Should You Engage the Handbrake or Shift to Neutral First When Pulling Over?
2 Answers
When parking, you should engage the handbrake first and then shift to neutral. Here are the details: 1. The correct parking sequence: After the car comes to a complete stop, first engage the handbrake, then shift to neutral, release the clutch, finally release the brake and turn off the turn signal, shut off the engine, press the clutch, and finally shift into first gear. 2. Reasons: Engaging the handbrake first ensures the car is securely parked; shifting to neutral prevents the car from moving or stalling when the engine is running; shifting into first gear after shutting off the engine is to prevent the car from moving due to a broken handbrake cable or excessive slope, as the first gear's teeth will lock the car in place.
When it comes to pulling over, after teaching driving for so many years, I always emphasize that safety comes first. You must engage the handbrake first to prevent the vehicle from accidentally rolling, especially on slopes or slippery roads. For example, novice drivers often get nervous when parking—if they shift to neutral first and accidentally release the brake too soon, the car could roll and hit something or someone. After firmly engaging the handbrake, then shift to neutral to relieve the transmission, as this sequence maximizes protection for yourself and others. In real-world driving, I’ve seen many people neglect this order, leading to minor accidents. Developing good habits also helps you react quickly in emergencies, making the entire parking process more stable. In short, safety first—don’t skip steps.
