Learner Driver Right foot position

3. THE RIGHT FOOT POSITION

A very obscure fault in many drivers is the incorrect position of the right foot over the accelerator and brake pedals.

It may seem an insignificant issue, but in an emergency the right foot plays a vital role, if it pushes the wrong pedal in a critical moment:

The correct position over the brake:

Correct position over accelerator:

The heel rests on the floor. The right foot points upward above the brake pedal. When using the brake, apply pressure in the center of the pedal with the ball of your foot.

To reach the accelerator, leave the heel on the floor and swivel the right foot to an angle of 45 - 60 degrees. (Never use both feet driving an automatic vehicle!)

Why this positioning is so important!

The brain will naturally associate the accelerator when the foot is angled as shown above right. Likewise, in the north-south position (above left) the brain knows it's in 'brake mode'.

Novices and elderly drivers are far less likely to confuse these pedals, which happens regularly with disastrous consequences. The news regularly reports of out-of-control vehicles that crashed, after a confused driver pressed the incorrect pedal! (See also Novice Learner in Crash Investigations).

Approaching a hazard, which is anything that could develop into an emergency, alert drivers 'cover the brake'. Having the right foot above the brake not only reduces speed, but also the total stopping distance during an emergency.

If only a saving of 1/4 of a second is achieved, driving at 60 km/h, it reduces total stopping distance by 4.16 meters, the length of a car, much more at higher speeds. The right foot in the right position at the right time may avoid a crash. (See Section 33).

Experienced drivers cover the brake frequently and naturally. Learner drivers must be taught this basic skill right from the beginning.

Another fault is using the toes to press the brake. This position does not achieve the same level of control. In wet weather, shoes could be wet and may slip off the pedal.

Always wear proper footwear for driving. Never drive barefoot. Avoid slip-ons without heel strap or flip flops. (Licence examiners may refuse to conduct a driving test if the applicant does not wear safe shoes for driving.)

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Our information could vary in your part of the world. We recommend you use above information in conjunction with a professional driving instructor.

Road Safety by Dieter Fischer 2001 - Learner Driver Hub 2020.