We plan ahead for fires, gas leaks and other emergencies, but car brake failure happens every day, and few people think about it.
That lack of preparation can cost lives.
Consider some of these safety ideas to prevent brake failure and slow your car if such failure does occur. The information is offered from approved automotive repair specialists Ed Kriston and Jeff Boone, who work out of the Towson office of AAA Mid-Atlantic, which is headquartered in Wilmington, Del.
PREVENTION
» Keep your car floor clear of toys and soda bottles. Many “break failure” cases are brought about when an object gets caught under a brake pedal.
» Have you brakes checked regularly by a qualified technician.
» Do not tailgate. Brake failure is even more dangerous if you drive aggressively or recklessly.
MID-FAILURE
» Pump your brakes. That may rebuild pressure in the braking system. Even if your car has ABS, it is activated only if the car brakes too hard. That won’t be a problem if your brakes have failed.
» Shift gradually into a lower gear. If you shift down too quickly, the tires of the car will lock.
» Engage your emergency brake, slowly and steadily. If you pull up or step on the brake quickly, you may lose control of the car.
» Warn other drivers. Turn your hazard lights on and honk your horn.
» Slow the vehicle how ever you can. Drive through gravel or dirt (such as on the side of the road) but be careful. Sudden terrain changes can cause the car to flip.
Also, use guardrails, cement dividers or small trees and shrubs to slow the car. Applying friction to the rubber on your wheels will slow the car.
