Release the Handbrake First or Shift Gear First?

[Judah]

For manual transmission cars, shift into gear first and then release the handbrake. Below are some driving precautions: 1. Slow down and observe when turning: Develop the habit of slowing down significantly when making turns (especially when intersecting with bicycle lanes or pedestrian walkways). Carefully observe conditions in bicycle lanes and pedestrian walkways, then proceed slowly. This applies to both urban and rural driving. Proactively yield to electric bikes in bicycle lanes and pedestrians on sidewalks. When making right turns in urban areas, yield to pedestrians and electric bikes crossing at crosswalks, and only proceed slowly after confirming no potential hazards. 2. Slow down and look both ways at intersections: Cultivate the habit of looking left and right (while slowing down) when approaching intersections, regardless of traffic light status or whether your lane has a green light. Observe traffic conditions on crossing roads, only accelerating through the intersection after confirming no vehicles are running red lights (while remaining vigilant for electric bikes which can be easily overlooked due to their small size).

[OLukas]

I remember when I was learning to drive, the instructor repeatedly emphasized: engage the gear before releasing the handbrake when starting. I used to wonder why it was so important until I drove a manual transmission car myself. Once, I released the handbrake too early on a slope, and the car rolled backward, nearly hitting a wall. Since then, I’ve developed a habit: whether driving manual or automatic, I start the engine first, press the clutch (engage first or reverse gear for manual, shift to D for automatic), let the engine build power, and then release the handbrake. This prevents rolling risks, especially on rainy days or slopes—saving me more than once in my ten years of driving. When parking, don’t forget the reverse order: engage the handbrake before shifting to neutral or P to protect the transmission. Safe driving starts with small details—honing habits means fewer worries on the road.

[MacSadie]

After thirty years of driving, I've learned from personal experience: engaging the gear before releasing the handbrake is a fundamental rule. In my younger days, I often got lazy, releasing the handbrake first at intersections before shifting gears, which once led to my car rolling back on a slope and scratching a neighbor's door, costing me a hefty sum. That lesson taught me this sequence is a matter of life and death. For manual transmissions, shifting into first gear prepares the engine's power; the same logic applies to automatic transmissions in Drive (D) mode. Release the handbrake, and the car starts smoothly right away. Mastering this habit makes handling congested traffic or hill starts effortless. Safety isn't a hassle—review this rule when checking tire pressure. Cultivate good habits, and you'll encounter fewer accidents on the road.

[ChaseLynn]

As a car enthusiast, I must say putting the car in gear before releasing the handbrake is a smart risk-prevention practice. With manual transmissions, engaging first or reverse gear locks the wheels via the transmission gears; with automatics, shifting to D connects the power, preventing vehicle movement when releasing the handbrake. This is especially crucial on slopes, where rollaway accidents often occur due to reversed sequences. I've incorporated this into my driving routine for both safety and efficiency. Developing this habit is as essential as regular fluid checks.

[IsabellaLee]

I believe the sequence when driving should never be taken lightly. The correct approach is to shift into gear first and then release the handbrake. For manual transmissions, shift into first gear to prepare for starting; for automatic transmissions, shift into D gear and wait for the pump pressure to build up, ensuring the powertrain is ready—this way, releasing the handbrake won't cause unintended movement. Once, I made a mistake in a parking lot and nearly ran over someone's bag. Now, I remind myself of this step every time I start the car. Small details contribute to great safety, and forming a habit makes it second nature.