UK Driving Theory Practice Exam

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Prepare for the UK Driving Theory Test with an engaging quiz that includes multiple-choice questions, detailed explanations, and interactive study tools. Get the knowledge you need to pass your exam with confidence!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

Practice this question and more.

How should an emergency brake be applied?

Gently and slowly
Only if the vehicle is skidding
Rapidly and firmly
Gradually and cautiously

The correct answer is: Rapidly and firmly

The appropriate method for applying an emergency brake is to do so rapidly and firmly. In emergency situations, quick action is crucial to reduce speed as promptly as possible and to avoid a collision. Applying the brake rapidly ensures that the vehicle reduces its speed significantly in a short amount of time, which is often necessary to regain control of the vehicle or stop before an obstacle. In contrast, applying the brake gently and slowly would not effectively address an emergency situation where immediate action is required. Hesitating or hesitantly braking might prolong the stopping distance, increasing the risk of an accident. Similarly, only braking if the vehicle is skidding is too reactive and may not be timely enough to prevent a crash, as the need to stop might arise before a skid occurs. Gradually applying the brake could also result in insufficient response time during an emergency, making it less effective than a rapid and firm application.