I’m a driving instructor… you should stop using the handbrake in traffic – but there’s a very important exception
A DRIVING instructor has revealed why you should stop using your handbrake when stopping in traffic.
Richard, from Conquer Driving, posted a clip to his YouTube channel explaining why the common practice is actually a major mistake.
Explaining his view, he said: “I’m more likely to be rear-ended when I get my pupils to use the handbrake while waiting in traffic.
“With all the things going through new drivers’ heads, taking the handbrake off is an extra thing.
“They’re more likely to stall…the car starts to move forwards and then it stalls and stops without the brake lights going on.”
Being involved in an accident, especially being hit from the rear, can cause significant damage to your car.
From shattered windows, to bent bumper or even warped exhausts, collisions can leave you with a hefty repair bill.
In most cases, this will likely be covered by your insurance but there’s no guarantee.
Replacing a rear window can cost up to £350, while if any major structural damage occurs, the costs can run up into the thousands.
Richard also warned of a particular risk to those driving a specific type of motor.
Automatic cars can be damaged by using the hand brake rather than the foot brake.
He explained: “Some autos, if you leave them in drive…and you apply the handbrake…the car’s going to try and creep forwards.
“If it’s a clutch-based system this is going to damage the clutch quickly and leading to an expensive repair bill.
“If you’re driving an auto…make sure you select either neutral first or park and then put on the handbrake.
However, he did give an exception to the rule, advising drivers to use the handbrake while driving at night, especially in wet weather.
This is because the rear brake lights can dazzle drivers behind you, particularly in low-light conditions.
Using the handbrake in this scenario allows you to remain stationary without your brake lights remaining on.
Just always use the foot brake to slow down beforehand so that the lights will be activated and warn others of your intention to come to a halt.
Social media commenters were amazed by revelation.
One wrote: “In Ireland you still get marked for not using the handbrake if you stop for more than 10-ish seconds.”
Another added: “I had a very strong feeling that this was a good idea.”
It comes after a car cleaning expert revealed a huge mistake drivers make when washing their vehicles with water.
Meanwhile, it’s the final chance for BMW drivers to claim compensation over the Dieselgate scandal.