You’ve had your car for several years now and just paid it off. Because it still runs great you were planning to hand it down to your high schooler when they head off to college. But after another snow-filled winter, you noticed some small rust spots when you took it through the car wash. What should you do? Much like the tip of an iceberg, any noticeable rust on your vehicle could be an indication of more serious problems lurking beneath the surface. Here’s why getting those rusted areas promptly repaired is so important. 

Why Do Cars Rust?

It’s common for older vehicles to get rust spots, especially when they’re exposed to saltwater or road deicers in cold-weather climates. Over time, chemicals, dirt and road salt can all cause the top layers of your paint to weaken. Unrepaired scratches and dents from minor fender benders and stray grocery carts can also promote rust formation, even on newer cars. 

When bare metal gets exposed to water, iron and air it starts corroding due to a chemical reaction known as oxidation. Once saltwater starts accelerating the oxidation process, you might notice a small rust spot around your wheel well or near the bottom of a door. Once that rust spreads, it not only looks bad and lowers your resale value, it can start corroding structural components and body panels.

Small Rust Repairs 

Small rust repairs work well when the damage is superficial, and the corrosion hasn’t had a chance to penetrate through to the metal. A body shop might recommend a small rust patch job when it’s caused by a deep paint scratch or minor dent. 

This is how collision repair technicians perform a small-scale rust repair:

• The corroded area and the surrounding paint are first sanded down.

• The exposed metal is then coated with a primer.

• Once the primer dries, the area is repainted to match the rest of your vehicle.

• The entire car is then waxed and polished with a high-quality wax.

Larger Rust Repair Jobs 

Once the rust has penetrated a larger and/or deeper area, more extensive bodywork is needed. Large-scale rust repairs become necessary when the metal has started to corrode completely through, which will eventually weaken the integrity of supporting structures enough that they may not be able to withstand a subsequent collision.   

Large-scale rust repairs typically include these steps:

• First, the corroded metal section is cut out and then replaced. If the damage is extensive, it may be necessary to switch out the entire body panel.

• A bonding material is used to fill in around the repaired area.

• The area is then sanded, primed and painted to match the rest of the car. 

• The exterior is waxed and polished using a high-quality wax.

How Can I Protect My Car from Rust?

In addition to the body, the undercarriage of your vehicle is also vulnerable to rust, including the exhaust system, floorboards and chassis. Here are some rust-prevention tips:

• Take your car frequently to a touchless car wash that also washes the undercarriage, and especially whenever your car’s been exposed to road salt.

• Hand wax your vehicle every 6 months with a high-quality Carnauba Wax.

• Have your car professionally detailed every year because the detailing products they use will permeate all the little nooks and crannies and better protect your paint’s finish. Many auto body shops also offer detailing as a value-added service.  

• Get any deep scratches or noticeable dents repaired promptly. 

Find Local Rust-Removal Experts Here in Seconds 

If you’ve got some rust spots on your car’s exterior, don’t take chances. Instead, restore your peace of mind by promptly taking it to one of the auto body and glass repair shops listed in the nationwide Carwise referral network. All shops featured on Carwise employ I-CAR and ASE-certified professionals, which means they have the latest equipment, services and facilities to get your ride looking great again promptly and reliably. And, you can also use Carwise to locate collision repair shops that provide professional detailing services.

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

If you live in a large city around the United States, you’re no stranger to traffic congestion. Daily commutes can be stressful, especially when you’re further delayed by work zones and accidents. Morning and evening rush hour backups have become a way of life for millions of Americans, whether it’s traveling by car, truck or bus. But have you ever wondered how your city’s traffic congestion ranks in comparison to other metro areas? Thanks to a recent study by INRIX, that “guessing game” is now over. 

Who is INRIX?

INRIX is a global leader in transportation analytics and connected car services. In other words, they collect, analyze and then provide information to customers about how people travel around the world on-a-daily-basis. In March of this year, INRIX published a report called the 2019 Global Traffic Scoreboard. The data contained within that study was collected anonymously from various sources, including cars, smartphones, trucks and traffic control systems. 

INRIX looked at traffic patterns, the average length of delays, lost productivity and daily travel times for commuters in 100s of U.S. cities. Based on that information, INRIX was able to rank each metro area based on traffic congestion severity. In addition to motorists, they also included daily commuters who use bicycles or public transportation. 

These U.S. Cities are Commuting Nightmares 

Wichita, Kansas, had the lowest traffic congestion score in the country, with commuters on average only losing about two hours of annual productivity. Unfortunately, if you commute to another city, lengthy traffic delays are costing you significant time and income every year. 

