Practice question

If you are driving on a clear and level road and your brakes fail, what should you do?

  1. wait for the brakes to cool down
  2. use engine compression to slow down
  3. pull the handbrake immediately
  4. keep driving until you reach a service station

Answer: B — use engine compression to slow down

If your brakes fail while driving, it is important to remain calm and take quick action to safely bring the vehicle to a stop. While waiting for the brakes to cool down (Option A) may seem like a logical response, it can actually worsen the situation as the brakes may overheat and catch fire. Pulling the handbrake immediately (Option C) can also be dangerous as it can cause the car to skid and lose control. Continuing to drive (Option D) should be avoided as it can lead to a potentially hazardous situation. Using engine compression (Option B) is the best option in this scenario as it involves shifting to a lower gear and gradually slowing down the car. This method can be effective in bringing the vehicle to a stop safely.

Practice more: Ontario Bus Driver Knowledge Practice Test →