Braking smoothly is a skill that takes time to learn, but once you have it down, you’ll be able to brake quickly and accurately without worrying about any of the common mistakes. You’ll also save yourself some money in fuel as well as a lot of wear and tear on your car’s brakes. So if you want to avoid any costly mishaps when you’re on the road, here some tips to help you brake smoothly!
Stay Alert
When it comes to braking, you can’t afford to be distracted. Having one eye on the road and the other on a cell phone can result in an accident that could have been avoided with just a little more attention to detail. Staying alert can help you spot a pedestrian or other road users that may otherwise pass you by without your even knowing it. It can also prevent you from having an accident in the first place. The best way to do this is to look up the road and see what’s ahead of you, and pay close attention to the road surface and surrounding areas. This can help you see what the cars in front of you are doing and where they might be going next.
Keep Your Foot On The Pedal
Your foot is a vital part of your control when driving. It controls the accelerator, the clutch and the brakes of your car. While it’s important to keep your foot on the pedal when you brake smoothly, it’s also essential not to brake too hard or suddenly – this can be dangerous for other drivers and pedestrians. A good way to brake smoothly is to hover your foot over the brake pedal when you spot potential hazards ahead, such as a traffic light or cross-traffic. This allows you to slow down without moving your foot off the accelerator, which increases brake wear and may confuse or annoy other drivers. A skilled driver can also apply the brakes with their left foot while lifting off the accelerator – a technique used in racing, but not recommended on the road until you’ve had some serious practice. This is a delicate and precise movement that can create traction issues when applied improperly.
Don’t Panic
It’s no secret that braking is a crucial part of the road warriors oeuvre, and if done correctly can be one of the most important skills you learn to drive. Using the proper technique can not only save you time and effort on your next road trip, it can also keep you and others on the road safe in an emergency situation. Despite the fact that your brakes might be failing, it is important not to panic. Keeping calm will allow you to make the best decision on how to proceed. A good rule of thumb is to apply the appropriate amount of pressure on the pedal and take your time as you release it, while simultaneously monitoring the road ahead for potential hazards. This will ensure you get to the destination safely and with minimal fuss. Luckily, there are many things you can do to improve your stopping power and ensure your vehicle is in top shape when you need it the most. The key is to have a solid understanding of your vehicle and its limitations, and to know how to use the equipment at hand.