Ohio Drivers Ed Practice Exam Guide

If your brakes fail while driving, pumping the brake pedal and downshifting to a lower gear is the most effective response. Pumping the brake pedal can help build up hydraulic pressure in the brake system, which may allow you to slow the vehicle down if there is still some brake function left. Additionally, downshifting to a lower gear uses engine braking to help reduce your speed. This combination can provide you with better control and may prevent a more serious accident. Maintaining control of the vehicle is crucial during a brake failure. Increasing speed by pressing the gas pedal would only exacerbate the situation, leading to a higher risk of losing control. Steering into a wall is not a safe or sensible option either, as it could cause severe damage to the vehicle and injury to the occupants. Calling for help should be done after ensuring that the vehicle is safely stopped and out of traffic, rather than being the primary action taken during an emergency like brake failure.