Structural Integrity

Description: A collision can compromise your vehicle’s structural integrity, impacting its ability to protect occupants in future accidents.

Process: First, we use advanced diagnostic tools to assess and repair any damage to the frame and chassis. We perform precise frame straightening and structural repairs to restore your vehicle’s original strength.

Airbag System Check

Description: Airbags are essential for safety and must function correctly in another collision.

Process: Next, our technicians inspect and test the airbag system to confirm that all sensors, modules, and airbags are intact and functional. We replace any faulty components with OEM parts to ensure reliability.

Suspension and Alignment

Description: Damage to the suspension and alignment can affect your vehicle’s handling and stability, increasing accident risk.

Process: Additionally, we conduct a thorough inspection and adjustment of the suspension and alignment. We make sure your car drives straight and handles properly, providing a safe driving experience.

Brake System Examination

Description: The brake system is vital for safe driving, and any damage or wear from a collision needs attention.

Process: Furthermore, we examine the entire brake system, including pads, rotors, calipers, and brake lines. We carry out necessary repairs or replacements to ensure optimal braking performance.

Electrical System Inspection

Description: Collisions can damage the electrical system, affecting critical functions like lighting and safety sensors.

Process: Moreover, our technicians check all electrical components and connections. We ensure headlights, taillights, turn signals, and safety sensors operate correctly and are accurately calibrated.

Tire and Wheel Assessment

Description: Damaged tires and wheels can compromise your car’s safety and handling.

Process: We inspect tires for cuts, punctures, and uneven wear, and check wheels for bends or cracks. We repair or replace any damaged tires or wheels to ensure safe and smooth driving.

Glass and Visibility

Description: Cracks or chips in the windshield and windows can impair visibility and weaken the glass structure.

Process: Similarly, we examine all glass for damage and ensure clear visibility. We repair or replace windshields and windows as needed, restoring safe and unobstructed visibility.

Safety System Calibration

Description: Modern vehicles come with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) that need proper calibration after a collision.

Process: Our technicians recalibrate ADAS features such as lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and collision avoidance systems to ensure they function accurately.

Test Drive and Final Inspection

Description: A thorough test drive and final inspection confirm that all repairs have been completed successfully and that the vehicle is safe to drive.

Process: Finally, we conduct a detailed test drive to check for issues in handling, braking, and overall performance. We perform a final inspection to verify that all safety aspects have been addressed and the vehicle is roadworthy.

Ensuring your car’s safety after a collision involves more than cosmetic repairs. At Carstruction, we thoroughly check and repair all safety aspects of your vehicle. Our comprehensive approach ensures your car is not only restored to its pre-accident condition but also safe and reliable for you and your passengers.

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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.

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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!

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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.

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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.

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Vehicle safety technology has improved greatly in recent years. Rear mounted radar alerts you of unseen objects immediately behind you. Automatic high-beam control will illuminate and dim your headlights for you. Automatic braking systems can react quicker than your reflexes in the event of a sudden traffic stop. But nothing compares to the next generation of vehicle safety technology: vehicle to vehicle communication.

Vehicle to vehicle communication has the potential to reduce the severity of up to 80% of collisions that don’t involve drugs or alcohol. V2V communication is just what it sounds like. It enables cars to transmit their speed, direction, location and other vital information 10 times per second. This means that your vehicle will be able to detect when another is about to run a stop sign, red light, change lanes or even come around a blind turn. It holds the potential to reduce traffic deaths dramatically—more than any other innovation in driving to date.

Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx says that, “V2V will provide 360-degree situational awareness on the road.” The Federal Highway Administration is getting in on this technology, too. They plan to issue guidance that will help transportation planners integrate two-way wireless technology into highway infrastructure. This would include stops signs, traffic lights and work zones. For example, it would communicate to a traffic light to stay green to reduce congestion.

If this new vehicle to vehicle communication proposal goes through, 50% of new vehicles will have this technology within two years of the final ruling, and 100% within four years. With the onset of this new technology, we can expect that there will be new devices created to integrate V2V into older vehicles as well.

Call Carstruction if you want to know more.

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Just as you would keep a first aid kit in the house or at your workplace, you should keep a vehicle emergency kit. It can be a lifesaver in case of extreme conditions. Preparing a vehicle emergency kit is necessary yearlong, but there are a few items that are especially helpful for winter road conditions and hazards.

1. Non-perishable food items

Keep non-perishable snacks in your car as well as bottled water. Be sure to pack enough for however many people are usually in your car. If you’re ever stuck or stranded it can save your life, and water is especially helpful if your water pump starts to go.

2. Flashlight

Always keep a flashlight on hand. You never know when you’re going to need it. LED flashlights are especially bright and useful if you’re on the side of the road at night. Keep a couple of spare batteries in your car as well just in case.

3. Windshield ice scraper

In the winter, this is must for your vehicle emergency kit. Go a step further and keep some deicer, too.

4. Multi-purpose tool

A multipurpose tool is best for any situation you might run into with a vehicle emergency. Choose one with a good pocketknife.

