Should You Engage the Handbrake at Traffic Lights?
4 Answers
Whether to engage the handbrake depends on driving habits and the duration of the red light. For manual transmission cars, the standard practice when stopping at a traffic light is to shift to neutral and engage the handbrake. When there are about 5 seconds left on the countdown, the driver can start by pressing the clutch, shifting to first gear, pressing the brake, and releasing the handbrake, then waiting to move off. Below is an extended explanation: Engaging the handbrake at a red light is the most scientific approach: If the red light lasts for a long time, choosing to engage the handbrake can prevent safety hazards caused by driver fatigue, forgetting to press the brake, or failing to engage the handbrake. Observing the traffic light timing: If the red light lasts more than 10 seconds, sometimes even if you can't see the traffic light or if the light turns green but traffic is still congested, you can assess whether it's possible to move based on surrounding traffic lights and vehicle flow. If it exceeds 10 seconds, directly engage the handbrake and shift to neutral.
When waiting at a traffic light, I usually don't engage the handbrake. As an experienced driver with many years behind the wheel, I've found that using the handbrake delays the start-up time—when the light turns green, you still have to quickly release it before moving, and there's even more danger if the car rolls. Simply using the foot brake to hold the car is steady enough, especially in a manual transmission vehicle, where pressing the clutch plus the brake is the most common method. Unless the traffic light is particularly long or on a steep slope, I consider using the handbrake to prevent the car from moving. Developing good habits is very important, as it can avoid unnecessary trouble and also protect the braking system. Remember, safety first, but don't complicate things.
I just learned to drive not long ago, and my instructor emphasized that using the foot brake at red lights is sufficient. Pulling the handbrake can actually cause issues, such as forgetting to release it when the light turns green or releasing it too slowly and getting honked at by the cars behind. On flat ground, the foot brake is entirely adequate for parking; if on a slope, I’ll keep the brake pressed or shift into P to ensure the car doesn’t roll. New drivers may lack experience, but with a few more practices, it’ll become smoother. Remember to relax your foot once the car is fully stopped—no need to keep pressing, which saves fuel and protects the parts.
From a safety perspective, engaging the handbrake at traffic lights is not mandatory. I've researched this, and using the foot brake is sufficient for brief stops—it allows for immediate response when starting off. For prolonged stops or on inclines, applying the handbrake can prevent the risk of rolling. Nowadays, many new cars come with electronic aids like the auto hold feature, which automatically holds the car in place, eliminating the need for manual operation. In summary, prioritize practicality and safety without adding unnecessary actions.
