Roughly two-thirds of all Americans live in cold weather states where below-zero temperatures are possible during winter. Areas of the U.S. like the Upper Midwest and Northeast are notorious for subzero temperatures and teeth-rattling windchills. Not only are those frigid conditions hard on drivers, they can also have a devasting effect on a vehicle’s performance and appearance. Fortunately, it is possible to protect your ride by better understanding how subzero temperatures affect it in the first place. 

Bitter Cold Targets these Car Areas      

Your car’s engine, electrical system and fluids can all stop performing optimally once the mercury dips below zero degrees Fahrenheit. In a nutshell, these are some vehicle areas that are vulnerable to bitter cold: 

Your Car Tires

For every 10 degrees the temperature drops, your tires lose 1 PSI of pressure. If you don’t check them regularly, your tires can get underinflated and cause poor handling issues- not to mention that the tread will wear out faster.  

The Vehicles Battery

Your battery’s electrical output can diminish by up to 50% once temps drop below zero. The older your battery, the greater the odds that it won’t turn over one bitterly cold morning when you’re already in a hurry. To ensure cold weather starts, keep all connections clean, tight and corrosion free. If your battery is over 3 years old, it’s probably time to replace it. 

Oil For Your Car

The colder it is, the thicker your oil becomes. As temperatures near -20 F, engine oil can get so thick that the oil pump struggles just to circulate it. Drivers in subzero climates should switch to a low-viscosity oil in the late fall based on manufacturer recommendations found in the owner’s manual. 

Your Cars Fuel Line

Gasoline itself will not freeze until temperatures reach -100 degrees F. However, any moisture trapped in your fuel tank can ice up and clog your fuel line when it’s 32 degrees or colder. One of the simplest ways to prevent that from occurring is keeping your gas tank at least half full all winter long. And, on frigid days your gas mileage will drop because the engine is running less efficiently.

The Cars Exhaust System

When taking repeated short trips in extremely cold weather, your car’s engine typically doesn’t have enough time to warm up sufficiently and burn off water vapor. As a result, engine sludge can accumulate, pass through the exhaust system and cause it to prematurely rust.  

The Vehicles Engine Block

If your antifreeze is old, it may not protect the engine’s components from freezing like it should. This can cause cracking to the engine block, resulting in very costly damage. Always make sure that your engine has plenty of antifreeze/coolant in it by checking the overflow reservoir, and that it still offers protection down to -40 degrees F. 

Your Cars Windshield

Never pour hot water on your windshield to melt ice because the glass could crack. Blasting hot air from your defroster on a frozen windshield can also crack it, so de-ice yours instead with a commercially available deicer that’s specifically designed for auto glass. Ordinary rubbing alcohol is another safe deicing option. Subzero temperatures can also cause rubber windshield wiper blades to get brittle, crack and tear. 

LCD Display Screens For your Vehicle

If your vehicle has a liquid crystal display (LCD) screen, it may get a little sluggish when your ride’s been sitting outside in extreme cold for a while. That’s because the molecules inside the liquid crystals slow down significantly when exposed to subzero temps. Unfortunately, other than installing an engine-block heater there’s not much you can do to speed up the screen until your engine warms up.   

These Car Repair Shops Have the Cure for Winter Car Accidents 

If your ride’s been dinged up due to a wintertime accident, promptly take it to one of the 19,000+ auto body and glass repair shops featured in the nationwide Carwise referral network. All collision repair shops listed on Carwise are I-CAR and ASE certified, which means they have the highly trained technicians, driver-trusted services and high-tech equipment to repair your vehicle promptly and reliably. Most speak directly with insurance companies, so you don’t have to, and warranty their repair outcomes to put your mind at ease.

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

Many Americans like to set personal goals every year when January rolls around. Those New Year’s resolutions typically include things like exercising more, losing weight and eliminating unhealthy habits. But it’s also important for all drivers who use the roadways to make some driving resolutions so they and fellow motorists will stay safer throughout the year. If you’re thinking about some personal goals for 2020, here are several safe driving resolutions to consider that may ultimately save lives. 

