What is the correct action to take if your brakes fail while driving?

When experiencing brake failure while driving, shifting into a lower gear and pumping the brakes is the correct course of action. This method helps to slow down the vehicle gradually by utilizing engine braking, which can provide additional control when the brakes are unresponsive. Pumping the brakes may also help build up some brake pressure in certain types of braking systems, potentially allowing for some degree of braking force even if it is diminished.

Turning off the engine would reduce control over the vehicle since it would eliminate power steering and power brakes, making steering more difficult. Steering into oncoming traffic poses significant danger, increasing the likelihood of a serious collision. Relying solely on the emergency brake is risky, as it can lock the rear wheels and cause the vehicle to skid, particularly if applied suddenly. Therefore, downshifting and pumping the brakes remains the most effective and safest approach to manage brake failure.