Left-foot braking

Left-foot braking is the technique of using the left foot to operate the brake pedal in an automobile, leaving the right foot dedicated to the throttle pedal. It contrasts with the normal practice of the left foot operating the clutch pedal, and the right foot operating the brake and accelerator pedals.

Left-foot braking

At its most basic purpose, left-foot braking can be used to decrease the time spent between the right foot moving between the brake and throttle pedals. It can also be used to control load transfer.

However, the technique is strongly discouraged in driving on public roads as it can contribute to potentially dangerous driving mistakes.

This practice is not recommended while driving on public roads.

Instead, drivers are advised to use the right foot for both acceleration and braking. The primary reason for this is that there is never any situation in a car with an automatic transmission where it is safe or necessary to apply both brake and throttle at the same time. Using one foot for both ensures that the driver can only operate one pedal.

Additionally, in emergency braking situations, it is common for the driver to extend both legs in a panic reaction. If the right foot is on the throttle, this will cause unwanted and potentially dangerous acceleration.

Most manufacturers of cars with automatic transmissions provide the car with a rest for the driver's left foot so the right foot may be used exclusively for throttle and braking.

Also, when the left foot is often used for depressing the clutch pedal this generally requires more force than operating the brake. A driver accustomed to applying this amount of force may unexpectedly slow down to an unsafe speed when attempting to use the left-foot braking technique.

Using the left foot for braking can also cause confusion when switching to or from a vehicle with a manual transmission because of the differing roles of the left foot.

In addition, many modern vehicles use a "Drive By Wire" or Electronic throttle control system instead of the traditional mechanical throttle linkage. These systems have a safety interlock that prevents left foot braking. The car's ECU can detect when both pedals are pressed simultaneously and will immediately cut the engine power for safety reasons.

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