What should you do if your brakes fail while driving?

When faced with brake failure while driving, shifting to a lower gear and using the parking brake to stop is a critical and effective response. This method allows you to gradually reduce your speed, gaining more control over the vehicle. By shifting to a lower gear, the engine provides additional resistance, helping to slow down the car. Engaging the parking brake carefully can further assist in bringing the vehicle to a stop, but it's essential to apply it gradually to avoid skidding or losing control. This technique allows you to manage the situation safely and reduces the risk of an accident by giving you time to navigate to a safer area to stop if necessary.

In contrast, pulling over immediately without considering the surrounding traffic or road conditions may not always be practical, especially if you're in a busy area or on a highway. Accelerating to find a safe area could lead to a loss of control, creating more danger to yourself and others. Honking the horn may alert nearby drivers to be cautious but does not address the immediate need to stop the vehicle safely. Hence, the chosen answer is the most prudent and manageable approach in such an emergency.