As 2019 dawns, countless Americans will make New Year’s resolutions to lose weight, exercise more, and abolish bad habits. However, one of the areas we all could improve in is our driving. According to the National Safety Council (NSC; www.nsc.org), over 40,000 Americans perished in motor vehicle accidents during 2017 (2018 figures aren’t available at this time).

Additionally, 4.6 million were injured seriously enough to require medical attention, and societal losses from 2017 accidents exceeded $413 billion. With that said, what if we all made New Year’s resolutions to drive more safely next year? If you agree, here are 5 ways to make it happen as 2019 unfolds.

Stop Driving While Distracted

Ask any auto insurance adjuster, and they’ll tell you that distracted driving is a major problem; especially for younger drivers. Here are some ways that you can safely stay focused on the road:  

• Don’t eat and drive. That burger or taco will still taste good later.
• Set aside your cell phone and other electronic devices. That text message from your friend won’t disappear just because you’re driving.
• Turn down the radio. How can you hear emergency vehicles when your radio’s blaring?
• Don’t reach for dropped items. Again, the world won’t end when you drop your cell phone on the floor.
• Secure pets in the back seat. Put Fido in a car carrier, or use a pet gate to keep them in the back. Also, never drive with a pet on your lap!  

Don’t Drive When Impaired

Nearly all of us know someone who was seriously injured in a car accident caused by an impaired driver, usually one under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs. Prescription opioid and legal marijuana-related vehicle crashes are on the rise, and with all the ride-sharing services available today, like Uber and Lyft, why would anyone risk a wreck when under the influence of these substances?

In addition, another form of impaired driving is being too tired while behind the wheel, like when you’re on a long trip. Stop along the way at a rest area or hotel, grab a few hours of shut-eye, and then hit the road again refreshed and awake!  

Drive More Defensively

Because of the increase in distracted and impaired drivers, it’s doubly important to drive defensively in order to avoid an accident. To do so, use these tips:

• Slow down. Based on road conditions, like snow and ice in winter, or construction zones in summer, adjust your speed accordingly. You should keep a 2-second cushion between you and the car in front of you at-all-times, and double that interval if weather conditions are poor.   
• Anticipate hazards. Always anticipate that other motorists, or pedestrians, will do something careless.
• Utilize vehicle safety features. Newer cars and trucks have built-in safety features like backup cameras, blind spot sensors, and cross traffic alert sensors. Learn how to use yours effectively.

Adjust to Weather Conditions

As was mentioned earlier, the number one rule when driving in poor weather conditions is slow down. In addition, here are some other weather-related precautions you should take to help keep you and your occupants safer.

• Clean off your windows. If your windows are covered by a film in warm months, or snow during winter, you can’t see other vehicles properly. Take a few minutes to clean off all your windows.
• Use headlights. When any form of precipitation is falling, it’s foggy, or the sun’s not out, turn on your headlights so others can see you, and you can see them.
• Fit your vehicle with reliable tires. Make sure that your tires are up to the task by having them inspected by a pro, notably before a long trip. In addition to tire tread, also check the pressure routinely.

Maintain Your Vehicle

You need to make sure that your vehicle is always in safe operating condition, and that means routine inspections and maintenance by a trusted mechanic. Have them check these systems based upon manufacturer-recommended intervals found in your owner’s manual:

• Brakes and brake lights
• Oil and oil filter
• Suspension, steering and alignment
• Wiper blades
• Fluid levels, hoses and belts
• Transmission and transmission fluid
• Radiator, coolant and hoses

When Accidents in 2019 Happen, We’ll Be Ready  

Even when making a resolution to drive more safely in 2019, accidents will happen. If one happens to you, take your vehicle to a reliable collision repair shop within the nationwide Carwise referral network. Technicians there have the equipment, training, and experience to restore your vehicle like-new again promptly and reliably.

Search your zip code now for a customer-reviewed auto body or glass repair shop nearby: www.carwise.com.

As fall transitions into winter across our nation, most Americans will be faced with the added challenge of driving their vehicles on ice and snow.  According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), 70% of U.S. roads are located within cold-weather zones that receive 5 or more inches of snow every winter and that most accidental deaths during those months are attributable to auto accidents.  Statistics compiled at SafeWinterRoads.com indicate that over 900 Americans are killed, and an additional 76,000 injured, every year while driving on treacherous wintertime roads. In other words, driving on ice and snow is a concern for most of us. To help you stay safer this winter, use these precautions.  

