If you need to slow down while turning, you should:
Answers
Apply the rear brake and lean farther into the turn.
Never apply the brakes.
Use caution and apply both brakes.
Apply the rear brake only.
The correct answer and explanation is:
If you need to slow down while turning, you should reduce your speed before entering the turn and avoid braking sharply during the turn.
Explanation:
- Why Reduce Speed Before Turning? When you approach a turn, your vehicle’s momentum is directed straight. If you’re moving too fast and attempt to turn, the vehicle may lose traction, causing skidding or understeering. Reducing speed beforehand allows better control as you enter the turn. Ideally, this should be done by gently braking while the vehicle is still traveling in a straight line.
- Why Avoid Braking During the Turn? Braking during a turn can disrupt the balance of the vehicle. When you apply the brakes, the vehicle’s weight shifts forward, reducing traction on the rear tires. In a turn, this can lead to oversteering, where the back of the vehicle slides outward, or understeering, where the vehicle continues straight instead of turning. Maintaining a steady speed helps distribute weight evenly, ensuring better grip.
- Role of Gears (If Driving Manual) For manual vehicles, downshifting to a lower gear before entering the turn is beneficial. It helps control speed and provides engine braking, reducing reliance on foot brakes and allowing smoother navigation through the curve.
- Smooth Steering Use smooth and steady movements when turning the wheel. Jerky steering, combined with sudden braking, can exacerbate loss of control, especially on slippery or uneven surfaces.
- Road and Weather Considerations Adjust your speed more cautiously on wet, icy, or uneven roads as these conditions further reduce tire traction. Enter the turn more slowly than usual and avoid sudden accelerations or decelerations.
- Practicing Defensive Driving Anticipating curves and adjusting speed in advance is a defensive driving practice that reduces risks and improves reaction time for unforeseen obstacles.
By slowing down appropriately before turning and maintaining control throughout, you enhance safety for yourself and others on the road.