Virginia Driver Education And Traffic Safety (VADETS) Practice Test

To maintain control of a vehicle that does not have Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) brakes after applying the brakes, the driver should pump the brakes. This method involves applying and releasing the brake pedal rapidly, which helps to prevent the wheels from locking up. When brakes lock, it can lead to a loss of control, making it difficult to steer the vehicle. Pumping the brakes creates a more controlled deceleration and allows the driver to maintain steering capability, as it reduces the risk of skidding while slowing down. The other options do not effectively address the need to control the vehicle during braking. Using the emergency brake is not recommended under normal circumstances, as it can cause the rear wheels to lock, especially in slippery conditions. Putting the vehicle in neutral removes the driver’s ability to control the vehicle’s speed effectively and may lead to instability. Shifting into a lower gear may help slow the vehicle but is not as effective in maintaining control as the pumping method, especially under braking conditions.