A handbrake turn is also commonly known as a bootleg or bootlegger's turn. This distinctive driving maneuver is recognized by these alternative names in various automotive and driving contexts.
Understanding the Handbrake Turn
The bootleg turn is a specialized driving technique designed to deliberately slide a car sideways. This is typically done for two primary purposes: to quickly negotiate a very tight bend or to turn a vehicle around efficiently within an area much smaller than its standard turning diameter. It is an advanced skill that requires precise timing and control.
Alternative Terminology
While "bootleg" and "bootlegger's turn" are the most direct alternative names, the technique is often discussed in broader terms related to vehicle control and advanced driving.
- Bootleg Turn: The primary alternative name, often referencing the historical use of such maneuvers by bootleggers to evade authorities.
- Bootlegger's Turn: A slightly longer variation of the bootleg turn, conveying the same meaning and historical context.
How the Technique Works (Briefly)
At its core, a handbrake turn involves momentarily locking the rear wheels of a vehicle using the handbrake (also known as the emergency brake or parking brake) while simultaneously steering into the turn. This causes the rear of the car to lose traction and swing out, allowing the driver to change the car's direction rapidly.
Key elements typically include:
- Approaching the turn at a moderate speed.
- Depressing the clutch (in manual transmission vehicles) or shifting to neutral (in automatics) to disengage the drivetrain.
- Applying the handbrake firmly and briefly to lock the rear wheels.
- Steering sharply into the direction of the desired turn.
- Releasing the handbrake and counter-steering to regain control as the car aligns.
Practical Applications and Context
This maneuver is not part of everyday driving but finds its utility in specific scenarios:
- Motorsports: Particularly prevalent in rally driving, where drivers frequently encounter tight hairpins and need to maintain speed through challenging turns. The ability to execute a precise bootleg turn can shave valuable seconds off stage times. Learn more about rally driving techniques here.
- Stunt Driving: Often featured in action films, car chases, and live stunt shows for dramatic effect and to showcase driver skill.
- Emergency Maneuvers (Controlled Environment): In highly controlled and safe environments, understanding this technique can be a last resort for quickly changing direction to avoid an obstacle when conventional braking and steering are insufficient.
- Driver Training: Advanced driver training courses, especially those focusing on vehicle dynamics and skid control, might include variations of this technique to teach car control and recovery. For insights into advanced driving, check out resources like The Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM RoadSmart).
Safety and Skill Considerations
It is crucial to emphasize that performing a handbrake turn is an advanced and potentially dangerous maneuver. It should only be attempted by experienced drivers in controlled environments, such as closed courses or professional training facilities, and never on public roads. Incorrect execution can lead to loss of control, damage to the vehicle, or serious accidents. Modern vehicles with advanced stability control systems may also make this technique more difficult or impossible to perform reliably.
