Abstract: A latch assembly for vehicles is disclosed for securing engine hoods, trunk lids, or other pivotal members to fixed portions of a vehicle. The assembly includes a primary latch preferably releasable from a remote position within the vehicle, and a secondary latch to hold the pivotal member only partially open after release of the primary latch. A secondary latch release handle is mounted for automatic movement into the gap between the partially opened pivotal member and the fixed vehicle portion for easy, convenient access outside the pivotal member to release the secondary latch to fully open the pivotal member. A safety retaining arm is included to hold the pivotal member partially closed even if the fasteners for the latch assembly loosen or fail.