Magnulus wrote:

> I've heard this advice alot. My question is, why cover your break at
> an intersection- what use does it do?
>
> Suppose I enter an intersection with a green light at 30 mph (following
> the usually defensive driving advice to slow down a bit), and I just
> happen
> to see that pickup comming at me at 40 mph, running the red light. What
> good will slamming on the brake do? Will my car really stop that fast?
> Wouldn't it be better to slam on the accelerator (assuming my car could
> accelerate that quickly?)
>
> What's the proper "defensive driving" technique in that situation that
> would make covering ones brake a good thing? I suppose- maybe, if you
> stopped fast enough the pickup might catch you on the front end instead of
> the midsection of the car. Any clues?

Slowing down makes it easier to turn (i.e. swerve out of someone's way)
without spinning out/throwing your passengers into the doors.