What is the best way to stop quickly on a wet or icy roadway?

To stop quickly on a wet or icy roadway, it is important to maintain control of the vehicle while maximizing safety. When braking, if the wheels lock, it's essential to release the pressure on the brake pedal until the tires regain some traction. This technique helps prevent skidding or losing control, as locked wheels can slide over the surface without effectively slowing the vehicle down.

This method also allows the driver to make finer adjustments while braking, enhancing overall vehicle stability. It is especially necessary in slippery conditions, as maintaining traction is key to stopping safely and effectively. By modulating the brake pressure, the driver can optimize braking performance and decrease stopping distances while reducing the risk of skidding.

The other approaches mentioned do not adequately address the need for maintaining control or effectively responding to slippery conditions. For example, braking gently and maintaining pressure may not provide enough stopping force in an emergency. Accelerating to regain traction can lead to loss of control, and shifting to neutral while coasting can prevent effective braking altogether. Therefore, the key to safely stopping on wet or icy surfaces is using the technique provided in option B.