What should you do just before coming to a complete stop when braking?

Just before coming to a complete stop when braking, it is important to smoothly release the brakes and then reapply them. This technique allows you to maintain control of the vehicle and achieve a smoother stopping process. By gently releasing the brake pressure just before fully stopping, you can prevent the vehicle from lurching or coming to an abrupt halt, which enhances passenger comfort and vehicle stability. After that brief release, reapplying the brakes ensures you come to a complete stop in a controlled manner.

This approach is especially helpful in various driving conditions as it helps in maintaining traction and reduces wear on the braking system. In contrast to simply releasing the brakes and leaving them off, or applying the parking brake, this method balances control and safety effectively. Increasing brake pressure right before stopping may lead to sudden stops, which can be uncomfortable for passengers and potentially unsafe if traffic conditions are unpredictable.