Brake light lit on '95 Estate Wagon

Recently I had to brake hard to avoid hitting a car and I saw my "BRAKE" light come on. I have not been able to get it to go out since, and the brakes are softer and I need more foot pressure. I checked the Parking Brake switch and it's fine. Any suggestions? The wagon is a 1995 Buick Roadmaster Estate Wagon. The rear drum brakes were just replaced less than 50 miles ago and the front discs look good.
Thanks for any tips,
Bob in Colorado

Did you check the rear wheel cylinders to make sure they are not leaking? (check the connections at the back of the cylinder too, where the hard line screws into it)

If that light is on, you have a leak somewhere, air in the system OR low on fluid.

Have you had to add any fluid to the reservoir?

Also, you could have had a crusty spot on a line that busted after your hard braking. Just check for leaks (likely in the area line near the fuel filter on back)

Chris

Thanks Chris! I'll get out there and check those things today! Appreciate your help!

You broke a brake line. That is why the light is on. My bet is on the hard line that goes from the ABS to the rear axle. Usually pops right about under the driver's door. Cut out the bad section, flare the tubes, and bolt in a new section. NO compression fittings

My friend did that in his OCC. A good hard braking and split a line right open.

To all of you thet sent me advice..THANK YOU! The problem was front disc rotors that had worn too thin.After replacing them, and while power bleeding the system...a brake line DID burst, just like one of you suggested! Everything has been repaired and I'm "cruisin" again. Thanks guys!
Bob, in Colorado