In the event of a collision in which the activation level is reached for the pyrotechnic seatbelt tensioners or airbags, or if a collision with a large animal is detected, the car’s brakes are automatically applied. This function is to prevent or reduce the effects of any subsequent collision. After a serious collision, there is a risk that it is no longer possible to control and steer the car. In order to avoid or mitigate a possible further collision with a vehicle or an object in the vehicle’s path, the auto-braking system is activated automatically and brakes the car in a safe manner. Brake lights and hazard warning lights are activated during braking. When the car has stopped, the hazard warning lights continue to flash and the parking brake is applied. If braking is not appropriate, e.g. if there is a risk of being hit by the following traffic, the system can be overridden by the driver depressing the accelerator pedal. The function assumes that the brake system is intact after the collision.