If a driver experiences brake failure, what should be done first?

When a driver experiences brake failure, the immediate and first course of action should be to pump the brakes to regain pressure. This technique can sometimes restore hydraulic pressure in the brake lines, which might allow the driver to slow down or stop the vehicle effectively. Pumping the brakes is a crucial response as it utilizes the existing brake system, potentially allowing the driver to regain some control.

Turning off the engine is generally not advisable as the steering and brakes could become more difficult to control without engine power, especially in vehicles with power-assisted brakes. Using the handbrake immediately can be effective, but if attempted too abruptly, it could lead to skidding or loss of control. Steering into a side road could be a part of the response depending on the circumstances, but it would typically be a later action taken after attempting to regain control of the vehicle through the brakes. Thus, the first priority should always be to try to restore some braking ability through pumping the brakes.