A man's heartfelt plea for driver safety has captivated millions online after he shared a crucial tip born from personal tragedy.
A Tragic Loss Inspires a Public Warning
Aaron Brown took to the social media platform TikTok last week with a vital message for all drivers, spurred by the death of a childhood friend in a car accident he believes was preventable. His emotional video, which has amassed over 19 million views, details what to do if you find yourself in a 'runaway car' – a vehicle accelerating uncontrollably due to a mechanical malfunction.
"One of my friends that I grew up with passed away in a car crash," Brown began in the clip. "I read how she passed away and it made me so sad because I know if I was in that car, that she would still be alive. Because of that, I want to tell you what you can do to stay alive if you have a runaway vehicle."
The Critical Step Every Driver Must Know
Brown explained that the instinct for many when faced with a stuck accelerator is to focus on steering. However, he insists this is the wrong approach. The correct and potentially life-saving action is far simpler.
"If your accelerator on your car sticks and you got a sticky gas pedal, don't try to steer," he advised. "Your engine is running away [but] your transmission is not. If you have a runaway car, to save your life, grab your shifter and put your shifter into neutral."
He elaborated that this action disconnects the engine's power from the wheels. "Your transmission will be in neutral. No torque from the engine will go into your transmission. Your engine will be revving, doing its own thing, but it will not be driving your wheels. Your vehicle will be able to slow down and you can use your brakes."
Expert Advice Confirms the Simple Fix
This guidance is supported by motoring experts. Organisations like Consumer Reports have long advised drivers facing uncontrollable acceleration to brake firmly but avoid pumping the brakes.
Critically, they also warn against turning off the ignition immediately, as this can disable power steering and brake assistance. The recommended procedure is to first shift the transmission into neutral, steer to a safe location, come to a complete stop, and only then shut off the engine.
Brown concluded his video with a hope that his friend's death would not be in vain. "Her death was very tragic and I just wanted to put this out there and hopefully someone will see this and will learn how to save their life," he said. "All it takes - grab that shifter and put it in neutral. That's it. It's no longer driving. The car will begin to slow down. Slam on your brakes after you've done that and you will be OK."
