What should you do if you experience brake failure?

If you experience brake failure, the most effective response is to pump the brakes, shift to a lower gear, and safely steer off the road. This technique is crucial because pumping the brakes can sometimes help build up hydraulic pressure in the brake system, giving you some braking ability back. Shifting to a lower gear utilizes engine braking to help slow down the vehicle, which assists in reducing your speed while maintaining control. Safely steering off the road allows you to avoid potential obstacles and traffic, reducing the risk of an accident.

This combination of actions prioritizes safety and control, allowing the driver to navigate the situation as effectively as possible while looking for a safe stopping point. Other options, such as simply shifting to a higher gear or turning off the ignition, do not directly address the need for vehicle control and could potentially worsen the scenario. Additionally, using the emergency brake requires caution, as it can cause the vehicle to skid or lose control, especially if applied too abruptly.