No, it’s not likely that your accelerator will stick as your driving down the road, but let’s take a look at what you need to know to get though this in the safest way possible…just in case

1. DON’T Panic!  – This is easier said than done, I know, but the key to not panicking is knowing what to do and what NOT to do. That’s what we’re trying to help you with here!
2. Apply firm, steady break pressure.  Pumping the breaks is bad advice because it drains off the vacuum used by your power breaks.  Once the vacuum is gone, the power assisted breaking is gone.
3. Attempt to shift the car in neutral.  Shifting the car into neutral will remove the power from the wheels.  Once in neutral the engine will not be able to propel the car.  Once the engine isn’t pushing the wheels you should be able to use your breaks as normal to bring the car to a stop in a safe place.  On most vehicles this is a mechanical link, so it is likely to be an option even if the accelerator is stuck…if it’s a mechanical defect like a floor matt that causing the pedal to stick or if it’s a software issue that’s causing the unintended acceleration.
4. If that fails, turn off the vehicle at the ignition.  Turn the key to the ACC or Accessory position.  This is the position that lets you listen to the radio and use the power windows with the engine starting.  This will shut off the engine, remove power from the wheels, and let you stop the car safely.

Notes, Tips, and other Items to be Aware Of:

KEEP STEERING – On cars with power breaks and/or power steering, if the engine is not running the power assist will not work.  This will make the steering stiffer and heavier and will make that breaks more difficult to use…but they will work.  Think of the “good ‘ole days” when all cars has no power breaks or power steering…it’s still works, it just takes a bit more elbow grease.
READ – Read your owners manual and get familiar with your manufactures recommended emergency procedures.  Some vehicles are equipped with  special emergency override that you should get familiar with…before you need them.  For example, some vehicles have an emergency override system that will kill the engine if the breaks and accelerator is pushed at the same time.  Some vehicles with push button ignition have a safety mechanism where buy pushing and holding the START button for 3 seconds or more the engine will be shutdown.
DON’T pump the break.  Even, firm, consistent break pressure is the key. In the days before AntiLock Breaks drivers we told to pump the break to help maintain control in a slide.  With the advent of ABS the breaking system handles this for the driver (and much more efficiently than a human can, I might add.)  Modern cars will perform better at stopping when steady, firm, consistent pressure is used.
DON’T remove the key from the ignition.  Doing so will cause the steering wheel to lock!  Then you have TWO problems to contend with.

DON’T drive the car again until it has been looked at by a knowledgeable mechanic.

This is an uncommon, but dangerous situation.  Knowing what to do and what not to do could make the difference in an emergency.

What has your experience been ?  Let us know in the comments section below.

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