Braking to slow down while going down a hill, or when the travelling speed is getting too far advanced for the conditions, is it safe to brake on slick or puddled roads??
2006-09-18 06:42:04 · 14 answers · asked by Anonymous in Cars & Transportation ➔ Safety
Yes. In the conditions you describe, a slow application is alright. Just remember that when it rains, the water usually brings the oil in the roadway to the surface. Allow a little extra space between yourself, and another car/object/person, when braking.
2006-09-18 09:27:26 · answer #1 · answered by Beau R 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I'm just thinking about what would happen if you didn't break, rain or not. When you weigh that simple possibility, do you really think its safe NOT to brake?
The part that isn't safe is when you decide to drive at a speed that is unsafe, then hit the brakes too hard, and you end up hydroplaning, because you don't understand that things need to be done as those who have done the studies have suggested. There is a reason those speed limit signs are up. Technically, by the handbook, the speed limit is 'whatever is safe for present conditions'. (memorized that line lol). Which means, should you need to go slower than the sign that is posted, then its OK. If you aren't blocking traffic, if you aren't being an idiot and weaving in and out of traffic, taking turns at unsafe speeds, and the 101 other stupid mistakes that people who think they know how to drive are doing, then you are going to be just fine.
Its a simple matter of common sense. When you have low visibility, slow down, use your wipers, stop worrying about going the exact speed, take corners slowly. When you are going down a hill, tap your brakes...don't ride them. Gentle pumping slows you down without locking you up, and allows your tires to get a better grip. Speed kills. Don't have bald tires on your car because you are cheap. Make sure your brakes aren't worn down. Don't make sudden or irratic turns.
If you drive smart, then yes, it's going to be safe, as long as you aren't in torrential downpours that are causing major flooding, or causing other types of damage, or even in the snow. If it gets to the point where you can not see, it is obviously unsafe for you to be out in that type of weather with other motorists, wait out the weather - be the safe one that didn't get into an accident because you thought you could make it through.
Hence that silly little slogan - Drive Safe!
2006-09-18 13:57:34 · answer #2 · answered by saintlyinnocents 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The key thing here is to drive according to the conditions and your own abilities. Look at racecar drivers, like formula one and many US formulas who race in all weathers. They still race in the rain, but they go a lot slower (relatively) than in the dry. Why? You can have the best tires and brakes in the world but they won't help if you go too fast, specially on a wet road. Smooth braking is best, and if you don't have ABS then just be careful and don't hit the brakes too hard. If the wheels lock -- on a wet OR dry road -- then you lose the ability to steer the car properly. So just give yourself a little more time to get to where you are going, let the lunatics go roaring past to their own funerals, and arrive in one piece!
Remember it's better to be five minutes late than never get there...
Lenky
2006-09-18 13:59:03 · answer #3 · answered by Lenky 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If the conidtions are dangerous, then do the following:
1. For a manual transmission - slow the vehicle down by selecting a lower gear.
2. For an automatic transmission - slip the gear lever into 1 or 2 to slow or stop the vehicle.
When the vehicle has slowed to a safe speed, then you can apply the brakes (gently!).
Safe driving!
2006-09-18 13:51:27 · answer #4 · answered by profoundatheist 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Well you pretty much have to huh? lol If you have ABS you have nothing to worry about. Your wheels will not lock up anyways. Even if not, you must slow your car down reagrdless. Just use common sense and avoid braking hard. An even better solution is not to allow your vehicle to travel at a speed that would make you hydroplane in the first place. Keep it nice and slow if weather is bad.
2006-09-18 13:45:40 · answer #5 · answered by Mike Hunt 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes, just don't lock up the brakes. One thing that isn't safe in the rain is cruise control. I've seen someone go out of control in front of me and do 3 - 360 degree spins because of drivinf 80+ in a hard rain with cruise control on.
2006-09-18 13:49:25 · answer #6 · answered by tonyboyd1961 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It is safe as long as you do not "lock" the wheels. Push the break pedal gradually until your car comes to a stop. The friction will help dry any water that may be present on your brake rotors. Happy motoring.........Keep the rubber side down.
2006-09-18 13:51:14 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
not really you can hydroplane which is like stepping on ice and slipping. certain tire types are better than others but i dont know if any tire can completely prevent it. your best bet is to drive slower in bad conditions, actually its in the drivers ed manual to do so.
drive safe!
2006-09-18 14:01:52 · answer #8 · answered by amythys 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Sure it is safe. Many cars these days have anti-lock and/or anti-skid brakes.
If your older car doesn't have these braking systems, just make sure you don't stomp on the brakes and perhaps put yourself into a skid.
(MH - Thanks for pointing out that I should clarify, although you certainly could have done it more nicely.)
Good luck!
2006-09-18 13:44:17 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
Are nuts, Not breaking would obviously be bad especially when you behind something. You dont slam them on but you have to break, hope you have anti locking breaks. I hope your not behind me in the rain.
2006-09-18 13:47:47 · answer #10 · answered by Belladonna 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