(107/133) When a vehicle with an Anti-Lock Braking System starts to lose traction on a slippery road, drivers should:
Accuracy: 0.0%
AI Difficulty: 3
Explanation
AI Difficulty Assessment
3
Question Analysis
The Texas DPS Class C Driver Handbook states that anti-lock braking systems (ABS) are designed to prevent wheel lockup during hard braking, especially on slippery surfaces. When a vehicle with ABS begins to lose traction, the correct technique is to apply firm, continuous pressure to the brake pedal and hold it. The system automatically pumps the brakes faster than a human can, so manual pumping is unnecessary and can reduce effectiveness. The handbook emphasizes that drivers should not pump the brakes in an ABS-equipped vehicle; instead, they should press and hold the brake pedal and steer normally while the system operates.
Correct Answer Analysis
Correct Answer: Press and hold the brake pedal.
Pressing and holding the brake pedal is correct because ABS is designed to modulate brake pressure automatically to prevent wheel lockup. By maintaining constant pressure, the driver allows the ABS to function optimally, which helps retain steering control and shortens stopping distance on slippery roads. The Texas DPS handbook specifically instructs drivers to apply steady pressure and not to pump the brakes when ABS engages.
Wrong Options Analysis
Option: Pump the brakes.
Pumping the brakes is incorrect for vehicles with ABS. Manual pumping can confuse the system and reduce its effectiveness. ABS already pumps the brakes automatically many times per second, so pumping the pedal yourself can prevent the system from working properly and may increase stopping distance.
Option: Press and hold the gas pedal.
Pressing and holding the gas pedal is incorrect because it would increase speed and worsen traction loss. When losing traction, the driver should brake, not accelerate. Applying gas could cause further skidding and loss of control.
Option: Lightly tap the brakes.
Lightly tapping the brakes is incorrect because it does not provide the firm, continuous pressure needed for ABS to activate and function effectively. Tapping may not engage the system properly and could fail to reduce speed adequately in an emergency.
About this Texas Class C License question
This question is part of the America Texas (TX) Class C License knowledge test question bank. Read the explanation above, then browse more questions on the same topic below.
Confirm the rule in the official source: Texas Driver Handbook (DL-7)
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