Braking Systems

In order to be able stop in time to avoid an accident, we must have properly maintained braking systems. An automotive braking system is used to inhibit the motion of the vehicle. There are several different types of braking systems and brakes that are typically applied to rotating axels or wheels.  These types of braking systems are typically divided into three categories. These categories are as follows:

• Service Brakes – Primary braking system used to control speed, stop car, and remain stationary.
• Emergency Brakes – Backup system used to stop car in case of service brake failure.
• Parking Brakes – Allows parked automobile to remain stationary on slope or flat surface.

It is common for an individual to need to use these braking systems and one point or another.  These systems are all intended to provide safety to those inside the vehicle and those in close proximity outside the vehicle, whether it is other vehicles or pedestrians.

If you or a loved one has been involved in an automobile accident due to the negligence of another individual, you may be entitled to compensation for any lost damages including; lost wages, medical expenses, and property damage.  Our Alabama auto accident attorneys are here to help you to receive the maximum personal injury settlement you deserve.

To learn more, complete the “Free Case Review” form today – It’s 100% FREE.

Common Types of Service Brakes

Although there are many different types of brakes, there are a few common forms found in modern day automobiles.  These brakes are most commonly described as frictional, pumping, electromagnetic, servo, and hydraulic. However, there are many added components to assist in braking more smoothly and braking in different conditions and circumstances.

The Most Common Types of Brakes Include:

• Frictional Brakes Frictional brakes are the most common type of service brake used today.  They can be found in two forms; shoe and pads. These brakes use friction to stop the vehicle from progression.  They include a rotating device with a stationary pad and a rotating wear surface. Typically on a band brake the shoe will contract and rub on the outside of the rotating drum, however on a drum brake, a rotating drum with shoes will expand to rub the inside of the drum.
• Pumping Brakes Pumping brakes are commonly used where a pump is included in part of the machinery.  These brakes may use an internal-combustion piston motor to have the fuel supply cut off resulting in internal pumping losses to the engine creating braking.
• Electromagnetic Brakes Electromagnetic brakes may use an electric motor that is already included in the vehicle.  Most hybrid vehicles use an electric motor to charge electric batteries and regenerative brakes.  Some buses use a secondary retarder brake which is a generator with an internal short circuit.
• Servo Brakes Servo brakes are typically found in most modern cars. These brakes help to augment the amount of pressure the driver applies to the brake pedal. Servo brakes possess a vacuum in the inlet manifold which generates any extra pressure that is needed. It should be noted that these systems are only effective when the engine is running.
• Hydraulic Brakes Hydraulic brakes are composed of a double acting hydraulic pump, also known as a master cylinder.  This is fed by a reservoir of hydraulic braking fluid and connected by an arrangement of metal pipes and rubber fittings attached to the wheel cylinders.  Here each wheel contains two opposite pistons located on the band or drum brake. This system produces the pressure to push the pistons apart forcing the brake pads into the wheel cylinder, ultimately causing the wheel to stop spinning.

In some instances we may find that more than one of these types of brakes is used on a single vehicle. Some of these brakes work in unison with each other to create a stronger and more reliable braking system.  However, on occasion, these brakes may go out causing an injury to another individual.  If you have been injured in an automobile accident, we encourage you to contact us at Citrin Law Firm today.

For more information, fill out the “Free Case Review” on this page – It’s FREE.

Emergency and Parking Brake Systems

Emergency braking systems typically use levers and cables that are applied by a person’s mechanical force; in some newer vehicles a button can be pressed.  These braking systems usually bypass the normal service braking system in order to ensure the vehicle will come to a complete stop if there is a failure to the service braking system.

When the emergency brake is applied, the brake cable passes to the intermediate lever causing the force of the pull to increase passing to the equalizer.  The equalizer splits the cable into two, dividing the force in half and sending it to the two rear wheels to slow the vehicle down.

It is common for the emergency brake system to run directly to the brake shoes and bypass the hydraulic braking system.  This allows the emergency braking system to require no extra features to control the brakes.

For additional information, complete the “Free Case Review” on this page – It’s Completely FREE.

Contact An Experienced Alabama Auto Accident Lawyer

If you or someone you love has been injured in an automobile accident that was caused by the negligence of another individual, the victim may be eligible to receive compensation for their injuries including; lost wages, medical bills, and property damages.

Citrin Law Firm has won over $40 million in successful verdicts and settlements for our clients. We provide auto injury victims with the experience and knowledge to fight for the maximum injury compensation that they may be entitled to.

We are proud to work on a contingency basis, which simply means we will only charge you if we obtain a winning settlement or verdict for your case. We offer a 100% FREE initial case review to help determine if you have grounds to file a lawsuit.

To discover how Citrin Law Firm can help you, contact us at 855-248-7865 and a member of our customer intake staff will obtain the details of your accident and connect you with one of our experienced attorneys.

Begin now by completing the “Free Case Review” on this page – Its confidential and 100% FREE