According to INRIX, these are the top 10 most-congested U.S. cities for commuters, starting with the worst: 

1. Boston, MA
2. Chicago, IL
3. Philadelphia, PA
4. New York City, NY
5. Washington, DC
6. Los Angeles, CA
7. San Francisco, CA
8. Portland, OR
9. Baltimore, MD
10. Atlanta, GA 

For example, the average commuter in Boston loses 149 hours per year while stuck in traffic, which ends up costing them roughly $2,205 in lost income. The estimated economic impact nationwide is over $88 billion.

Worst U.S. Corridors for Commuters

INRIX also analyzed congestion data for specific roadways. Surprisingly, a few of the U.S. cities that didn’t rank the highest overall for congestion still had individual roadways that did. These were the worst traffic corridors for motorists in 2019: 

1. I-5 in Los Angeles, CA
2. US-101 in Los Angeles, CA
3. Brooklyn Queens Expressway in New York City
4. I-95 in New York City
5. I-85/I-75 in Atlanta, GA
6. I-35 in Austin, TX
7. I-275 in Tampa, FL
8. I-290 in Chicago, IL
9. I-405 in Los Angeles, CA
10. I-90/I-94 in Chicago, IL 

For instance, the average commuter in L.A. loses up to 80 hours of productivity per year when traveling on I-5 between the I-10 and I-605 interchanges.  

What’s the Solution?

The transportation experts at INRIX point out that access to reliable data is the first step in tackling the congestion problem. When it comes to solving urban mobility challenges, creating more intelligent transportation systems is vital. 

They further recommend that city planners and engineers do a better job of prioritizing transportation spending with respect to traffic flow, parking and population movement. Unfortunately, the operating budgets of many large metropolitan areas highlighted in this report are already stretched to the breaking point. 

Find Coast-to-Coast Collision Repair Shops Here 

No matter where you drive in the U.S., accidents happen. When your ride’s been dinged up in a fender-bender, put your mind at ease by promptly locating a local auto body or glass repair shop through the nationwide Carwise referral network. Once you do, I-CAR and ASE-certified collision repair specialists will get started restoring your vehicle like new again using the latest equipment, services, and technologies. 

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

Rear-end collisions are the most common type of motor vehicle crashes every year in the U.S., representing roughly one-third of all accidents. (1)  And although over 1,700 motorists die and more than 500,000 are injured in front-to-rear crashes annually (2), most rear-end accidents occur at slower speeds and cause minor structural damage. On the other hand, even when your vehicle gets dinged up just slightly it can cause hidden damage that may place your safety at risk later on.  

What Causes Rear-End Car Collisions?    

According to traffic safety experts, rear-end collisions in the U.S. happen over 2 million times per year. (3)  Furthermore, over 80% of those crashes could be avoided simply if the trailing driver had one extra second of warning time. These are the main causes of rear-end collisions:

• Speeding
• Traffic congestion
• Distracted driving
• Mechanical failure
• Aggressive or reckless driving
• Driving while fatigued
• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol

What You Can’t See Matters When It Comes to Car damage  

Although the cosmetic damage to your vehicle may seem negligible, the dirty little secret about rear-end collisions lies beneath the surface. When you’ve been involved in a minor front-to-rear accident, these are some of the hidden problems it could cause:

Electrical Damage In Your Vehicle

Even a minor impact can loosen wires for your battery, brake lights, taillights or starter. In addition to the fact, a loose engine wire could leave you stranded, those disconnected brake lights will keep you from alerting drivers behind you that you’re stopping. 

Car Transmission Damage

A rear-end collision not only affects your car’s body, but it can also harm mechanical parts. All-wheel-drive (AWD) or rear-wheel drive (RWD) vehicles have transmission components located near the rear that can get damaged even during a low-impact crash. If the transmission isn’t checked out immediately after an accident, your car could start shifting roughly, leaking transmission fluid or experience poor acceleration. 

The Trunk Of Your Car Is Damaged?

A small impact to the back of your car can mess up the trunk’s locking mechanism and seal. Left unaddressed, you could have trouble opening the trunk, water could leak into the storage compartment, or the trunk lid may even pop open while you’re cruising down the highway. 

Car Frame Damage

Most bumpers are only painted plastic that doesn’t protect the metal components directly underneath. Even minor fender benders can slightly bend your car’s frame and lead to future safety problems, like an onboard driver warning system malfunction or weakened frame that doesn’t protect you during a subsequent collision.