Most Driving Accidents Are Preventable 

According to the consumer safety website safer-america.com, over 140 million people travel on American roadways every day. It’s also a fact that most traffic accidents are preventable. To help motorists stay informed, Safer America has compiled crash data from the past 5 years from reliable sources like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

According to those statistics, here are some of the more common causes of motor vehicle accidents every year:

• Speeding
• Distracted driving
• Drowsy driving
• Drug and alcohol-impaired driving
• Failure to yield the right-of-way
• Driving on wet pavement 

Based on historical trends, it’s a safe bet that far too many people were needlessly killed on U.S. roadways once again during 2019. 

Safe Driving Goals for 2020

No matter what you do, traffic accidents can still happen. However, you can lower the odds that you will become a statistic by implementing these safe driving resolutions:

Don’t Drink and Drive 

In today’s world of ride-sharing and public transportation services, why do people still feel the urge to get behind the wheel after downing too many adult beverages? That goes for operating a vehicle while under the influence of drugs, including some prescription medications and over-the-counter cold remedies.  

Stay Off Your Cell Phone While Driving

Is responding to that text message worth crashing head-on into an oncoming semi-truck? Studies have determined that texting while driving is just as dangerous as drunk driving. Don’t talk or text on your phone unless you have a hands-free device. Not only does it place you and your passengers at serious risk, most states now enforce strict distracted-driving laws. 

Keep Your Vehicle Maintained For Safe Driving

Worn out car parts and tires can also cause accidents, including ones while vehicles are stranded on the roadside. To prevent that from happening to you, get your ride checked out by a mechanic at least every 6 months so they can replace old components with new ones. 

Drive Courteously

Share the road courteously with motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians. That includes yielding the right of way to others and obeying posted speed limits in construction and school zones. Don’t tailgate, swerve in and out of traffic, or otherwise drive aggressively. Speeding is a contributing factor in up to one-third of all fatal crashes, and traffic safety experts also warn that proper turn signal usage could prevent up to 2 million accidents per year. 

Adjust for Weather Conditions When driving

If the roads are wet or icy, slow down and stay even further back from the vehicle in front of you. Always use your headlights from a half hour before sundown to half hour after sunrise, and anytime precipitation is falling. 

Buckle Up Before Driving

So many lives could be saved every year if vehicle occupants were simply wearing their seatbelts. Buckle up before hitting the road, while also making sure that your children are secured with age-appropriate safety restraints. All children under 12 should ride in the back seat and those under 8 should also be in a car seat. 

Your Accident-Repair Source for 2020 and Beyond 

If you’re involved in a car accident this year, promptly find the expert repairs you need by connecting with an auto body or glass repair shop featured in the nationwide Carwise referral network. All collision repair shops listed on Carwise are I-CAR and ASE certified, which means they have the advanced services, innovative equipment and highly trained technicians 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. 

Millions of Americans drive in areas that get snow and ice during the winter, resulting in hazardous road conditions that can cause vehicles to skid out of control. To help keep motorists safe, road crews usually spread sand, road salt, or a combination thereof on the roadways. And although road salt helps keep motorists safer by improving traction, it can do serious harm to your car if you’re not careful. Thankfully, there are several ways to protect your car from road salt damage, starting with these.

How Does Road Salt Work?

Road salt, or rock salt, contains sodium chloride that lowers the freezing point of water. Because water normally freezes at 32 degrees Fahrenheit, when snow or ice are exposed to road salt, they need even colder temperatures to stay frozen. The more salt that’s placed on the roads, the harder it is for ice to form. Road crews can even pre-treat the pavement with a water and salt mixture called “brine” to make the salt more effective. But on some bitterly cold days temperatures drop so low that road salt doesn’t work at all.

Road Salt Targets These Areas

Even though road salt helps keep you safer, it’s not safe for your car. That’s because the chemical reaction that takes place can corrode exposed metal that it comes-in-contact-with. If the corrosion continues unimpeded, it eventually causes rust formation that not only looks bad, it can also lower your vehicle’s resale value.   

Road salt typically targets these areas of your car:

• Body panels
• Exhaust system and muffler
• Coil springs
• Subframe

Your undercarriage takes the brunt of the salt invasion as sodium chloride-filled slush gets splashed underneath your vehicle while driving. Once corrosion starts eating away at your axle or brake lines, it can place you at risk for a future accident. And, unless you check under your vehicle you won’t even know that it’s rusting until it’s too late! 

