If the foot brake fails, what can you use to stop the vehicle?

When the foot brake fails, the parking brake, commonly referred to as the handbrake, becomes a critical tool for stopping the vehicle safely. The parking brake is designed to engage the rear wheels and provide a secondary means of deceleration. Activating it can help reduce your speed and bring the vehicle to a stop, especially if done carefully to avoid skidding.

It is essential to remember that the parking brake should be applied gradually to maintain control and prevent any sudden loss of traction. This method is particularly effective in emergencies when standard braking systems are compromised. Understanding the operational mechanics of the parking brake can enhance driver safety, as it serves as a backup in case primary braking fails.

The other options, while they may offer some assistance in specific situations, do not provide the immediate stopping power necessary in an emergency. Thus, relying on the parking brake is the recommended solution for stopping the vehicle when the foot brake is not functioning.