Brakes are a critical component of any vehicle, as they play a key role in ensuring the safety of drivers, passengers, and other road users. However, despite their importance, Glens Falls car accident lawyer mention that many drivers don’t fully understand how brakes work or how to maintain them, which leads to road accidents properly. Here is everything you need to know about brakes and how to prevent car accidents by ensuring your brakes are in good working order.

How brakes work

The basic principle behind brakes is simple: when you press the brake pedal, it activates a hydraulic system that generates pressure to slow down the wheels of your vehicle. Most modern vehicles are equipped with disc brakes, which consist of a rotor attached to the wheel and a caliper that houses the brake pads. When the brake pedal is pressed, the caliper clamps down on the rotor, causing friction that slows down the wheel.

There are two main types of brakes: hydraulic and mechanical. Hydraulic brakes are the most common type in most modern vehicles. They use hydraulic fluid to transmit force from the brake pedal to the calipers, which then squeeze the brake pads against the rotors to slow the vehicle. On the other hand, mechanical brakes use a cable to connect the brake pedal to the brake shoes, which then press against the drum brakes to slow the vehicle.

Importance of proper brake maintenance

Proper brake maintenance is critical to ensure they work properly and prevent accidents. Here are some important steps to take to ensure that your brakes are in good working order:

• Check the brake pads regularly: The brake pads are the component of the brakes that contact the rotor and generate the friction that slows down the vehicle. Over time, the brake pads will wear down and must be replaced. If the brake pads are worn too thin, they may not be able to generate enough friction to slow down the vehicle, which can be dangerous.

• Inspect the brake rotors: The brake rotors are the rotating component of the brakes that the brake pads clamp onto to slow down the vehicle. If the rotors are warped or have become damaged, it can cause the brakes to vibrate or produce a pulsating effect, which can be dangerous.

• Check the brake fluid level: Over time, the brake fluid can become contaminated or lose its ability to transmit force, leading to decreased braking performance.