In a scenario where a vehicle's accelerator is stuck and the driver cannot slow down, what should the dispatcher advise the caller to do to stop the vehicle safely?

• A. Stop the vehicle by turning off the engine
• B. Steer toward the nearest exit and coast to a stop
• C. Call for police and leave the scene
• D. Brake firmly and steer to a safe stop

Answer: (D)

When a vehicle’s accelerator is stuck, your priority is to regain control and bring the car to a safe stop quickly. Applying the brakes firmly and continuously uses the car’s friction to reduce speed, while steering toward a safe area away from traffic gives you a controlled path to stop. Turning off the engine can remove power assist for both braking and steering, making it harder to control the vehicle. Coasting to a stop without braking lets you stay at higher speeds longer and increases danger. Calling for police or leaving the scene doesn’t address the immediate risk to you and others, and leaving the scene is illegal. So brake firmly and steer to a safe stop.