What is the best way to stop a vehicle if your brakes fail while driving downhill?

Steering onto an escape ramp is the best way to stop a vehicle if your brakes fail while driving downhill because these ramps are specifically designed to assist drivers in emergencies where braking ability is compromised. Escape ramps are built with a greater incline and softer material to help slow down heavy vehicles safely, thus minimizing the risk of a serious accident.

When brakes fail, it's crucial to seek a way to decelerate quickly and safely, and escape ramps provide a designated area that helps manage the situation effectively. They are typically located on mountainous or steep roads, where brake failures are more likely and serve as a proactive safety measure.

Other methods, such as turning off the engine, using the emergency brake, or pumping the brakes, may not be as effective in an emergency. Turning off the engine can lead to a loss of power steering and braking systems, making steering more difficult and potentially increasing the risk of an accident. Using the emergency brake can cause the rear wheels to lock up, which might result in a loss of control. Actively pumping the brakes could help build pressure temporarily, but if the brakes have failed completely, this method may not be effective and can also lead to a loss of control in a steep descent. Thus, the best choice in this scenario is