What to Do When Your Brakes Fail While Driving

What to Do If Your Brakes Fail While Driving: A Guide for Alberta Drivers

Imagine this: you’re cruising down the highway, enjoying the open road, when all of a sudden—your brakes fail. Panic sets in, right? Heart racing, sweat on your brow. But don’t worry; you’ve got options. Knowing how to handle brake failure is one of those golden nuggets of wisdom every driver should possess, especially if you're navigating Alberta’s varied terrains.

First Things First: Calm Your Nerves

You know what? The first step is to take a deep breath. Seriously. Panicking won’t help—staying calm can make all the difference. Now, let’s break down what to do if you find yourself in this heartbreaking situation.

Option A: Pump the Brakes

When your brakes give you the silent treatment, your initial action should be to pump the brakes. Yes, you read that right. It may sound a bit old-school, but this is often the first tactic that can help you regain some brake pressure. If you’ve just got a minor issue—say, an air bubble in the line—this could bring you some much-needed deceleration.

Imagine having a weak signal on your TV—you just push the buttons a few times, and voilà! Sometimes, it’s that simple. By pumping the brakes, you’re giving your vehicle a chance to respond.

But Wait, There’s More: Use the Emergency Brake

Now, while you’re pumping away, let’s talk about the emergency brake. This trusty tool engages rear brakes independently from your main system. So, if your normal brakes have decided to take an unplanned vacation, the emergency brake could be your lifeline! Just remember, this isn’t a “set it and forget it” situation. Gradually pull the emergency brake to avoid skidding. It’s all about finesse here.

The Wrong Turns: Avoid These Mistakes

Let’s take a detour through the wrong responses to brake failure.

• Accelerating to get out of trouble? No way! Speeding up may sound like a desperate attempt to escape the situation, but it can spiral out of control. Increased speed not only makes it harder to stop eventually but also limits your ability to navigate around other vehicles or obstacles. Imagine trying to dodge a deer while barreling down the highway at full throttle—risky business!

• Coasting to a stop? While this might seem like a safe bet, it’s not. Coasting assumes you have control of the situation. But with brake failure, you’re not prolonging control; you’re gambling. You might find yourself rolling into traffic or worse. Always be aware of the factors around you, including fellow drivers, road conditions, and traffic signs.

• Pulling over immediately? This can be an option later but isn’t the best initial move. If you can still control the vehicle (albeit with some difficulty), you want to utilize every tool at your disposal to slow down first.

A Gentle Reminder: Stay Aware

Being proactive is key. Stay aware of your vehicle’s condition. If you notice that your brakes are responding funky or feel spongy, it’s time to check them out—before you hit the road. And trust me, regularly scheduled maintenance can save you from some serious headaches down the line.

Know Your Surroundings

Let’s not forget about the road around you. If your brakes are failing, be sure to keep an eye out for the best place to come to a halt while navigating other vehicles. Is there a shoulder you can ease onto? Are there signs nearby that might indicate what’s ahead? Knowing your surroundings can help you make smart decisions in the split second you might need it.

Wrap-Up: Drive with Confidence

With some confidence, basic knowledge, and calmness, you can handle most of what the road throws at you—brake failures included. While it’s an unsettling thought, being prepared can make all the difference. So, whether you’re learning behind the wheel or have years of experience, remember the steps: pump those brakes, use the emergency brake, and always stay alert.

Driving in Alberta can be an exciting journey full of breathtaking scenery and diverse landscapes. Just remember, understanding your vehicle’s capabilities can transform moments of panic into moments of triumph. Now, get out there and enjoy the road—but with your brakes in mind!