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Bicycle Safety & Sharing the Road

February 16, 2014 by admin

Bicyclists are legal drivers of vehicles, with laws and regulations established for their use. But even though bicycles are an increasingly popular and legitimate form of transportation…many bicyclists feel disrespected by motorists…often fighting for their rightful place on the road. Both motorists and cyclists need sufficient space to safely operate in roadway traffic. Just as in any other kind of human engagement, genuine mutual respect needs to exist between both parties. This can be promoted by public service announcements, motorist education programs…even legal measures.

Care & Courtesy — 2 Simple Requirements for Both Motorists and Bicyclists.

Bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists, including the right to ride in the traffic lane. They can ride on all roads, except where restricted.
Riding against (or facing) traffic is illegal and unsafe for bicyclists to do . Bicyclists should ride on the road, and must ride in the same direction as traffic.
Motorists must maintain at least three feet of clearance when passing a bicyclist.
When a road is too narrow for cars and bikes to ride safely side by side, bicycles should take the travel lane, which means riding in or near the center of the lane.
Bicyclists must obey all traffic controls, signs and signals. It’s the law.

Know the Facts

A bicycle is considered a “vehicle” (like cars, trucks and motorcycles) in most states. All bike riders must obey the same laws as drivers of other vehicles.
“Yield to Pedestrians” is a common traffic sign at pedestrian crossings…reminding motorists that pedestrians have the right-of-way. However, motorists must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks even if they’re not marked.
The biggest difference between motorists and bicyclists as road users is that bicyclists are less visible, quieter and don’t have a crumple zone to protect them.

Stolen Vehicle Tracking & Recovery: Worth It?

January 19, 2014 by admin

A car is stolen every 43 seconds. And while nobody wants to experience the cost and lost time dealing with insurance claims, police reports and vehicle damage repair costs caused by thieves and joyriders…protection comes with a pricetag. (See theft rates by vehicle per DOT-NHTSA). The question is: An ounce of prevention (protection in this case)…is said to be worth a pound of cure.” Is the expense or investment in anti theft and vehicle tracking and recovery systems really worth it? Choosing the ideal solution for protecting your vehicles can be a real dilemma for car owners.

The car theft rate has been steadily declining in recent years (theft rate for 2011 decreased significantly by 15.38 percent from the theft rate for 2010 vehicles [1.17 thefts per thousand vehicles])…according to the DOT-NHTSA. More important, knowing that fewer cars are stolen today than a decade ago is not much consolation if yours is one of the 700,000+ vehicles reported stolen each year.

Law enforcement officials and car security experts can’t directly attribute the drop in thefts to the use of tracking technology, but most agree that it has had an effect…and that if you want to improve the chances of recovering your stolen vehicle once it’s gone missing, these systems are a necessity.

Two Types of Recovery Systems

Surprisingly, there are only two basic technologies when it comes to vehicle theft recovery systems:

Factory Installed by Vehicle Maker – GPS-based technology + Cellular Communications
Aftermarket – Radio Frequency based technology

Most vehicle recovery systems are GPS-based, like GM’s OnStar, Toyota Safety Connect, BMW Assist, Lexus Enform, Mercedes-Benz TeleAid and Mopar EVTS. The vehicle’s location is ascertained via GPS and an integrated cellular communications system reports that information to an administrative center that immediately shares that information with local law enforcement. Limitations of this system include various cellular areas without coverage…and GPS’s requisite clear line of sight by three satellites to correctly identify a vehicle’s location.

Aftermarket recovery systems use a hidden FM radio transceiver that sends out a signal to police cars equipped with a receiver. Manufacturers include: LoJack, Mobile IQ, Smart Tracker, VectorTrak, Zoombak. More identifying details are also broadcast to police to aid in visual confirmation of the stolen vehicle…like make, model, color and license tags. For example, the LoJack tracking system has a range of three to five miles on the ground, but aircraft-based tracking equipment can locate a car up to a 40 mile radius.

Filed Under: Tips

Emergency Car Kits – Just In Case

December 14, 2013 by admin

They’re called Roadside Emergencies for a reason…you never know when they might happen…and they’re often serious…sometimes even life threatening. And the reality is…no one is immune. It doesn’t matter whether your car is old or new…an all electric urban subcompact, or a 3/4 ton diesel pickup…they’re all machines and machines break sometimes. Accidents happen too. But being prepared with a basic roadside emergency car kit can increase your safety, reduce stress, and help you get back on the road faster. Even if you already have a roadside-assistance or auto-club membership, you usually need phone access in order to contact them and depending on time of day (rush hour?) or season of year…you may be waiting in your vehicle for an hour plus before help arrives. So it’s only smart to always carry certain items in your vehicle, even if it’s only used for everyday, around-town driving. A basic kit can always be supplemented with additional items for long-distance trip or for winter weather conditions.

