The evolution of car safety has touched every aspect of vehicle design, from the body of the car to the plush leather interiors that many upgraded models offer. Vehicle braking systems are no exception, and the varying types of brake systems used over the years have changed as technology has advanced. There are also different kinds of braking systems used in commercial vehicles versus a passenger car, and each type of system requires specific knowledge and training in order to effective utilize it.
Braking system failures are a factor in car accidents across the United States, so ensuring that proper and timely maintenance is performed on the vehicle is the key to avoiding this issue. In many cases model year of a vehicle will determine which type of braking system is used, as advancements in braking technology have spawned smarter, safer methods of deceleration.
Have you or a loved one been injured in an auto accident that resulted because of another drivers negligence? If so, you may be entitled to compensation based on the physical pain and mental anguish that you incurred as a result of the crash.
The law firm of O’Connor, Acciani & Levy believe that the victims of car accident negligence deserve an ally to help them fight for their rights, which is why we will always seek the MAXIMUM amount of compensation due to our clients.
To find out how we can help, simply fill out the Free Case Evaluation form located at the top of this page, on the right side. Its strictly confidential and always 100% FREE.
Braking System Types
With the addition of computer technology in passenger cars, braking systems are more calculated and user-friendly than ever. Large commercial trucks, however, still operate with manual systems that require training and a thorough understand of the rig in order to be properly used.
The following are some of the most common types of braking systems in both cars and trucks:
- Single-Circuit Hydraulic Brakes
Plungers, reservoirs and hydraulic fluid make up a single-circuit system, which operates with master and slave cylinders and a reservoir. These two components are joined by a hose that pumps brake fluid into the reservoir when a driver steps on the brakes. Deceleration is achieved by transferring the pressure from the drivers foot into the slave cylinder, activating the braking action.
- Dual-Circuit Hydraulic Brakes
High-end luxury vehicles are commonly equipped with the dual-circuit system. Controlled by an on-board computer circuit and a command circuit, this system sends a signal to the computer unit when the driver presses the brakes, which then calculates the applied force and pumps the corresponding amount of pressure into the hydraulic pump system, activating the brakes. The computer buy medication online calculates the cars rate of speed and other factors that may affect the braking.
- Antilock Brakes (ABS)
In the event of an accident where the driver must quickly slam on the brakes, an antilock breaking system ensures that the brakes will not lock up as that force is rapidly applied, which could cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle.
Consisting of an electronic control unit, a hydraulic actuator and wheel speed sensors on each wheel. If the system detects a wheel locking up, the ABS will rapidly pump the brakes while a computer monitors the activity of each wheel, allowing only the wheel that is locking up to be pumped.
- Brake-by-Wire
The brake pedal is connected to a device that sends an electrical message to the brake computer, measuring the electrical resistance. It operates like the dual-circuit system after this activity. Brake-by-wire is an advanced system, although many drivers complain that they do not like the feel of it.
- Power Brake Booster
Vacuum power from the engine directs pressure into the booster, which amplifies the foot pressure exerted by the driver when they step on the brakes. This system can control even the largest commercial truck, but relies on engine power to work.
- Air Brakes
Buses, trucks, semi-trailers and full trailers utilize air brakes, which activates a standard disc or drum brake with air rather than hydraulic fluid.
- Parking Brakes
Also known as an emergency brake or a hand brake, the parking brake does not operate on a hydraulic system but instead is completely manual. This allows the vehicle to come to a stop even if the brakes are not working.
How We Can Help With Your Damages Claim
At O’Connor, Acciani & Levy, our personal injury attorneys are based in Cincinnati and will work tirelessly to achieve the maximum compensation benefits you deserve from your injuries, losses, and damages. We understand the pain and frustration associated with car accidents and our goal is to guide you through the litigation process with as little stress as possible. Our attorneys have won millions in successful verdicts and settlements for our clients and will only charge you for our services if we recover for you.
With offices located in Columbus and Cincinnati, we have the ability to serve clients throughout the entire state of Ohio.
Some of the areas locations we serve include:
- Northside
- Westwood
- Indian Hill
- Mt healthy
- Johnstown
- Sunbury
- Westland
- Hilltop
If you are interested in learning more about our law firm, our would like to schedule your free case consultation, we welcome you to contact us at (877) 288-3241 or complete the Free Case Evaluation form located on this page. It is completely free, confidential, and easy.