10 steps to take when your car loses its brakes

Brake failure is a driver's nightmare and is the cause of many accidents. Learn what steps to take if you find yourself in this dangerous situation.

1. Slow down immediately

Shifting into a lower gear slows the car down and can help you bring it to a safe stop. Whether you're driving an automatic or manual, try to shift gears sequentially, as if you slow down too quickly, you risk skidding.

Do not turn off the engine, because the steering system will gradually lose power assistance, making it very heavy and difficult to control. In addition, at high speeds, a sudden engine stop will cause the car to lose control due to the impact of inertia.

2. Try the emergency brake

If your car is equipped with an emergency brake system, use it. It is usually used to stop the car, although it takes longer because it only applies pressure to the rear wheels.

When operating, be careful to pull gently, slowly but with enough force. If you pull too hard or too fast, it can lock the wheel, causing skidding and loss of control.

Shifting into a lower gear slows the vehicle down and can help you bring it to a safe stop.

3. Move your car into the right lane as soon as possible

Move to the right side of the road or take an exit. If you need to change lanes, do so carefully, check your mirrors, and watch for traffic around you.

4. Release the accelerator

Release the accelerator to reduce speed, remember your goal is to slow the car down and stop safely.

5. Check the brake pedal for blockage.

Objects such as soda cans or bottles, coffee cups, paper rolls or floor mats can wedge behind the brake pedal, causing the brakes to not work. Take a moment to check to see if your brakes are sticking.

6. Brake pedal

Depress the brake pedal several times to feel the pressure because if the hose is clogged, depressing the brake pedal several times will help the brakes recover or the vehicle has an ABS (anti-lock braking system) which can help activate the ABS.

Whether you are driving an automatic or manual, try to shift gears sequentially, as if you decelerate too quickly, you risk skidding.

7. Warn others

Turn on your hazard lights, flash your high beams, or use your horn to alert nearby vehicles that you are having trouble. Open your windows to increase wind resistance and make it easier to call for help.

8. Use speed reducers

If you choose to crash into an obstacle to slow down, consider this carefully, especially if you are still traveling at high speeds. Aim for obstacles such as bushes or puddles. Try to stay away from populated areas and houses if possible.

Do not continue driving even if the brakes start to work. Tow the vehicle to a nearby garage to have the cause checked and repaired.

9. Keep calm

Remember the steps outlined in this article and follow them instead of panicking. As long as you stay calm and in control, you have a good chance of keeping yourself and the vehicles around you safe.

10. Once you have stopped safely, call for help.

Do not continue driving even if the brakes start to work. Tow the vehicle to a nearby garage to have the cause checked and repaired.

According to VNN