With the recent recalls by Toyota in regards to the sticking accelerators. I am reminded of my own personal experience and I wanted to offer some advice on how to deal with this situation if it happens to you.
It was almost 12 years ago, I was traveling down the interstate going about 60 mph behind an 18 wheeler (I must mention that I was not driving a Toyota or a Toyota product). Within a matter of seconds, the accelerator left my foot and slammed itself to the floor board. The next thing I knew I was going over 90 mph and heading for the back of the rig. My first attempt was to apply the brakes, but all I got was a metal on metal sound with no results. I then, for some unknown reason, threw the car into neutral and slowly started to pull the emergency brake (which I now know is not the proper thing to do). At the same time I aimed for the shoulder of the highway and guided my car until it came to a complete stop. Talk about my heart racing faster than ever before.
Again with all the recalls that we are currently learning about, I really hope that my personal experience may just help someone. Below you will find the do's and the don'ts when dealing with a stuck accelerator.
Steps to remember if this occurs to you:
1.) Don't panic! I know that this is easier said than done, but it is extremely important to stay calm.
2.) Apply the brakes and place your car in "neutral"
3.) You will still be able to steer.
4.) Find a safe place to stop your car, out of traffic flow.
5.) Call for assistance and have your car inspected. Do not attempt to drive your car without having it looked at fully.
What not to do!!!
1.) Don't try to un-jam the accelerator
2.) Don't use the handbrake
3.) Don't pump the brakes
4.) Don't remove the key from the ignition until you've stopped
*****************************************
We proudly serve and sell real estate in and around all of Charleston, SC. If you are thinking about purchasing or selling your home in Charleston, Johns Island, James Island, Folly Beach, Kiawah Island, Seabrook Island, West Ashley, Mount Pleasant, Isle of Palms, Sullivans Island, North Charleston, Hanahan, Summerville, Goose Creek or other surrounding areas, and more importantly, want to work with a local area expert, contact us at your earliest convenience.
Jim and Maria Hart
Realtors®/ AgentOwned Realty
(843) 364-9845
hart@agentowned.com
Copyright © 2010 by Jim and Maria Hart (AgentOwned Realty).
*Photo courtesy of Henning Lind @ www.Flickr.com
Comments(17)