What does an anti-lock braking system (ABS) do for a school bus?

Answer: C — Prevents wheel lock-up during hard braking

An anti-lock braking system (ABS) is specifically designed to prevent wheel lock-up during hard braking. When a driver applies the brakes forcefully, ABS automatically modulates brake pressure to each wheel, allowing them to continue rotating rather than skid. This is crucial in maintaining traction between the bus tires and the road surface, which enhances the driver's ability to steer and control the vehicle during emergency braking situations. This control is particularly important for school buses, as they often carry children and need to maintain safety under difficult driving conditions. The other options do not accurately reflect the purpose of ABS. While enhancing fuel efficiency or increasing brake wear has no relationship to the primary function of ABS, longer braking distances contradict the very purpose of the system, which is to facilitate safe stops by avoiding skidding. Thus, the correct choice highlights the critical safety feature that ABS provides to school buses and their drivers.