5. Work gloves, trash bags, small shovel and duct tape

These materials are pretty self explanatory and highly versatile in an emergency.

6. Road flares and triangles

These are self-explanatory as well. You should absolutely keep these in your vehicle all year long to let others know that you are a disabled vehicle and to drive with caution.

7. Bag of kitty litter

Cat litter is a great alternative to sand or salt if you ever need to free your car from heavy snow or an icy patch.

8. Classic Medical First Aid Kit

This is another necessity for a yearlong vehicle emergency kit.

There are a lot of other materials that you can keep in your vehicle emergency kit, but these are absolute musts. If you don’t want to prepare all of this yourself, there are pre-packed options available from Walmart, L.L. Bean, REI and even JCPenney.

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Winter driving presents unique challenges, so it’s crucial to take extra precautions to ensure your safety on the road. Follow these tips to prepare both yourself and your vehicle for icy and snowy conditions.

Assess Road Conditions and Drive Cautiously

Driving in snowy or icy conditions requires extra attention. Understand how your vehicle responds to ice and snow. If you notice cars swerving ahead, slow down and consider taking an alternate route. On highways or any road, double the usual distance between your vehicle and the one in front. Avoid speeding and stick to the right lane to minimize lane changes. This approach will enhance your control and reduce the risk of accidents.

Prep Your Vehicle for Winter Weather

Check Tires
Cold temperatures can reduce tire pressure, so regularly check and maintain the correct air levels. Make it a habit to inspect your tires each time you fuel up. Properly inflated tires are essential for traction and safety in winter conditions.

Inspect Windshield Wipers
Worn wiper blades can impair visibility. If your wipers leave streaks or fail to clear large areas, replace them. Investing in new blades, usually costing around $10, can significantly improve your visibility during snow and rain.

Test the Defroster
The defroster is crucial for maintaining visibility. Test it to ensure it’s working efficiently. If it’s not functioning properly, visit a repair shop. A well-working defroster is vital for safe driving in winter months.

Check Fluid Levels
Regularly monitor all your vehicle’s fluid levels. In winter, you’ll likely use more windshield washer fluid due to road salt and grime. Ensure your fluids are topped off to maintain vehicle performance and safety.

By following these steps, you can better prepare for winter driving and reduce the risks associated with harsh weather conditions. Stay safe on the roads this winter

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As the holiday season approaches, families and loved ones prepare to gather and celebrate. This time of year often brings increased travel and traffic. To ensure your trip is both safe and worry-free, follow these essential holiday travel safety tips.

Vehicle Preparation

Before hitting the road, first ensure your vehicle is in top condition:

• Check Oil Levels
  Begin by checking your oil. Make sure it is at the right level and suitable for the weather conditions.
• Inspect Tires
  Next, verify tire pressure and tread depth. Remember, for every 10 degrees Fahrenheit change in temperature, tire pressure adjusts by approximately 1 psi. For example, a 10-degree drop in temperature results in a 1 psi decrease in tire pressure.
• Evaluate Windshield Wipers
  Additionally, ensure your wipers are in good condition and free from dry rot for optimal performance.
• Inspect Brakes
  Furthermore, have your brakes thoroughly checked to handle frequent or abrupt stops safely.
• Clean Headlights
  Moreover, make sure your headlights are clean and bright enough to navigate through poor weather and be visible to other drivers.
• Keep Gas Tank Full
  Finally, travel with a full tank and avoid letting it run low to be prepared for any emergencies.

Additional Safety Tips

To further ensure a safe journey, consider these additional tips:

• Check Weather Conditions
  First, review weather forecasts before departure to plan your route accordingly.
• Get Plenty of Rest
  Ensure you are well-rested before driving to stay alert on the road.
• Minimize Distractions
  Additionally, pull over safely if you need to use your phone or get directions.
• Buckle Up
  Ensure all passengers are securely buckled up for safety.
• Handle Car Trouble Safely
  If you experience car trouble, pull off the road as far as possible to avoid accidents.
• Maintain Safe Distance
  Moreover, keep a safe distance from other drivers to allow for sudden stops.
• Carry Essential Kits
  Finally, bring a first aid kit and a roadside emergency kit for unforeseen situations.

If You Get Stuck in a Winter Storm

Should you find yourself stuck during a winter storm, keep these tips in mind:

• Stay with Your Vehicle
  To start, remain inside your vehicle for safety and warmth.
• Use Emergency Kit
  Next, utilize your roadside emergency kit and, if possible, place light flares around your vehicle to assist responders. (Note: This may not be feasible in heavy snow.)
• Keep Lights On
  Furthermore, use your headlights and emergency flashers to remain visible. If necessary, tie a bright-colored cloth around your antenna to increase visibility.
• Manage Heater Use
  Finally, use your heater sparingly, recommended for 10 minutes every hour. Additionally, crack a window slightly to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.

By following these holiday travel safety tips, you can ensure a safe and smooth journey to your holiday celebrations. Be sure to check this list twice to be fully prepared. Happy Holidays!

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