Vehicle Stunts: How to Pull Off Jaw‑Dropping Moves Safely

Ever watched a car fly through a tunnel or spin around a tight corner and wonder how it’s done? Vehicle stunts are a mix of skill, timing, and the right equipment. You don’t need a movie set to try simple tricks, but you do need a solid foundation. Below we break down the basics, safety gear, and a few pro‑level moves you can practice on a closed track.

Basic Stunt Techniques Every Driver Should Know

Start with the fundamentals: the hand‑brake drift and the brake‑turn. Both rely on locking the rear wheels just enough to break traction, then steering into the slide. Practice in a wide, empty parking lot at low speeds. Pull the hand‑brake, turn the wheel, and let the car gently spin. The key is a smooth release – too abrupt and you’ll spin out, too slow and the car won’t break traction.

Next, try a power‑slide. Accelerate into a corner, then quickly lift off the throttle and snap the wheel opposite to the turn. The car’s weight shifts, and the rear end slides out. This move is common in rally and street‑legal video games, but on real roads it can be dangerous, so keep it to a closed circuit.

If you want to add a little air, the basic “jump” is a controlled lift over a small ramp. Position the car at a shallow angle, hit the throttle, and let the suspension rise. Never attempt a jump without safety barriers and a landing area free of obstacles. Even a modest hop can feel thrilling when done right.

Safety Gear and Precautions for High‑Risk Stunts

Safety isn’t an afterthought – it’s the first step. A good racing helmet, fire‑retardant suit, and a five‑point harness protect you if things go wrong. Roll cages and reinforced chassis add structural safety for high‑speed rolls or impacts.

Inspect your car before every session. Check tire pressure, brake fluid, and suspension wear. Worn parts can fail mid‑stunt, turning a fun practice into a costly accident. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby; fuel leaks happen faster than you think.

Never perform stunts on public roads. Traffic, pedestrians, and law enforcement make it illegal and unsafe. Seek out a local motor club, track day event, or rented skid‑pad. These venues provide clean surfaces, emergency staff, and the freedom to push limits without endangering others.

Finally, record your attempts. A dash cam or smartphone on a suction mount captures the action and helps you spot mistakes. Review the footage, adjust your technique, and repeat. Progress comes from small, measured improvements, not one‑off daring jumps.

Vehicle stunts blend adrenaline with discipline. Master the basics, gear up properly, and always respect the limits of your car and environment. With practice, you’ll turn simple slides into crowd‑pleasing performances – all while staying safe on the track.

Do they wreck real cars in the movies?
Darius Hennington 11 July 2023

Do they wreck real cars in the movies?

Have you ever wondered if real cars get wrecked in movie scenes? Well, the answer is yes and no. In many cases, filmmakers use inexpensive or mock-up models that are designed for destruction. However, sometimes, especially for high-budget films, real cars are used and effectively destroyed during shooting. It all depends on the needs of the shot and the budget of the film.