Mississippi Written Drivers Test Practice 2025 - Free Drivers Test Practice Questions and Study Guide

Using engine braking is an effective technique to help control speed when brakes fail because it utilizes the engine's power to slow down the vehicle. When you downshift to a lower gear, the engine RPM (revolutions per minute) increases, which creates resistance and helps to reduce speed without relying on the brake system. This method allows the driver to maintain better control over the vehicle, especially in situations where immediate stopping is necessary and brakes are not functioning.

Pumping the brake pedal might provide some braking force if there's residual pressure in the brake lines, but it's not reliable in a complete brake failure situation. Turning off the ignition can disable the vehicle but could lead to a loss of power steering and a higher likelihood of a crash, making it a dangerous choice. Switching to cruise control would not apply in this scenario as it would maintain speed rather than help slow the vehicle down. Engine braking, by contrast, allows the driver to regain some control and safely reduce speed when brakes are ineffective.