Should be power at both contacts with the fuse in.
When was the last time you had brake lights and what has happened since then?
Accidents?
Stereo stolen?

To answer you bulb failure question..you can check the wiring to the relay from under the fuse box...remove the ash tray retainer/fusebox cover, remove the equalizer if so equipped or the slot under the radio (I often remove the radio, makes it easier), unclip the fuse/relay box (it's really easy if you remove bøth sides of the center console but that's pretty anal ) and slide it out so you can get under it.

Or just pull the relay and replace it with a known good øne.

then start checking wires for voltage back to the lights. Or root around in the trunk and find where something broke or rubbed or got knocked loose.