What should you do if your vehicle's brakes fail?

When faced with brake failure, it's crucial to know how to respond effectively to maintain control of your vehicle and ensure your safety. Using a combination of techniques is important, which is why the correct answer encompasses multiple strategies.

Pumping the brake pedal might help restore brake pressure temporarily if the failure is due to a minor issue. Sometimes, vehicles have air in the brake lines or a small leak that can allow for a brief restoration of braking ability by increasing fluid pressure.

Putting the car in neutral is a vital step to help slow the vehicle down. By shifting into neutral, you can reduce the engine's power and allow the vehicle to coast while you steer towards a safe area away from traffic. This is crucial in preventing a potential accident.

Utilizing the handbrake, also known as the emergency brake, is another effective measure. It's designed to be used in emergencies to slow down or stop the vehicle. This should be done slowly and steadily to avoid skidding, as applying it too quickly could lead to loss of control.

Thus, combining all these actions provides the best chance of safely managing a situation where your brakes fail. Each method serves a specific function that can help you control the vehicle and find a safe place to stop.