What should you do if your brakes fail while driving?

When faced with brake failure while driving, the most effective immediate action is to pump the brake pedal and, if necessary, use the parking brake. Pumping the brake pedal can help build up hydraulic pressure in traditional brake systems, potentially restoring some braking capability temporarily. If this does not work or control is still inadequate, engaging the parking brake can provide additional stopping force. However, it should be used cautiously, as engaging it too quickly can cause the vehicle to skid.

This response addresses the urgency of the situation, as losing brakes poses a significant safety risk not only to the driver but also to others on the road. In critical scenarios, managing control of the vehicle is paramount, and using the methods of pumping the brakes and utilizing the parking brake can provide an opportunity to slow down safely and avoid a collision.

Other options, such as turning off the engine, could lead to loss of steering control and should be avoided in this situation. Steering onto the shoulder of the road can be a relevant action if the vehicle is still moving but does not address the immediate need to slow down effectively. Shifting into a lower gear may also assist in slowing the vehicle but is less effective than the combined action of pumping the brakes and using the parking brake to stop the vehicle