Most of the items on this list can and should be kept together in their own container in the trunk or rear compartment of your vehicle (except for the first item – LifeHammer). It’s also important to make periodic checks on these items ensure they’re fresh and functional — that the spare tire is properly inflated, batteries are not discharged, first-aid supplies are current, water is fresh, and food is dry. Also, make it a point to know how each tool or item works, from the cellular phone to the jack, before an emergency occurs.

Far from exhaustive…and not necessarily in order of importance…an emergency car kit should aid you in getting help, signaling your car’s presence to other motorists, and tackling simple challenges

LifeHammer – If you haven’t heard of these devices, then you may not know of the amazing life-saving power of these tools. A LifeHammer is a device which has a sharp cutting edge on one side and a hammer on the other. It is designed to allow you to quickly escape a bad situation if you get in one. The hammer to break a window to escape the wreckage of a car and the blade to cut your seatbelt easily and quickly. If you just have one emergency tool in your vehicle, this should probably be it. Keep this one within reach of the driver at all times.
Duct tape – made infamous by Tim Allen on ToolTime… its uses stretch wide and far, from repairing items to providing a means to easily hack together a makeshift shelter. It never hurts to have a roll tucked away.
Cellular phone – Of course NOT for while driving, but in an emergency, this can be the single most valuable part of your emergency kit. Include a car charger too. Emergency tip: If you need to dial 911, remember that your location and phone number aren’t always available to an emergency operator when calling from a cell phone. So first, give the operator your cell number and any location information. Ignore any “no service” messages on the phone and try the call anyway. If you have trouble connecting to 911 from inside a car, get out if possible and call from the side of the road. That may help you get a better signal.
First-aid kit – Choose wisely. A kit caters to treating a range of problems…from small cuts or burns to ones that require major bandaging…is best. Take time to get familiar with how to use the kit before you need to.
Fire extinguisher – Car fire can start from something as simple as a wiring short circuit or leaking oil. You should get away from a vehicle that’s on fire as quickly as possible. Still, for extra security it’s good to keep a fire extinguisher in the car that can be used in any emergency or to quickly dose a small flame that’s just begun. The quicker a fire can be put out, the less damage it will cause. Multipurpose dry-chemical fire extinguishers are available in a variety of sizes. We recommend carrying a compact unit that’s labeled 1A10BC or 2A10BC.
Warning light, hazard triangle, or flares – If your vehicle is stuck on the side of the road, it’s vital that you give other motorists as much warning of its presence as possible, especially at night. Look for a battery-powered warning light that can be placed far from the vehicle. Reflective hazard triangles and flares are also effective and don’t need batteries.
Tire gauge – Use the guage on a monthly basis to check the inflation pressure in all four tires and the spare tire. Because ambient temperature affects tire pressure, it’s also advisable to check the pressure after a significant change in temperature.
Jack and lug wrench – Almost all vehicles come with these items for changing a tire. Refer to your owner’s manual on where they’re located in the vehicle and how to use them. Models that come with run-flat tires do not have a spare tire. Run-flat tires can be driven a limited number of miles with little or no air in them. They have very stiff sidewalls, which provide support when the tire is deflated. Learn more about the warning signs of imminent tire failure.
Foam tire sealant or a portable compressor and plug kit – For minor punctures, a foam tire sealant can get your vehicle back on the road quickly. Only use it in an emergency, however, as many tire shops will refuse to repair the tire because of the sticky residue these sealants leave inside it. Be sure to choose a sealant that’s labeled as non-flammable, and don’t consider this a permanent fix. A portable DC-powered air compressor can also be used to inflate a tire–and is especially handy for one that suffers from a slow leak. To fix a puncture, however, you need to have it professionally repaired.
Jumper cables or a portable battery booster – Jumper cables are easy to use as long as you have a second car available to provide a jump. Refer to your owner’s manual for instructions. A portable battery booster eliminates the need for a second car.
Flashlight – This can be critical at night. Choose one that is bright and weatherproof. In addition, a flashlight with a magnet, flexible mounting system, or a stand will free up your hands for other tasks. Also, have extra batteries and a bulb available.
Gloves, hand cleaner, and clean rags – Even the simplest jobs can get your hands dirty. Having these on hand will help keep that dirt from getting on your clothes or your vehicle’s interior.
$20 in small bills and change – Keep this available for miscellaneous use. And resist dipping into it for a spontaneous ice cream cone on a hot day.

