What action should you take if your brakes fail while driving?

When your brakes fail while driving, the best course of action is to pump the brakes, shift to a lower gear, and use the emergency brake if necessary. Pumping the brakes can sometimes build up pressure in the brake system, allowing you to regain braking function, even if briefly. Shifting to a lower gear increases engine braking, which can help slow the vehicle down as it reduces its speed more gradually. Additionally, engaging the emergency brake can help you stop, but it should be used cautiously to avoid locking the rear wheels, which could cause a loss of control.

The other options do not provide a practical approach to managing a critical situation where immediate control of the vehicle is necessary. Simply calling for help and waiting for assistance would leave you in a potentially hazardous position, especially if you are moving at speed. Steering off the road immediately may not be feasible in all situations and could lead to an accident. Attempting to brake harder could exacerbate the situation by locking up the wheels, making it harder to control the vehicle. Therefore, the combined strategy of pumping the brakes, downshifting, and using the emergency brake is the safest and most effective method to handle brake failure.