The post Motorcycle Blind Spot Safety Tips To Know appeared first on Car Struction.

What does a total loss mean?

Losing something is always scary. When the total cost of repairs exceeds the total value of your car, consider that totaled! Think of completely unfixable. Nothing can be done. With the rising cost of repairs, more and more vehicles are being totaled out. This actually does help the workload of all the body men. Don’t worry! This doesn’t mean the car cannot be repaired if it is of sentimental value. However, you will have to make that decision fairly quickly. Keep in mind, if you decide to keep the vehicle it might be very costly for you in repairs.

What happens to your totaled vehicle?

Where do I find my car? Once a car becomes totaled, it becomes the property of the insurance company. It will go on to a public auction or it will be sold to salvage yards. Many of these parts reappear on the market as remanufactured, refurbished, and/or re-inspected.

So the insurance company just told you that you have a totaled vehicle. Now what?

Accidents are unfortunate in themselves, but even more so once a vehicle is a total loss. When you are in an accident, record every detail whether it be in writing, photos, an exchange of insurance information, or a police report. Your insurance company will use this information to determine who is liable for the damage.

The insurance company process

Typically, a claims adjuster or the insurance company appraiser will monitor the process. Once they determine that the damages on your vehicle are far too extensive and more costly than the value of the car itself, it will be a totaled vehicle. We want to prepare you and to help understand what happens next. Here are a couple examples of common questions during an accident. So, hop in the passenger seat and buckle up as we help explain all the uncomfortable stuff!

 

Do I repair or replace my vehicle?

Following up, if you’re looking to save your vehicle due to some sentimental value, you must make your insurance company aware of your decision in the beginning. An insurance company will make a determination on the amount distributed for repairs based on the car’s value. The insurance company will reimburse you either for repairs, or replace the car completely. I think everyone prefers the later! There is also an option to purchase your vehicle back from the insurance company. You will need to re-register it under a salvage title. The down side to keeping your vehicle is that you may be investing more money into it than it’s worth. You can find out more information on this process on the DMV website.

What if the damage is only cosmetic?

Cosmetic damage is noticeable damage such as defect in a visual nature. This can be paint scratches, chips and dings on the body, a crack in the windshield, or even a scrap on the bumper.  These defects do not affect the functionality of the vehicle at all. With the rising cost of repairs, cosmetic damage can be just as expensive as body or frame damage. As long as the vehicle is still safe to drive, then you don’t have to get it repaired. You can even buy it back from the insurance company and pocket the difference! This is called the “actual cash value.” Every situation is different, so always ask questions!

Call Car Struction to learn about your options

We feel these are the major areas of concern for most of our customers during the time of an incident. If your vehicle is deemed a total loss and you’re looking to save it now, call Car Struction! We will review the extent of the damage. There are always plenty of options and we are here to find the best solution for you! 

The post I Have a Totaled Vehicle. Now What? appeared first on Car Struction.

Spring is rolling around, but that doesn’t mean the winter hazards are completely over! Weather related accidents make up nearly 1,259,000 of all car crashes each year. Wet pavement is something that you need to be weary of. So, here are some Spring Driving Tips that can help you stay safe on the road this season!

1. Heavy Rainstorms

• Windshield Wipers: Ensure they are in good condition and replace them if necessary to maintain a clear view during heavy rainfall.
• Windshield Wiper Fluid: Regularly check and refill your windshield wiper fluid reservoir to ensure you have an adequate supply for clearing your windshield.
• Tire Condition: Inspect the tread of your tires to ensure they are in good condition, as worn-out tires increase the risk of hydroplaning on wet roads.

2. Water on Roadways

Storm drains can become easily overwhelmed, which leads to the formation of deep puddles on roadways. Driving slowly through puddles is a safe technique because it reduces the chance of sliding and helps avoid hard impacts on objects that could be below the water. Hydroplaning is a major hazard because it causes your vehicle to glide on top of the water, and not make contact with the road. Traveling slowly is key in avoiding these hazards.

3. Slush and Mud

Slush on roadways presents additional challenges beyond hydroplaning. It acts as a barrier, increasing resistance between your tires and the road surface, making lane changes more difficult and potentially hazardous. This heightened resistance can affect vehicle handling and braking, requiring extra caution and attention from drivers navigating through slushy conditions.

Additionally:

• Stay Alert for Pedestrians: Warmer weather brings more pedestrians and cyclists to the roads. Stay vigilant and watch for pedestrians, especially in urban areas and around schools and parks.
• Be Prepared for Wildlife: Springtime means increased wildlife activity, so be alert for animals crossing roads, particularly in rural areas.

So Remember, always drive slowly during this transitional phase of the spring season, sunny weather is on its way and the best way to stay safe starts on the road!

The post Spring Driving Tips to Keep You Safe appeared first on Car Struction.

The post Benefits of Spring Cleaning Your Car appeared first on Car Struction.