Filed Under: Tips Tagged With: car kit, emergency, preparedness, safety

How Cars Get Towed in Europe: 60 seconds flat

November 16, 2013 by admin

Gone in 60 Seconds might bring back movie memories of the famed longest car chase scene in history (40 minutes) for some of a certain age, but this story is actually about how they sometimes do things differently across the pond.

While our own Autogrip is highly efficient with the proverbial hook and book as seen in our own demo video, the Europeans just have different ideas about how to get things done. Sometimes the old EU “lift and swing” is the only way to go…and they seem to do it quite well.

This photo and video essay is of several European towing vehicles that appear to more like mini-crane operators than tow trucks in the traditional American sense.

Read More: Gone in 60 seconds… Towing cars in the EU…

Filed Under: News Tagged With: Europe

Winterize Your Car for Safety

October 14, 2013 by admin

Winter weather can be your car’s worst enemy. The obvious wet and slippery conditions produced by rain, sleet and snow make the roadways more treacherous…especially at night. But colder temperatures also make it challenging for your vehicle’s engine to run normally. Potholes take their toll on tires, wheels and suspension systems. Salt and gravel grind away at your car’s body and paint. Two particular aspects of your vehicle that are especially vulnerable to Winter are its battery and antifreeze. If your battery is anywhere between middle aged and senior citizen status, its worth ten extra minutes at your local gas station or oil change center to have it checked out. The reason for checking your antifreeze is a bit more obvious. Engines don’t like frozen radiator fluid…and the slushy results can be highly damaging and costly.

As always, there are preventive measures you can take to help your vehicle combat Winter stress. In addition to battery and antifreeze, here are a few more important points to look at when giving your car a Winter checkup:

Tires & Tire Pressure – if you live in a moderate to heavy snow geography…Winter tires aren’t magical, but their added traction offers safety that can’t be ignored
Belts, Hoses, Wipers & Fluid – they lead longer lives in newer cars, but belts & hoses aren’t immortal. Also, mix de-icer into your fluid reservoir.
Emergency Car Kit – if you’re a DIYer, contents should include the obvious like a first-aid kit, flashlight & flares. But many convenient pre-made kits can be easily purchased too.

Staying Safe While Driving Alone: 7 Tips

September 15, 2013 by admin

It’s Fall and while many students have taken long drives back to college, many people in the San Francisco Bay Area perform daily commutes that span hours each way. As we’ve all heard, It’s far more dangerous to hop in your car for a daily commute than hopping on a plane to fly across the country. And while only “8% of workers in the USA have commutes of an hour or longer…nearly 600,000 full-time workers endure “megacommutes” of at least an hour-and-a-half and 50 miles”…maybe the worst part is that 76% commute alone. (USA Today).

It’s true that no one is immune to vulnerability, but for women…the freeways and expressways are a different environment. When you’re out of your element and neighborhood, there’ s no one to help notice that someone may look suspicious or out of place because the roadways are inherently a transient environment. Here are several tips for EVERYONE…young or old…male or female…for responsibly minimizing potential dangers while on the road. Increasing your personal safety can be as simple as planning ahead.

Tune Ups – keep your car well and regularly maintained…especially your tires and a full gas tank..
Roadside Assistance – if you purchased a car without it, take the initiative to get your own.
Map out your route and destination…especially if it’s not familiar to you. An old fashioned paper map, as well as setting and testing your navigation system. Going to a hotel?…make an advanced reservation & plan to arrive before dark.
Doors Locked ALWAYS…whether you’re in the car or out.
Cellphone & Car Charger – always take them with you, but don’t even talk hands-free…it’s a distraction to what’s going on around you.

Travel Safety for Road Trips – AAA

Filed Under: Tips Tagged With: commute, safety, trips, women

Texting While Driving: Your Reason to Stop

August 13, 2013 by admin

From One Second to the Next is a 35-minute short film that emotionally recounts how lives have been forever changed by drivers who were texting while driving. Every year, 100,000 car crashes involve texting drivers and the film explores the inherent dangers.

The documentary by legendary filmmaker Werner Herzog tells the stories of both victims and perpetrators and is in essence a public-service announcement. It’s available for viewing at ItCanWait.com (and Youtube)…and is being distributed by AT&T to more than 40,000 high schools, as well as hundreds of safety organizations and government agencies.

