{"id":5422,"date":"2023-05-15T12:39:53","date_gmt":"2023-05-15T12:39:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.theukrules.co.uk\/?page_id=5422"},"modified":"2023-09-12T06:56:14","modified_gmt":"2023-09-12T06:56:14","slug":"control-of-the-vehicle","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.theukrules.co.uk\/rules\/driving\/highway-code\/control-of-the-vehicle\/","title":{"rendered":"Control the Vehicle | Stopping Distances, Braking, Skidding"},"content":{"rendered":"

HIGHWAY CODE CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE<\/strong>: The section covers the correct procedures for braking.<\/p>\n

It also describes how to brake in an emergency situation and what you should do with a vehicle skid.<\/p>\n

The UK Highway Code provides extra information on the typical distance it takes to stop your car.<\/p>\n

It reminds motorists to combine the thinking distance with actual braking distances. That is why all drivers and riders need to have full attention on controlling their vehicle at all times<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Note<\/strong>: Driving in adverse weather conditions<\/a>, the road surface, and vehicle condition affect braking distances.<\/p>\n

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Braking Highway Code<\/h2>\n
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Braking in Normal Circumstances.<\/h5>\n

Rule 117<\/strong>: The safest way of braking your vehicle in normal driving circumstances is to apply the brake early and light. As your car begins to slow down and stop, you can then apply a little more pressure to the brake pedal.<\/p>\n

Easing the pressure off the braking system immediately before the vehicle comes to rest will help to avoid a jerky and abrupt stop.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

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Braking in an Emergency<\/h5>\n

Rule 118<\/strong>: Braking in an emergency should be immediate<\/strong>! But, you should attempt to avoid hitting the brake so harshly that it locks up the wheels. This type of emergency braking can lead to a loss of control of the vehicle.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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Vehicle Skidding Control<\/h2>\n

Rule 119<\/strong>: Vehicle skids are most often caused if a driver brakes, accelerates, or steers too harsh. Most of these causes become more likely if you are driving your vehicle too fast for the road conditions.<\/p>\n

The corrective procedure for vehicle skidding is to try and remove the cause of the skid.<\/p>\n

The first step is to release the brake pedal or ease off the accelerator. Follow that by turning the steering wheel ‘into the direction of the skid<\/strong>‘.<\/p>\n

Highway Code rule number 119 and picture shows the rear of the car skidding to the right. In this case you should steer immediately to the right to aid recovery and get the car under control.<\/p>\n

Simple Explanation<\/strong>: To recover from a skid the driver should attempt to steer the vehicle in the direction of the skid.<\/p>\n

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\"HighwayAnti-lock Braking System (ABS)<\/h2>\n

Rule 120<\/strong>: Follow the advice given in the car handbook if your vehicle is fitted with anti lock brakes. But, follow these steps in the case of an emergency:<\/p>\n

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  1. Apply firm pressure to the footbrake to reduce the speed.<\/li>\n
  2. Do not release pressure on the brake until the vehicle has slowed to a safe speed.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    As a rule, vehicles fitted with anti lock brakes can be steered while braking. But, do not assume that vehicles fitted with anti-lock brakes (ABS) will stop in a shorter distance.<\/p>\n

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    Coasting in Neutral Gear<\/h5>\n

    Rule 122<\/strong>: Coasting is a term describing a vehicle when it travels in neutral gear. You can also achieve coasting by depressing the clutch pedal. Coasting in a car can reduce driver control because:<\/p>\n