Originally Posted by mconlonx

Pay attention to the situation. Watch cars ahead, curb breaks to the right, anticipate, cover your brakes (finger or two resting on each brake lever). If a car and curb break are lining up, watch cars front wheels for steering input. If it happens that the car decides to left cross you, emergency braking and steering as best as you can manage. Covering the brakes and paying attention saves time, adds to braking ability, shortens brake reaction and stopping distance.