Says Herzog, who has spoken out about the intrusion of marketing in creative mediums…”This has nothing to do with consumerism or being part of advertising products. This whole campaign is rather dissuading you from excessive use of a product… We’re not trying to sell a mobile phone to you. We’re trying to raise awareness.”

Online: www.ItCanWait.com

Tow Truck Driver – Good Service Defined

July 19, 2013 by admin

Most of us probably don’t think about the tow truck business very often. On the rare occasion that we experience a breakdown…and a random tow truck stops as they’re about to pass by…we’re grateful. We might also think about tow trucks when buying a new car or are changing car insurance companies and are deciding whether to check the box for a roadside assistance service. Usually though, we probably don’t cross paths with tow trucks and their drivers all that much. And let’s face it, when we do find ourselves in need of a tow truck…it’s often not under the best circumstances. But it’s great to see an industry that daily faces trying circumstances…and usually goes unnoticed…still striving to maintain standards of professionalism and plain old basic good service.

What Does It Mean To Provide Good Service As A Tow Truck Driver? – WeCheckInc

by Ian

The towing industry and good customer service aren’t exactly synonymous to most people. Why is this? And more importantly, does it need to be that way? We definitely don’t think so. We know some tow services that provide excellent customer service and we think that they can provide an excellent model for the rest of the industry to follow in terms of ensuring positive customer experience and providing good service.

There two major things that go into providing good service as a tow truck driver. The first is being reliable and the second is providing a good customer experience. The first may seem like a given, but it can be quite difficult as anyone who works in the towing industry knows. There is a lot that goes on behind the scenes from managing drivers to dispatch and everything else that goes into running a business which is oftentimes open 24/7.

The fact remains, though, that customers expect reliability and timeliness when dealing with any professional and a tow truck driver is no different. When someone is stuck on the side of the road, the last thing they want to do is wait an hour for a tow truck. Sometimes this can’t be helped just because of the sheer distance and time it takes to get to a vehicle, but otherwise a tow truck driver should strive to be as timely as possible and a tow service as reliable as possible.

Filed Under: News Tagged With: professionalism, quality service, tow truck drivers

Roadside Assistance Preparedness

June 24, 2013 by admin

It happens when you least expect it. You’re driving to the airport to pick up a family member when…BAM…the steering wheel suddenly jerks your hands hard to the left. You swerve, narrowly avoiding a car in the next lane…but manage to slow down and maneuver onto the shoulder of the freeway and stop the car. Your hands shake uncontrollably, but after 2-3 minutes you eventually catch your breath and start to think semi-rationally about what to do next. But what DO you do next? This hasn’t happened to you since you were back in college. After poking your head out the window, your see that your left front tire is the culprit…definitely flat.

Immediately you wonder, “Should I try to change the flat tire myself?…or just call a tow truck and have them do it?”. But you’re not exactly in the proper attire for a tire changing occasion, and quickly decide you’d probably hurt yourself or ruin your suit or dress. So tow truck it is! But did Roadside Assistance come with your Car Insurance Policy?…that’s right, it was about $5 a month extra. Did I actually buy that feature though? Nothing seems clear at the moment, so you say to yourself, “Crap, I’ll just call customer service at my insurance company and ask.” OR…”Crap, I’ll just Google it on my smart phone and see if it’s possible to get a towing company that can get here and help me fast enough to still get to the airport on time and pick up my brother.”

From that point on, it all boils down to three basic ideas:

Having Your Information (insurance/roadside assistance membership) handy
Describing Your Location
Assessing Your Problem so the tow truck driver can know what to expect

Filed Under: Tips Tagged With: car trouble, flat tire, roadside assistance, safety, tow truck

Safest Car Choices for Teen Drivers

May 31, 2013 by admin

Tis the season for high school graduation ceremonies and the most coveted teenage new grad gift: a new car. Though teens and parents often have different motivations for vehicle model choice, whoever is doling out the cash usually has the larger say. For parents, safety and protection of their kids are naturally top priorities…another reason why money is a crucial factor in the car budgeting process. Newer cars tend to be more crashworthy and have other key safety features like side airbags. And the sad fact is that teen drivers ultimately have more fatal car crashes than do adults, so it’s difficult to over exaggerate the safety angle (Safercar.org). Beginning with vehicle size and weight, here are three (3) key factors to consider in choosing the safest cars for teen drivers.

Filed Under: Tips Tagged With: car safety, NHTSA, teen drivers