Tennessee Permit Practice Test

What should you do if your brakes fail?

1. Turn off the engine

2. Pull the handbrake immediately

3. Pump the brake pedal and downshift to lower gears

4. Steer toward the nearest curb

The correct answer is: Pump the brake pedal and downshift to lower gears

When faced with brake failure, one of the most effective initial responses is to pump the brake pedal and downshift to lower gears. Pumping the brake pedal can help build up some residual pressure in the brake system, potentially allowing for some braking action. This technique may provide you with enough stopping power to slow the vehicle down. Simultaneously, downshifting to lower gears can help reduce the vehicle's speed through engine braking. The combination of these methods can help gain better control of the vehicle during a critical situation. Turning off the engine can lead to loss of power steering and may lock the steering wheel, making it harder to control the vehicle. Pulling the handbrake immediately can cause the wheels to lock up, potentially leading to a loss of control, especially if the vehicle is traveling at high speeds. Steering toward the nearest curb could be a strategy to reduce speed, but it is more effective to first attempt to regain braking control. Therefore, pumping the brakes and downshifting is a more comprehensive approach to managing brake failure and ensuring safety on the road.