Car Alignment Problems 

Hitting a pothole can knock your car out of alignment, so what makes you think to sustain a front-to-rear impact won’t? If your ride starts pulling to one side of the road, vibrates strangely or there’s a shimmy in the steering wheel, your alignment may be off. A misaligned vehicle can cause premature wear and tear to your tires, brakes, suspension and other parts that result in poor handling issues. 

How to Avoid Rear-End Car Crashes

The best ways to avoid rear-end collisions include:

• Maintain a safe following distance based on weather conditions and speed.
• Obey all posted speed limits, especially in construction zones.
• Don’t drive while under the influence of drugs, alcohol or cold remedies. 
• Never text while driving.
• Pullover and take a break if you’re feeling tired, or switch drivers. 
• Get your vehicle inspected by a mechanic several times a year.
• Buy a vehicle with an accident-avoidance system. 

Your Reliable Solution for Rear-End Car Collisions

When your ride’s been involved in a minor rear-end collision, don’t just pocket the insurance check and gamble on your safety. Instead, put your mind at ease by promptly taking your vehicle to one of the 19,000+ auto body and glass repair shops featured in the nationwide Carwise referral network. Once there, I-CAR and ASE-certified shop managers and technicians will give your car the “once over” to make sure it’s safe to drive.

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

References:

1. SafeBraking.com: NHTSA: 28% of Crashes Are Rear-End Collisions; 9/14/2012
2. News Release from the National Transportation Safety Board dated 6/18/2015: NTSB Calls for Immediate Action on Collision Avoidance Systems for Vehicles; Cites Slow Progress as Major Safety Issue 
3. National Safety Commission report: The Road Can Be a Hazardous Place: Common Types of Traffic Accidents; 10/4/2013

Every year from mid-March to mid-April millions of Americans take Spring Break road trips. Whether it’s a carload of college students en route to Panama City, or a family “truckster” loaded for Disneyworld, it’s always a busy time on our nation’s roads. But if you’re one of the drivers who’s participating in this annual rite-of-passage, the last thing you need is a broken-down vehicle stranded on the shoulder due to mechanical trouble. To help ensure that your Spring Break vacation is a more relaxing one, use these car-prepping tips from the pros.   

Car/RV Fluids Check Before Long Family Trips

You’ll probably have a cooler full of thirst-quenching beverages on board, so don’t forget to refresh your vehicle’s fluid levels too. Use this handy fluid checklist to keep your car hydrated: 

Add Coolant To Your Car

On longer trips, your engine’s radiator fluid gets put to the test. Check your coolant level before leaving, and the radiator hoses for signs of leaks. It’s also recommended to have the cooling system flushed and filled every 50,000 miles.

Car Oil

Oil is your engine’s lifeblood, so make sure that your oil and filter get replaced every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. If your vehicle leaks a little oil, check its level with the dipstick and top it off before hitting the road. And, don’t forget to put an extra quart in your car. 

Refill Your Cars Washer fluid

You’ll no doubt be encountering all kinds of weather during your journey, so make sure to top off your windshield washer fluid reservoir. If your wiper blades are leaving streaks on the glass, it’s time to buy a new set.  

Other Car fluids

It’s also a good idea to inspect the fluid levels for your brakes, power steering and transmission. 

Car Tire Checks Before Spring Break

Your car’s tires are important for safety, comfort and fuel efficiency, so don’t neglect yours. Here are some tire-care tips from the experts:

Vehicles Treadwear

Most tires last 30,000 to 50,000 miles if properly maintained, so have a tire specialist inspect your “rubber” for signs of uneven wear, bulging or punctures. The “penny test” is a good way to check the tread depth yourself. Tires lacking adequate tread to properly grip the pavement can cause handling and hydroplaning issues. 

Air Pressure Of Your Car Tires

Over or underinflated tires promote uneven tread wear and steering problems, so check your air pressure every time you fill up your gas tank. If you’re traveling from a cold area to a hot one, for every 10 degrees of temperature variation your tires’ pressure will fluctuate up or down by 1 PSI. 

Tire Rotations

For optimal tread life, your tires should be rotated every 5,000 to 8,000 miles. If you are long overdue, get a tire rotation before hitting the road.

