If your brakes stop working, you should first:
Answers
Shift the car’s transmission into neutral.
Pump the brake pedal several times and try to build up brake pressure.
Flash your lights at other traffic.
Jump out of the vehicle immediately.
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is: Pump the brake pedal several times and try to build up brake pressure.
Explanation:
If your brakes fail, it is a dangerous situation, but you can take immediate steps to regain some control and prevent an accident. The first step is to pump the brake pedal quickly and firmly. Here’s why:
- Building Up Brake Pressure: Modern vehicles often use hydraulic brake systems, which rely on brake fluid pressure to function. Sometimes, brake failure occurs due to a temporary drop in pressure or air bubbles in the brake lines. Pumping the brakes might restore the pressure needed to activate the braking system.
- Testing the System: Pumping the brakes helps you determine whether the failure is partial or total. If partial, pumping can regain enough pressure to slow the vehicle down.
- Prioritizing Control: Keeping control of your vehicle is crucial. Jumping out of the vehicle or shifting into neutral (which disables engine braking) may increase your risk of injury or make it harder to control your speed and direction.
What To Do Next:
If pumping doesn’t work, follow these steps:
- Use the Emergency Brake: Gradually apply the emergency or parking brake. This brake operates independently of the main hydraulic brake system and can help slow the car.
- Downshift: If you drive a manual or automatic car, shift to a lower gear to use engine braking.
- Steer to Safety: Look for an open area, like a shoulder or grass, and steer toward it to avoid a collision.
- Alert Others: Use your hazard lights and horn to warn nearby drivers.
By pumping the brake pedal first, you give yourself the best chance to restore braking capability and respond effectively.