How to Prevent Salt Damage

When rock salt gets run over, it’s pulverized into tiny particles that get lodged in hidden crevices and creases found in your car’s metal parts, like seams where body panels come together. Here are several reliable ways to protect your vehicle from salt damage:

• Early in the fall, give your car a good washing and waxing. For added protection, apply a wax sealant over the new wax. There are even high-tech ceramic coatings available that provide a longer-lasting protective barrier.

• Before winter weather arrives, get your car inspected by a mechanic to make sure any rusted out components are replaced.

• Repair any noticeable chips, deep scratches or rust spots before the first snowfall.

• Stay back several car lengths when following snowplows that are putting down road salt so that your vehicle doesn’t get pelted.

• Wash your car regularly all winter long. Run your car every few weeks through a car wash that also thoroughly cleans the undercarriage, and make sure to do so right after a large snowfall has hit your area.

• According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), vehicles that are exposed for 8 years or more to road salt are at higher risk to develop corrosion. If you own an older vehicle give it some extra TLC in the winter.

• Once spring arrives, detail your car thoroughly inside and out, as road salt can also damage interior components like carpeting, floor mats and exposed metal. 

Find Local Rust Damage Repair Experts in Seconds

When you first notice rust damage on your ride, promptly take it to one of the auto body or glass repair shops featured in the nationwide Carwise referral network. Collision repair shops listed on Carwise are all I-CAR and ASE certified, which means they have the necessary services, high-tech equipment and experienced technicians to restore your vehicle like new again promptly and reliably. Many Carwise shops also offer professional detailing services to protect your car’s interior and exterior from road salt damage all year long.

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

In order to comply with recent Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFÉ) and CO2-emission standards, automakers have been forced to come up with innovative engineering designs without compromising vehicle safety and performance. Those structural changes include replacing heavier steel components with light-weight alternatives like magnesium, aluminum and carbon fiber. But those lighter materials cannot be heat-welded like steel. As a result, many body shops have been forced to embrace newer repair techniques like rivet bonding.

Introducing Rivet-Adhesive Bonding

Rivet-adhesive bonding, also known as “rivet bonding” or “cold bonding”, is a process that uses structural adhesives and rivets to hold body panels together. Most manufacturers now use at least some rivet bonding during production instead of spot-welding for front hood closures, side and back panels, and headliners. And, if you drive a Chevy Corvette Z06, Ford F-150, Audi 8 or Jaguar XJ, those all have aluminum-based chassis components that require rivet-bonding in-lieu-of welding whenever structural repairs are needed.  

BMW is even requiring rivet bonding to replace their factory spot welds even though their body panels are made of regular steel. Honda has been using high-strength and ultra-high-strength steel formulations for years in some of its Accord parts, but those materials can also be significantly weakened when exposed to high temperatures generated by traditional welding equipment. That has led some repair shops to use cold bonding structural repairs on Honda vehicles including the Accord and their electric models.

Repair Challenges Body Shops Face

Based on the make of vehicle, all automakers have specific original equipment manufacturer (OEM) specifications that body shops are expected to follow when repairing structural components after an accident. And, sometimes those requirements include rivet bonding. If repairs are not done properly, it can not only invalidate a factory warranty, the shop in question may be forced to do the work all over again.

Different metals have unique chemical compositions that can interact with one another, for example an aluminum body panel and steel rivet, and then cause corrosion when exposed to electrolytes like road salt, acid and moisture. As a result, when a technician is doing rivet bonding, they must properly seal the rivet site first. If they don’t, the resulting corrosion can eventually weaken the bond area’s structural integrity and cause rust formation on the vehicle.

Other rivet-bonding challenges that collision repair shops face include:

• Technicians must be specially trained on rivet-bonding techniques for the three rivet types (blind, self-piercing and solid).

• Individual car brands may require unique riveting equipment that must be purchased.
• In certain states, a violation may be imposed on the shop for not following OEM repair procedures, resulting in fines, loss of license, and even court proceedings.

How Are Body Shops Adapting?

Depending on the vehicle manufacturer and type, body shop managers and technicians have-to constantly stay updated on rivet-bonding repair processes and specifications. One way for them to do so is through I-CAR (www.i-car.com), as they provide rivet-bonding education through their website and other training programs. Automakers also post updated repair specifications online so that collision-repair professionals can readily access the information.    