General Car Maintenance

Your vehicle has numerous parts and systems that all must work together so you can reach your Spring Break destination without incident. To keep your ride in good working order, have a reliable mechanic check out these components well ahead of your departure date: 

• Brake pads and rotors (last for 25,000 to 70,000 miles)
• Engine air filter and cabin filter
• Light bulbs, including headlights, taillights, brake lights and turn signals 
• Belts and hoses
• A/C and heater 
• Battery and alternator 

Your Cars Emergency Travel Kit

Due to unforeseen circumstances, there’s always the possibility you could get stranded for a few hours on your trip. AAA recommends that all drivers keep an emergency roadside travel kit in their vehicles with these items:

• Emergency reflectors
• Blankets
• Mobile phone charger
• Bottled water and non-perishable snacks
• Flashlight with extra batteries
• Jumper cables 
• First-aid kit

Your Reliable Car Repair Solution for Spring Break Collisions 

Even if your ride is road-ready, you can still be involved in a Spring Break road trip collision. When you’ve been involved in a fender-bender, promptly locate a nearby auto body or glass repair shop through the nationwide Carwise referral network. Once you do, I-CAR and ASE-certified collision-repair experts will promptly get started restoring your vehicle like-new again using the latest equipment, services and techniques. 

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

It’s always fun to stop by the local dealership, auto body shop or car show to check out some of the new high-tech gadgets on the latest models. By now most drivers have heard about self-driving cars, multi-function tailgates, and crash-avoidance systems. But there are always bolder innovations appearing on the automotive scene that keep curious drivers hungry for more. Ready or not, here are 3 hot automotive technology trends for 2020 and beyond that are coming to a showroom near you. 

Gullwing Doors  

If you ever watched the Back to the Future movies, you’re familiar with gullwing doors. Also known as “falcon wings”, they are hinged at the roof rather than on the side. The first passenger vehicle with gullwing doors was the 1939 Bugatti Type 64, although its famous French creator preferred the term portes papillon, or “butterfly wing”.   

By the mid-1950s the Mercedes-Benz 300SL had gullwing doors, followed by the Bricklin SV-1 in the ‘70s, DeLorean DMC-12 during the 1980s, and a handful of other high-end models. After that, the concept remained relatively dormant until Elon Musk’s Tesla crew reintroduced falcon-wing doors in 2015 on their Model X crossovers. 

That same year a tiny automaker from Liechtenstein called Quant came out with ultra-lightweight carbon fiber gullwing doors on its Quant F concept car. In general, gullwing doors can be problematic if you park in low-ceilinged garages or too close to other vehicles. But get used to the idea, because additional gull-wing auto introductions are already in the works.

Electronic Gear Selectors 

The first patent for a push-button transmission was issued in 1909, and by the 1950s nearly every major automaker had offered electronic gear shifters on select models. Flash-forward to 2020 as automakers are trying to eliminate center console clutter to accommodate smartphones and other high-tech mobile devices. 

As a result, console cupholders are staying but gearshift levers are not. And that’s where electronic gear selectors come in. Several auto manufacturers have been easing push-button transmissions into the market since the late 2010s, including Honda, Acura, and Fiat Chrysler. If your automatic transmission vehicle is equipped with an electronic gear selector, to go from park to forward or reverse you simply touch the display screen and wait for a response.

Unfortunately, there have been a few “glitches” with push-button shifters. For starters, it’s sometimes hard to tell when the car has finished shifting. Not only does that cause delays, but it can also be downright annoying. Secondly, there have been reports of accidents after drivers exited their vehicles with the engine still running after they thought the car was placed in “park, but it wasn’t.

Touchscreen Infotainment Systems

Newer touchscreen infotainment systems are another product of the decluttering design craze. Naturally, touchscreens are nothing new, but today’s larger versions contain even more submenus that control everything from your vehicle’s moonroof to its climate. That’s all well-and-good for freeing up interior space, but some of today’s oversized touchscreens are proving to be overly distracting for drivers who are trying to concentrate on the road.  

Peugeot, Tesla, and Audi have been innovators for advanced touchscreen systems, but on some vehicles, the navigation function goes away when scrolling through the various submenus just to perform a simple task like turning on the A/C. Thankfully, most automakers are keeping steering-wheel-mounted thumb controls for the same functions that can be accessed via touchscreens- at least for now. 

As the 2020s play out some further improvements will hopefully be made so touchscreen infotainment controls are safer and less distracting to use. 

Your Car Collision Repair and Auto Body Solution for 2020 & Beyond

Whether your new car drives itself or it’s older than you are, accidents happen. When your ride’s been dinged up in a fender bender, promptly take it to one of the reliable auto body shop and glass repair shops featured in the nationwide Carwise referral network. Once you do, I-CAR and ASE-certified collision repair professionals will use the latest technologies and services to promptly restore your ride like new again. 

