Encountering a brake failure while driving is enough to send shivers down your spine, even if you are an experienced driver. It’s a nightmare scenario that can happen to anyone at any time. However, with the right know-how, you can keep yourself and others safe on the road and steer the vehicle to a halt without a scratch. In this article, we’ll explore the crucial steps to take as soon as you realize that your brakes are not responding while you are driving.
Step 1: Recognize the Telltale Signs
The first step in handling a brake failure situation is recognizing the warning signs. They could include strange noises, vibrations, or the brakes not responding as they should. These could be signs that your brakes are failing. If you encounter any of the telltale signs of brake failure, don’t ignore them. These signs can help you take action early and prevent a dangerous situation.
Step 2: Stay Calm and Focused
The sudden realization that the car is not responding to the brake pedal can cause a rush of panic and anxiety. Brake failure can be a terrifying experience, and it’s only natural to panic in such a situation. However, it is crucial to stay calm and avoid making hasty or reckless decisions.
Panicking will only make the situation worse, as it can cloud your judgment and prevent you from making rational decisions. Instead, understand the situation you are in, take a moment to collect yourself and focus on your surroundings. Try to maintain a clear head and avoid giving in to fear or anxiety.
Step 3: Alert Other Road Users
Now it’s time to let other road users know about your brake failure situation. This can be done by activating your hazard lights, headlights, and horn. Your horn can help sound a warning to other drivers, while your hazard lights make your vehicle more visible and indicate that there is something wrong, hence they will be careful and give way if necessary. These may seem like small things, but they could be the difference between a near-miss and a catastrophic accident.
Step 4: Downshift and Pump Your Brakes
The next thing is to try to bring the vehicle to a halt, or at least, slow it down. This is where you might need to get creative. One option is to downshift and rely on engine braking to slow your vehicle down. You can also try pumping the brakes to see if you can regain some braking power. You do all this while keeping your eyes on the road.
Step 5: Use Your Emergency Brake
If downshifting and pumping the brakes don’t work, you can use your emergency brake. This brake is separate from your main brake system and can help you slow the vehicle down or bring it to a stop in case of a brake failure. However, be aware that using your emergency brake can lock the wheels and cause your vehicle to skid or swerve.
Step 6: Find a Safe Spot
Once you’ve managed to slow down your vehicle, you need to steer it to a safe location. Look for a spot where you can safely pull over, such as a parking lot or road shoulder. Keep your hazard lights on, signal your intentions to other drivers and steer smoothly to avoid losing control. From there, you can call for help.
Conclusion
Facing a brake failure situation while driving is scary, but knowing what to do can make all the difference. First, you need to spot the signs of brake failure, then keep calm, alert other road users, downshift and pump your brakes, use your emergency brake, park in a safe spot, and seek assistance. These steps can help you stay safe and minimize the risk of injury or damage.
