What should be done if a driver experiences a brake failure?

When a driver experiences brake failure, the most appropriate action is to steer the vehicle toward the shoulder and apply the emergency brake. This approach serves several crucial purposes. First, steering the vehicle to the shoulder helps to guide it away from potential traffic hazards and allows for a safer stopping environment. The shoulder typically provides a less congested area where the vehicle can come to a halt without endangering others on the road.

Applying the emergency brake is also essential in this scenario, as it is designed to provide additional stopping power. Unlike the regular brake system, which has failed, the emergency brake (or parking brake) operates independently and can help slow down and ultimately stop the vehicle safely. It is important to note that while applying the emergency brake can assist in slowing the vehicle, it must be done cautiously to avoid skidding or loss of control.

In contrast, attempting to pump the brakes to regain pressure may be ineffective if there is a complete brake failure, as this strategy relies on the system still having some functioning components. Accelerating to gain control is counterintuitive and increases risk, while continuing to drive without addressing the brake issue can lead to a serious accident. Therefore, steering to safety and using the emergency brake represents a logical and safe response to brake