Which action should you take if your brakes fail while driving?

If your brakes fail while driving, downshifting and gradually applying the parking brake is the appropriate action to help regain control of the vehicle. This method allows you to use engine braking from downshifting to reduce your speed as well as the parking brake to slow down more effectively. Gradually applying the parking brake is key because it prevents the wheels from locking up, which could lead to a loss of traction and control.

While other options might seem plausible, they do not provide a safe means of controlling the vehicle. Switching off the engine can lead to loss of power steering and making it challenging to maneuver. Steering off the road might not be a viable option if you are on a busy street or if there are obstacles. Pressing the brake pedal harder likely won’t be effective if the brakes have already failed, and could worsen the situation, leading to further loss of control. Hence, downshifting and using the parking brake appropriately is the most effective and safe response in the event of brake failure.