Common Driving Myths and Misconceptions HD

Summary

The video script from AAA dispels common driving myths, emphasizing proper braking techniques. It clarifies that anti-lock brakes (ABS) should be fully depressed in emergencies without releasing, despite the pulsing sensation indicating their function. Contrary to belief, ABS doesn't shorten stopping distances. For non-ABS vehicles, 'threshold braking' is recommended on dry pavement. In tire blowouts, easing off the gas and avoiding immediate braking is crucial to prevent spins. Lastly, during rear skids, steering into the skid direction without braking maintains control. These tips aim to enhance driver safety.

Takeaways

• 🚗 When using anti-lock brakes (ABS), press down hard on the pedal and keep pushing without lifting your foot.
• 🔍 Feeling the pedal pulsing is a sign that ABS is functioning correctly, not a cause for concern.
• 🏁 Contrary to a common misconception, ABS does not necessarily shorten stopping distances.
• 🛣️ On dry pavement, avoid pumping the brakes; instead, use threshold braking for non-ABS vehicles.
• 🚦 If a tire blows out, ease off the gas and avoid immediate braking to prevent a spin out.
• 💡 After a tire blowout, wait until the vehicle slows to around 20 mph before gently applying the brakes.
• 🚫 In the event of a rear skid, do not apply the brakes as it may reduce traction; look and steer in the direction you want to go.
• 👀 Maintaining control and steering where you want to go is crucial during a rear skid.
• 🛑 Threshold braking involves firmly squeezing the brake pedal until just before the tires lock up, especially for non-ABS vehicles.
• 🌀 Learning to handle these driving situations correctly will enhance your safety on the road.

Q & A

What should drivers do with their anti-lock brakes in an emergency stopping situation?

In an emergency stopping situation, drivers should press down on the brake pedal and keep pushing without lifting off, as this will maximize the effectiveness of the anti-lock brake system.

Is it normal to feel the brake pedal pulsing when using anti-lock brakes?

Yes, it is normal to feel the brake pedal pulsing under your foot when using anti-lock brakes, as this indicates that the anti-lock function is working properly.

Do anti-lock brakes always result in shorter stopping distances?

No, anti-lock brakes do not necessarily result in shorter stopping distances. This is a common misperception; their main function is to prevent the wheels from locking up during braking.

What is the recommended braking technique for drivers without anti-lock brakes on dry pavement?

Drivers without anti-lock brakes should use threshold braking, which involves firmly squeezing the brake pedal until just before the tires lock up.

Is it safe to pump the brakes when making a sudden stop on dry pavement without anti-lock brakes?

No, pumping the brakes is not recommended. Instead, drivers should use threshold braking to avoid locking up the tires.

What should drivers do if a tire blows out while driving?

If a tire blows out, drivers should ease their foot off the gas pedal and stay off the brake. Applying the brakes can unbalance the car's suspension and potentially cause a dangerous spin out.

At what speed can the brakes be applied after a tire blowout to safely stop the vehicle?

Once the car coasts down to approximately 20 miles per hour after a tire blowout, the brakes can then be gently applied to bring the vehicle to a stop.

What is the correct response to a rear skid while driving?

In the event of a rear skid, drivers should stay off the brakes and continue to look and steer where they want to go to maintain control and avoid losing traction.

Why should drivers avoid applying the brakes during a rear skid?

Applying the brakes during a rear skid can cause a loss of even more rear tire traction, potentially leading to a loss of control of the vehicle.

How can learning about these common driving mistakes improve a driver's safety?

By understanding and avoiding these common driving mistakes, drivers can better control their vehicles in emergency situations, leading to improved safety on the road.