[ramblerdan]

Let's please avoid fruitless debate over whether the hand brake is for parking or emergencies. Clearly people use it for both. If you're moving along and try to slow down but the brake pedal goes to the floor, are you going to say, "Well I'd grab that handle, but it's only for parking"?

 

[ramblerdan]

I can only repeat my previous point: If the hydraulic brakes fail, is it better to use the hand brake, or to crash?

Nomenclature aside, the important thing, which surely we all agree on, is that for safety, the hand-brake system should be maintained in correct working order. There are two adjustments, one at the wheel and one at the handle. The shoes should be adjusted first, then the cable tension if necessary.

 

[ramblerdan]

OK, no law says you must use all available resources in an emergency.

Of course every system should be maintained in proper condition. But the OP's question was about the hand brake.