Drivers count on all components of their vehicle to work properly while they travel. When any of these fail, tragedy can occur. This brings up the question of what drivers should do if their vehicle’s brakes suddenly fail.
In some cases, the issue that comes up is that the brakes operate without warning. There have been reports of this occurring with Teslas. While no crashes have been reported in those cases, it’s a good reminder that drivers should know what to do if the brakes do malfunction.
Steps to take if brakes don’t work
If you notice your vehicle’s brakes aren’t working, there are a few things you need to do. First, let off the brakes and try them again. Keep your foot off the accelerator so you can slow your vehicle down some even without the brakes. You have to try to get your vehicle off the roadway, so start steering toward the safest place where you can stop the vehicle.
If they still don’t work, try to use the emergency brake to slow the vehicle down. This might be the only way to stop your vehicle. Again, aim to steer your vehicle away from traffic (usually toward your right) and a safe landing spot.
Brake failures — whether it’s in your car or someone else’s — can lead to catastrophic injuries that require significant medical care and a drastic change in your life and opportunities. It’s always wise to consider whether there’s a viable claim against another driver, the vehicle’s manufacturer, the company that made the brakes or another party. Experienced legal guidance can help.