Controlled braking is a technique used to slow a vehicle down effectively while maintaining steering control, particularly in emergency situations. It involves applying the brakes forcefully while carefully avoiding wheel lock-up, which can lead to a loss of steering ability.
According to the provided reference, controlled braking is defined by the following actions:
- Apply the brakes as hard as you can without locking the wheels. The goal is maximum braking force just shy of losing traction.
- Keep steering wheel movements very small while doing this. Large steering inputs can compromise control while braking heavily.
- If you need to make a larger steering adjustment or if the wheels lock, release the brakes. Momentarily releasing the brakes allows the wheels to regain traction, restoring steering capability.
- Re-apply the brakes as soon as you can. Once control is regained or the adjustment is made, resume the controlled braking application.
This method contrasts with slamming on the brakes and locking the wheels, which results in skidding and loss of steering, or pumping the brakes rapidly (a technique sometimes used in older vehicles without anti-lock braking systems). Controlled braking, as described, focuses on maximizing deceleration while preserving the driver's ability to steer around obstacles or maintain a desired path.
