What should you do if you experience brake failure while driving?

Experiencing brake failure is a critical situation that requires immediate and effective action to ensure the safety of the driver, passengers, and others on the road. Shifting to a lower gear helps to reduce the speed of the vehicle through engine braking, which can be especially important when the brakes are no longer functioning effectively. Pumping the brakes may help build some brake pressure if there is still a small amount of fluid left in the system—sometimes referred to as "surge" braking. Using the emergency brake is crucial as it provides an additional means to slow down or stop the vehicle when the primary braking system has failed. Engaging the emergency brake should be done gradually to avoid locking the rear wheels, which can lead to loss of control.

This combination of actions helps the driver regain control of the vehicle and bring it to a stop safely, making this response the best choice in cases of brake failure.