In Ontario, what is the correct action to check the parking brake?

Answer: D — Put the vehicle in gear while the parking brake is on

The correct action to check the parking brake is to put the vehicle in gear while the parking brake is on. This method tests the effectiveness of the parking brake. When the vehicle is in gear, if the parking brake is functioning properly, the vehicle should not roll or move. This action is a safety measure that confirms the parking brake is capable of holding the vehicle in place, especially on inclines or uneven surfaces. Using this technique allows the driver to evaluate whether the parking brake can adequately prevent the vehicle from moving, which is crucial for ensuring safety when parking. By maintaining the vehicle in place, it demonstrates that the brake system is operational and reliable. The other options involve actions that could potentially be unsafe or do not properly test the parking brake. For example, accelerating while the brake is engaged isn't a practical or safe way to get information about the brake's functionality. Similarly, applying the parking brake while driving at low speeds could lead to sudden stops or loss of control, which is not a recommended practice.