South Carolina Driver's Permit Practice Exam

Continuous braking on icy or snowy roads can lead to a loss of steering control, particularly if the front wheels lock up. When a driver applies the brakes in such conditions, especially if they are not using an anti-lock braking system (ABS), the front wheels may stop turning completely. This locking prevents the driver from steering the vehicle effectively, as there is no grip on the road surface, which can lead to skidding or sliding.

The loss of steering control is particularly hazardous on slippery surfaces because a vehicle needs to maintain traction through its tires to steer accurately. By locking the wheels, the driver loses the ability to maneuver the vehicle, which can cause accidents or loss of vehicle control.

Proper braking techniques, including pumping the brakes instead of applying them continuously, can help maintain some level of control over the vehicle in these slippery conditions. Understanding how braking interacts with road surface conditions is essential for safe driving, particularly in winter weather.