If your brakes fail while you are driving, you should first:
Answers
Switch to a higher gear and press the gas pedal.
Switch to neutral and coast.
Switch to a lower gear and pump your brakes.
Turn off the ignition.
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is: Switch to a lower gear and pump your brakes.
Explanation:
If your brakes fail while driving, it can be a terrifying situation, but it’s important to stay calm and take immediate actions to stop your vehicle safely. Here are the steps you should follow:
- Switch to a lower gear: When the brakes fail, you need to reduce the vehicle’s speed gradually. Shifting to a lower gear helps the engine slow the vehicle down through engine braking. Engine braking occurs when you downshift and take your foot off the accelerator. The engine’s compression resists the movement of the car, helping to reduce speed. This method is especially effective in manual transmission vehicles, but in automatic vehicles, you can manually select a lower gear or let the transmission shift down automatically.
- Pump your brakes: If you notice that your brakes aren’t responding, try pumping the brake pedal. This can help build up pressure in the brake system, particularly if the failure is caused by air or fluid loss. Pumping the brakes may not fully restore braking power but can provide enough stopping force to help slow the car.
- Keep your distance: Try to maintain a safe distance from other vehicles and hazards on the road. Look for an open area or a shoulder where you can safely steer your vehicle off the road. Avoid abrupt maneuvers that could cause a crash or loss of control.
- Use the parking brake carefully: If the above methods don’t work and the vehicle is still not slowing down, gently apply the parking brake (also called the emergency brake). Be cautious, as applying it too quickly or too forcefully can lock up the wheels and cause a skid.
What to avoid: Do not turn off the ignition or switch to neutral immediately, as doing so can lock the steering wheel or reduce your ability to control the car. Additionally, accelerating or switching to a higher gear will make the situation worse by increasing the car’s speed.
By following these steps, you’ll be taking the best actions to stop the vehicle safely and avoid a collision.