By now, you may have heard about Toyota’s recall of vehicles that accelerated on their own. While we still do not know the exact cause of these incidents, sudden unintended acceleration can happen in any vehicle.  We can use this opportunity to teach what to do in the event that you experience sudden unintended acceleration.

Go to a parking lot.  Make sure you have plenty of space ahead and there are no possible threats or hazards ahead or nearby.  With the engine in the on position but not running, practice shifting the gear selector lever from D (drive) to N (neutral) by simply tapping the gear selector lever.  Do this a couple of times with your eyes looking ahead so you can maintain directional control.  Now practice steps 1 through 4 with the engine off.

Next, practice all the steps listed with the engine running.  The important element here is to make sure that you only TAP the gear selector lever.  You must avoid shifting into R (reverse) because doing so will cause serious damage and control issues.

After doing this successfully, practice with the vehicle moving forward.  Here is the sequence to review before practicing this exercise while moving.

1. Firmly and steadily step on the brake pedal.  Hold the brake firmly (no pumping action, just stomp and hold).  Continue to hold the brake firmly (use both feet if you can) until the vehicle is stopped and in P (park).

2. Shift the gear selector to N (neutral) - remember - it’s just a tap.

3. Turn the engine off by turning the key to the “Off” position.  This may be designated as the ACC position.  You will lose your power assist for steering, but steering is still possible.  It is important to avoid turning the key to the “Lock” position as that locks the steering wheel.  Also, if you have a Start/Stop button, according to Toyota just press and hold the button for 3 seconds - this will turn the engine off without locking the steering wheel.

4. Press your emergency flasher button to warn other drivers.

5. Steer to a safe place to stop.

6. Call for help.  Have the vehicle towed to your dealer or repair shop.

7. Do not attempt to drive the vehicle until it has been repaired.

Even if your student has been driving for a while and you don’t own a Toyota, practice this exercise.  Practicing can help avoid the panic reaction that often occurs when a person encounters an emergency situation.