Labels:text | screenshot OCR: The handbrake is usually floor-mounted behind the gear lever. Its purpose is to hold the vehicle still when it has stopped. The handbrake usually acts upon the rear wheels only and is not designed to be used on a moving vehicle. Most handbrakes have a locking/release button at their end. In some cars the handbrake also acts upon the front wheels. Handbrake On Handbrake Off The handbrake should always be put fully on especially on vehicles that are parked on a gradient. Handbrake Use of the handbrake is vital on hill starts Video to avoid the vehicle rolling back and into following vehicles. The handbrake is applied and the gear lever put in neutral when the vehicle is stopped at a junction or when queuing behind other vehicles. Also known as the parking brake.