Mississippi Written Drivers Test Practice

What should you do if your brakes fail while driving?

1. Shift to neutral and coast to a stop

2. Pump the brake pedal and downshift to lower gears

3. Steer off the road into a safe area

4. Use the emergency brake immediately

The correct answer is: Pump the brake pedal and downshift to lower gears

When dealing with brake failure while driving, the recommended action includes pumping the brake pedal to build up hydraulic pressure in the braking system. This method often allows the driver to regain at least some braking ability. Additionally, downshifting to lower gears can help slow the vehicle down gradually. This combination of actions provides the driver with a better chance of controlling the vehicle and coming to a safe stop without causing further danger on the road. It's critical to understand that simply shifting to neutral and coasting to a stop might not provide adequate control or stopping power, as the driver loses the ability to use the engine's braking force effectively. Steering off the road into a safe area may not always be the most feasible option in all situations, especially if the vehicle has some remaining braking function. Using the emergency brake immediately could lead to potential loss of control, especially if applied too abruptly at high speeds. Therefore, the strategy of pumping the brakes and downshifting combines control and safety, which is why it is considered a correct response to brake failure.