A sudden failure of the car’s brakes can create an extremely dangerous situation on the road. However, there are some steps you can take to quickly and safely stop any car you’re driving.
Above all, stay calm. Panic can lead to wrong decisions that will only make the situation worse. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to stop a car without brakes.
If the main brakes do not work, try using the handbrake. Pull the handle gradually, but gently, so as not to block the wheels. And don’t forget that this can only be done at low speed.
If possible, choose a place where you can stop safely. Look for a clear, level stretch of road free of other vehicles or obstacles.
To slow down, downshift and slowly release the accelerator pedal. Remember to use your hazard lights to alert other drivers of the problem.
What to do if the brakes fail in a car equipped with an automatic transmission?
When the brakes suddenly fail in a car with an automatic transmission, the situation can be particularly stressful. But there are also some steps you can take to bring your car to a stop quickly and safely.
Try using the handbrake. Pull the handbrake handle gradually, avoiding sudden movements, so as not to lock the wheels.
To reduce speed, shift the gear into neutral or downshift mechanically (by levers on the steering wheel or on the lever). Release the accelerator pedal gradually to slow down the car. Modern cars are equipped with two-circuit brakes, so if the first circuit fails, the second one should work. So don’t forget to apply the brakes.
If nothing helps, you need to drive into the obstacle. It can be, for example, a pile of snow or a potholed roadside. As a last resort, choose a shallow ditch.
