Question

Difficulty: MediumWinter Driving, Snow, and Black Ice

Applying sudden, firm brake pressure when a vehicle begins to skid on a patch of black ice helps stabilize traction and restore steering control.

Answer: Answer

Answer

False. Hard braking during a black ice skid locks the wheels, eliminating traction and steering control.
The statement is false because applying sudden, firm brake pressure locks the vehicle's tires, causing a total loss of steering control and worsening the skid. The proper response is to ease off the accelerator and steer smoothly in the direction you want the vehicle to go.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Evaluate the mechanical effect of applying firm brake pressure on black ice.
Braking locks the vehicle's wheels, preventing them from rotating.
A locked wheel cannot exert steering forces or regain traction on a frictionless surface like black ice.
2
Identify the standard DMV skid recovery procedure for icy roads.
The driver must immediately release the accelerator, avoid braking abruptly, and steer into the skid.
Releasing the pedals allows the tires to resume rolling, which is necessary for regaining traction and directional control.

Key Concept

Skid Control and Black Ice Braking Technique
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