Florida Drivers Handbook |
5.4. Anti-lock Braking
Anti-Locking Brake System (ABS)
Anti-lock brakes prevent skidding and allow drivers
to steer during an emergency braking situation. ABS can
help improve vehicle stability (avoiding spin-outs), steering
ability (directing the car where the driver wants it to
go) and stopping capability (distance needed to stop the
vehicle).
Many drivers learned the correct way to stop in an emergency
situation where traction is lost and the vehicle slides
is by pumping the brakes. While this is correct with conventional
brakes, with ABS it is different. Drivers with ABS need
to press down hard on the brake pedal, hold it and steer
out of danger. In an emergency situation, the ABS automatically
pumps the brakes at a faster rate than the driver could.
Drivers should be aware that removing steady pressure from
the brake pedal or pumping the brakes will disengage or
"turn off" the ABS.
One of the most important benefits of ABS is that the driver
can steer the vehicle away from hazards while braking. Drivers
should not turn the steering wheel hard or jerk the vehicle
in one direction. Control of the vehicle can be maintained
by steering where the driver wants to go. Drivers need to
check that traffic is clear when deciding where to steer
and always remember to steer back into the original lane
as soon as the hazard is cleared.
Vehicles can be equipped with two different types of ABS:
Drivers can determine whether their
cars have ABS by looking for a lighted ABS symbol on the
dashboard right after starting the engine, checking the
owner's manual or asking the dealer.
Please Do Not Tamper
It is illegal to tamper
with, remove, or cause not to work any pollution control
device on your vehicle. Those who do are guilty of a first
or second degree misdemeanor depending on the offense. Tampering
with emissions control devices damages your vehicle and
can cause the following:
