The Nightmarish Consequences of Using the Emergency Brake at High Speeds
Distracted or desperate drivers often find themselves in perilous situations when they attempt to use the emergency brake while traveling at high speeds. This article delves into the disastrous outcomes of such actions and highlights the importance of proper braking techniques.
Hazardous Driving Conditions
Imagine you're cruising along a highway at 100MPH (160Km/h) when suddenly, you pull the emergency brake. This seemingly quick and easy action can lead to significant and immediate risks. The emergency brake, typically engaged in the rear wheels, can cause severe complications if used inappropriately.
Loss of Traction
The emergency brake can quickly and surprisingly lock up the rear wheels. At high speeds, this causes a complete loss of traction, effectively turning your vehicle into a skid or fishtail. Whether in a sedan or a large vehicle, this sudden loss of control can be disproportionately dangerous, making it hard for the driver to maintain control of the vehicle.
Spin Out
In cases where the front wheels are still turning while the rear wheels are locked, the car can initiate a spin. In rear-wheel-drive vehicles, this effect is particularly pronounced. If the rear wheels lose grip and the front wheels do not, the vehicle may start to rotate unpredictably, presenting a significant hazard on the highway or in residential areas.
Increased Stopping Distance
The emergency brake is not designed for sudden high-speed applications. Engaging it hastily can dramatically increase the stopping distance of the vehicle and reduce its overall effectiveness. This can significantly impact the driver's ability to avoid accidents, especially during heavy traffic or unexpected obstacles on the road.
Potential Vehicle Damage
The act of abruptly using the emergency brake at high speeds can cause mechanical damage. This includes potential damage to the braking system, tires, and drivetrain. Such damage may lead to costly repairs and could result in further complications if not addressed promptly.
Loss of Control
The combination of locked rear wheels and potentially spinning the vehicle leads to a complete loss of control. In such scenarios, the risks of a serious accident are significantly heightened. Road conditions, weather, and the skill level of the driver do not mitigate these risks effectively. Thus, the consequences could be life-threatening.
A Cautionary Tale from the Past
Back in the 1970s, a colleague of mine had a penchant for taking high-speed driving bets. He often drove from Manchester to Somerset, aiming to average around 100mph (160Km/h) on the motorway, and sometimes as high as 120mph (193Km/h) on rural roads. On one fateful occasion, he found himself being pursued by a police car and made the ill-advised decision to use the handbrake to slow down without triggering the brake lights. The rear wheels locked up, and the car skidded out of control, passing through a gap in the central reservation and landing in a field with no injuries sustained.
While this might sound like the makings of a thrilling story, it is a stark reminder of the dangers of improper and uncontrolled braking techniques. The use of the handbrake, even in a controlled manner, is generally not recommended without proper training and awareness.
Controlled Braking Techniques
When driving at high speeds, the best approach is to use the conventional brakes in a controlled manner. This means applying brakes gradually and checking the vehicle's responsiveness. If you need to stop suddenly, do so gently and ensure that all lights are functioning properly to alert other drivers of your intention to slow down.
Conclusion
The use of the emergency brake at high speeds is an extremely risky maneuver with potentially life-threatening consequences. It can result in loss of traction, spinning, increased stopping distance, vehicle damage, and loss of control. It's always best to use the conventional braking system under controlled circumstances.
Remember, proper driving habits can prevent unnecessary accidents and protect yourself and others on the road. Safe driving should always be a priority, and the use of the emergency brake should be reserved for extreme emergency situations.