Typical emergency stop issues

The information on this page relates to basic errors and their correction and assume that the errors are caused directly by the actions of the learner. However, you must always be certain that you are not contributing to the error by late or unclear instruction or direction or by not offering sufficient information or feedback.

Our suggested issues do not form an exhaustive list, however, if you can spot and sort out these problems you should be well on your way to delivering an effective right turn approaching lesson. Remember that ideally the only thing you are watching for is a perfect drive... Anything else is a problem!

Slow reaction to the signal to stop

There could be various causes of this ranging from a lack of concentration to the inability to quickly move the right foot from the gas to the footbrake.

Discuss the importance of 'relaxed concentration', explaining how the reaction will be quicker if the signal comes as a 'real' surprise; practice quick movement of the right foot while the car is stationary.

Pre-empting the signal to stop

This is a sign of either anxiety about the manoeuvre or an eagerness to 'please the teacher'.

Discuss the problems that could arise and stress the importance of concentrating on the road, not on you (the instructor)

Stopping normally with no urgency

Explore the concept of 'emergency' in a little more depth! This could also be indicative of a 'fear' of hard braking.

Encourage firmer braking with verbal assistance, something like 'More, more, more...' or similar.

Applying too little pressure to the footbrake pedal

Assuming that this error is not covered by one of the other headings and is simply a control error, practise firm braking without stopping.

On a clear stretch of road accelerate up to approximately 20 mph and then (after both you and the pupil has checked that it is safe) brake firmly to about 5 mph - change to second gear, accelerate and repeat the process. Do this a couple of times and the repeat the emergency stop.

Note that it is effectively impossible to apply too much pressure with ABS fitted.

Taking the left-hand off the steering wheel

This can be a reflex action associated with gear changing or application of the handbrake.

Make sure that your pupil fully understands why it is necessary to keep the hands on the wheel.

Remind the learner before the next attempt: "In a moment I will give you the signal. Remember to keep your hands on the wheel until after we stop". Also prompt with the instruction if necessary - "Hands on the wheel, STOP!"

Applying the handbrake before the car has stopped

This could be a reflex (see above) but may indicate that the learner considers that the handbrake will aid stopping.

Use the same fix as the previous problem, but also ensure that the learner fully understands the function and purpose of the handbrake and the dangers of applying too much braking effort to the rear wheels.

Pressing the clutch pedal before the footbrake

Make sure that the learner fully understands the danger of de-clutching first. The effect might not be very great at low speeds, but at higher speeds it can lead to a significant loss of control.

Releasing the pedals before applying the handbrake and selecting neutral

This can lead to the car rolling. It is important that learners understand that the exercise is not complete until the car is secure.

In a 'real' emergency the pedals should be held momentarily while the developing situation is assessed.

Next: Questions & Reflection...