Brake failure is a terrifying experience for any driver. When it happens, you may potentially collide with another vehicle or swerve off the road, resulting in auto damage and personal injury. Apart from scheduling brake repairs at your earliest convenience, it’s important that you know how to handle the issue in the moment. 

What Should You Do When Your Brakes Fail?

1. Stay Calm

Whether you’re driving downhill or in inclement weather, you’ll likely panic as soon as you notice that the brakes don’t work. While this is understandable, try to stay as calm as possible. Doing so will help you think through the situation clearly and react appropriately. 

2. Downshift

Whether you drive a manual or automatic vehicle, downshift to a lower gear when your brakes do not respond. Do this slowly, however, since shifting gears rapidly may cause you to skid. While switching to a lower gear will not bring you to a complete stop, it will slow down the vehicle significantly. 

3. Use the Emergency Brake

Additionally, apply the emergency brake. This will continue to reduce your vehicle’s speed to the point where you can pull over safely. Make sure you know where the emergency brake is located since it’s different for every vehicle. It may be a lever, pedal, or button, depending on your vehicle’s make and model. 

4. Pull Over

Once your vehicle slows down to a safe speed of around 5 to 10 miles per hour, slowly pull off to the side of the road or gravel. Turn on your hazard lights, and call a tow truck to transport your vehicle to an auto shop for brake repairs. 

The next time you need brake repairs, get in touch with the team at Schaller Jacobson Collision and Automotive Repair. For nearly 20 years, this full-service auto shop has provided oil changes, new tires, alignments, tuneups, and collision repairs to drivers throughout La Crosse, WI. Call (608) 788-2545 to schedule brake repairs and request a quote, or visit them online to learn more about their wide range of auto services.