Image source: brturbo.com
Sudden
Unintended Acceleration is a dangerous automotive condition wherein the vehicle
experiences unintended, unexpected and in most cases uncontrollable
acceleration. Although the phenomenon is rare, it is a potentially dangerous
one, especially on congested roads, high speed cruising conditions, etc.
Possible Reasons for Sudden Unintended Acceleration
Possible Reasons for Sudden Unintended Acceleration
- Pedal misapplication
- Stuck throttle
- Unresponsive pedals
- Electronic Throttle Control Failure
- Poor Pedal Placement
- Absence of Shift Interlock System
- Floor mat interference
As pedal misapplication is a human error and the driver has complete control over this situation, the remaining situations (where a human factor is not responsible for SUA) are dealt with.
In the initial stages of SUA never turn off the engine, as it disables the power assistance to your steering and brakes. On modern cars that require the vehicle to be in a parked position to shut down the engine, this would not be a problem. But for other cars never shut down the engine once you experience SUA, because some cars have an engine shut down knob that can switch off the engine irrespective of the vehicle position by pressing it for 3 seconds (for most cars it is 3 seconds). And never pump the brakes in case of Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS).
Steps to be followed during SUA
- Disengage the clutch i.e., push the clutch pedal all the way down and shift the transmission into neutral, doing so will definitely rev up your engine as the load on the engine has decreased. Don’t worry, as most car these days are equipped with rev limiters, that are included in the electronic circuitry that prevents revving up the engine to dangerously high rotational speeds. This step applies to automatic transmission too with the exception of the clutch part (obvious, but still for clarity).
- Alert the drivers behind you with hazard lights. Turn on the hazard lights even if the road is clear and there is no vehicle behind you.
- Try and steer your vehicle to a safe spot, be vigilant about the oncoming traffic.
- Apply brakes firmly, if you have to.
- Turn off the engine with the transmission in neutral (parking in case of automatic transmission).
- Engage the handbrake.
Step 1 is the most important of all, somehow getting your transmission into neutral. I suggest you commit these steps to memory and practice if possible.
Have a safe ride!
