Saskatchewan SGI Driving Practice Test

What is the recommended action if your brakes fail while driving?

1. Steer to the side of the road and stop calmly

2. Turn off the ignition immediately

3. Pump the brake pedal, use the emergency brake, and steer to a safe area

4. Hold the steering wheel firmly and wait for assistance

The correct answer is: Pump the brake pedal, use the emergency brake, and steer to a safe area

When brake failure occurs, it's crucial to take immediate action to maintain control of the vehicle and ensure safety. The recommended action in this situation is to pump the brake pedal and engage the emergency brake while steering the vehicle to a safe area. Pumping the brake pedal can sometimes build up brake pressure momentarily, allowing for reduced stopping power, while the emergency brake provides an additional means to slow down the vehicle. Steering to a safe area helps avoid collision and provides a controlled path to stop. Other actions, such as turning off the ignition immediately, may lead to loss of power steering and braking assistance, making it much harder to control the vehicle at high speeds. Stepping aside to wait for assistance without actively attempting to manage the vehicle can increase the risk of an accident, particularly if other vehicles are on the road. Therefore, the best course of action combines immediate measures to slow the vehicle down and find a safe stop while maintaining as much control as possible.