Vészfék

Vészfék is a Hungarian term that translates to "emergency brake" in English. It refers to a braking system designed to bring a vehicle to a rapid stop in critical situations. This mechanism is distinct from the regular service brake, which is used for normal deceleration. Emergency brakes are typically found in various modes of transportation, including trains, buses, trams, and some automobiles.

In railway systems, the vészfék is a vital safety feature. It allows the driver or train crew to quickly engage the brakes on all carriages simultaneously. This can be activated by pulling a handle or pressing a button. The vészfék system on trains often utilizes compressed air to apply the brakes to all wheels. In some older systems or specific contexts, it might refer to a handbrake mechanism.

In road vehicles, the term vészfék might be used colloquially to refer to the parking brake or handbrake, especially when it is used in an emergency to slow down or stop the vehicle. However, modern vehicles also have anti-lock braking systems (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) which act as advanced emergency braking aids, automatically applying maximum braking force and managing wheel lock-up to maintain steering control. The specific implementation and terminology can vary, but the core function of the vészfék remains the same: to provide immediate and forceful braking when faced with an imminent hazard.