What Are the Consequences of Forgetting to Engage the Handbrake When Parking?
2 Answers
Forgetting to engage the handbrake when parking can easily lead to a vehicle rollaway accident. The handbrake is used to brake when parking on flat ground or slopes, preventing the car from moving automatically when unattended, thereby avoiding traffic accidents. Here are some precautions for using the handbrake: 1. When stuck in traffic on a slope, do not forget to engage the handbrake. During daily driving, it is best to maintain a certain distance from other vehicles. If the car starts to roll backward, immediately take corrective measures such as stepping on the foot brake or pulling the handbrake. 2. The handbrake cannot replace the foot brake during high-speed driving. When driving at high speeds, try to use intermittent braking to stop the vehicle. Do not forcibly stop the car using the handbrake while driving at high speeds. 3. Driving with the handbrake engaged causes significant wear to the brakes. Before driving, always check if the handbrake is released. Continuously monitor the dashboard for warning lights to avoid driving with the handbrake engaged.
The most direct consequence of forgetting to engage the parking brake is that the vehicle may roll away. Once, I parked on a slope and forgot to set the handbrake. As soon as I got out of the car, I noticed it slowly sliding toward the roadside and hitting a guardrail. Not only did the bumper crack, costing a lot in repairs, but if there had been pedestrians or other vehicles nearby, it could have led to a serious accident. Even worse, in a crowded parking lot, forgetting to engage the handbrake could result in your car rolling into a neighbor's vehicle, leading to disputes or compensation claims. That's why I've made it a habit to always engage the parking brake when parking, especially on slopes or uneven surfaces. Although it may seem like a small thing, the consequences can be severe. A car won't stay put on its own—safety always comes first.
