What is the purpose of anti-lock brakes in a school bus?

Anti-lock brakes (ABS) in a school bus are designed to prevent the wheels from locking up during hard braking situations. This function is crucial for maintaining steering control, especially on slippery surfaces where braking intensity can lead to loss of traction. When a driver applies the brakes forcefully, the ABS modulates brake pressure to each wheel, allowing them to continue turning and prevent skidding.

This is especially important in a school bus context, where safety is the primary concern due to the presence of children and the potential for unpredictable road conditions. Maintaining control while braking helps the driver avoid obstacles and reduces the risk of accidents, which is vital for the safe transport of students.

The other options, while they describe aspects of vehicle performance, do not relate to the specific function of anti-lock brakes. Fuel efficiency and smoother acceleration pertain to different systems and driving techniques, while turning corners involves handling dynamics that are not directly addressed by the purpose of ABS.