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

While driving down the highway one day you pass another vehicle on the roadside that’s totally engulfed in flames and heavy smoke. Thankfully, first responders are on the scene and it looks like the vehicle’s occupants got out safely. Accidental car fires are usually caused by fuel leaks, faulty electrical wiring or design defects- although there are other causes. Sometimes, vehicle fires are set intentionally to hide crimes. Have you ever thought about what you would do if your car caught on fire while you were in it? Auto safety experts strongly advise taking these steps. 

Car Fire Statistics 

According to a report from the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) (1), roughly one-in-eight fires responded to each year by fire departments across the country are vehicle-related. That’s approximately 240,000 fires annually. Here are some other USFA statistics about highway car fires:

• Over 80% of car fires occur in passenger vehicles.

• Roughly 60% of all fatal vehicle fires result from collisions.

• Unintentional actions due to mechanical failure are the leading cause of highway fires.

• Electrical wire insulation and flammable liquids in the engine compartment are the most common items that initially ignite.

• Over 60% of all vehicle fires and nearly 40% of fatal highway fires start in the running gear (wheels, suspension, powertrain, steering), engine or wheel area of the vehicle. 

Is Your Vehicle a Fire Risk?

Although thousands of vehicle fires are caused by collisions, there are several potential warning signs that also turn your car into a fire risk even when it’s not involved in a crash, like: 

• Fuses that blow constantly
• Cracked or loose wiring, or wiring with exposed metal
• Broken or loose hoses
• Very loud sounds coming from the exhaust system
• Rapid fluctuations in the oil level, fuel level or engine temperature
• Oil or other fluid leaks under the vehicle 

Many car fires start in the engine area, but they can also break out under the vehicle, in your dashboard, near wheels and brakes, or even inside the car (like from a dropped cigarette).  

What to Do During a Vehicle Fire

If you smell smoke or see flames coming from your vehicle while you’re driving it, try to remain calm and then follow these additional safety Dos and Don’ts:

• If you’re moving in traffic, do use your turn signal and immediately pull off to the nearest safe area and then come to a stop, whether it’s a median, parking lot or shoulder. 

• Once you’ve come to a complete stop, do turn off the ignition.

• Starting with yourself, do get everyone out of the vehicle and far away from the flames and toxic fumes. Don’t allow curious bystanders to approach your burning vehicle. 

• Once everyone is at least 100 feet from your car, do promptly call 911 and wait for the fire department to arrive. 

• Don’t try to put out the fire yourself, even if you have an onboard fire extinguisher. 

• Don’t open the hood, trunk or doors unless it’s a life-threatening situation, as that may increase the fire’s air supply and cause it to accelerate. 

• Don’t let passengers try to retrieve personal items from the burning vehicle. 

Car fires can burn very intensely because of the lighter plastics and fiberglass materials that many newer vehicles are made of. Batteries can also be especially dangerous, and electric or hybrid vehicles can be even more challenging for fire fighters who are extinguishing the blaze.   

These Body Shops Do Expert Fire & Collision Repairs 

When your car’s been damaged by a fire, it may be repairable. Even minor fender benders can jar electrical wiring loose that could start a fire later. For all these reasons, it’s good to know that you can promptly locate a nearby auto body or glass repair shop through the nationwide Carwise referral network. Bring your car in and let the I-CAR and ASE-certified professionals have-a-look to ensure your safety and peace of mind.  

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

Reference:

1. U.S. Fire Administration Report: Highway Vehicle Fires (2014-2016); July 2018

You’ve had your car for several years now, and it just started vibrating whenever you drive it. There’s a little shimmy in the steering wheel, and your vehicle also seems to be riding more roughly. Now those annoying vibrations have got you worried that you’re going to get stranded along the roadside unless you can figure out what’s wrong. Whenever a vehicle starts shaking it’s not a good sign. In fact, there are several possible mechanical reasons why your car is vibrating, including these: 

Worn Car Motor Mounts

Motor mounts, or engine mounts, hold your vehicle’s engine to the chassis. Most motor mounts are made from a combination of rubber and metal, either of which can wear out over time. When that happens, there’s no longer a firm grip between the chassis and engine, and the rubber cushion stops absorbing vibrations like it should. As a driver, you’ll then start noticing vibrations. 

Bent Axle On Your Vehicle

Power from your engine travels through the driveshaft to the axle and wheels so you can cruise down the highway. If your axle gets bent for some reason, like hitting a pothole, it can cause noticeable shaking. 

