## driving tip 

If you have power or power-assisted steering, you can still steer even after the engine has stopped. You just need to use more effort. If the engine stops, don’t turn the ignition off, because the steering will lock. 

## warning! 

If your vehicle catches fire, stop and get everyone out immediately. Do not open the hood — that could cause the fire to spread. Move well away from the vehicle. 

If your brakes ever fail: 

• Don’t panic. Keep thinking about the hazards in front of you and how to avoid them. 

• Look for an escape route or something to slow you down (for example, side road, open field). 

• Pump the brakes hard and fast. You may be able to get enough braking action to stop the car. 

• Gear down to the lowest gear so the engine will help slow you down. 

• Apply the parking brake gently and gradually. Use the brake release as you do this, so you are prepared to release the brake quickly if the car goes into a skid. 

• Use the hazard lights or the horn to warn other drivers. 

## Engine problems 

You never know when the engine may die. You need to move out of traffic and into a safe place as quickly as possible if this happens. 

If your engine ever fails: 

• Signal and steer to the edge of the road. 

• Try to get to the nearest exit or service area or pull off the road as far as possible if you are on a busy highway or freeway. Avoid stopping on a bridge or in a tunnel if at all possible. 

• Turn on your hazard lights. 

• Set out flares or a warning triangle if it is dark or visibility is limited. 

• Stay with your vehicle. Put an S.O.S. notice in your windshield. 

• Consider carrying a cellphone if you often travel on freeways or isolated roadways. 

• Never get into a stranger’s vehicle. Ask them to continue ahead and phone for you. 

• Don’t try to do roadside repairs on crowded and fast‑ moving freeways. 

## Strategies: handling brake failure 

## Strategies: handling engine failure 

