What is the first step to take if your brakes fail while driving?

When confronted with brake failure while driving, it is essential to take immediate and effective actions to safely regain control of the vehicle. The correct approach involves a combination of multiple strategies.

Shifting to a lower gear can help slow the vehicle down since it allows the engine to assist in braking through engine resistance. This technique is often called "engine braking" and can provide additional control over the vehicle.

Using the emergency brake is another critical step. The emergency brake, or parking brake, is designed to engage the rear wheels and can help arrest the vehicle's motion. However, it's important to apply it gradually to prevent skidding or losing control.

Steering onto a soft shoulder can provide a safe space to decelerate and stop the vehicle without causing an accident. This action creates a buffer from traffic and can reduce the risk of a collision as you slow down.

Each of these steps serves a unique purpose in managing brake failure and can be used in conjunction with each other to maximize safety. By integrating all these actions, drivers are better equipped to handle a potentially dangerous situation effectively. Thus, selecting the option that includes all these measures is justifiably the best choice.