What does stab braking involve?

Stab braking is a technique primarily used in emergency situations to regain control of a vehicle that is skidding or about to skid. It involves applying the brakes quickly to lock the wheels momentarily and then releasing them to regain traction. This method helps prevent the vehicle from losing control completely, allowing the driver to steer and maneuver the vehicle as needed.

The key aspect of stab braking is the quick application and release of the brakes. By locking the wheels for a brief period, it can help the vehicle to stop faster in certain situations, especially on slippery surfaces. Once the wheels are released and traction is regained, the driver can then maneuver the vehicle appropriately without continuing to skid.

This technique is notably different from methods such as gradually increasing brake pressure or maintaining constant pressure, which may not be effective in emergency situations where immediate control is necessary. Stab braking emphasizes the importance of reacting swiftly while also ensuring that the vehicle can be steered back under control after the initial braking action.