Check Your Tires

The contact that your tire tread makes with the pavement is what allows you to control your vehicle as it “tracks” down the road.  Ice and snow reduce traction, which can sometimes cause your tires to lose contact with the road. Tire experts recommend at least 6/32 of-an-inch tire tread at-all-times so that they can grip the pavement effectively.  In areas prone to heavy snowfall, it’s advisable to install winter tires specifically designed for cold-weather conditions. At the very least, have reliable all-season tires on your car that are inspected by a pro before winter sets in.  

Slow Down

The biggest mistake most drivers make on icy roads is driving too fast.  The faster you’re going, the less contact your tires make with the pavement, and the longer it takes you to stop.  And, just because you have a car or truck that’s 4-wheel or all-wheel drive (AWD) doesn’t mean it won’t skid out of control.  Wintertime bridges and overpasses can be especially hazardous first thing in the morning when most of us are commuting to work or school.  When you see ice and snow, slow down.

Practice Skid Countermeasures   

Many drivers have-a-tendency to slam on their brakes when they start skidding on ice, and that tends to make their vehicle spin more out of control.  Instead, practice in an empty snow-covered parking lot how to counter a skid by using these methods:

• Front-wheel skid.  This is the easiest of the two, and to counteract a front-wheel skid smoothly release the accelerator, leave your hands where they are on the wheel, and let the vehicle slow down on its own.  Stomping on the brake pedal or turning the wheel will make the situation worse. If you end up coming to rest against a guardrail, that’s much safer than spinning into oncoming traffic and getting slammed by a heavy truck.  
• Rear-wheel skid.  Also known as “fishtailing”, this occurs when your vehicle’s back end veers to the right or left.  If the right side skids out, slightly turn your steering wheel to the right. Avoid doing so sharply, as that could cause a more serious spin.  You’ll just need to correct the skid slightly to straighten your vehicle. Also, don’t brake sharply, but instead slowly back off the accelerator.  

If your vehicle has antilock brakes (ABS) or electronic stability control (ESC), don’t get lulled into a false sense of security.  Although they do keep drivers safer, those features lose their effectiveness when your tires are worn, or if you corner or drive too fast on icy pavement.  

See and Be Seen  

When it’s snowing or sleeting, turn on your lights so other drivers can see you.  In addition, make sure you can “see and be seen” by:

• Replacing worn windshield and tail hatch wiper blades with new ones
• Cleaning all snow and ice from your vehicle windows before embarking
• Use wiper fluid designed for sub-freezing temperatures  

Stay Home

When winter driving conditions are exceptionally bad, the best advice is to simply stay home whenever possible until the roads have been plowed and salted.  This is especially important if you are an inexperienced driver, or when your vehicle’s tires aren’t up to the task.

Weather-Related Accident Repairs Nearby   

Even when taking all these winter driving precautions, snow and ice-related accidents happen.  When your vehicle gets damaged, bring it to a nearby auto body repair shop and they’ll take it from there.  Their experienced collision repair technicians have the training, equipment and know-how to restore your vehicle like-new again promptly and reliably. 

Search your zip code now for a customer-reviewed auto body or glass repair shop nearby: www.carwise.com.

Bam!  Your car was just involved in a minor collision with another vehicle, and you can feel your adrenaline kicking in.  You’re a little shaken up but not seriously hurt, and as the initial shock wears off your mind begins to clear.  Now that you’ve been involved in an accident, what should you do next?  It’s important to stay calm and focused, and to never leave the scene prematurely or admit fault, even if you did cause the wreck.  Obviously, if someone in either vehicle sustained serious injuries you need to call 911 immediately.  If that’s not the case, then follow these important steps right after an accident occurs.

Clear the Vehicles and Call the Police

The safety of everyone at the scene is of the utmost importance.  If the damaged vehicles are drivable, move them out of traffic to the side of the road.  Shift them into park, turn the engines off and the hazard lights on.  If you have any safety items in your car like flares, cones or warning triangles, set those up around the vehicles.  Double check all people involved for injuries, and if someone is complaining of serious back or neck pain they need to stop moving around until qualified medical personnel arrives.  Call the police and ask for a unit to come out even if the accident is minor.  Police reports are very important in the insurance claim process when determining who’s at fault. Many state laws require that the driver of any vehicle involved in an accident resulting in injury, death, property damage in excess of $1500, or the towing of any vehicle, must file an official accident report with the state within 72 hours after the accident.

After the car accident, the other driver involved might not want to call the police and may want to settle things between just the two of you. Ignore their request and call the police, even if it’s just a minor car accident, because:

1) In most states, you are required to call the police by law after a car accident.
2) An official police report is one of the most credible documents the insurers will use to determine fault.
3) Officers are trained at detecting staged a car accident and can help protect you from fraud.
4) Emotions can run high after a car accident, and a police presence can be there to act as an impartial referee can make sure that things don’t get too heated.

