What is stab braking?

Stab braking refers to the technique of braking hard and then releasing the brake repeatedly in order to maintain control of the vehicle during a skid, particularly on slick surfaces. This method helps to allow the wheels to regain traction instead of locking up, which can lead to loss of control. By applying the brakes with strength and then releasing them, the driver can modulate the braking force, preventing the vehicle from sliding uncontrollably.

In situations where traction is compromised, such as on icy or wet roads, stab braking is important because it can effectively reduce speed without fully engaging anti-lock braking systems (ABS) or causing the wheels to stop rotating completely. The primary goal of this technique is to maintain steering control while reducing speed, making it particularly useful in emergency maneuvers.