How should you best stop quickly on snow or ice?

To effectively stop quickly on snow or ice, employing threshold braking or pumping the brakes is the best method. Threshold braking involves applying the brakes firmly right up to the point just before the wheels begin to lock up. This technique allows the driver to maintain traction while decelerating, which is essential on slippery surfaces. It helps prevent skidding and allows for better control of the vehicle.

Pumping the brakes, which is a technique often advised for anti-lock brake systems (ABS), involves applying the brakes in a series of quick, gentle presses rather than a single hard push. This method can help manage speed safely without losing traction, giving the driver the ability to control the vehicle more effectively when stopping on slick surfaces.

Using the handbrake can lead to loss of control, as it might lock up the rear wheels, particularly on slippery conditions, which can cause the vehicle to spin. Similarly, jamming on the brakes abruptly can lead to skidding, making it difficult for the driver to steer. Carefully downshifting gears may help in some situations but is usually less effective than using the proper braking techniques in snowy or icy conditions.