Which condition is critical to consider when deciding to brake on slippery surfaces?

When driving on slippery surfaces, such as ice or wet roads, brake pressure is a crucial factor to consider because it directly affects your vehicle's traction and ability to stop safely. Applying brakes too hard can lead to skidding, which reduces your control over the vehicle. On slippery surfaces, it's essential to use a gentle and controlled braking technique to avoid sudden loss of traction. This controlled braking allows the tires to maintain contact with the road surface, helping to prevent slips and losing control.

While road markings, speed, and driving experience are all significant aspects of safe driving, they do not directly affect how the brakes interact with slippery conditions in the same critical way that brake pressure does. Maintaining the correct brake pressure helps the driver adapt to the road conditions effectively and navigate safely.