CHANCES ARE IF you’re driving a modern car, there’s one safety system constantly at work that you don’t even think about anymore.

Anti-lock braking systems (ABS) have been mandatory on all new passenger cars sold in the EU since 2004. And while they may not cross your mind very often, there’s a good chance that they’ve kicked into action at some point to keep you out of harm’s way.

For those scared to ask how it all works: primarily the system uses wheel speed sensors on each wheel. When you brake on a surface with reduced grip, such as gravel or ice, the brake can lock up far easier. As the wheel’s speed of rotation decreases just before locking up, the sensor detects this and automatically eases the braking force applied to the brake disc on the wheel in question. This can fluctuate rapidly resulting in a pulsing sensation through the brake pedal.

So, what should you do if it happens? Well, modern systems are designed to work pretty seamlessly – so when they do kick into action, you may not even notice. The braking action works so quickly in modern cars that all you need to do is keep your foot on the pedal with sufficient force and it will do the rest to bring the car to what is hopefully a safe halt. You do not need to pump the brakes. Just keep steady constant pressure on the brake pedal.

When braking, the steering does not lock up so you are still able to steer the car to avoid a collision.