What does "covering the brake" mean?

"Covering the brake" refers to hovering your foot over the brake pedal in preparation for a potential stop or slow down. This practice is important for maintaining control and reacting quickly to changing situations on the roadway. When a driver is covering the brake, they are in a position to apply the brakes quickly if needed, enhancing safety, especially in situations where an obstacle or hazard may suddenly appear.

In this technique, the driver does not apply pressure to the brake pedal, but instead, keeps their foot close enough to it to allow for fast action. This proactive approach is particularly useful in heavy traffic or when approaching intersections, as it allows the driver to be ready for swift reactions without risking abrupt stops or loss of control of the vehicle.