North Carolina DMV Practice Test 2025 - Free DMV Practice Questions and Study Guide

When experiencing brake failure while driving, the first step in your response should be to pump the brakes to try to build up pressure. This action can sometimes restore enough braking ability to help slow the vehicle down or bring it to a stop. It is important to remember that hydraulic brakes rely on pressure to function, and by pumping the brakes, you may be able to create temporary pressure that can facilitate braking effectiveness.

Handling a brake failure is critical for safety, and several other actions can follow after attempting to pump the brakes. For instance, turning on hazard lights alerts other drivers to your situation, and shifting to a lower gear can help slow down the vehicle by increasing engine resistance. Additionally, steering to the side of the road is advisable to prevent accidents, especially if you are unable to stop. However, initiating the braking response by pumping the brakes is a key first step to regain control of the situation.