If your brakes fail, what is one immediate action you should take?

When faced with brake failure, one immediate action you should take is to pump the brake pedal hard and fast. This method may help build up hydraulic pressure within the braking system, potentially allowing the brakes to function once again, at least temporarily. The pumping action can restore some braking ability, which is crucial for slowing down the vehicle.

Furthermore, this action also helps the driver maintain control of the vehicle while assessing the situation. In emergencies, it is critical to act calmly and focus on regaining braking power, rather than resorting to other measures that might not be as effective or could lead to complications.

Although applying the handbrake and sounding the horn are actions that can be considered, they might not help you regain braking function quickly enough to prevent an accident. Turning on hazard lights is important for alerting other drivers but does not aid in controlling the vehicle's speed or stopping it. Therefore, the most effective immediate response to brake failure is to pump the brake pedal.