All drivers depend on their brakes to work whenever the pedal is engaged. Unfortunately, brakes are not invincible, and they can sometimes fail — an undoubtedly unsettling experience for anyone in the vehicle. Knowing what to do in this situation will ensure the car comes to a safe, complete stop so you can take it to a brake service professional. Below are three steps to take if your brakes fail.

What to Do If Your Brakes Fail

1. Shift Into a Lower Gear

While brake failure can be scary and panic-inducing, take a deep breath and remain calm. First, whether you have an automatic or manual transmission, shift it gradually into a lower gear. This will slow the car down, allow you to get over to the side of the road, and make it easier for the vehicle to come to a complete stop. Don't downshift abruptly as this could cause you to skid out. Also, avoid shifting into neutral, which will disengage the brakes from the engine, and don't shut off the car, which will eliminate your power steering capabilities.

2. Pump the Brake Pedal

Using considerable force, pump the brake pedal fast and hard. This may trigger an accumulation of brake fluid pressure that will help the car stop, so you can call a professional for brake service. If this does not produce results after several pumps, proceed to step three.

3. Engage the Emergency Brake

The emergency brake is designed for situations like this. Gently engage it to help slow the car. Bear in mind that it may not bring the vehicle to a total, immediate stop, but it will slow it down considerably. If there's enough room in front of you, you may have sufficient space to roll to a stop. If the regular brakes and emergency brakes have both failed, aim to maneuver your car to a stretch of roadside where there is enough room to roll to a stop; obviously, do not hit the gas pedal at all at this point.

Once the car has stopped moving, call a tow truck and have the vehicle serviced by a brake service professional. Madd Monkey Garage has been serving the Troutman, Mooresville, and Statesville, NC, areas since 1994. In addition to brake service, they provide engine repairs and tune-ups, oil changes, and transmission overhauls. Visit them online to learn more about their offerings or call (704) 663-0333 to schedule an appointment today.