What does ABS do for a driver during hard braking, and what does it NOT do?

ABS keeps the wheels from locking during hard braking, which helps the driver maintain steering control and avoid a skid. It does not by itself reduce stopping distance, and it certainly does not allow a driver to go faster, follow more closely, or brake later. With ABS, the driver brakes normally — pressing and holding firm pressure in an emergency stop and steering as needed — rather than pumping the brakes. On a doubles or triples combination, ABS on the tractor, trailers, and dollies helps keep the whole long set stable and steerable when braking hard, but safe following distance and smooth driving remain essential.