Sudden Acceleration: How to stop your car if it happens to you

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uQ98Z4apta0&feature=related

Sudden, unintended acceleration (SUA) has been made into the great terror of the American highways and byways, though drivers can quickly and easily regain control of a car should it experience this rare, though admittedly frightening event. Consumer Reports Senior Automotive Engineer Jake Fisher demonstrates the right way to regain control of a vehicle experiencing unintended acceleration and bring it to a safe stop. These life-saving steps can help all drivers, not just Toyota drivers.

1. Brake firmly. Do not pump the brakes. Do not turn off the engine yet, because doing so would disable the power assist for your steering and brakes.

2. Shift the transmission into Neutral. Don't worry if the engine revs up alarmingly - most modern cars have rev-limiters to protect it, and this move will put you in back in control of your vehicle.

3. Steer to a safe location and come to a full stop.

4. Shut off the engine with the transmission still in Neutral.

5. Finally, shift the transmission into Park or, with a manual transmission, set the emergency brake. Then breathe deep and call for help. Do not attempt to drive the car.

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