What should you do if your brakes fail while driving?

When you experience brake failure while driving, pumping the brakes is a critical step because it helps build up brake fluid pressure, which might engage the brakes again if there's still some functionality left. Utilizing the emergency brake, also called the parking brake, is essential because it acts as a backup system designed to slow down or stop your vehicle safely.

This approach is practical in managing a potentially dangerous situation, allowing the driver to maintain better control of the vehicle and reduce speed gradually. It is crucial to ensure that you apply the emergency brake gently to avoid locking up the wheels, which could lead to skidding.

The other options are not advisable. Turning off the engine can lead to loss of power steering and brake assistance, making the vehicle harder to control. Accelerating to gain speed is dangerous and could lead to a more severe accident, while signaling for help does not address the immediate need to bring the vehicle to a stop. Proper action in the event of brake failure is vital for safety and damage prevention.