ICBC British Columbia Written Exam Practice Test 2025

How should you respond if your brakes fail while driving?

1. Steer into oncoming traffic

2. Pump the brakes, downshift, and steer to a safe area

3. Only use the emergency brake

4. Accelerate to gain control

The correct answer is: Pump the brakes, downshift, and steer to a safe area

When faced with the situation of brake failure while driving, the most appropriate response involves a combination of actions aimed at safely bringing the vehicle to a stop. Pumping the brakes may help build up brake pressure in some vehicles, downshifting allows for a reduction in speed by using the engine to assist in braking, and steering toward a safe area is crucial for avoiding potential collisions or hazards. This multi-faceted approach takes into account immediate actions that can help you regain control, as well as a strategic plan to guide the vehicle to a safer location. The objective is to manage the situation calmly and effectively, allowing for a controlled reduction in speed rather than panicking or making reckless decisions that could lead to accidents. In contrast, steering into oncoming traffic significantly increases the risk of a serious collision, the sole use of the emergency brake may not provide a reliable solution, and accelerating in an attempt to gain control can lead to loss of vehicle management and potential danger for both the driver and others on the road. Thus, the proper response under these conditions is to use the brakes and gears while maintaining awareness of the surroundings.