A 3-minute lesson from the Colorado course. Read the rules and examples, follow the handbook page references, and check your understanding before you move on.
When a crash seems likely, many drivers panic and freeze. There is almost always something you can do to avoid it or make it less severe. You have three options: slow down or stop, turn, or speed up.
Stopping quickly
Stopping quickly
Brakes
What to do
With ABS
Hard, firm pressure; don't let up (pedal may push back)
Without ABS
Brake as hard as you can without locking the wheels
Swerving hard to avoid a large animal can cause a worse crash. The safest choice may be hitting the animal; focus on keeping control before, during and after.
At dusk on a mountain highway, an elk steps out close ahead with oncoming traffic in the other lane. Brake firmly and keep control rather than swerving into oncoming traffic or off a cliff. Hitting the animal may be the safer outcome.
Check your understanding
Read the question, decide on an answer, then open it to check the explanation. These are Roadwise study questions based on the source handbook.
If your vehicle has ABS and you need to stop quickly, what should you do?
Firm, continuous brake pressure
Release the brake the moment you feel pulsing
Shift to neutral before braking
Pump the brake pedal rapidly
Answer: Firm, continuous brake pressure
With ABS, apply the brakes with hard, firm pressure and do not let up on the pedal; ABS only works with the pedal pushed down.
If a large animal suddenly runs in front of your vehicle and a swerve could cause you to lose control, what does the handbook say may be the safest option?
Accelerating to pass before it crosses
Hitting it while staying in control
Swerving onto the shoulder to avoid it
Braking hard and steering around it
Answer: Hitting it while staying in control
The handbook notes that, regrettably, hitting the animal while retaining control may be safer than a drastic swerve that causes a more serious crash.