What is your first action if your brakes suddenly fail?

What is your first action if your brakes suddenly fail?

• A. Turn on your hazard lights
• B. Pump the brakes and shift to a lower gear
• C. Steer to the right and hit a curb
• D. Try to apply the parking brake

Answer: (B)

In the event of sudden brake failure, the initial action of pumping the brakes and shifting to a lower gear is a critical response. Pumping the brakes may help build up some brake pressure, especially if the issue is a temporary loss of pressure rather than a complete failure. This can sometimes allow for at least partial braking effect, which is vital in slowing the vehicle down. Shifting into a lower gear is also a vital action because it allows the engine to assist in slowing the vehicle down through engine braking. By downshifting, the driver can effectively reduce the speed without relying solely on the brakes, which may be non-functional. Combining these actions can help bring the vehicle to a safer speed and ultimately allow for better control over the vehicle during the situation. Taking these steps increases the chances of safely navigating the vehicle toward a stop, allowing for the possibility of avoiding obstacles and reducing the risk of an accident. The focus is on control and gradual reduction of speed, which is crucial when faced with brake failure.

In the event of sudden brake failure, the initial action of pumping the brakes and shifting to a lower gear is a critical response. Pumping the brakes may help build up some brake pressure, especially if the issue is a temporary loss of pressure rather than a complete failure. This can sometimes allow for at least partial braking effect, which is vital in slowing the vehicle down.

Shifting into a lower gear is also a vital action because it allows the engine to assist in slowing the vehicle down through engine braking. By downshifting, the driver can effectively reduce the speed without relying solely on the brakes, which may be non-functional. Combining these actions can help bring the vehicle to a safer speed and ultimately allow for better control over the vehicle during the situation.

Taking these steps increases the chances of safely navigating the vehicle toward a stop, allowing for the possibility of avoiding obstacles and reducing the risk of an accident. The focus is on control and gradual reduction of speed, which is crucial when faced with brake failure.