Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is an automobile safety system that
allows the wheels on a motor
vehicle to maintain tractive contact with the road surface according to driver inputs
while braking, preventing the wheels from locking up (ceasing rotation)
and avoiding uncontrolled skidding.
ABS generally offers
improved vehicle control and decreases stopping distances on dry and slippery
surfaces for many drivers; however, on loose surfaces like gravel or
snow-covered pavement, ABS can significantly increase braking
distance, although still improving vehicle control.