---
title: Braking
---

# Braking

## Remember

Safe, smooth, and controlled braking is essential for good driving. Always aim to slow down **gradually and progressively** rather than braking sharply.

## Anticipation

Good anticipation is the key to smooth braking.

By **looking well ahead** and reading the road early, you can often avoid harsh braking altogether.

- Proper anticipation gives you time to brake gently over a longer distance.
- **Late, hard braking** shows poor observation and reduces your safety margin.

## Braking and Steering

When you brake, the weight of the vehicle shifts forward, which can make steering less effective.

To maintain control:

- Brake **in a straight line** whenever possible.
- Avoid braking sharply while turning, as it can lead to a skid.

When braking, always consider:

- The **comfort and safety** of your passengers and other road users
- **Wear and tear** on your brakes, tyres, and suspension
- The **braking capability** of vehicles behind you — they may not be able to stop as quickly

**Remember:**

The faster you’re travelling, the harder it is to control your vehicle and the longer it will take to stop.

## Braking on Bends

Braking on a bend shifts your vehicle’s weight forward and outward. This increases pressure on the outer front tyre, raising the risk of a skid.

To reduce the risk:

- **Brake before** entering a bend, not while turning.
- Be especially cautious on **loose, wet, or uneven surfaces.**

## Thinking Ahead

Plan well ahead to avoid the need for sudden braking. Maintain safe distances and adjust your speed to road conditions. Always use your **mirrors** before slowing down.

Consider how the following factors affect braking distance and control:

- Your **reaction time**
- Vehicle **size, weight, and load**
- **Gradient** of the road
- Road **camber or bends**
- **Weather** and **visibility**
- Road **surface condition** – wet, icy, loose, or uneven surfaces greatly increase stopping distances

## The Five Rules of Good Braking

**Anticipate** – Think and look well ahead.

**Know your limits **– Understand your abilities and your vehicle’s performance.

**Assess the road** – Be alert to changing surface conditions.

**Brake progressively** – Allow time and distance to slow down smoothly.

**Avoid skidding** – Prevention is safer than trying to correct a skid.

## Defensive Driving

If another vehicle is following too closely, **slow down gradually** to increase the space ahead. This gives you more room to brake gently and reduces the chance of being hit from behind.

## Stopping

The stopping procedure is always the same, except in emergencies. Learn this sequence thoroughly.

How firmly you press the brake depends on your **speed** and how quickly you need to stop.

### Normal Stopping Routine

1. **Use your mirrors** – Check behind before braking.
2. **Signal** if necessary to warn others.
3. **Ease off the accelerator** – Let the engine begin slowing the car.
4. **Apply the brake smoothly** – Press lightly at first, then more firmly.
5. **Press the clutch** just before the car stops to prevent stalling.
6. **Ease off** brake pressure as the vehicle comes to a halt.
7. **Apply the parking brake** and select **neutral**.
8. **Release the pedals** once stationary.

> You don’t always need to change down through the gears while stopping normally — you can brake in the gear you’re in. Just ensure the car is in the correct gear for your speed before moving again.

## Progressive Braking

Progressive braking allows for smooth, efficient, and predictable deceleration. It helps other drivers react safely and prevents skidding.

Benefits include:

- More time for others to respond
- Less risk of skidding
- Reduced wear on brakes, tyres, and suspension
- Improved fuel efficiency
- Greater comfort for passengers

**Technique:**

1. Begin with light pressure on the brake.
2. Gradually increase the pressure as you slow down.
3. Ease off pressure as the car comes to a stop for a smooth finish.

**Practice Tip:**  
Use a quiet road. Choose a fixed point to stop at and see how close you can stop **without overshooting**.

Practise stopping close to the kerb while maintaining full steering control.

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