What should you do if your brakes fail while driving?

When faced with brake failure while driving, the best course of action is to execute a combination of strategies to safely bring the vehicle to a stop. Each method serves a specific purpose in managing the situation effectively.

Shifting into neutral allows the engine to disengage from the wheels, reducing the likelihood of sudden acceleration that could occur with a stuck throttle. By steering off the road, you can safely navigate away from traffic and potential hazards, creating a safer environment to stop the vehicle.

Pumping the brakes quickly can potentially build up some braking pressure in hydraulic brake systems, which might help restore some functionality. If the failure isn't complete, this could provide enough brake response to reduce speed.

Using the emergency brake slowly is a vital step as it provides an additional means of slowing down or bringing the vehicle to a stop. Activating the emergency brake gradually helps prevent skidding, allowing you to maintain better control over the vehicle while you come to a halt.

Choosing all of these actions when faced with brake failure encompasses a comprehensive response, maximizing your chances of safely stopping the vehicle without further incident. Each step plays an essential role in crisis management on the road.