How To Carry Out An Emergency Stop

The object of the emergency stop is to bring the car to a stop quickly, safely and under full control, as if it is an emergency, as if a small child has run out infront of you. The examiner or instructor will give you the instruction to carry out the emergency stop by placing their right hand straight out in front, palm facing forward and saying the word 'STOP'. As soon as you are given this instruction you should carry out the emergency stop.

Quickly - A quick reaction is required to stop within the shortest distance possible. Pivot your right foot from the accelerator to the footbrake. Apply firm pressure on the footbrake. Keep applying firmer and firmer pressure on the foot brake until the car has stopped. Press the clutch pedal in just before the car stops, as you would do normally.

Mirrors do not need to be checked before applying the footbrake. This will only take up valuable time, which will mean you will travel a greater distance before coming to a stop.

Safely - Skidding may occur if you 'stamp' on the foot brake. This may cause the wheels to lock if your car is not fitted with ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System). Should the wheels lock, you need to take your foot of the footbrake and then reapply it firmly, in a pumping action. This will allow the wheels to turn and grip the road again. If your car is fitted with ABS simply apply very firm braking and keep your foot on the footbrake. The ABS will prevent the wheels from locking and acts as if you are pumping the footbrake.

Full Control - Keep a firmer grip on the steering wheel than you would do normally. This will enable you to keep the car in a straight line.

After Stopping - Apply your handbrake and place the gear stick in neutral. Briefly collect your thoughts. Then select 1st gear and carry full observations infront and behind. This must include checking your blind spots, looking over your left AND right shoulders. Providing you are not going to cause any other vehicle to slow down or change direction, release your handbrake and drive on.

Previous Section - Back To Top - Next Section