The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recently put out an advisory notice regarding gas and brake pedal errors. According to the NHTSA, pedal errors cause roughly 16,000 preventable crashes a year and it’s not only teen drivers who are making footing mistakes.

In the majority of cases, the safety agency says pedal-error crashes occur when people are driving at low speed in areas like driveways, parking lots and highway ramp exits. They also frequently occur at intersections, as well. While drivers 20 and younger and 65 and older are approximately four times more likely to confuse pedals, the NHTSA recommends that all drivers follow a few guidelines to avoid errors and reinforce their pedal-foot muscle memory.

Driving a new vehicle? Place your foot on the gas and brake pedals to familiarize yourself with their locations.

Hit the middle of the brake pedal. If you aim your foot for the middle of the brake pedal, the NHTSA says it’ll help increase your foot’s muscle memory.

Stay attentive even near the end of your drives. Don’t let your mind start to wander just because you’re nearing the end of your commute. Avoid distractions until you are safely at your location with the car turned off.

Do you sometimes backup at high speed? Instead, slow down and move with caution when backing out of parking spots and when pulling in.

Bring an extra pair of shoes if you need to. Make sure you drive with safe footwear. Avoid heels, heavy boots and flip-flops, which the NHTSA says contribute to pedal-confusion accidents.

For more information about pedal errors, refer to the NHTSA safety notice here.

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