Experiencing brake failure at high speeds is a rare but potentially catastrophic event. Proper handling during such emergencies is crucial to avoid severe consequences.
Understanding the causes and mastering self-rescue techniques can significantly reduce risks.
Common Causes of Brake Failure
1. Lack of Proper Maintenance
Neglecting brake system maintenance can lead to issues like excessive impurities in the brake master cylinder, poor sealing, vacuum booster pump failure, dirty brake fluid, or a mix of brake fluids causing vapor lock under heat. Problems such as leakage from the brake master or sub-cylinder and air reservoir or pipeline connections can also cause brake failure.
2. Operational Errors
Improper handling, such as prolonged braking on downhill slopes, can cause heat buildup in brake pads, carbonization of brake drums, and eventually complete braking failure.
3. Overloading
Serious overloading increases a vehicle's inertia under gravitational force, directly resulting in brake failure.
How to Survive Brake Failure
Video by How to Survive
Self-Rescue Principles for Brake Failure
Brake failure can be addressed using the following three self-rescue techniques:
1. Handbrake Braking
In the event of brake failure, the handbrake can be used for deceleration. The correct approach involves gently pulling the handbrake lever in stages, alternating between tightening and releasing to bring the vehicle to a stop. It’s important to press the safety button on the handbrake lever to prevent it from locking, ensuring smooth operation during the process.
2. Gear Reduction Braking
Manual vehicles can decelerate by downshifting. Shift directly into second gear, release the accelerator, and raise the clutch gently. This creates an immediate braking effect. When conditions allow, downshift further to first gear and turn off the ignition, utilizing engine compression to bring the vehicle to a stop. On steep or hazardous roads, consider using roadside obstacles like sand piles, grass, ditches, trees, or rocks to create resistance and halt the vehicle.
3. Emergency Measures for Self-Protection
Safety Belt Use: Wearing a seatbelt prevents passengers from being thrown forward during an emergency stop. If not wearing a seatbelt, avoid resisting the impact force. Instead, fold arms across the chest and shield the head to minimize injury.
Front Seat Protection: Front passengers, occupying the most vulnerable position, should lie down or use fists to shield their foreheads while curling the body to protect the chest and abdomen.
Rear Seat Protection: Rear passengers should extend one foot forward to brace against the front seatback while leaning back firmly into the seat. Arms can shield the head and face for added protection.
Impact Mitigation: During collisions, firmly push against armrests or seatbacks with both hands while bracing legs to absorb impact force. Keep the mouth shut and teeth clenched to prevent tongue injuries.
Preparedness and quick action during brake failure can significantly reduce injuries and fatalities. Understanding the causes and practicing these self-rescue methods ensures better handling in emergencies and enhances overall safety.
