SHAH ALAM - Mistakenly pressing the accelerator instead of the brake can have fatal consequences, but such incidents can be avoided with proper driving techniques and awareness.
Automotive analyst and NASS&CO Media founder Nazz Abdullah said correct foot positioning is critical in ensuring safe control of a vehicle and preventing confusion between the accelerator and brake pedals.
“This method not only helps improve driving control but also reduces the risk of mistakenly pressing the wrong pedal, which can lead to unwanted incidents.
“If a pedal error occurs, the recommended immediate action is to lift the foot completely (reset foot position) before pressing the correct pedal.
“At the same time, the driver can shift the gear to ‘Neutral’ to cut off engine power to the wheels,” he told Sinar.
He explained that drivers should keep the heel of their right foot near the brake pedal as a stable base, while using only the front part of the foot to switch between pedals.
Nazz was commenting on a recent incident in Kota Bharu where a Form One student was killed and her friend seriously injured after being struck by a vehicle believed to have accelerated unintentionally in front of a school surau.
He added that footwear plays a significant role in pedal control, warning that high heels or slippery shoes can increase the risk of slipping, while worn-out pedals or driving in socks may also reduce stability.
From a safety technology perspective, he highlighted systems such as the Brake Override System (Bos), which cuts engine power when both pedals are pressed simultaneously, helping to stop the vehicle in emergencies.
“The Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) system can also assist by detecting obstacles ahead and braking automatically, although its effectiveness depends on distance, speed and the clarity of sensors or cameras.
“Other contributing factors include the use of unsuitable car mats. While it may seem trivial, it can cause accidents, as can objects such as water bottles that may roll and obstruct the brake pedal,” he said.
He stressed that awareness, proper driving techniques and preventive measures remain essential in reducing the risk of such accidents.