Car Engine Trouble

Vehicle shuddering or jerking during acceleration, staccato shaking when you’ve reached a certain speed, or a car that starts up fine but then shakes later are all signs of possible engine trouble. Those problems could be from bad spark plugs, a clogged fuel or air filter, or worse. 

Vehicles Power Steering Leaks

If your car vibrates only when you’re turning, it’s probably related to the power steering system. Check the hoses for leaks and the fluid reservoir to make sure it’s topped off. 

Old Steering Components 

Have you ever noticed the firm and responsive steering of a brand new car? The steering components in your vehicle can wear out over time just like any other part. There are also a lot of moving parts in between your steering wheel and the 4 wheels that it controls, and when any of those components get worn out, you’ll start to feel steering wheel vibrations or excess play in the wheel. 

Bad Car Tires

Because they are the only part of your vehicle that makes contact with the pavement, one of the most common causes of unusual road vibrations are bald or worn-out tires. Old tires, tires with uneven tread wear or underinflated tires can also cause vibrating. And, the last thing you need is a blowout on the highway. 

Car Brake Issues

Do you notice the vibrations when you apply the brakes, or do they get worse when doing so? If that’s the case, you may be driving around with one or more warped brake rotors. A rotor can get bent out of shape from long-term use, which then keeps the brake pads from gripping properly. Not only could it place you at risk, but you’ll also feel vibrations when pressing the pedal. 

Car Has Unbalanced Wheels

Small wheel weights are used to keep your wheels balanced while they spin. If your wheel gets knocked out of balance it can start shaking. Hitting a pothole or speed bump too fast can also bend or otherwise damage your wheels. 

Were You in A Car Accident?

Being involved in even a minor fender bender can cause many of the vibration issues listed above by inflicting damage to your axle, suspension, power steering, wheels, motor mounts, tires or engine. When your car’s been in any type of accident it’s wise to have it promptly inspected at a nearby collision repair shop.  

Find Local Auto Body Repair Shops in Seconds 

Trying to find a reputable auto body or glass repair shop after a fender bender can be frustrating and stressful. At Carwise we’ve simplified the process by compiling profiles on over 19,000 nationwide collision repair shops and then placing that information right at your fingertips. Within seconds, you can find a list of local shops with I-CAR and ASE-certified professionals who are highly trained to use the latest technologies while restoring vehicles like new again.  

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

Rear-end collisions are the most common type of motor vehicle crashes every year in the U.S., representing roughly one-third of all accidents. (1)  And although over 1,700 motorists die and more than 500,000 are injured in front-to-rear crashes annually (2), most rear-end accidents occur at slower speeds and cause minor structural damage. On the other hand, even when your vehicle gets dinged up just slightly it can cause hidden damage that may place your safety at risk later on.  

What Causes Rear-End Car Collisions?    

According to traffic safety experts, rear-end collisions in the U.S. happen over 2 million times per year. (3)  Furthermore, over 80% of those crashes could be avoided simply if the trailing driver had one extra second of warning time. These are the main causes of rear-end collisions:

• Speeding
• Traffic congestion
• Distracted driving
• Mechanical failure
• Aggressive or reckless driving
• Driving while fatigued
• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol

What You Can’t See Matters  

Although the cosmetic damage to your vehicle may seem negligible, the dirty little secret about rear-end collisions lies beneath the surface. When you’ve been involved in a minor front-to-rear accident, these are some of the hidden problems it could cause:

Car Electrical Damage

Even a minor impact can loosen wires for your battery, brake lights, taillights or starter. In addition to the fact a loose engine wire could leave you stranded, those disconnected brake lights will keep you from alerting drivers behind you that you’re stopping. 

Vehicle Transmission Damage

A rear-end collision not only affects your car’s body, it can also harm mechanical parts. All-wheel-drive (AWD) or rear-wheel drive (RWD) vehicles have transmission components located near the rear that can get damaged even during a low-impact crash. If the transmission isn’t checked out immediately after an accident, your car could start shifting roughly, leaking transmission fluid or experience poor acceleration. 

Vehicles Trunk Damage

A small impact to the back of your car can mess up the trunk’s locking mechanism and seal. Left unaddressed, you could have trouble opening the trunk, water could leak into the storage compartment, or the trunk lid may even pop open while you’re cruising down the highway. 