Police officers are trained to handle various situations that might happen after a car accident. Even though you may not think are physically injured, you may be in shock, and your emotions may make it hard to think clearly. A police officer can assess the situation and determine if medical assistance is required.

Exchange Information at the Scene

Oftentimes due to the initial post-collision shock drivers forget to obtain the crucial information they should.  Involved parties should exchange this information:

• The names and contact information for all drivers and passengers
• Vehicle descriptions including the make, model, year and color
• Driver’s license and license plate numbers
• Insurance company names and policy numbers
• Accident scene location or address
• The names and contact information for any eyewitnesses
• The police officer’s name and badge number

Remain respectful and courteous at all times, and do not admit fault.  Take pictures of the vehicles involved including the damage, and the scene itself whenever it’s safe to do so.  Only sign a document if it’s for the police or your insurance company.

Things may be chaotic after a car accident, and it can be difficult to remember things later. Take written notes as soon as possible after the car accident, and be as specific as possible. Use your cell phone to take pictures and document the car accident. The more pictures, the better. If there are any witnesses, get their name and contact information. Ask for a brief summary of what they saw and take notes.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Before leaving the scene of the accident you should call your insurance agent or other representative and explain what happened.  Be as truthful as possible, because not doing so could result in some serious problems later including claim denial.  Is your car safe to drive?  If not, let them know.  The insurance company will direct you on the next action to take, including towing.  They may even inquire as to whether you have a preferred body shop, and will tell you immediately if they are in their approved network.

You will then be instructed to either drive the car home, or have it towed to an insurance claims center or collision repair shop nearby.  If a police citation was issued at the scene, the recipient will probably be deemed “at-fault” during the insurance review process.  Within a couple of days, a claims adjuster will be in touch with you to explain your repair options moving forward.  If you are found to be at-fault for the accident, you’ll have to pay your policy’s deductible when picking up the vehicle from the body shop.   Some other long-term things to consider:

• If you seek follow-up medical care, keep accurate records.
• Don’t agree to close out an insurance claim too soon, especially if the other driver was at-fault and you were injured.
• Hire an attorney as a last resort if the other party was at-fault and their insurance company is non-responsive.

In the end, following these guidelines right after an accident occurs will help the entire process go more smoothly.

What to Do if You are Hit By an Uninsured Driver

If you are involved in a car accident, you should first make sure everyone is okay and, if possible, pull off the road or get to a safe place. Then, call 911 to let the police know your exact location. If the accident is minor and there are no injuries, you can check for car damages and check to see that all parties involved are insured drivers while you wait for law enforcement to arrive.

If you are hit by an uninsured driver, there are several things you should do while at the scene of the accident. Request to see the other driver’s identification or ask for their name. Use your mobile phone to take photos of the vehicles, vehicle damage, and the other driver’s license plate. Most people cannot remember all the details of the car accident after it happens, so carefully write down what happened while it is still fresh in your mind.

If the uninsured driver doesn’t want to give their identification or name to you, or you feel unsafe or uncomfortable gathering information in the presence of the uninsured driver, wait for law enforcement to arrive.

UNINSURED DRIVER STATISTICS

In the United States, approximately 1 in 7 drivers (PDF) are uninsured without even basic coverage, according to a 2011 study by the Insurance Research Council.

Uninsured drivers cost the car insurance industry and insured drivers billions of dollars each year. The Insurance Research Council estimates that almost 14% of all U.S. drivers are uninsured at any given time.

WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR DAMAGES WITH AN UNINSURED DRIVER?

At the scene of the accident, tell law enforcement what happened, and if there are any witnesses, have the police take down their testimonies as well. Let the police issue citations or determine who is at fault, and then ask for a copy of the police report.

If you are hit by an uninsured motorist, and it was determined that it was not your fault, your auto insurance should cover the damages as long as you have the extra under-insured or uninsured motorist coverage on your policy. If you don’t have the extra coverage on your policy, you may have to sue the uninsured driver to collect damages, and you will probably have to pay your auto insurance deductible out of pocket. If you’ve been hit by an uninsured driver and need your car damage repaired, your auto insurance company may also attempt to recover damages from the other driver. You may have to appear in court, as a witness and the victim, to testify about the accident.

Get Your Car to a Reliable Body Shop 

When an accident strikes, it’s stressful.  Locating a reliable collision repair shop to do the work can also be a challenge.  Your insurance company will provide input on which body shops are approved in their network.  From that list, you can then decide where you want to take it.  Most all collision repair shops work directly with insurance providers to ensure a more seamless and stress-free process for you.  They will update you on the status of your vehicle, and notify you when the repairs are done.  Taking the initial steps outlined in this article will go a long way in ensuring that you’ve done your part to get the process started.  To search your zip code for a list of auto body shops near you, visit www.carwise.com now.

