How should you respond if your brakes fail while driving?

When brakes fail while driving, it is crucial to remain calm and take immediate, calculated actions to safely bring the vehicle to a stop. Gradually applying the hand brake, after shifting into a lower gear, is an effective method because it allows for better control of the vehicle's speed without causing the wheels to lock up, which could lead to a loss of steering control. By shifting into a lower gear, you utilize engine braking, which aids in slowing the vehicle down while also maintaining control.

Shifting to a higher gear would not help in slowing the vehicle and could actually make the situation worse, as it allows the vehicle to gain speed. Similarly, braking hard could lead to a loss of control, especially if the brakes are already compromised. Simply turning off the engine can also be problematic, as it may lock the steering wheel or disable other essential functions, making it harder to maneuver the vehicle safely towards a stop. Thus, gradually applying the hand brake while downshifting provides the best chance of coming to a safe stop in the event of brake failure.