Many automobiles are equipped with an emergency brake. The emergency brake makes up an alternative braking system, separate from a car's hydraulic brakes. A car's emergency brake is normally used when parking on a steep incline, stopping the automobile's ability to roll backwards or forwards. Sometimes the car's primary braking system fails. In these cases, the emergency brake needs to be used while in motion. It's a dangerous procedure that needs to be performed with the utmost caution and care. But when performed properly, an emergency braking procedure can prevent a serious accident.
Identify what type of emergency brake your car uses. Handbrakes are found between the passenger and driver seats. Footbrake pedals are found by the driver's feet at the far left of the driver's seat. Pull brake handles are found between the steering wheel and stereo.
Practice making an emergency stop. Find a secluded road or parking lot where you won't encounter much traffic. Do not go faster than 20 MPH. For a handbrake, push in the top button and pull up slowly. For footbrakes, you need to pull a release brake and then press on the pedal. For a pull brake, grab the handle, twist it to the left and pull. Apply the emergency brake gently for the first few times, then full force to experience full driving conditions.
Identify if the driving situation you're in is an emergency. An emergency exists if your automobile is in motion without a working brake system, or if your normal brakes can't stop your automobile in time before impact with an object.
Drive away from traffic. If you can divert your car away from the source of danger even a small amount, you stand a greater chance of avoiding collision or minimizing damage.
Activate your car's emergency brake. Stopping the car too quickly may increase the risk of injury, but being too gentle increases your risk of collision.
Use emergency signals if an accident happens, or if the original mechanic problem was not fixed. The car's emergency blinkers can be found above or around the steering wheel. Lifting the hood is another signal that a driver needs help.
