A bad engine is better than a dead wife.....well, for most people.
The steering can lock. If you turn the key back one click. Best thing is to put in neutral, turn the engine off, then immediately turning the key forward to unlock the steering.
All cars will be able to stop once or twice with power brakes....as long as the reserve is in good working order. Usually is.
If the reserve is used up, you just have manual brakes. Some people aren't use to that. There is also the E-brake.
In terms of WOT, most cars should hit their rev limiter. I think you would be surprised how long a modern engine can operate at WOT with the limiter.