) to ensure maximum adhesion between the wheels and the road surface. Working principle: The system monitors the speed of each wheel in real-time through wheel speed sensors. When a wheel shows a tendency to lock up, the system responds immediately by reducing the braking force on that wheel to prevent impending lock-up.

[Olga]

The ABS system does allow you to steer to avoid obstacles during emergency braking, but the steering maneuver itself can potentially induce skidding, primarily because it cannot completely eliminate wheel slippage on the road surface. When ABS is activated during braking, the wheels are prevented from locking up by the anti-lock system, maintaining rotation so the steering wheel remains responsive. However, if the road is too slippery, the vehicle speed is too high, or you steer too aggressively, the tires' grip may suddenly decrease, making the vehicle prone to lateral skidding. It's akin to braking sharply on ice—ABS enables steering but doesn't guarantee stability without deviation. Therefore, it's advisable to maintain straight-line braking as much as possible and avoid sharp steering, especially on wet or slippery roads, where preemptive speed reduction is crucial to mitigate risks. Remember, ABS is merely an assistive tool—safety ultimately depends on cautious driving. Regularly checking tire wear can enhance traction and reduce the likelihood of skidding.

[OGabriela]

In my over twenty years of driving experience, I've encountered situations where the ABS emergency braking caused the car to nearly skid sideways. The ABS system prevents wheel lock-up, allowing you to steer while braking to avoid suddenly appearing pedestrians or vehicles. However, when turning on wet roads or with worn tires, insufficient friction can easily cause the car to skid. Once on a rainy highway, the ABS was activating while I braked, and when I swerved sharply, the rear of the car noticeably fishtailed—luckily, I managed to regain control. So, I recommend practicing emergency turning techniques regularly; don't rely solely on ABS—controlling your speed is key. Especially on mountain roads or curves, gently applying the brakes for stable driving is safer. Fellow drivers often emphasize that maintaining a safe distance and anticipating hazards are the most important factors.

[McMackenzie]

ABS emergency braking allows for steering, but it does not eliminate the possibility of skidding due to steering. The design of ABS is to prevent wheel lock-up and facilitate steering. However, excessive steering or driving on low-friction surfaces, such as mud or ice, can still cause the vehicle to lose stability and slide sideways. This means drivers should avoid sudden steering wheel movements and pay attention to road conditions. Develop the habit of observing before slowing down in daily driving to ensure proper coordination between braking and steering. Do not assume ABS is foolproof and drive recklessly—safe driving relies on accumulated experience. Checking tires during seasonal changes can effectively prevent risks.