Handbrake ("parking brake")

This is either a switch (which operates a motor) or a lever (which pulls a cable). These apply brakes to the rear wheels. For both types, up = On; down = Off. The switch type automatically goes off when you add power. (Take it off manually if you need to move very slowly).

Use the handbrake in traffic "when a pause becomes a wait", so that :

• You don’t roll accidentally
• You can’t be pushed into pedestrians, the next car, or other traffic
• You don't dazzle followers with your brake lights (especially at night, or in rain)
• You can put your right foot over the power pedal, to move off faster
• You can "set gas" (in a manual car), to move off faster
  
• You can be sure you have "the biting point" (in a manual car)
• You can relax your right foot