To address the growing need for rivet-adhesive bonding, some shops are offering the repairs only for certain vehicle makes and models, like the newer Corvettes or Audis. That means investing in employee training programs, special tools and equipment. If the shop can’t perform the service on another type of vehicle, they will usually refer the driver to a business that can. Auto insurance companies also keep track of shops that specialize in rivet bonding so they can steer policy holders to the right place for the job.  

Promptly Find Reliable Body Shops in Your Area Here

No matter what type of car you drive, when it’s been involved in a fender-bender you can promptly locate customer-reviewed auto body and glass repair shops nearby by using the nationwide Carwise referral network. Collision repair shops listed on Carwise are I-CAR and ASE certified, which means they have the updated services, necessary equipment and highly trained technicians 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. 

Packing your car for a holiday road trip can be even more frustrating than untangling those twisted strands of used Christmas lights. It might take some holiday magic to cram presents, luggage, a stroller and cooler all into that tight cargo space. But if you don’t pack your vehicle wisely, you’ll not only have to endure constant complaints from the backseat, you can also increase your risk for being involved in a traffic accident. To help ensure that your holiday road trip is “nice” rather than “naughty”, use these car-loading tips from your friends at Carwise.     

How to Pack Your Car Safely

It’s important to only pack essential items because the heavier your car is, the longer it takes for it to stop. And, driving on wet or icy pavement just makes stopping a loaded-down vehicle even more treacherous. Here are some other safety tips when packing your vehicle:

• Starting towards the center of your cargo area, load heavier items like suitcases first. Use lighter items, including pillows and coats, as fillers around heavier ones.

• Don’t stack items too high, as doing so could obstruct the driver’s ability to see other vehicles in the rear-view mirror. Improperly stacked items can also shift and injure back seat passengers if you have-to brake suddenly or swerve.  

• Make sure that you distribute weight evenly because uneven weight distribution can cause handling problems on curvy roads or during windy conditions.

• Carefully secure any items or carriers that are attached to the luggage rack or rooftop. And, don’t stack rooftop items too high, as passing under a low bridge might knock them off into the path of another motorist. It’s always a good idea to take your vehicle on a practice run first to make sure all rooftop items are safely secured.

Maximizing Cargo Space and Comfort

If you’re traveling with a child in the backseat who’s complaining because they don’t have enough arm and leg room, you’re going to hear about it for hours on end. Here are some ways to maximize cargo space and improve passenger comfort:  

• Lay out all the items that need to be packed beforehand on the garage floor or driveway so that you can visualize how to more efficiently organize your car.

• Pack items first that won’t be needed until you arrive at your destination, like luggage and gifts, and load coolers, coats and snacks last so that they are easily accessible once you’re stopped.

• If you will be traveling through nasty weather, bring some tall kitchen trash bags along for wet, muddy shoes and clothing items. Use small plastic grocery bags as single-use trash receptacles that you can conveniently dispose of at the next rest area or hotel. 

• Who wants to ride next to a smelly mess in a cramped car? Food spills and upset stomachs are going to happen, so also pack some clean-up supplies like handy wipes, paper towels, a stain remover stick and bottle of spray-on fabric refresher.

• Whenever possible, combine suitcase contents to conserve room. Each child should carry a backpack with their essential road gear that they can keep at arm’s length. That will prevent you from having to dig through all the packed items in a blizzard because one of the kids can’t find their tech device.

Your Collision Repair Solution for Holiday Fender-Benders

Even when taking these car-packing precautions, holiday fender-benders happen. When your ride’s been involved in an accident, take it to one of the over 19,000 auto body and glass repair shops featured in the nationwide Carwise referral network. All collision repair shops listed on Carwise are I-CAR and ASE certified, which means they have the top-quality services, high-tech equipment and experienced technicians 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. 

You’re driving home from work one day when your dashboard suddenly lights up like a Christmas tree and your car starts slowing down. You push the accelerator, but nothing happens. Your engine has died. Fortunately, you’re able to guide your car onto the shoulder as other motorists zoom precariously by. Now what do you do? Getting stranded in a stalled vehicle on the roadside is not only frustrating, it places you at serious risk for getting hit by other drivers. Here’s how to keep your vehicle’s occupants safer until help arrives. 

