What action should you take if your brakes fail while driving?

When brakes fail while driving, the most effective course of action is to pump the brakes to potentially regain some braking power, engage the emergency brake to create additional stopping power, and steer the vehicle toward a safe area. This sequence of actions is crucial because:

1. Pumping the brakes: This can build up hydraulic pressure in the brake system, which might help restore partial braking ability, especially if the brake failure is due to a loss of hydraulic pressure rather than a complete mechanical failure.

2. Using the emergency brake: The emergency brake (or parking brake) operates independently of the main brake system. Engaging it can help slow down the vehicle. However, it should be used carefully to prevent the rear wheels from locking up and causing a loss of control.

3. Steering to a safe area: While managing the brakes, steering the vehicle to a safe location—such as the side of the road or an open area—is essential to avoid obstacles and ensure the safety of yourself and others on the road.

This approach minimizes risks and maximizes your control of the vehicle during a critical situation. In contrast, other options, such as accelerating or leaving the vehicle, do not provide any meaningful assistance in a brake failure scenario