How Should Beginners Apply the Brakes Properly?
2 Answers
Different road conditions generally require different braking approaches. A common issue among beginners is stalling the engine when braking, primarily caused by high gear selection, sudden braking, or pressing the brake without engaging the clutch. Therefore, if the gear is too high, downshift promptly; if the speed is low, press the clutch first, then gently apply the brake. When pedestrians or non-motorized vehicles are ahead, there's no need to come to a complete stop. Below are detailed braking tips for beginners: 1. Urban driving: Avoid emergency braking whenever possible. Emergency braking not only increases fuel consumption but also reduces tire lifespan. Additionally, when navigating slopes like bridge surfaces, maintain a long braking distance during descents—never shift to neutral. Always coast in gear to prevent extended braking distances and compromised braking effectiveness. 2. Snowy/icy roads: Never use emergency braking. Shift to low gear, release the accelerator, and utilize engine braking. Installing snow chains can increase road friction. If braking is necessary, anticipate and judge conditions early to avoid obstacles or soft mud that may require sudden stops. 3. Following distance: If the vehicle ahead decelerates noticeably without stopping, lightly tap the brake to adjust speed and prevent rear-end collisions. This also serves as a warning and signal for following vehicles to slow down.
As a beginner learning to brake, I felt just as clumsy as when I first started driving, but once I got the hang of it, I realized the key is to be gentle, smooth, and patient. For example, when driving in the city and seeing a red light or a car stopped ahead, you should ease off the accelerator early to let the car coast, then gently press the brake with your heel when you're close enough—avoid slamming it. This prevents passengers from lurching forward and reduces the risk of rear-end collisions. For practice, find an empty parking lot and experiment with braking at different speeds—the higher the speed, the earlier you should start braking. Be extra cautious on wet roads; tap the brakes a few times to test traction rather than stomping on them. Once you develop these habits, your driving will be smoother and safer, while also minimizing unnecessary brake wear.