The post What Should You Do Before and After Auto Body Repair? appeared first on Car Struction.

Numbers Speak for Themselves

The report states that “88% of young millennials engaged in at least one risky behavior behind the wheel in the past 30 days…” These risky behaviors include texting while driving, running red lights, and speeding. This generation is highly connected digitally, resulting in more distracted drivers. In this era of “smart technology,” in-car infotainment systems allow drivers to use connected devices while driving. Several other dangerous driving behaviors also factor into this study.

Survey Findings

The survey of 2,511 drivers from August 25 – September 6 reported the following findings:

• Traffic deaths increased by 7% to 35,092 in 2015. This is the largest single-year increase in nearly 50 years.
• Millennials acknowledged sending texts or emails while driving.
• Nearly half of Millennials admitted to running red lights when they could have stopped safely.
• Almost 12% of Millennials thought it was acceptable to drive 10 mph over the posted speed limit in a school zone.
• 2.5% of drivers admitted driving within an hour of using alcohol or marijuana.

David Yang, AAA Foundation’s executive director, says, “Alarmingly, Millennial Drivers ages 19 to 24 believe their dangerous behavior is acceptable.” He continues, “It’s critical these drivers understand the potentially deadly consequences of engaging in these behaviors. They must change their behavior and attitudes to reverse the growing number of fatalities on U.S. roads.” This report serves as a shock to some but a warning to all to practice safer driving habits.

The post Millennial Drivers Unsafe For Roads appeared first on Car Struction.

So you’ve just got your license and you’re all set to hit the ground running, right? Wrong. You still don’t know all there is to know about driving, especially driving alone for the first time. We are offering some new driver safety tips to get you a little more prepared for the road.

1. CHECKLIST

First, it is important to create a checklist of good habits to start when you first sit in the driver’s seat. It should look something like this:

• Fasten your seatbelt
• Adjust your seat
• Adjust your mirrors
• Check your emergency and turning signals

2. KNOW YOUR VEHICLE

Secondly, the most essential step is to familiarize yourself with your vehicle. Its just you and your car now. The two of you have to become one to react quickly on the road. Find your buttons, lights, signals, etc. Knowing where they are can help avoid distraction on the road.

3. TEST DRIVE YOUR VEHICLE

In following with the second step, you want to test drive your vehicle in inclement weather to know how it reacts. Generally, you may want to start in a parking lot or less crowded roads.

4. CHECK YOUR BLINDSPOT

The Blindspot is exactly that. Its an area just outside of your peripheral vision, and anyone driving in it is risking their safety. Be sure to look over your shoulder, or sit up enough to see your blindspot in your sideview mirrors before turning or changing lanes.

5. DO NOT USE ELECTRONIC DEVICES WHILE DRIVING

In addition, with all the new technology, its very tempting to connect your phone to your vehicle. You may think its cool to answer calls through the car speakers or to play music from your favorite playlists, but this is only convenient for more experienced drivers. To you, its just another distraction. Most importantly, don’t text. I’m sure we don’t need to elaborate on this point.

While there are many other ways to practice safe driving as a new driver, starting with these tips will increase your chances of staying safe on the road.

The post New Driver Safety Tips appeared first on Car Struction.

As if there aren’t enough hazards on the road already, a very common hazard is drowsy driving. Drowsy driving is a dangerous combination of driving and fatigue. Generally, driving drunk and driving with fatigue are equally dangerous. AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety estimates that 21 percent of FATAL automobile accidents involve a drowsy driver. Evidently, many drivers have even admitted to falling asleep at the wheel at least once in their lifetime. That’s a scary thought! Here we have compiled some tips and important info when concerned with drowsy driving and how to avoid it.

The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety estimates that a tired driver contributes to:

• 6% of all crashes in which a vehicle was towed from the scene
• 7% of crashes in which a person received treatment for injuries sustained in the crash
• 13% of crashes in which a person was hospitalized

In total, their estimates suggest that a drowsy driver is involved in 328,000 crashes annually.

How do I know if I’m too tired to drive? The National Sleep Foundation gives us some warning signs.

• Difficulty focusing, frequent blinking, or heavy eyelids
• Daydreaming, or disconnected thoughts
• Trouble remembering the last few miles of your drive, missing turns, exits or traffic signs
• Consistent yawning
• Drifting, tailgating, or rubbing the shoulder strip.
• Feeling restless or irritable

Furthermore, if you ever feel sleepy while driving a vehicle, then you understand the many ways a driver will try to stay awake. Generally, some of the top ways a person tries to stay awake at the wheel are drinking a caffeinated beverage, switching drivers, opening car windows, listening to loud music, turning up the A/C, eating, smoking, pulling over to stretch or sleep. But after all, two of these options are proven to be effective in combatting drowsy driving–switching drivers and pulling over to nap.

