A recent study found that older women and people under the age of 20 are most likely to mistake the gas pedal for the brake, causing unintended acceleration. According to TheDetroitBureau.com, the majority of pedal misapplication cases take place in parking lots.
In contrast, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that almost two-thirds of all motor vehicle accidents are caused by male drivers. So, why are women more likely to mistake their pedals?
The study's authors noted, "possible explanations might include greater exposure by women where these crashes occur most often (parking lots); a poorer "fit" in their cars due to shorter stature, which may increase the likelihood of a pedal application error; or a disproportionately high rate of one or more functional deficits that contribute to pedal errors, such as neuropathy."
Due to the recent abundance of unintended acceleration claims, NHTSA has proposed that brake override systems be made mandatory on all new cars sold in the United States. The new regulations would require automakers to install brake-throttle override systems which would automatically cut power to the engine in the event a motorist inadvertently depressed both the brake and throttle at the same time.
“America’s drivers should feel confident that anytime they get behind the wheel they can easily maintain control of their vehicles — especially in the event of an emergency,” said U.S. Transportation “By updating our safety standards, we’re helping give drivers peace of mind that their brakes will work even if the gas pedal is stuck down while the driver is trying to brake,” Sec. LaHood declared.
We'd love to hear your feedback on unintended acceleration, if you've experienced it or find it to be a major danger on the road and what do you think of the brake override system? I feel confident that
the brake-throttle override system will significantly reduce the risk of unintended acceleration that occur when a driver has a stuck or trapped accelerator pedal. Car manufactures and technology are working to constantly prevent risks and improve the safety of our vehicles and everyone here at Greg May Honda is always on board for car safety!
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