2005 Dodge Dakota Owner Manual - Page 200
2005 Dodge Dakota Manual
Page 200 highlights
200 STARTING AND OPERATING WARNING! Your vehicle could move and injure you and others if it is not completely in P (Park). Check by trying to move the gearshift lever back and forth without first pulling the lever toward you, after you have set it in P (Park). Make sure it is in Park before leaving the vehicle. WARNING! It is dangerous to shift the selector lever out of "P" or "N" if the engine speed is higher than idle speed. If your foot is not firmly on the brake pedal, the vehicle could accelerate quickly forward or in reverse. You could lose control of the vehicle and hit someone or something. Only shift into gear when the engine is idling normally and when your right foot is firmly on the brake pedal. "R" Reverse Use this range only after the vehicle has come to a complete stop. WARNING! Never use Park position on an automatic transmission as a substitute for the parking brake. Always apply parking brake fully when parked to guard against vehicle movement and possible injury or damage.