Vehicle pedal assembly

The present invention generally relates to vehicle pedal assemblies and, more particularly, to a pedal assembly, such as a brake pedal assembly, that is releasable from a normal operative condition upon imposition of a frontal load to an automotive vehicle. A brake pedal assembly for a vehicle includes a pedal and a foot pad operatively engageable by the operator of a vehicle. The pedal assembly also includes a collapsible push rod or ′ connected between the lever and a hydraulic actuator assembly . The push rod and ′ includes a first rod member telescopically engaged with a second rod member and collapsible relative one to the other upon experiencing a force greater than a predetermined amount of force. The pedal assembly further includes a connector assembly comprising an inertial mass for preventing collapse of the push rod or ′ during normal vehicle operation, and movable to a second position to allow for collapse of the push rod or ′ upon experiencing a predetermined deceleration. Accordingly, the pedal assembly reduces forces that may otherwise be transferred to the operator of the vehicle during a collision.