How do I avoid driving tired?

1. Plan. If you know you’ll be out on the road, take a short nap ahead of time.
2. Avoid alcoholic beverages.
3. Drive with a friend. If you have a partner, you can switch drivers at the first sign of drowsiness.
4. Stay off the road between midnight and 6a.mI. If this is not possible, then be as vigilant as possible while you’re on the road. Watch for warning signs that you’re feeling drowsy, such as drifting across lanes or hitting rumble strips, and keep an eye on other drivers for the same behaviors.
5. Drink coffee or caffeine to stay alert, but not as a substitute for sleep. One thing to keep in mind is that coffee and other caffeinated beverages provide a temporary energy boost. After the effects of the caffeine have worn off, the feelings of drowsiness may return.

Additionally, make sure you get eight hours of sleep before a long trip. Also, you can make regularly stops at the 100 mile mark or every two hours. This will help you stay fresh and alert on the road.

In conclusion, drowsy driving is extremely dangerous and we would like you to take every precaution to stay safe!

If you or someone you know has been in an accident as a result of a drowsy driver, contact us now and find out how we can help get you back on the road safely. We are here for you!

The post Ways to Avoid Drowsy Driving appeared first on Car Struction.

There have been some exciting new innovations in motorcycle safety in recent years. Most notable are airbags, high-tech helmets, intelligent lights and antilock brakes. 

1. Airbags

Honda introduced the first motorcycle airbag system in 2006. Great innovations are coming from the makers of motorcycle suits and helmets rather than the motorcycle companies themselves. The first airbag suit and jacket hit the market in 2008. This was made by RS Taichi, a Japanese manufacturer. Both the suit and the jacket are made to attach to the bike with a wire. When the wire becomes detached due to a collision, the neck inflates to help stabilize the bones in the neck.

2. High-Tech Helmets

Another recent innovation in motorcycle safety is high-tech helmets. Helmet manufacturers are also implementing airbags. APC Systems in Barcelona introduced the first airbag helmet in 2008. The airbags inflate after speed sensors deem a crash imminent, protecting the rider’s neck and upper spine.

Helmet manufacturers are also experimenting with the idea of a “brain-cooling” helmet. Introduced in 2010, ThermaHelm® contains a chemical packet that activates after a crash to cool the rider’s head and reduce brain swelling.

3. Intelligent Lights

Intelligent lights may be even more important on a motorcycle than in a conventional vehicle. These adaptive lights can show you what’s coming around the next bend. In 2011, BMW introduced adaptive lighting for their motorcycles that tilt according to the bike’s lean.

Brake lights are especially important for motorcyclists. Riders don’t typically have to apply the brakes to slow down. Resulting in a disadvantage in warning travelers behind them. Additionally, a company out of San Diego is currently raising funds to development brake lights that will light up when the rider slows down, whether or not they apply the brakes.

4. Anti-Lock Brakes

Previous anti-lock brake systems were based off of passenger car technology. In 2010, Bosch announced the first ABS designed for motorcycles. This new system will be adaptive to various sizes of motorcycles since they are smaller and lighter.

The post Cool New Innovations in Motorcycle Safety appeared first on Car Struction.

Winter driving conditions mean a certain amount of preparation on your part. Here are 4 things you absolutely want to do to prepare your vehicle and yourself for winter driving.

1. Prep your coolant

Any major temperature change means that you need to check your coolant levels and system. Normal coolant to water ratio is 50/50, but for winter add a little more coolant for a 60/40 ratio. Also, check your radiator and hoses for leaks. Vast temp changes affect the integrity of your hoses, and you don’t want to run out of coolant and get stuck on the side of the road in the middle of winter!

2. Check your tires

This is an obvious maintenance task for winter driving conditions. You want to check your tire pressure and traction. For snowy roads, you want to be sure to have at the very least 5/32” of traction. If you see a lot of snow and ice, prep your vehicle with snow tires. Finally, check the PSI regularly. 10 degrees of temp change can cause your tire pressure to gain or lose 1 pound of pressure.

3. Check your brakes

This is also an obvious winter maintenance task, but extremely important. Good brakes can literally save your life. Check your brake fluid first to make sure you don’t have any leaks. If the fluid is dark in color, you absolutely need a professional to flush and replace your brake fluid. If you hearing scraping or sqealing when you brake, it’s time for new pads. In fact, you’re over due! Don’t hesitate to get new brakes immediately.

4. Stock your car

Finally, when preparing for winter driving you’ll want to stock up. You never know what can happen on the road and there are ways to prepare yourself for the unexpected. Keep a few extra blankets, water, non-perishable food items, a flashlight, extra batteries, jumper cables and an ice scraper in your vehicle at all times. This is the very least amount of preparedness you will need. Check our Vehicle Emergency Kit blog for a full list.

The post Prepping Your Car for Winter Driving Conditions appeared first on Car Struction.