Why Do Car Engines Stall?

Cars are designed to run on the right mixture of air, fuel and spark. Newer vehicles have onboard computer modules and sensors that warn you when something’s wrong. But if you drive an older vehicle or one with a bad computer chip, there may be no advanced warning before the engine dies. These common mechanical problems can cause a car’s motor to stall:

• Bad electrical wiring. Loose or corroded electrical connectors interfere with engine performance. Even a minor fender bender or pothole can knock connectors loose.

• Dead battery. When your battery isn’t charging or holding a charge properly, your car’s engine may start but then conk out while you’re driving because too much stress is being placed on the alternator and engine. Cold weather makes this problem more likely.

• Watered-down gas. If you buy gas with too much moisture in it, the fuel doesn’t burn properly in the engine, which then causes it to stop running.

• Fuel pressure problems. If there’s not enough pressure in your engine’s fuel system, it can stall when going up or down hills. A faulty fuel pump or clogged filter is oftentimes the culprit.

What if My Car Dies?

When your car stops running remember that it can be replaced, but you cannot be. That’s what auto insurance is for, so don’t take chances. Instead, use these safety precautions:

Remain in Your Car

If you’re not wearing reflective clothing, other drivers can’t see you. Don’t exit your vehicle to flag down passing motorists or look under the hood. Instead, turn on the emergency flashers, call for roadside assistance and remain inside your vehicle. A passing police officer may even see your blinking lights and stop to investigate.

Put on a Seatbelt

Rear-end collisions are the most common type of accidents that stalled vehicles are involved in.

If your vehicle gets hit while you’re sitting in it and you’re not wearing a seatbelt, you could sustain serious injuries. To stay protected, make sure that you and your passengers wear your seatbelts until help arrives. When traveling with a small child, keep them restrained in their car seat if that’s possible.

Set Up Ground Reflectors

Even though most drivers don’t carry them, ground reflectors are an essential part of any roadside emergency travel kit. They are yellow or orange triangles that approaching motorists can easily see in all types of weather and light conditions. If you have some ground reflectors with you, get out of your vehicle just long enough to set them up around it. 

Resist the Urge to Push

When your vehicle quits in the middle of traffic or is partially protruding into a lane, it’s always tempting to get out and push it to the side of the road. But that puts you and anyone else who’s pushing in harm’s way. Instead, patiently wait inside your vehicle until roadside assistance arrives.  If any impatient motorists honk or yell at you, ignore them. Use this downtime to contact your insurance agent or concerned loved ones.

Local Collision Repair Shops are Only a Click Away

When your ride’s been damaged in an accident, promptly take it to one of the auto body or glass repair shops featured in the nationwide Carwise referral network. All shops listed on Carwise are I-CAR and ASE-certified, which means they have the high-tech equipment, driver-trusted services and highly trained technicians 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. 

Since many shoppers view Black Friday as the kickoff to the holiday shopping season, millions of drivers will soon be heading-out to their local stores to compete with fellow bargain hunters. But with all those frenzied shoppers driving around at the same time, you’ve got the perfect recipe for traffic delays and fender benders. Toss in some nasty weather, and already stressed-out drivers can get pushed to the breaking point. If you’re going to be driving around on Black Friday, make road safety a priority by using these tips. 

Plan Your Route in Advance

Even if you’re an old hand when it comes to Black Friday shopping, it’s still a good idea to plan your day’s route in advance. Use the sales ads the night before to compile a list of targeted stores based on these shopping objectives:

• Which items you want the most
• Which retailer opens the earliest
• Which stores you plan to visit

When planning your shopping route, try to avoid making several trips back and forth across town. Taking a more precise shopping approach should help make your day a safer and more productive one.    

Use a Navigation App

Most drivers use GPS navigation apps when traveling on vacation, so why not on Black Friday? Navigation apps like Google Maps can help you avoid traffic congestion by alerting you about recent accidents and other road delays. If you’ve not sure where a given store on your shopping list is located, a good navigation app will provide you with turn-by-turn directions so you can get there more quickly and safely.

