You are driving down the road, the familiar routine of daily driving. Suddenly, the traffic light ahead flashes red. No big deal, right? You ease off the speed and reach for the brake pedal, ready to stop smoothly.
But as you press down, there’s no response. Panic sets in as you press harder. But your car keeps moving forward – you’re facing BRAKE FAILURE.
None of us want to confront this terrifying scenario.
- But what if your brakes fail?
- Are you prepared?
- How do you react?
- How do you get back in control of your car?
Whether you’re on a highway or driving through busy city streets. Knowing how to handle brake failure could save not only your life but other’s lives as well.
Join us as we explore practical tips for managing this crisis and preventing it altogether. In this guide, All Aspects Motors team will walk you through the steps to safely bring your car to a stop when your brakes give out.
Remember, being prepared is a necessity and makes all the difference.
How To Safely Stop Your Car If Your Brakes Fail | 10-Step Guide
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to safely stop your car if your brakes fail:
Step 1: Activate Hazard Lights and Remove Foot From Speed Pedal
Turn on your hazard lights to inform other drivers of the dangerous situation. This tells other drivers there’s a problem ahead, so they drive carefully.
Take your foot off the pedal to safely decrease speed. It slows your car down little by little. This helps you stay in control and keeps everyone safe.
Step 2: Stay Calm Behind the Wheel
When things get tough on the road, staying calm is super important. When brakes fail, staying calm helps you think clearly and make smart decisions.
By keeping a level head, you can focus on safely guiding your vehicle to the side of the road. This lowers the chance of accidents or injuries.
Remember, panicking won’t help. But staying calm will keep you in control of the situation.
Step 3: Slowly Downshift to Lower Gears
Shift down to lower gears slowly if the parking brake doesn’t work. This helps slow the car using the engine, a technique called engine braking. It’s especially handy for automatic cars. Avoid shifting gears too quickly to stay in control.
For manual transmissions, press the clutch and downshift one gear at a time. Don’t shift straight to the lowest gear, or you might lose control.
For automatic transmissions, manually shift to lower gears using the gear selector. Start with second gear and then shift to first (some vehicles may have a “lower” or “L” option).
If your vehicle has tap-to-shift functionality. Switch to manual mode (usually indicated by “M” on the gear selector) and use the minus button to downshift gradually.
Step 4. Keep Hitting the Brake Pedal
Hit the brakes repeatedly. This helps to build up extra pressure in the brake system. Which can slow down the car. It also lets other drivers behind you know that you’re trying to stop. If you start to feel some pressure coming back in the brake pedal. Gently apply more pressure until the car stops.
Most modern cars have two sets of brakes. So, if one part fails, the other still works. Press down on the brake pedal firmly and steadily to see if there’s any remaining stopping power left. This step helps you check if there’s any backup braking ability available in case of a failure.
Step 5. Gently Pull Up Hand Brake & Don’t Put Your Car In Neutral
If pumping the brakes doesn’t work or if you’re still moving. Gently pull up on the emergency brake lever or engage the emergency brake pedal. Until you feel the car slowing.
It’s mechanical and will slow the car from the rear wheels. Be gentle; don’t activate it too quickly or forcefully. Avoid yanking it. As it can lock the rear wheels and your car will spin out of control.
Release the emergency brake slightly if you feel the wheels locking up to maintain control of the vehicle.
Also, don’t put your car in neutral. This removes engine braking and may cause wheels to lock if shifting into gear too slow for your speed.
Step 6. Avoid Sharp Steering and Stay Focused on the Road
As you begin to slow down, your priority should be guiding your vehicle to a safe area off the road.
- Shift to the right lane,
- Signal your intentions, and
- Turn on your car hazard lights to inform other drivers.
- Turn onto the shoulder or any safe spot away from traffic.
While it’s important to steer to avoid obstacles. Make sure to do so smoothly and without sudden or sharp turns. Gentle steering helps maintain control of the vehicle and helps in bringing it to a stop.
By staying focused and steering gently, you can safely navigate through the situation.
Step 7. Find a Safe Area & Pull Over Carefully
Search for a safe place to pull over that is distant from from traffic and people.
Drive towards the safest spot, and put your safety and that of others first. If the road doesn’t offer a safe option, search for grassy areas, open fields, or bushes to help slow down safely.
Step 8. Explore Alternate Methods for Slowing Down
Open all windows to create air resistance. This can help slow down the vehicle slightly. Search for a road that goes uphill or a ramp where the slope can naturally help you slow down.
Step 9. Keep the Engine Running Until a Complete Stop
Avoid turning off the vehicle before coming to a complete stop. This action disables power steering, making it harder to control. Some vehicles also lock the steering wheel, leaving you with no directional control.
Step 10. Park the Vehicle Safely & Call for Help
Once stopped, put the vehicle in park with the emergency brake engaged. Do not move the vehicle.
If there are injuries or major damages, call emergency services. Otherwise, contact a tow truck for assistance.
Stay safe and prioritize the well-being of everyone involved.
By following these detailed steps, you can effectively manage a situation of total brake failure and safely bring the vehicle to a stop. Remember to stay calm, assess the situation, and prioritize safety at all times.
Call All Aspects Motors for Expert Service | Stay Safe On The Road
Regular brake checks can prevent brake failure.
Ensure your safety by having your brake system checked regularly at All Aspects Motors. Our brake specialist will inspect your brakes to guarantee they’re in good condition.
Plus, discover the full range of automotive solutions at All Aspects Motors. From expert brakes repair to top-notch maintenance services, we’ve got you covered.
Avoid brake failure. Trust us keep your vehicle running smoothly and safely.
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