What is the best way to stop your vehicle in an emergency on a wet road?

In an emergency on a wet road, applying both the footbrake and handbrake together can be effective in reducing speed and stopping the vehicle while maintaining control. The footbrake is designed to slow the vehicle down effectively, while the handbrake can provide additional braking power, especially in situations where the wheels may start to skids. However, it is critical to apply the brakes gradually and firmly instead of slamming them, as sudden hard braking can lead to loss of traction on wet surfaces and potentially cause the vehicle to skid.

Using only the footbrake may not provide enough stopping power if the vehicle is hydroplaning or if the brakes lock up under heavy pressure. Relying solely on the handbrake is typically not recommended for stopping a vehicle in an emergency, as it may lead to a loss of control, especially if the rear wheels lock up. Shifting to neutral and coasting may allow the driver to regain control but is generally less effective for stopping quickly compared to using the brakes appropriately. Therefore, the correct approach is to use a combination of both the footbrake and handbrake, applied progressively, to ensure a safe stop.