NHTSA Pushes for Pedal Safety

Each year about 16,000 preventable car crashes happen as a result of pedal error that’s almost 44 incidents a day.

With the issue of a recent safety advisory, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is aiming to educate drivers about pedal safety and the grave dangers pedal errors can present.

Every day drivers mistake the gas pedal for the brake and accelerate forward out of control. If you or a loved one has been injured in this type, or any other kind, of auto accident, contact a Fort Worth injury lawyer at Anderson, Cummings & Drawhorn to discuss your claim. Call (817) 920-9000 for a free consultation to see how we can help you.

Pedal errors occur when a driver pushes the accelerator instead of the brake, when their foot slips off the brake onto the accelerator, or when they step on both the accelerator and the brake at the same time.

Generally, pedal errors are most common when vehicles are traveling at slow speeds in areas like a parking lot or driveway and leave almost no time for correction once the driver realizes what is happening.

The NHTSA has a few suggestions to help prevent pedal error accidents:

• Get familiar with your vehicle, specifically the seat, mirrors, steering wheel and pedals and make sure that they are properly adjusted for you.
• Aim for the middle of the brake or accelerator pedal to establish a good habit for confident braking or accelerating.
• Avoid distractions and always keep your focus on the road until your vehicle is in the parked position and turned off.
• Be cautious in tight spaces like parking lots where pedal errors often occur.
• Wear the right shoes when driving. Flip-flops, clunky boots and high heels can contribute to pedal error.

Accidents caused by pedal errors and sudden acceleration can often lead to injuries. If you become injured because of another drivers error, our Fort Worth auto accident lawyers can help get you the compensation you deserve.

Call (817) 920-9000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form.