The Correct Method of Applying Brakes

[LaBrynlee]

The correct method of applying brakes is as follows: 1. Emergency braking: Some vehicles are not equipped with ABS, so it is not recommended to apply full braking force at once. Instead, apply the brakes in two separate steps to prevent wheel lock-up, which can lead to skidding and loss of steering control. 2. Braking in rainy conditions: When driving on wet roads, avoid slamming the brake pedal or jerking the steering wheel. After passing through waterlogged areas, it is advisable to gently apply the brakes twice to utilize inertia and friction to remove water from the brake discs, preventing brake failure during sudden braking. 3. Braking while following another vehicle: When following another car, the primary purpose of braking is to maintain a safe distance. Therefore, apply the brake pedal gently while keeping an eye not only on the braking of the car in front but also on the movements of the vehicles ahead of it. If you notice the car in front braking, place your foot on the brake pedal in advance to prepare for sudden braking by the leading vehicle.

[DiAnderson]

After driving for so many years, I believe the essence of braking lies in early anticipation and gradual application of force. When observing road conditions, as soon as I see the brake lights of the car ahead illuminate or traffic signals change at intersections, I release the accelerator early to begin gentle deceleration. In congested urban areas, I maintain a two-second following distance and lightly tap the brakes to keep pace when the car ahead moves. On long descents, I prefer shifting to lower gears to utilize engine braking, occasionally applying light brake taps to reduce speed, thereby minimizing the risk of brake pad overheating. When coming to a stop, I slightly ease off the braking force just before the car comes to rest, ensuring a smooth halt. Remember, gentle braking not only ensures passenger comfort but also reduces the risk of rear-end collisions and significantly extends the lifespan of brake pads.

[DelKayden]

As a mom who drives my kids to and from school every day, smooth and safe braking is especially important. My experience is to adjust the seat position before starting, ensuring my right foot can naturally bend to press the pedal. While driving, I always pay attention to the road ahead. When I see traffic lights or a line of cars, I ease off the accelerator and gently apply the brakes in advance, so the kids in the back won't lurch forward from sudden braking. On rainy days when the road is slippery, I slow down and start braking earlier. When waiting at a red light, I'm in the habit of shifting to neutral and pulling the handbrake to give my right foot a rest. Over these three years of school runs, every time I gently press the brake, I can see the kids' relaxed expressions in the rearview mirror—that's more precious than anything.

[RubyDella]

When I first started driving, passengers often complained about my harsh braking. Later, I realized the importance of controlling the pedal pressure. Now, while maintaining a safe distance, I gently press the brake pedal to decelerate smoothly without any sudden jerks. In emergency braking situations, I remember my instructor's tip: apply force with the middle of the foot, gradually increasing pressure like squeezing an orange, and keep pressing even when the ABS kicks in and causes vibration. When taking curves, I adhere to the principle of slowing down before entering the turn—getting the entry speed right means I rarely need to brake mid-corner. What I'm most proud of is those last two or three seconds before coming to a complete stop—easing off the pressure slightly results in such a smooth halt that it often earns compliments from friends.