What is the correct sequence between engaging the handbrake and shifting gears when driving?
3 Answers
When driving, you should first shift into gear and then engage the handbrake. Below are some important driving precautions: 1. Maintain a safe distance: It is crucial to keep an appropriate distance from vehicles in front and behind you. If the distance is too short, it may lead to rear-end collisions in emergency situations. Conversely, maintaining a sufficient distance can help prevent such accidents. Ensuring a safe gap between vehicles provides reaction time in case of unexpected events. 2. Proper use of lights: While driving, adjust your psychological readiness. Some drivers may not react promptly to emergencies. High beams, with their intense light, aid in quicker responses and improve visibility of the vehicle ahead. It is advisable not to drive too fast on highways. Additionally, always control your speed appropriately and use car lights flexibly and appropriately.
From a safety perspective, when parking, I always shift into P (Park) for automatic transmissions or neutral for manual transmissions first, then firmly engage the handbrake. This prevents the car from rolling on slopes and avoids mechanical damage or accidents caused by relying solely on the transmission for support. Before starting the car, I make it a habit to press the foot brake pedal, fully release the handbrake, and only then shift into D (Drive) or R (Reverse); getting the sequence wrong can easily lead to loss of vehicle control or sudden lurching forward. When parking on steep slopes, I also turn the steering wheel towards the curb for added security. Developing this habit has kept me accident-free for over a decade of driving. It's also important to regularly check the handbrake's tension and the transmission's condition—don't wait until minor issues become major repairs.
As a car enthusiast, I pay attention to the operation sequence to protect my beloved vehicle: when parking, first shift into P or neutral gear, then engage the handbrake, so the transmission won't bear pressure under the vehicle's weight; for automatic transmissions, if you shift into P before pulling the handbrake, the gear will stick when disengaging, causing long-term damage. The starting procedure is equally crucial—releasing the handbrake before shifting can lead to power shock and damage the drivetrain, so I always press the brake, release the handbrake, and then shift. Manual transmission cars follow a similar principle—park in neutral and engage the handbrake to prevent clutch wear. Good habits extend a vehicle's lifespan. When parking on slopes, I test the handbrake's grip multiple times to ensure stability. During monthly maintenance, I always check these steps—small details make a big difference.
