The accelerator and brake pedals in cars are placed next to each other, making it easy for drivers to accidentally press the wrong pedal, which can lead to traffic accidents.
Accidental Acceleration – this term is commonly mentioned when discussing automatic driving. The accelerator and brake pedals in a car are positioned close together, so confusion between these two pedals is entirely possible.
Here are some reasons why drivers may accidentally press the accelerator instead of the brake. Mitigating and changing these behaviors will help make driving safer for both oneself and others on the road.
Lack of Focus While Driving
In Vietnam, the road conditions are characterized by a high volume of motorcycles that often share lanes with cars, except on some major roads with lane markings. Actions such as cutting in front of cars to turn or changing lanes frequently occur, and a lack of concentration can catch drivers off guard, leading to incorrect responses that increase the risk of accidents.
While operating a vehicle, drivers need to remain calm and avoid distractions like using a mobile phone or reaching behind to grab something. Losing focus for just a few seconds can result in a traffic accident.
Avoid using your phone or engaging in personal tasks while driving.
Always observe your surroundings to accurately assess situations. If possible, yield to other vehicles even if you are driving legally. Once an accident occurs, regardless of fault, it often takes more time to resolve, and vehicles can also be damaged.
Try to drive comfortably; operating a vehicle while overly stressed can hinder your ability to respond to situations. If you find the road too congested and feel your driving skills are insufficient, the best option is to look for a safer alternate route.
Improper Foot Positioning
Driving an automatic vehicle with one foot is a principle that everyone is taught when learning to drive; however, not everyone knows how to position their foot for comfort and safety.
Place the heel on the brake pedal and then test pressing the brake pedal fully to see if it feels comfortable. If not, adjust the driver’s seat. Some premium vehicle models allow for adjustments to the brake and accelerator pedal positions.
Proper foot placement helps with better vehicle control.
While driving, the heel should always remain fixed on the brake pedal. The driver only needs to pivot the foot towards the accelerator pedal to accelerate.
This position may make pressing the accelerator less comfortable than pressing the brake; however, it enables quicker and stronger braking in emergency situations.
Foot on the Brake When Coasting
When not using the accelerator pedal, drivers should position their foot over the brake pedal even if they are not currently braking. Most inexperienced drivers often make this mistake due to anxiety while driving.
Shifting your foot to the brake pedal helps drivers maintain better control of the vehicle when another vehicle suddenly cuts in front or when unexpected obstacles appear ahead. Additionally, it shortens the time from detecting a hazard to applying the brakes.
Shifting your foot to the brake pedal helps drivers maintain better control.
Automatic cars can move forward without pressing the brake, so in situations involving slow speeds, pressing the accelerator is unnecessary.
Wearing Inappropriate Footwear
Many accidents occur because drivers are wearing inappropriate footwear, such as high heels while driving. Although there are no specific regulations regarding the type of footwear to be worn while driving, users should still be mindful.
Choose shoes with broad, flexible soles. This helps drivers feel the pressure on the brake and accelerator more easily.
For women who wish to wear high heels to match their outfits, it is advisable to keep a pair of flat shoes in the car and change into them when driving.
