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

When experiencing brake failure while driving, the first step should be to pump the brake pedal three or four times. This action can help build up brake pressure in case the issue is a temporary loss of pressure due to air in the brake lines or a minor hydraulic issue. By pumping the brakes, you may be able to regain enough braking power to slow down or stop the vehicle safely.

It's important to remain calm and take initial steps to control the situation. In many scenarios, particularly with sudden brake failure, drivers may instinctively panic, but by focusing on pumping the brake pedal, you give yourself a chance to regain control of the vehicle.

Other choices, while potentially useful in certain situations, do not prioritize immediate control and safety in the same way. Downshifting into a higher gear is not effective, as it does not help with slowing down the vehicle and may lead to loss of control. Pulling the car off the road immediately is a wise action to consider, but it should follow the initial step of trying to regain brake functionality. Turning off the ignition right away can prevent essential vehicle functions from operating, including power steering and brakes, potentially leading to a complete loss of control. Thus, the initial focus should be on attempting to restore brake function