Use of Brakes

PROGRESSIVE BRAKING TECHNIQUE

Aim to make all braking manoeuvres in plenty of time. Foot pressure on the pedal should be progressive and increased steadily.

1. A – Gently take up the initial free movement of the brake pedal.
2. B – Increase the pressure smoothly until the required speed is lost.
3. C – Relax the pedal pressure as the speed is lost. Release it just before stopping to prevent jerking.

When coming to a stop in traffic, you should be able to see the bottom of the rear tyres of the vehicle directly in front of you.

This will give you the advantages of:

1. Room to manoeuvre if the vehicle in front should stall, roll back or have any other problems.
2. Space to pull forward if a following vehicle is approaching the stationary traffic too fast.