If brakes fail on a downhill, what is the first thing to do?

If brakes fail on a downhill, what is the first thing to do?

• A. Push the brakes harder
• B. Use the parking brake
• C. Get off the road as soon as possible
• D. Call for help

Answer: (C)

When brakes fail on a downhill, the first priority is to reach a safe place away from traffic as soon as possible. Without braking, you can’t reliably control speed, and staying on a busy road downhill greatly increases the chance of a collision. Steering toward the road shoulder or an escape ramp while you still have some control allows you to reduce danger and begin a controlled stop. After you’ve moved to safety, you can use engine braking by downshifting to a lower gear to help slow the vehicle, and only then consider other measures if needed. The option of pushing harder on the brakes won’t restore braking and can overheat or fade them further. The parking brake may not be reliable and can cause loss of control, especially on a slope. Calling for help is important, but safety comes first—you should get off the road before seeking assistance.

When brakes fail on a downhill, the first priority is to reach a safe place away from traffic as soon as possible. Without braking, you can’t reliably control speed, and staying on a busy road downhill greatly increases the chance of a collision. Steering toward the road shoulder or an escape ramp while you still have some control allows you to reduce danger and begin a controlled stop.

After you’ve moved to safety, you can use engine braking by downshifting to a lower gear to help slow the vehicle, and only then consider other measures if needed. The option of pushing harder on the brakes won’t restore braking and can overheat or fade them further. The parking brake may not be reliable and can cause loss of control, especially on a slope. Calling for help is important, but safety comes first—you should get off the road before seeking assistance.