Avoid Driving Distractions

The National Safety Council (www.nsc.org) warns that shoppers and pedestrians get even more distracted on Black Friday. That increases the potential for distracted driving accidents, so please drive carefully by taking these precautions:

• Never text or talk on your cellphone while driving unless you have a hands-free device.
• Turn the music down.
• Obey all posted speed limits, especially in construction zones and parking lots.
• Be aware of pedestrians when backing out of parking spaces.
• Keep your eyes on the road at-all-times.
• Safely secure small children and pets in the back seat.

Don’t Drive While Impaired

It’s tempting to take the edge off Black Friday shopping by having a couple cocktails in between stores. Don’t drink and drive. Instead, have a designated driver or use a ride-sharing service. Also avoid operating a motor vehicle when under the influence of drugs that could slow down your reaction time, including prescription medications and over the counter cold remedies.

Use Good Parking Lot Etiquette  

Speeding through a crowded parking lot to beat that other driver to an open spot isn’t smart with all the distracted pedestrians walking around, especially small children. Good parking lot etiquette will keep all shoppers safer, so try to:

• Park far away. The farther you park away from a store or mall, the fewer cars that you’ll have to contend with. Walking a little farther is not only healthier, it may leave you with a quicker and easier route when it’s time to leave.

• Back out slowly. Use your mirrors and back-up camera when backing out of a space, but don’t rely on them completely. Back out very slowly and carefully while constantly scanning side-to-side for pedestrians and other vehicles.

• Respect others. The world isn’t going to end just because you couldn’t get a spot next to the store’s entrance. Don’t drive fast in parking lots, stay in your lane, allow enough space for other drivers to open their doors, and only park in designated spots.

Promptly Find Black Friday Accident Repairs Here  

Even when driving carefully on Black Friday, fender benders happen. When your ride’s been dinged up, promptly take it to one of the auto body or glass repair shops featured in the nationwide Carwise referral network. All collision repair shops listed on Carwise are I-CAR and ASE-certified, which means they have the reliable services, state-of-the-art equipment and highly trained technicians necessary to promptly restore your vehicle like new again.

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

Another Thanksgiving is just around the corner, which means millions of travelers will be taking to the roads to enjoy some food and fellowship with family members and friends. But every year the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA; www.nhtsa.gov) warns motorists that Thanksgiving travel can be very dangerous. Unfortunately, thousands of people still get killed or injured on U.S. roadways during the 5-day Thanksgiving travel period. (1) To help ensure that your Turkey Day is more enjoyable, use these driving tips from the experts.  

Drive Sober

Even though alcohol-related motor vehicle fatalities have dropped appreciably during the past decade, traffic accidents caused by drunk drivers still killed over 10,800 Americans in 2017. (1) Unfortunately, accidents involving drug-impaired drivers are on the rise, so please don’t operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. And, that includes prescription medications and over the counter cold remedies that make you drowsy.  

Plan Ahead

In anticipation of more traffic congestion and accidents, plan-ahead accordingly for your trip. Here are some ways to do so:  

• Check the weather report for poor driving conditions you may encounter.
• Get plenty of sleep before departing and take several rest breaks along the way.
• Have an alternate route in mind if your primary one gets backed up.
• Avoid peak road travel times, like the Wednesday before Thanksgiving and the Sunday after.

Wear a Seat Belt

“Click it or ticket” laws are in place because seatbelts save lives. The NHTSA estimates that in 2017 alone nearly 15,000 fatalities were prevented during motor vehicle crashes because occupants were wearing seatbelts. (1)  And, always make sure that your little one is properly buckled up in a child safety seat before hitting the road.

Don’t Drive Distracted

Distracted driving-related crashes are also becoming more common, so reduce your odds for becoming a statistic by taking these safety precautions:

• Never text and drive, and never talk on your phone unless it’s with a hands-free device.
• Keep your pets safely secured in the back of the vehicle.
• Constantly scan the road ahead of you with your eyes while anticipating driving emergencies.
• Don’t eat or apply makeup while driving.

Avoid Road Rage

With all the Holiday traffic it’s easy to get agitated. Don’t let your frustration carry over to your driving habits. That means obeying the posted speed limits, especially in construction zones, and giving the vehicle in front of you a one-second cushion for every 10 mph that you’re traveling. Also adjust your speed accordingly when driving in poor weather conditions, like on ice and snow. If you’re starting to feel stressed out, pull over at the next exit and let someone else take the wheel for a while.

