What should a driver do in the event of a hydraulic brake failure?

Using the parking brake and coasting to safety is the appropriate action to take in the event of hydraulic brake failure. This option allows the driver to decrease speed gradually while maintaining control of the vehicle. Engaging the parking brake provides additional stopping power, which can be crucial when hydraulic brakes are not functioning properly.

Coasting to safety helps avoid sudden maneuvers that could lead to loss of control or worsen the situation. It is also important to choose a safe location to pull over, minimizing the risk to the driver and other road users. This approach emphasizes a cautious and controlled descent rather than a panic response that could lead to further danger.

The other options are less safe and could exacerbate the situation. Speeding up can lead to a crash, driving to a repair shop could put the driver and others at risk while continuing to operate a vehicle that is not safe, and turning off the engine immediately may cause a loss of power steering and other critical systems. Overall, coasting to safety with the parking brake is the most responsible and effective method to handle hydraulic brake failure.