What general safety step protects occupants during hard braking?

• A. Turn on the radio to keep passengers informed.
• B. Unbuckle to shift weight away from the belt.
• C. Open a window to improve ventilation.
• D. Ensure seat belts are fastened, keep a firm grip on the wheel, and brace for impact.

Answer: (D)

During hard braking, the key safety step is to keep yourself restrained and ready for the deceleration. A properly fastened seat belt holds you in place and distributes the stopping forces across your body, reducing the chance of being thrown into the dash, windshield, or other occupants. Holding a firm grip on the wheel helps maintain control and stability as the vehicle slows, while bracing for impact—tensing and pressing into the seat—helps your body absorb the jolt and stay aligned with the restraint system. Actions like turning on the radio, unbuckling, or opening a window don’t protect you during the stop and can increase risk. So, fastening seat belts, keeping a firm grip on the wheel, and bracing for impact is the safest approach.