Should the Handbrake Be Applied When in Neutral Gear?
2 Answers
Applying the handbrake whenever the vehicle is in neutral gear is primarily for safety reasons. Using the handbrake is a fundamental precaution to prevent any potential issues; it is advisable to engage the handbrake whenever the vehicle is parked, regardless of the situation. The dangers of not using the handbrake include: 1. Rolling: What may appear flat to the naked eye could actually have a slight incline. Any slope, no matter how minor, gives the vehicle momentum, and if left in neutral without the handbrake engaged, the car can easily roll. 2. Preventing Rear-end Collisions: Even if the ground is confirmed to be level and the car is unlikely to roll, there's no guarantee against external forces impacting the vehicle, such as in a rear-end collision. Without the handbrake applied, the car could still move upon impact. Engaging the handbrake helps prevent the vehicle from sliding or rolling away.
When in neutral gear, I always engage the handbrake to ensure the vehicle doesn't roll. I prioritize safety while driving, especially on slopes—without the handbrake, the car could slide, increasing collision risks. Once, parked on a slight incline without the handbrake, my car started moving; quick reaction averted trouble. Since then, I've made it a habit: whenever stopping in neutral, even briefly at traffic lights or for quick stops, I gently pull the handbrake. This prevents accidents and protects the transmission from unnecessary wear. Small safety habits matter—I recommend everyone adopt this practice for fewer unexpected hassles.
