6 Things to Do in Case of Brake Failure while Driving

Posted on: May 24, 2022 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

6 Things to Do in Case of Brake Failure while Driving

Imagine a scenario when you are driving at a high speed, and you apply brakes to realize that there is a failure. Such a situation can take even a seasoned driver off-guard. Brakes are essential safety equipment in your car to slow it down or completely stop it. A brake failure thus can be a dangerous situation to be in.

Hence, it is advisable to be prepared for such a situation. If you know beforehand what to do when the brakes go out, you will be able to handle the situation better and can help avoid a mishap. It is always good to be prepared so remember to invest in comprehensive car insurance that can protect you against any accident and also provide roadside assistance in case of a breakdown.

Reasons for a Brake Failure

There can be several reasons that can interfere with the functioning of a brake system. Let us find out

● Insufficient grease or brake fluid. This can happen due to oil leakage if the oil seal is damaged.

● Loss of braking power due to overheating.

● Worn out brake pads

● Blockage in the brake master cylinder

Signs of a Brake Failure

If you notice there are warning signs that indicate a brake failure. Taking note of these signs and taking remedial action may save you from a situation of brake failure.

● The lights of Anti Lock Braking system will be on.

● A drag is felt while accelerating.

● A pulse in the brake pedal when the brake is applied.

● There is a clicking or squeaking sound when the brake is applied

● The car pulls to one side.

What Not to Do:

1. Don’t Panic:

As soon as you realize that your vehicle’s brake system has failed, the first thing to do is to not panic. It is best to stay calm and clear-headed so that you can think of how to get out of the situation.

2. Don’t Change to Low Gear Quickly:

Do not change gears from 4th to 1st instantly. It may cause your car to skid and it will be even more difficult to control without brakes working.

3. Don’t Turn the Car off:

This will again cause skidding. Turning off the car before you stop will lock the steering wheel disabling power steering and also engine braking will not work. This way you will lose complete control of the car. So never turn the engine off before your car stops.

4. Don’t Use Emergency Brakes in Haste:

Do not apply the emergency brake in haste, it may cause skidding. It should be applied only after you downshift gears and pump the brake pedal.

What To Do If there is a Brake Failure?

How are you going to stop your car if the brakes have failed? The following points can help you in such a situation.

1. Put On the Warning Lights:

Put the warning lights on and keep honking to alert other drivers around you, on the road. Let them know that, you are facing some issues with your car. The warning will help you clear the traffic around you and give you extra space on the road.

2. Try Pumping the Brake Pedal:

Modern cars have a dual braking system to control front and rear brakes independently. If you continuously pump the brake pedal, it may create a brake pressure and may engage half of the brake. This will be enough to slow down the car and bring it to a stop. However, in case both the braking systems have failed this solution may not work.

3. Gradually Shift to a Low Gear:

If the brake system has completely failed, use engine braking to slow down the car. Release the accelerator and shift to lower gears one at a time. In automatic cars, you can use the paddle shifter to lower the gear. Remember to do it only one at a time.

4. Carefully Employ Emergency Brakes:

Emergency brakes are different from the braking system. However, it may help you to slow down your car to a halt, it will take a little longer time. Remember to do it very slowly and carefully as it may cause the car to spin. If the car spins release the emergency brake.

5. Move Away from the Traffic:

If you are on a busy road try changing lanes and move away from the traffic. If possible try getting to an uneven surface or create friction by rubbing the car body against any type of barrier to slow it down. Once your car is slowed down bring it to neutral.

6. Call for Roadside Assistance:

Once you manage to stop your car, call for roadside assistance if you have included the roadside assistance cover in your car insurance. It will also provide towing service and will take care of the repair as well as arrange for a drive to your destination.

How to Prevent Brake Failure?

Brake failures happen mostly because of loss in brake pressure. This happens due to worn-out brake pads. Therefore, it is very crucial for your own safety that you pay attention to how the brake feels and maintain the braking system of your car regularly. Always get the brake pads replaced timely, check the master cylinder, and check the brake fluids and oil seals. If you are not sure, the best is to get it inspected by a professional periodically. Always keep in mind to maintain your car regularly to prevent problems.

Conclusion

Stay calm and follow the above-mentioned tips if ever you are caught in a situation of brake failure. Remember that, ’Prevention is always better than Cure.’ Keep a close watch on the responsiveness of brakes in your car. If you notice even the slightest warning signal, do not ignore it and seek professional help. Finally, invest in good car insurance with a road assistance add-on included.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purpose only. For more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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