Get Your Vehicle Road Ready    

Before embarking on your trip, get your vehicle checked out by a reliable mechanic to make sure it’s road ready. Prior to your trip, do your own maintenance inspection that includes:

• Checking your tire pressure and tread depth
• Replacing worn wiper blades with fresh ones
• Testing your car battery and cable connections
• Topping off your windshield washer and antifreeze fluid reservoirs

Pack an Emergency Kit

There’s always a chance that you’ll get stranded along the roadside on your trip, so pack your vehicle with an emergency kit that contains these items:

• Extra gloves, hats and blankets
• Bag of cat litter or sand for traction
• Bottled water and non-perishable snacks
• Small shovel
• Flashlight with new batteries
• Warning flares or safety triangles

Your Collision Repair Solution for Thanksgiving Accidents

The Carwise team wishes all Americans a safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving Holiday. If you’re involved in an accident, you can promptly find expert auto body or glass repairs by using the nationwide Carwise referral network. All collision repair shops listed on Carwise are I-CAR and ASE-certified, which means they have the services, state-of-the-art equipment and highly trained technicians 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. 

Reference:

1. Press release from the NHTSA: Thanksgiving Travel Advisory: Drive Safely and Make It to the Table; November 16, 2018.

For one reason or another, American roadways seem to be getting progressively more dangerous for motorists. One of the ways you can help avoid being another crash-related statistic is by driving defensively. Defensive driving is defined as “driving to save lives, time and money, in spite of the conditions around you and the actions of others”. To help ensure that you keep yourself and your vehicle’s occupants safer, practice these defensive driving strategies courtesy of your friends at Carwise.

Keep Scanning the Road Ahead

Most drivers tend to stare at objects directly in front of them, including other vehicles. Because the human body wasn’t designed to travel at 60 mph, you need to be constantly scanning the road with your eyes at least a half-mile ahead. If a danger presents itself closer to your vehicle, your peripheral vision will alert you. That’s why your main line of visual focus should be outward so that you can scan the road for upcoming hazards like stalled vehicles or work zones.  

Were you taught to “aim high while steering”? That means don’t make steering adjustments based on what’s directly in front of you. Instead, keep your eyes constantly looking into the distance for something like a sharp curve or wandering deer. Depending on your speed, a good rule of thumb is scanning 12 to 15 seconds ahead of your car’s path. And, make sure to vary that distance if you’re driving on a city street versus the wide-open spaces of a country road.

Expect the Unexpected

It’s important to drive proactively as opposed to reactively. As a driver, you should constantly be anticipating unexpected hazards that could place you at risk given the road conditions and traffic patterns. For example, if that traffic light a quarter-mile ahead has been green for a while, it’s probably going to turn red soon. Back off the accelerator slightly and get ready to apply the brakes. Or, if you’re driving on a snow-covered road, anticipate your next action if that oncoming vehicle unexpectedly starts skidding out of control.

Many drivers make the common mistake of believing that a driving emergency will never happen to them. But when you least expect it, you’ll have to slam on the brakes because another driver pulled out right in front of you. Another defensive driving strategy is reading the body language of fellow motorists. If the driver next to you looks angry or impatient, they could swerve recklessly in front of your vehicle without warning. When they do, the difference between a near miss and actual collision will rest mostly in your hands. Be prepared at-all-times.

Always Have an Escape Plan

Based on your surroundings, constantly be visualizing an escape plan if an emergency were to suddenly occur. Keep checking your mirrors and allow a one-second cushion for every 10 mph you’re traveling between your vehicle and the one in front of you. In bad weather conditions, give yourself even more room. If a vehicle is driving right next to you at the same speed, slow down just enough to let them pass.

Never let yourself get boxed in by a group of semi-trucks because one of them could suddenly swerve into your lane and nudge your vehicle. If it feels like the traffic flow could come to an abrupt halt without warning because of road work, picture yourself pulling onto the shoulder quickly so that dump truck behind you doesn’t end up in your back seat. No matter where you are, always have an escape plan in mind for when the inevitable happens… because it probably will!

