What To Do In a Sudden Acceleration - Five Steps That Could Save Your Life

During the last several weeks we have heard some real-life harrowing stories from people whose Toyotas have suddenly taken off on them reaching speeds close to 100 mph! It's known as an unintentional sudden acceleration because it can happen even when your foot isn't on the gas pedal of the car.  And, it can be terrifying if it happens to you.

So what do you do if you're driving along one of the local streets or highways and your car suddenly accelerates. One consumer told me that when it happened to him he tried putting his foot under the gas pedal and pulling up on it - but that didn't help slow the car down at all.

The Consumer Reports Auto Test Center and the Toyota Help Center recently released five steps that you can do to help bring a runaway vehicle safely to a stop.  

Step 1 - Brake Firmly.  Do not pump on the brake pedal and do not turn off the engine yet because doing so disables the power assist for your steering and brakes.

Step 2 - Shift the Transmission Into Neutral.  Don't worry if the engine revs up since most cars have systems to help limit damage from over-revving.

Step 3 - Steer to a Safe Location to Stop.  If you're on the highway try to get over to the break down lane or a median. If you're on a street, get over to the shoulder.  Try to avoid stopping in the middle of the highway or street - this could be just as dangerous as the sudden acceleration.

Step 4 - Turn Off the Engine With the Car in Neutral. 

Step 5 - Put the Transmission into Park.  Or, if you have a manual transmission, set the emergency brake.

Every consumer that has told me about their sudden acceleration has admitted that it is terrifying.  So, once you get the vehicle safely over to the side of the road and stopped, breathe deeply and try to remain focused.  Then call for help. Your safety and the safety of your family should be your number one priority. 

If your car has suddenly accelerated on you, the Massachusetts personal injury and class action attorneys at Phillips & Garcia want to hear your story. We are committed to protecting your best interests and helping you collect any damages to which you are rightfully entitled. To share your story with us, contact Phillips & Garcia today to schedule your FREE legal consultation - (877) 892-5620.