What to Do If Your Brakes Fail While Driving

Experiencing brake failure while driving can be frightening, but staying calm and knowing what to do can help you manage the situation safely. Here are essential steps to take if your brakes fail on the road.

1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

Panic can make the situation worse. Stay composed and focus on safely bringing your vehicle to a stop.

2. Try Pumping the Brake Pedal

If your car has traditional brakes, rapidly pumping the brake pedal might help build up enough pressure to slow the vehicle.

Tip:

• For vehicles with anti-lock braking systems (ABS), this method may not be effective.

3. Use the Emergency Brake

Your emergency or parking brake operates independently of the main brake system and can help slow the car down.

How to Use:

• Gradually apply the emergency brake to avoid skidding.

4. Shift to a Lower Gear

Downshifting to a lower gear can help reduce speed by using the engine’s braking power.

Steps:

• For automatic transmissions, shift to “L” or “2.”
• For manual transmissions, downshift to lower gears progressively.

5. Warn Other Drivers

Let other drivers know you’re in trouble by:

• Turning on your hazard lights.
• Honking the horn to alert nearby vehicles.

6. Steer to Safety

Look for a safe area to bring your car to a stop, such as:

• The shoulder of the road.
• An emergency lane.

Tip:

• Avoid steep inclines or busy intersections when steering to safety.

7. Use Friction to Slow Down

If all else fails, use friction to stop the car by:

• Driving onto a gravel shoulder or grassy area.
• Rubbing the car against a guardrail (as a last resort).

8. Seek Professional Assistance

Once the vehicle has come to a stop, avoid driving further until the brakes are inspected and repaired by a qualified mechanic.

Tip:

• Call a reliable towing service to transport your vehicle to a repair shop.

Preventing Brake Failure

• Schedule regular brake inspections.
• Replace worn brake pads and fluids as needed.
• Pay attention to warning signs, such as squeaking or reduced braking efficiency.

Brake failure can happen unexpectedly, but knowing how to react can make all the difference. For reliable roadside assistance in such emergencies, contact Richmond Tow Trucks. Our experienced team is here to help you get back on the road safely.

If you are in Maribyrnong, Victoria 3032, and looking for a nearby tow truck service, this is the best way to visit us.

Richmond Tow Trucks

123 Bridge Rd, Richmond VIC 3121

0485 856 565

www.richmondtowtrucks.com.au