These Body Shops Won’t Put You on the Defensive  

Even when using these defensive driving tips, accidents happen. When a collision damages your ride, promptly take it to a better auto body or glass repair shop featured in the nationwide Carwise network. All shops listed through Carwise are I-CAR and ASE-certified, which means they have the driver-trusted technicians, services and equipment 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. 

At some point this week, you’ll probably be classified as a pedestrian while walking, jogging or bicycling. According to the citizen advocacy group Smart Growth America [1], between 2008 and 2017 over 49,000 pedestrians were killed by motorists while using U.S. roadways. Based on statistics compiled by the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) [2] more than 6,200 pedestrians died in motor vehicle-related accidents in 2018 alone- the highest number in 30 years. Why is this happening and how can we keep pedestrians safer?   

Most Dangerous States for Pedestrians

Smart Growth America’s troubling statistics were derived from data compiled by the NHTSA’s Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS). Smart Growth America then used that information to create Pedestrian Danger Index (PDI) tables which they then published in a recent article entitled Dangerous by Design 2019 [3].

Based on annual pedestrian fatalities per 100,000 residents from 2008 to 2017, these were the 10 most dangerous states for pedestrians:

• Florida (most dangerous)
• Alabama
• Delaware
• Louisiana
• Mississippi
• Georgia
• New Mexico
• Texas
• Arizona
• South Carolina

Why Are Pedestrians at Risk?

Why are so many pedestrians getting struck and killed? Smart Growth America believes this alarming trend is due mainly to municipalities prioritizing faster speed limits and bigger highways over more pedestrian-friendly street designs. Specifically, they identify the need to add safety features for pedestrians, like overpass walkways and designated bicycle paths.

Looking at another angle, the NHTSA is quick to point out that a driver is more likely to hit a pedestrian when engaging in these irresponsible behaviors:

• Distracted driving, like texting, eating, applying makeup or talking on their phone
• Reckless driving, including speeding, not using turn signals and changing lanes quickly
• Failure to yield to pedestrians at crosswalks
• Disregarding poor traffic conditions like construction zones or traffic congestion
• Not adjusting for poor weather conditions, like snow, ice, rain and fog
• Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs

Safety Tips for Pedestrians

Whether you are jogging, bicycling, or just walking to your car after work, here are some ways to protect yourself:

• Use a sidewalk or designated path whenever possible.
• When one isn’t available, use the shoulder and always face oncoming traffic.
• Don’t let distractions like mobile devices keep your eyes off the road.
• Never assume that a driver can see you, especially at night. Always wear bright clothing. In poor visibility conditions, use lights and wear reflective clothes.
• Be predictable. That means crossing streets at crosswalks or intersections whenever possible.
• Stay in well-lit areas when it’s dark or overcast.
• Avoid alcohol and drugs when walking or bicycling, as they can impair your judgement and coordination.

Precautions for Drivers

Here’s how to be a more responsible driver when sharing the road with pedestrians:

• Watch for pedestrians at-all-times, especially in parking lots and school zones.
• Adjust your speed and be extra cautious when driving in hard-to-see conditions, like bad weather or at nighttime.
• When approaching a crosswalk with pedestrians around, slow down and always come to a complete stop before turning.
• Yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in crosswalks or on the shoulder. Stop well back of the crosswalk so that other motorists will also see pedestrians.
• Never pass another vehicle that’s stopped for a crosswalk.
• Follow posted speed limits, notably when there are pedestrians present or in school zones and neighborhoods.
• Be extra careful when backing up, for example in a parking lot, because pedestrians can quickly move into your path.

Carwise Asks All Drivers & Pedestrians to Be Responsible  

Your friends at Carwise encourage all drivers and pedestrians to be more responsible when sharing the road so that we can eliminate pedestrian accidents. When your car has been involved in a fender bender with another vehicle or stationary object, you can promptly find a reliable auto body or glass repair shop nearby by using the nationwide Carwise referral network. All shops listed on Carwise are I-CAR and ASE-certified, which means they have the top-quality services, technicians and equipment needed to promptly restore your vehicle like new again.

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

References:

1. www.smartgrowthamerica.org
2. Report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration: Traffic Safety Facts: Pedestrians; March 2019; www.nhtsa.gov
3. Dangerous by Design 2019; https://smartgrowthamerica.org/tag/dangerous-by-design/