Which One is the Accelerator and Which One is the Brake?
2 Answers
For left-hand drive vehicles, the pedal on the far right is the accelerator, and the one to its left is the brake pedal. Below is more information about the accelerator and brake: 1. Both the brake and accelerator are controlled by the same foot, typically the right foot. 2. This design is for safety reasons, as it increases safety in emergency situations when people tend to panic. 3. When pressing the brake or accelerator, the body needs support to maintain balance. The left foot can stabilize the body on the floor while the right foot operates the pedals. 4. If both feet are placed on the brake and accelerator separately, they would be in a semi-suspended state without a stable point of force, making it easy to cause instability when pressing the accelerator or brake.
When I first started learning to drive, I really couldn't tell the difference between the accelerator and the brake. Once, while starting on the roadside, I wanted to move slowly but stepped on the wrong pedal, causing the car to lurch forward suddenly—fortunately, there was open space ahead. Later, I learned: the accelerator is for speeding up; pressing it makes the car go faster. It's usually located on the far right of the right foot, like a small pedal. The brake is for slowing down or stopping; pressing it slows or halts the car. It's positioned on the far left or slightly behind on the right foot and feels stiffer, requiring more force. Beginners often mix them up, especially when flustered, which can lead to serious accidents. My suggestion is to practice multiple times in an empty parking lot first, even barefoot, to feel the difference in pedal pressure and position. Alternatively, mark them—make the accelerator smoother and the brake rougher. With habit, it'll become second nature. Safety first—don't rush.
