If brakes fail while driving, what is the first action you should take?

If brakes fail while driving, the first action that should be taken is to use the emergency brake gradually. The emergency brake, also known as the parking brake, is designed to help bring your vehicle to a stop when the main brake system has failed. It is important to apply it gradually to prevent the wheels from locking up, which could cause a skid or loss of control of the vehicle.

While shifting to a lower gear can help reduce speed, and releasing the gas pedal might reduce acceleration, utilizing the emergency brake is specifically geared towards stopping the vehicle safely when traditional braking methods are not functioning. Steering to a safe place and sounding the horn might also be a consideration during this emergency, but the priority must be on bringing the vehicle to a safe stop first.