Georgia Commercial Driver License Practice Test

If you experience hydraulic brake failure, what should you do to reduce speed or stop the vehicle?

1. Downshift, use the parking brake, or pump your brakes

2. Turn off the engine, shift to neutral, or apply the handbrake

3. Steer aggressively, accelerate, or switch to another gear

4. Apply the brakes hard, downshift, or restart the engine

The correct answer is: Downshift, use the parking brake, or pump your brakes

When experiencing hydraulic brake failure, it is essential to effectively reduce speed or bring the vehicle to a stop safely. The correct response involves several key actions that collectively help manage this critical situation. Downshifting allows you to use the engine's resistance to help slow the vehicle down. By manually shifting to lower gears, you can take advantage of engine braking, which helps control the speed without relying solely on the brake system. Using the parking brake, also known as the handbrake, can be a crucial step in slowing your vehicle when hydraulic brakes have failed. If applied correctly and progressively, the parking brake can help bring the vehicle to a stop. It's important to apply it gradually to avoid locking the rear wheels and potentially causing a skid. Pumping your brakes can also be beneficial in this scenario. When hydraulic brake failure occurs, the brake pedal may feel unresponsive. Rapidly pumping the brake pedal can sometimes help build up enough hydraulic pressure to regain partial braking ability. These combined actions provide a systematic approach to safely managing a situation where hydraulic brakes are not functioning, emphasizing the importance of engine braking, controlled use of the parking brake, and potential brake recovery through pumping. This response ensures that the driver maintains control over the vehicle while attempting to slow down or