What should you do if your brakes fail while driving?

If your brakes fail while driving, the most effective response is to shift to a lower gear, use the emergency brake, and steer safely off the road. Shifting to a lower gear can help slow down the vehicle by utilizing engine braking, which reduces speed without relying solely on the brake system. Engaging the emergency brake will provide additional stopping power; however, it should be used carefully to avoid locking up the rear wheels, which could lead to loss of control.

Steering safely off the road ensures that you can maneuver to a safe area away from other traffic, reducing the risk of a collision. This combination of actions can help you regain control of the vehicle and bring it to a stop in the safest manner possible.

Other options present alternative strategies that may not be as effective. For example, turning off the ignition could disable power steering and braking assistance, making it more difficult to control the vehicle. Using the horn, while it may alert others to your situation, does not contribute to stopping the vehicle, and coasting in a higher gear might not provide enough control to safely stop.