What should a driver do in case of experiencing brake failure?

In the event of brake failure, using the emergency brake gradually is the most appropriate response. The emergency brake, or parking brake, is designed to help bring a vehicle to a stop in crisis situations when the primary brake system fails. By applying it gradually, the driver can slow down the vehicle without causing a sudden stop that could lead to loss of control or a skid. This approach helps maintain stability as the vehicle slows down and allows the driver to assess the situation better.

Accelerating to stop quickly is counterproductive and dangerous, as it increases speed and complicates the situation. Swerving to a safe area might not be a viable option in every scenario, particularly if there are obstacles or traffic that would make it unsafe to do so. Turning off the engine could lead to loss of power steering and braking assistance, making it more difficult to control the vehicle and potentially putting the driver and others at greater risk. Therefore, gradually using the emergency brake is the most effective and safest method to manage brake failure.