If you need to stop on an icy road without ABS brakes, what should you do?

Pumping the brake pedal lightly is the correct approach when stopping on an icy road without ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) brakes. This technique helps to maintain control of the vehicle and prevent the wheels from locking up, which can lead to a loss of traction and control. When you pump the brakes, you are applying pressure and then releasing it, which allows the tires to continue rotating and helps to avoid skidding.

This method keeps the tires moving, allowing them to maintain some grip on the icy surface. In contrast, applying the brakes hard can cause the wheels to lock, sending the vehicle into a skid. Utilizing the parking brake is generally not advisable in this situation, as it can also lead to skidding or loss of control. Finally, while short hard jabs may seem similar to pumping the brakes, they can lead to abrupt stops and loss of control, which is not ideal in slippery conditions. Therefore, the light pumping action becomes essential for safety and control when stopping on icy roads.