Here's How to Reduce the Risk of Accidentally Pressing the Wrong Pedal in an Automatic Car

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - Driving an automatic car is indeed more practical. However, the position of the driver’s feet while driving is often considered trivial by some drivers.

Apparently, this small habit greatly determines safety, especially when performing slow maneuvers such as parking, turning around, or driving through narrow areas.

Incorrect foot placement while driving an automatic car can trigger accidental pedal misapplication. This often happens to novice drivers who panic when the vehicle moves out of control.

“Make it a habit for the driver’s foot to always be ready in front of the brake pedal. Move to the accelerator pedal only when needed to drive slowly,” said Sony to Kompas.com, Friday (15/5/2026).

Sony explained that when the vehicle is moving at low speed, the driver’s control must be more precise and focused. This is because a panic situation can cause the brain to send the wrong signals to the foot.

As a result, the driver, intending to brake, ends up pressing the accelerator pedal harder. This causes the car to accelerate uncontrollably and is difficult to stop quickly.

In addition to foot position, Sony also emphasized the importance of focus while driving. Drivers must ensure that what they see and what their brain processes remains consistent with the actual conditions on the road.

“Focus while driving to ensure that what you see and what is sent to the brain makes sense. This prevents errors in giving commands when pressing the pedals,” he said.

Automatic car drivers, especially beginners, are advised not to rely solely on the ease of automatic transmission. Basic habits such as foot position and pedal control still need to be practiced so that driving reflexes become better.

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