What is the first thing you should do if you experience brake failure while driving?

The first step to take in the event of brake failure is to pump the brake pedal to see if it regains pressure. This technique can sometimes restore enough brake function to slow the vehicle down. When you pump the brake pedal, it can build up hydraulic pressure in the brake system, which may help to engage the brakes again, at least temporarily.

This approach is practical because if the brake fluid has not completely drained and there remains some pressure, pumping the brake can allow you to regain some control over the vehicle. It helps maximize your braking ability until you can bring the vehicle to a safe stop.

Other actions, while potentially useful in a broader context, do not address the immediate issue of brake failure as effectively as this method. For example, putting the car in neutral is a technique that can help to slow the car by reducing engine power, but it does not directly address the loss of braking capability. Turning on hazard lights is important for warning other drivers, but it does not help you regain control over the vehicle. Steering off the road might be necessary in some situations, but without addressing the brake issue first, it could lead to further complications if control of the vehicle is not re-established.