What should you do if you experience brake failure?

If you experience brake failure, the appropriate initial response is to pump the brake pedal and downshift to a lower gear. Pumping the brake pedal may build up brake pressure if the issue is a temporary loss of hydraulic pressure while downshifting can help reduce your speed by utilizing the engine's braking power. This method allows you to maintain some control over the vehicle and helps it decelerate more gradually.

Using the handbrake gradually is also an important technique, but it should typically follow your initial action of pumping the brake and downshifting. Pulling the handbrake too quickly can cause the vehicle to skid or lose control, which is why it’s crucial to first attempt to stop using the foot brake if possible.

Turning off the engine immediately can lead to a loss of steering control and other systems, which could worsen the situation. It's generally not advisable, as the power steering and power brakes could become non-functional.

Steering into a ditch to stop is a last resort and should not be your first action. This could lead to unnecessary damage to the vehicle and serious injury to the occupants. It's important to try to control the car and bring it to a stop safely before considering drastic measures.