Car Frame Damage

Most bumpers are only painted plastic that doesn’t protect the metal components directly underneath. Even minor fender benders can slightly bend your car’s frame and lead to future safety problems, like an onboard driver warning system malfunction or weakened frame that doesn’t protect you during a subsequent collision.

Vehicles Alignment Problems 

Hitting a pothole can knock your car out of alignment, so what makes you think sustaining a front-to-rear impact won’t? If your ride starts pulling to one side of the road, vibrates strangely or there’s a shimmy in the steering wheel, your alignment may be off. A misaligned vehicle can cause premature wear and tear to your tires, brakes, suspension and other parts that results in poor handling issues. 

How to Avoid Rear-End Car Crashes

The best ways to avoid rear-end collisions include:

• Maintain a safe following distance based on weather conditions and speed.
• Obey all posted speed limits, especially in construction zones.
• Don’t drive while under the influence of drugs, alcohol or cold remedies. 
• Never text while driving.
• Pull over and take a break if you’re feeling tired, or switch drivers. 
• Get your vehicle inspected by a mechanic several times a year.
• Buy a vehicle with an accident-avoidance system. 

Your Reliable Solution for Rear-End Car Collisions

When your ride’s been involved in a minor rear-end collision, don’t just pocket the insurance check and gamble on your safety. Instead, put your mind at ease by promptly taking your vehicle to one of the 19,000+ auto body and glass repair shops featured in the nationwide Carwise referral network. Once there, I-CAR and ASE-certified shop managers and technicians will give your car the “once over” to make sure it’s safe to drive.

for a customer-reviewed collision repair shop nearby, please visit: www.carwise.com. 

References:

1. SafeBraking.com: NHTSA: 28% of Crashes Are Rear-End Collisions; 9/14/2012
2. News Release from the National Transportation Safety Board dated 6/18/2015: NTSB Calls for Immediate Action on Collision Avoidance Systems for Vehicles; Cites Slow Progress as Major Safety Issue 
3. National Safety Commission report: The Road Can Be a Hazardous Place: Common Types of Traffic Accidents; 10/4/2013

Over 40 million American households have a dog, and many drivers like to take their 4-legged friends along when traveling on vacation, to the store or local park. Unfortunately, most pet owners don’t take the necessary safety precautions when transporting their dogs, which sometimes leads to distracted driving accidents. Many of those crashes are avoidable, and some are even fatal. To keep you and your loveable pet safer when riding around in the car, use these safe driving tips from the experts.  

Distracted Driving Includes Pets  

Petting your puppy while operating a vehicle constitutes distracted driving, as does letting them sit on your lap. Although the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) doesn’t compile specific pet-related distracted-driving crash statistics, they’ve been lumped in with these general distraction-affected accident figures from 2017:

• Over 3,000 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes involving distracted drivers.
• Nine percent of all traffic accident fatalities involve distracted drivers.
• Six percent of all drivers involved in fatal accidents were reported as being distracted at the time of the accident.
• Nearly 600 non-vehicle occupants (bicyclists, pedestrians, etc.) were killed by distracted drivers. 

Bad Driving Behaviors Dog Owners Use In Their Car 

According to dog owner surveys, many drivers openly admit that they practice these unsafe driving behaviors while transporting their pets around: 

• Not using proper pet safety restraints (84%)
• Getting distracted by their pet (60%)
• Petting their dog while driving (52%)
• Allowing their dog to sit on their lap (17%)
• Giving their pet a treat while driving (13%)

Considering that millions of drivers own a dog, these statistics are quite concerning. 

How To Transport Your Dog Safely From Vehicle Stuffed Roads

So that your trip will be safer for all parties involved, including bicyclists, fellow motorists, and pedestrians, always use these tips when transporting your dog: 

Use Car Restraints

Before hitting the road, make sure that your pet has a safe, secure and comfortable place to ride in. Here are some ways to ‘use restraint’ while the vehicle is moving: 

• Dog barrier. These resemble gates, are adjustable and available to fit most vehicle models. Even when using a dog barrier your pet can still see you for reassurance. 

• Crate or carrier. Depending on the animal’s size, find a well-ventilated carrier or crate that gives them plenty of room to sit, stand, lie down or turn around in. Then secure the crate itself so it doesn’t move around, especially in you get rear-ended. 

• Harness. These attach to your car’s seatbelts and are essentially safety restraints for dogs. Just like small children in car seats, make sure to harness your dog in the back seat for added safety and security. 

Heads Belong Inside Vehicles 

You wouldn’t allow a small child to ride with their head out the window, so why let your dog do it? That’s just asking for trouble if their loveable face smacks into a solid object at high speed. Thousands of dogs are also injured or killed every year when falling out of pickup truck beds, so don’t let your furry friend ride back there either.  

