Can the Handbrake and Footbrake Be Used Together?

[GraceAnn]

On the surface, applying both the footbrake and handbrake simultaneously engages two braking systems working together, potentially providing greater braking force. However, in reality, doing so only results in a longer braking distance and makes the vehicle more prone to losing control. This is primarily due to the inherent limitations of the handbrake system. Since the handbrake is a purely mechanical braking system, pulling it while the car is in motion (especially at higher speeds) can easily cause the rear wheels to lock up. When wheels lock up during driving, the vehicle is more likely to skid or lose control. Even a car moving in a straight line is not immune. When wheels lock, they lose lateral force, meaning it becomes difficult to control the direction of the wheels via the steering wheel. The car may spin out of control, such as performing a 360-degree turn on the spot.