WHAT YOU WILL NEED FOR YOUR WINTER CAR KIT

Just as you may have a tornado or severe storm kit in your basement, it’s a good idea to keep an emergency kit in your car in case of extreme conditions.  In the winter months especially, there are many items that could prove to be very useful in an unfortunate weather-related situation or accident that causes you to be exposed to extreme temperatures.

Start your kit with some basic essentials, such as non-perishable food items (i.e. canned goods or snacks), and bottled water.   Pack enough for all the people typically in your car.

Next, a few handy tools to add to your kit include:

• A windshield ice scraper
• A multi-purpose utility tool, such as a pocket knife
• An LED flashlight with spare batteries
• And a bag of cat litter

Yes, you read that right.  Cat litter is a great, lightweight alternative to salt or sand that can be used to free your car from snow banks or icy patches.

A classic first-aid kit may be in your car already, but it’s worth a second look to ensure it still has a full supply.  Lastly, tucking a warm blanket in your trunk is also a good idea in case your car won’t start, or you have to wait for assistance in cold temperatures.

Take a look at which of these items you already have in your car, and consider adding the ones you don’t.  You will be happy you did if you ever come across a situation when you need them.  Leave a comment below with any items you would add to our list!

WHAT YOU WILL NEED FOR YOUR WINTER CAR KIT

Just as you may have a tornado or severe storm kit in your basement, it’s a good idea to keep an emergency kit in your car in case of extreme conditions.  In the winter months especially, there are many items that could prove to be very useful in an unfortunate weather-related situation or accident that causes you to be exposed to extreme temperatures.

Start your kit with some basic essentials, such as non-perishable food items (i.e. canned goods or snacks), and bottled water.   Pack enough for all the people typically in your car.

Next, a few handy tools to add to your kit include:

• A windshield ice scraper
• A multi-purpose utility tool, such as a pocket knife
• An LED flashlight with spare batteries
• And a bag of cat litter

Yes, you read that right.  Cat litter is a great, lightweight alternative to salt or sand that can be used to free your car from snow banks or icy patches.

A classic first-aid kit may be in your car already, but it’s worth a second look to ensure it still has a full supply.  Lastly, tucking a warm blanket in your trunk is also a good idea in case your car won’t start, or you have to wait for assistance in cold temperatures.

Take a look at which of these items you already have in your car, and consider adding the ones you don’t.  You will be happy you did if you ever come across a situation when you need them.  Leave a comment below with any items you would add to our list!

Sources:
USSA.com
NAIC.org
OSBAR.org 

Esurance.com

Carsdirect.com

Driving can be dangerous when wintertime rolls around, starting with the bad weather and nasty road conditions.  Other danger factors include more hours of darkness, mechanical failures owing to cold and driver fatigue.  All can exacerbate your odds of experiencing an accident.  Motorists should know the safe winter driving rules for dealing with winter road emergencies. Winter driving presents a number of challenges to both you and your vehicle. Your vehicle’s mechanical abilities are tested by the cold weather, and dangerous winter driving conditions test your abilities as a driver.

Here are safety tips for winter driving:

Visibility Works Both Ways

In addition to there being fewer daylight hours in winter, other reduced visibility factors include snow, rain and sleet.  It’s also true that many drivers simply can’t see as well at night.  With those in mind, here are some actions you can take to make your journey safer:

• Use your headlights at all times, not just for low light situations.
• Double your normal vehicle following interval in poor visibility and on wet pavement.
• Install new wiper blades.
• Clean off your windows, head and taillights thoroughly when it snows.

A good rule of thumb is: If you can’t see the other driver they probably can’t see you!

Get a Vehicle Checkup

Before winter, have your car thoroughly inspected by a mechanic, especially if you live in regions prone to cold, snow and ice.  They should check the following on your vehicle:

• Battery
• Tires and tread wear
• Antifreeze level, integrity and radiator hoses
• Heating system
• Exhaust system for leaks

Neglecting a preventative checkup leaves you open to mechanical failures, which could strand you by the roadside. If this occurs during bad winter weather conditions, your odds for a roadside crash increase.

When traveling for the holidays, whether it’s a drive across town or a road trip across multiple states, your car should be ready for winter weather with a good tune-up. Always make sure your vehicle is in peak operating condition by checking your tire pressure, wiper blades, windshield wiper fluid, batter and charging system, and cooling system.Keep at least half a tank of gasoline in your vehicle at all times, and get your car serviced to prepare for the winter driving season.

