They are moments which command great attention in the media when they happen — a vehicle inexplicably “runs away,” out of control, on its driver. Often these incidents spark social media frenzies with keyboard speculators offering every possible explanation as to what went wrong even before the actual investigation has finished.

The odds of you having a runaway event though are about akin to winning the lottery. They do happen, but in relation to the other safety threats a driver may face, the chances are extremely small.

We’ve all read or heard stories of runaway cars though — vehicles that suddenly accelerate or refuse to slow down no matter what the driver does. They are terrifying and over the years have led to recalls, lawsuits and debates about technology and human error. Understanding what causes cars to run away is the key to respond safely if it ever happens.

Runaway vehicle moments usually fall into three categories: mechanical failures. electronic glitches or driver error.

Before the era of computer controlled engines, cars used mechanical cables and linkages to control the throttle. These could stick, fray or jam, holding the throttle open. Floor mates were another........

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