did you check your fuses. Has ther been any repairs back there like a new fuel pump? Is it four wheel drive and someone snagged a wire? I would say it is an open line or the possibility that both tailights went out and you just now noticed. Check the bulbs
brake diagram for 1998 ford escort
For a 1998 Ford Taurus : ( DOT 3 brake fluid meeting Ford specification ESA-M6C25-A )
DOT ( 3 ) brake fluid meeting Ford specification ESA-M6C25-A according to the 1998 Ford Escort Owner Guide
Try replacing the bulb first.
3/16 brake line
Get a new one .
DOT3
you might check the brake light switch because that has to be on in order to get into gear. There are two switches on the brake pedal. one for brake lites and one for cruise control.My 97 had the same intermittent problem and I found a loose wire on the brake switch.
find the leak could be any of the breaking system its a ford
the brake light switch is mounted above the brake pedal on the metal lever
Dot 3
I wish i knew