Question

Difficulty: MediumIce and Snow Conditions

As you approach a give-way junction on a street covered in compacted snow, you need to bring your vehicle to a complete stop safely. In what sequence should you carry out the following actions?

  1. 1Check your mirrors to assess the distance and speed of traffic behind you.
  2. 2Ease off the accelerator early to allow engine braking to reduce your road speed smoothly.
  3. 3Apply the footbrake gently and progressively over an extended distance.
  4. 4Depress the clutch pedal just before the vehicle comes to a complete standstill.

Answer

The correct sequence is: check mirrors to assess following traffic, ease off the accelerator early to utilise engine braking, apply gentle and progressive footbrake pressure over an extended distance, and depress the clutch pedal just before coming to a complete stop.
The correct sequence applies the standard observation and speed-control routine tailored for wintry conditions. First, checking mirrors ensures you know what is behind before slowing. Second, easing off the accelerator early utilises engine braking to scrub off speed smoothly. Third, progressive and gentle footbrake pressure brings the car down to crawling speed over an extended distance. Finally, depressing the clutch just before stopping prevents engine stalling without compromising control through coasting.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Check interior and exterior mirrors before initiating deceleration.
You establish situational awareness regarding vehicles following behind.
On slippery surfaces, following drivers may need additional distance to react and slow down safely.
2
Release the accelerator pedal smoothly well ahead of the junction.
Engine drag begins reducing momentum without requiring friction braking.
Engine braking minimises initial demands on tyre traction, reducing the chance of breaking grip.
3
Apply gentle, progressive pressure to the footbrake pedal.
The vehicle continues to decelerate steadily over a prolonged distance.
Snow and ice significantly increase stopping distances; progressive braking prevents wheel lock.
4
Depress the clutch pedal immediately prior to reaching a full stop.
The engine is disengaged right at the point of stopping to prevent stalling.
Depressing the clutch too early causes coasting, which reduces vehicle stability and removes engine braking.

Key Concept

Controlled deceleration and braking technique on snow and ice
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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