It can happen suddenly: the brakes on the car fail or the ground is slippery and the tyres don't grip. At that moment, you don't have time to think. That's why it helps to internalise beforehand how to stop the car anyway, so that the process is automatic in an emergency. Even if it seems impossible, if the car continues to speed uncontrollably, you can manage to successfully bring the vehicle to a halt using certain techniques, and hopefully without causing any damage.
As a driver of a vehicle, you have a great responsibility. The car should always be kept under control, but against some incidents you are powerless. Sudden brake failure can have various causes. The brakes may be overheated or the material fatigued. Or there is black ice on the road and the tyres lose their grip. With the following tips, you can still learn to stop the car when the brakes don't work.
Easy to say, but don't lose your head and stay calm. Panic tempts you to make rash and jerky movements that only make the situation worse. When your nerves start to shake, you can no longer manoeuvre the car optimally. You still have time to panic when the car is stationary, so concentrate on checking the situation first.
If the brakes don't work, there's always the engine brake. Quickly engage first gear and let the engine roar. Meanwhile, if possible, alert others on the road that there is a problem so they get out of the way. Honk loudly or turn on the hazard lights.
Keep applying the brakes constantly while the motor slows down. Do not leave your foot on the brake, but pump the brakes. There may still be a little braking ability left and every little bit helps. If the vehicle is at full speed when you notice that the brakes are not working, it all comes down to quick reaction to avoid a collision or at least keep it to a minimum. Look for a clear spot in the traffic. Maybe there is an open field without a ditch right next to the road, then you can try to steer there. No matter where you want to steer the car, it is important to look exactly where you want the car to go. If you stare hypnotically at the two lampposts you want to drive through the middle of, you will certainly drive right into them. It is sometimes impossible to measure how the human brain works, but it responds to external stimuli with minimal movements; minimal movements that can make the difference in where the car goes.
Do not under any circumstances let go of or jerk the steering wheel. The balance of the car is affected by steering.
If a rear-end collision cannot be prevented, try to steer the car against objects where no one will be harmed.
Fear and panic can hinder clear thinking in dangerous situations. In a panicked attempt to engage the first gear, the gearstick can get stuck. To be on the safe side, when shifting down, first take the gear completely out and then shift. And don't forget: always wear your seat belt.
