What does stab braking involve?

Stab braking is a technique used to maintain control of a vehicle in emergency situations, particularly when encountering skids. This method involves applying the brakes hard enough to cause the wheels to lock up momentarily, which can help to regain traction and stabilize the vehicle. Once the wheels are locked, the driver will then release the brakes to allow the wheels to start rolling again, thereby regaining the ability to steer.

The essence of stab braking is in its timing and application; by locking the wheels briefly, the driver can counteract the momentum that causes the vehicle to skid. The process is designed to be quick, which is critical for maintaining control, especially in larger vehicles where skidding can lead to jackknife situations or loss of control altogether.

The other options do not align with the principles of stab braking. Gently slowing down or continuously pressing the brake pedal may not provide the necessary immediate control during a skid and would not effectively address the lost traction scenario that stab braking confronts. Gradually applying brakes lacks the urgency and impact required in critical situations that stab braking is specifically designed for.