Stay Awake at the Wheel

Cold weather, illnesses and reduced sunlight means that many people are less active in the winter months.  Inactivity promotes drowsiness which, when combined with poor wintertime driving conditions, greatly increases your collision odds.

The holiday season can be a stressful time. Often, that stress contributes to slower reaction times behind the wheel, lack of concentration, or even nodding off.  In an effort to stay alert while on the road and especially on those long holiday trips, get plenty of sleep, increase your caffeine intake, and keep your mind stimulated with conversation and noise.  Crack the window a bit if it’s cold outside so that the frosty air can keep you alert and awake.

If you’re sleepy, distracted, or have been drinking it’s a wise decision not to get behind the wheel. If you plan on drinking, designate a sober driver. Aside from having to deal with possible winter driving conditions, it’s simply common sense. Our phones can be just as dangerous as drunk driving, so make sure you have a hands-free device should you need to make a call, and avoid texting completely.

These tips should help minimize stress while keeping you and your loved ones safe on the road. In addition, the National Safety Council has many general holiday safety tips.

Winter Weather and Traffic Reports

Watch weather reports prior to driving to anticipate the weather conditions expected. Traffic reports also help you prepare for your trip by notifying you of hazards, delays, and travel times. Traffic can be extremely heavy during the holidays. Plan on leaving early or staying later to avoid stressful traffic jams. Also, pay attention to traffic reports when you plan your trip to best avoid crowded highways and roads or roads that have yet to be cleared of snow and ice

Be Prepared if Stranded in a Winter Storm

In case you do get stranded, make sure you always have a cell phone, blankets, gloves, hats, food, water, and any medication you may need in your vehicle. Stay with your vehicle until help arrives, because it provides temporary shelter and makes it easier for rescuers to locate you. Don’t try to journey out on foot in a severe storm. It’s easy to walk away, lose sight of your vehicle in blowing snow and become lost.

Prepare a Vehicle Emergency Kit

Just as you may have a tornado or severe storm kit in your basement, it’s a good idea to keep an emergency kit in your car in case of extreme conditions.  In the winter months especially, there are many items that could prove to be very useful in an unfortunate weather-related situation or accident that causes you to be exposed to extreme temperatures.

Start your kit with some basic essentials, such as non-perishable food items (i.e. canned goods or snacks), and bottled water.   Pack enough for all the people typically in your car.

Next, a few handy tools to add to your kit include:

• A windshield ice scraper
• A multi-purpose utility tool, such as a pocket knife
• An LED flashlight with spare batteries
• And a bag of cat litter

Yes, you read that right.  Cat litter is a great, lightweight alternative to salt or sand that can be used to free your car from snow banks or icy patches.

A classic first-aid kit may be in your car already, but it’s worth a second look to ensure it still has a full supply.  Lastly, tucking a warm blanket in your trunk is also a good idea in case your car won’t start, or you have to wait for assistance in cold temperatures.

Take a look at which of these items you already have in your car, and consider adding the ones you don’t.  You will be happy you did if you ever come across a situation when you need them.  Leave a comment below with any items you would add to our list!

Brake Appropriately

When driving in winter conditions, accelerate and decelerate slowly. Applying the gas slowly to accelerate is the best way for regaining traction and avoiding skids. It takes longer to slow down on icy roads, so take time to brake sooner and slowly before coming to a stop light. Drive slowly. Everything takes longer on snow-covered roads. Accelerating, stopping, turning – nothing happens as quickly as on dry pavement. Give yourself time to maneuver by driving slowly. Know your brakes. Whether you have anti-lock brakes or not, the best way to stop is threshold breaking. Keep the heel of your foot on the floor and use the ball of your foot to apply firm, steady pressure on the brake pedal.

Don’t Take Risks During Winter Storms

Stay home. If you really don’t have to go out, don’t. Even if you can drive well in the snow, not everyone else can. Don’t tempt fate: If you don’t have somewhere you have to be, watch the snow from indoors.

If Winter Accidents Happen, Help is Nearby

These tips should help minimize stress while keeping you and your loved ones safe on the road. In addition, the National Safety Council has many general holiday safety tips. However, even if you implement these winter safe driving tips,  getting in an accident is still an unfortunate possibility.  If that happens, take heart in knowing that there are a number of top-quality auto body repair shops near you  that can get you back on the road quickly, reliably and affordably.  For a list of collision repair professionals in your area and consumer reviews, just enter your zip code here: https://www.carwise.com/auto-body-shops/ Visit AAA’s YouTube page for more videos on winter driving tips.