What to do if your gas pedal sticks

We have all read recently about cars that accelerate suddenly. Below are the steps you can take to avoid tragic results if this happens to you.

1) Don't panic.

This is harder then it seems since a car is not supposed to accelerate out of control. At that moment it doesn't matter why it is happening. What matters is to bring your car to a safe stop.

Make sure your foot is firmly on the brake.

2) Put the car in neutral

Do not turn off the engine. You need it to power the steering and the brakes. If your gear shifter is on the center console then give it a quick tap forward to put into neutral. (NOTE: do not squeeze the button on the shifter. If you do then you might put it into reverse by mistake.) If you just tap it forward it will slip into neutral.

If the shifter is on the dashboard or steering column you can again just slide it into neutral by tapping it up.

You can practice this move in an empty parking lot before you ever get into a situation like this.

3) Steer and Brake to a safe stop

Find somewhere safe to stop while avoiding collisions.

With the vehicle in neutral the engine will go to full revs. It will make a very loud noise like a race car. Ignore this. It is more important to stop safely then to save the engine.

4) Shut the engine off

once the vehicle is stopped. Do this before putting the car into Park.

Once in park then take a moment to calm yourself and ensure everyone is ok. Reassess the situation. If you hit another vehicle then call 9-1-1. Otherwise call for a tow truck.