Planning and trials Also, in most cases the braking distance will be shorter when braking with ABS than when braking with locked wheels, particularly if the road surface is not dry and does not offer good traction. With the system, this was shortened to 112 metres. Such situations include braking on loose gravel or fresh snow. In these cases, a wedge of gravel or snow builds up in front of the locked wheels, which enhances the braking effect. Whatever the capabilities of ABS, there remains an onus on the driver to drive in a responsible manner.
ABS can largely offset human error occurring, say, in panic situations.
But it can't compensate for a driving style which ignores the prevailing road and traffic conditions. Every driver must make responsible judgements for himself about braking distances and cornering speeds. With the system, this was shortened to 112 metres. Such situations include braking on loose gravel or fresh snow. In these cases, a wedge of gravel or snow builds up in front of the locked wheels, which enhances the braking effect.