What are the appropriate actions if your brakes fail?

When faced with brake failure, the most appropriate course of action involves pumping the brake pedal and downshifting to lower gears. Pumping the brake pedal can potentially restore some braking power, especially if there is a partial failure, by building up pressure in the brake lines. As you downshift to lower gears, the engine will help slow down the vehicle through engine braking, aiding in deceleration.

This approach allows you to maintain more control over the vehicle while gradually coming to a stop, rather than risking more abrupt maneuvers. Additionally, using lower gears helps reduce speed more effectively without relying solely on the brakes, which may not function adequately.

Coasting to a stop, while seemingly a simple option, can be dangerous as it might not provide the necessary control to navigate obstacles in the roadway. Turning off the ignition is not advisable during vehicle operation, as it can lead to loss of steering control and potentially cause other hazards. Relying exclusively on the emergency brake could lead to skidding or loss of control, especially if used improperly or if the vehicle is traveling at high speeds.