Delaware Driver Education State Practice Test

If your gas pedal sticks, what should you do?

1. Shift to neutral to slow down

2. Turn off the ignition

3. Brake and steer off the road

4. Press down harder on the pedals

The correct answer is: Shift to neutral to slow down

Shifting to neutral is a crucial response when dealing with a stuck gas pedal. By doing this, you disengage the engine from the wheels, which allows the vehicle to slow down without further accelerating. This action prevents power from being transmitted to the wheels and helps regain control of the vehicle. While turning off the ignition might seem like a viable option, it can lead to the loss of steering and braking assistance if done at high speeds, making it a less advisable choice. Braking and steering off the road could be useful in some situations, but if the gas pedal is stuck, the vehicle may not respond appropriately, making it difficult to slow down enough or maneuver safely. Pressing down harder on the pedals can exacerbate the problem, causing the car to accelerate even more, which further endangers the driver and others on the road. Thus, shifting to neutral is the safest and most effective first step to take when encountering a stuck gas pedal, allowing the driver to manage the situation more effectively.