What should a driver do if the brakes fail?

When faced with brake failure, using the emergency brake carefully is the correct course of action. The emergency brake, also known as the parking brake, is designed to engage the vehicle's rear brakes, which can help slow the vehicle down in an emergency situation. It is crucial to apply the emergency brake gradually to prevent the wheels from locking up, which could lead to skidding and loss of control.

In this scenario, it's important for drivers to remain calm and act cautiously. Using the emergency brake effectively allows the driver to reduce speed and aim to bring the vehicle to a stop, thereby minimizing the risk of accidents. Other options, such as turning off the engine, may result in steering and power loss, making the vehicle harder to control. Accelerating is counterproductive to gaining control, and panic along with swerving can lead to dangerous outcomes, potentially crashing into other vehicles or obstacles. Therefore, utilizing the emergency brake with care is a vital skill for maintaining safety in an emergency brake failure situation.