What should you do if your brakes fail while driving?

When brakes fail while driving, shifting to a lower gear and pumping the brakes is the appropriate response. This technique helps to reduce the speed of the vehicle. By downshifting, you utilize engine braking, which can slow down the vehicle without relying on the brakes themselves. Additionally, pumping the brakes can sometimes restore some braking power, as it may build up pressure in the brake lines if there is a minor issue or air trapped.

The importance of quickly reacting by downshifting and managing vehicle speed cannot be overstated, as it allows for more control of the vehicle in a potentially dangerous situation. This proactive response is critical in preventing an accident.

Other options, such as steering off the road and hoping for the best, engaging hazard lights while speeding up, or waiting for traffic to clear, do not offer practical solutions to effectively manage the vehicle's speed or control in the event of brake failure. They could lead to increased danger instead of mitigating the risk.