Today, on Redhead Mom, I’m sharing a partnered guest post about what you should do if your brakes give out on the road.
Brake failure fortunately does not occur very often, but it can be incredibly scary if you or a loved one experience this dangerous situation. Although it can be challenging to remain calm in such an emergency, handling the situation rationally and carefully significantly increases your chances of escaping serious harm.
In this article, we discuss key actions to take if you experience brake failure while driving. It’s worth noting that brake failures caused by a vehicle defect might just merit a call to your local Portland car accident lawyer, as someone may be responsible for the situation. We hope these tips keep you and your loved ones safe if you ever experience braking problems while behind the wheel!
Addressing the Situation Urgently but Calmly
It’s easy to panic when things start going wrong as you’re driving. However, panicking can negatively impact your ability to think clearly and respond to the situation properly. Even when a brake failure occurs, you need to remain calm and address the situation rationally. Remaining composed allows you to make informed decisions and execute necessary maneuvers safely.
As soon as you become aware of a problem with your vehicle, activate your hazard lights so that other drivers are aware of your situation. By communicating your actions clearly, you increase the awareness of surrounding drivers and they may be more likely to give you the space you need to bring your vehicle safely to a stop.
Ways to Bring Your Vehicle to a Safe Stop
While your primary brakes might be unresponsive, there are other ways to slow your car down or even bring it to a complete stop.
One thing you can do right away is downshift your transmission to a lower gear, which will gradually allow your car to slow down. To avoid losing all control of your car, be sure to downshift gradually.
In a pinch, your car’s aptly-named emergency brake can also help you bring your car to a stop. It’s important to keep in mind that the emergency brake primarily impacts your car’s rear wheels. Applying the emergency brake carelessly may lock your vehicle’s rear wheels and cause the car to skid, which only adds to the problem posed by the braking issue.
How to Maneuver With Malfunctioning Brakes
Without functional brakes, your steering becomes more important than ever, as you’ll need to deftly avoid other vehicles, roadway hazards, and even pedestrians until you can get your car stopped. Use your best judgment to navigate safely and avoid sharp turns or sudden maneuvers that could cause you to spin out, crash, or roll your vehicle.
In some cases, you might be able to use roadside terrain to help you reduce your vehicle’s speed. Look for areas with gravel, grass, or even a slight upward incline. These roadside conditions can create additional resistance between your car’s tires and the ground, thus slowing your vehicle down at a quicker pace. It’s important to remain cautious and avoid steep inclines or loose terrain that could cause a total loss of control.
Seeking Assistance With Your Vehicle
As soon as you can do so, call 911 and inform them of your situation. Tell the operator where you are, what the problem is, and describe your vehicle in detail so it can be identified. Law enforcement may be able to help you stay safe and minimize risk to other road users while your vehicle is out of control.
Once your car has come to a full stop, do not attempt to drive it at all until it has been inspected and repaired by a certified mechanic. Call for a tow truck to have your vehicle taken to a repair facility so it can be inspected and fixed as soon as possible. Driving with malfunctioning brakes is extremely dangerous and should be avoided at all costs.
Preparation & Awareness is Key to Keeping You Safe
Experiencing total brake failure may be uncommon, but it doesn’t hurt to be aware of what to do in such a situation. By having your vehicle inspected by a mechanic regularly, practicing defensive driving, and staying calm in high-stress situations, you can protect yourself and your passengers from unnecessary risk. We hope this article helps you stay ready for anything you might encounter while behind the wheel!