Pack a Travel Kit For Your Car

Never leave your pet unattended in the car for more than a few minutes, and on longer road trips always pack them a travel kit that includes:

• Bowl, leash and bottled water
• Their medications
• Vaccination records (When crossing state lines) 
• Food and doggie treats
• Grooming supplies 

When Driving, Address ‘Travel Anxiety’ 

Signs of pet travel anxiety include loud barking, excessive panting and nervous pacing. If not addressed, travel anxiety can morph into full-blown panic, so talk to your vet about safe ways to manage travel anxiety. 

Customer-Reviewed Collision Repairs Are Only a Click Away

When your ride gets dinged up in an accident, promptly locate a local auto body or glass repair shop featured in the nationwide Carwise referral network. All shops listed on Carwise are I-CAR and ASE-certified, which means they have the well-trained technicians, high-tech equipment and innovative services necessary to restore your vehicle like new again promptly and reliably. Most speak directly with insurance adjusters, so you don’t have to, and warranty their repair outcomes to restore your peace of mind.

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

Today’s drivers live in a “brave new world” of technological advancements that are forever changing the way people get around, like AI-assisted GPS, accident-avoidance systems and self-parking cars. On the other hand, auto body shops and insurance companies are now embracing many innovative forms of technology to ensure a more seamless and cost-effective collision-repair process. Within the next few years, the following emerging technologies will have transformed the collision repair industry for the better.   

Car Accident Virtual Reality Training

Auto body technicians and shop managers must stay constantly updated on new vehicle design innovations and repair techniques, and some of that ongoing training is now being done through virtual reality (VR). Companies developing VR training programs also point out that it’s a powerful recruiting tool for attracting young, tech-savvy people to the collision repair industry. 

Advantages of VR training include:

• More cost-effective than traditional training programs requiring overnight travel
• Can be done from anywhere, anytime via remote instructors 
• Hands-on training leads to higher information-retention rates for technicians 
• More interesting for Millennials than other training methods 

When first introduced, VR training hardware and headset packages cost over $5,000. Today, the price has dropped to around $600. 

Vehicle Connectivity

As 5G networks roll out nationwide it will enhance the diagnostic capabilities of body shops because 5G is faster and more responsive than 4G- allowing messages to be sent and received at lightning speed. Smartphone telematic diagnostic applications are replacing plug-in devices to help auto insurers better understand driver accident-avoidance behaviors. Several insurance companies have already launched vehicle connectivity smartphone apps that continuously monitor driver actions so that those who drive more safely can receive discounts.  

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Car Testing

If you use Alexa to turn on your TV, ask Siri for advice or perform Google searches, all are examples of AI technology. In the collision repair industry, AI is behind the telematic monitoring of drivers by insurance companies. But it’s also now being used by body shops and insurers for applications like photo estimating to improve estimate accuracy and speed up the transfer of repair-related information. 

Electrification For Electric Vehicles

Full-electric vehicles (EVs) are growing in popularity, which is fueling a collision repair industry trend known as “electrification”. That’s because working on EVs takes special safety equipment and precautions that technicians must be trained on. As auto manufacturers continue to improve the appearance, range and performance of EVs to attract new buyers, body shops will also be forced to adapt if they want to remain in business. 

A Cars Blockchain

Newer blockchain technologies are also starting to reshape the collision repair industry, most notably in the parts supply department. A blockchain is essentially an ever-expanding list of permanent data records, or “blocks”, that are linked together using cryptography- a secure form of online communication with built-in privacy protections to block hackers. Blockchain has historically been used for cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, but today it’s available to body shops so they can order parts from vendors and manufacturers without exposing sensitive information.  

In addition, there are now blockchain pilot programs looking at ways to capture and secure in one place all accident records, including the first notice of loss (FNOL), the estimate, repair order and parts order. That way, the information can only be accessed by members of the blockchain itself, like the repair shop, insurance company and parts suppliers. 

Find Collision Repair Shops Here that Embrace Change  

When your prized vehicle has been involved in a fender bender, it can be intimidating to find the right auto body or glass repair shop. By using the nationwide Carwise referral network, you can rest assured that you’ll be placing your trust in a collision repair shop that’ll get the job done right. That’s because all repair shops listed on Carwise are I-CAR and ASE certified, which means they invest in the training programs, high-tech equipment and emerging technologies necessary to restore your ride 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.