Your brakes fail completely while driving on a highway. What should you do?

COMPLETE BRAKE FAILURE is a genuine emergency requiring a layered response because multiple systems may be available even when foot brakes are gone. RESPONSE IN ORDER: (1) DOWNSHIFT: Shift to progressively lower gears (manual or automatic) — engine compression will slow the vehicle; lower gears mean more engine braking; (2) PUMP THE BRAKES: Rapidly pumping the brake pedal may rebuild hydraulic pressure in partial failure situations (fluid leak hasn't fully emptied the system); even in complete failure, the attempt costs nothing; (3) PARKING/EMERGENCY BRAKE: Apply the parking brake gradually and steadily — do not yank it hard (this can lock rear wheels and cause a spin); hold it at partial application; use it as a slowing tool while steering; (4) FIND AN ESCAPE: Look for: uphill grades (vehicle will naturally slow climbing); gravel or unpaved shoulders (more resistance); open fields (safer than barriers); sand escape ramps (on mountain roads); (5) SOUND HORN AND FLASH LIGHTS: Warn other drivers; (6) STEER AWAY from other vehicles and pedestrians; prioritize avoiding people even if it means more property damage. WHAT NOT TO DO: Turn off the engine while moving on modern vehicles — may lock steering wheel; drift into oncoming traffic; panic and freeze on the brakes. MODERN VEHICLES: Most have dual-circuit hydraulic brakes — complete failure is very rare; total failure usually indicates both circuits have failed, which requires a very specific (usually visible) event like a major line rupture.