What Not To Do at a Stoplight

What Not To Do at a Stoplight

 

Remember the days when you stopped at a traffic light, not a care in the world, before we all felt the need to be doing multiple things during every moment?  These days, we’re all guilty of trying squeeze in every little thing at a stoplight. The truth is, it may not be saving us time. A lot of people are focused on anything but the road. When you become so engrossed in something else that you forget to be aware of your surroundings it can cause time loss, create traffic problems and jeopardize safety. 

Whatever is distracting you can’t be that important that you forget you’re behind the wheel. Driving is a privilege and a responsibility to yourself and to others around you.  There’s a lot of precious cargo travelling around daily.

Being alert to where you are in line and the traffic patterns is helpful. Don’t be the person everyone’s honking at because the green arrow expired while you completed that Facebook status update. So when you’re in a hurry and you’re behind “that person” and the tables are turned, remember to set an example by changing your behavior and not be mad. People are more likely to mimic what they see rather than what their told.

Some of the examples that follow are more common and familiar offenders while some are plain ridiculous. You know who you are. There are usual suspects like texting, posting, playing video games and tearing the car apart in search of something that fell between the seats. Then there are those who change clothes, get out and rifle through the trunk, put on make up, dry shave, give over zealous affection, read, watch a movie on an overhead DVD player, cut their toe nails, paint their toes or try to figure out directions. What’s the strangest thing you’ve seen?

It’s ok to do certain things at a red light so long as you’re not oblivious to everything else around you. So if you must do it, glance up and around you frequently so you’re ready when the light changes. Kind of like checking your rear view mirror when you’re driving. It will eventually become a good habit.

If something is really so important that it’s distracting you from driving, it’s probably in everyone’s best interest that you pull over and resolve the issue before continuing on. A little preparation before departing can alleviate much of the strange behavior we observe at traffic lights.

People tend to think things won’t happen to him or her.  Until it does.  That’s when the resolution is made NOT to do whatever caused a problem again. Don’t let it happen at all. Let’s all try to be more courteous and aware on the road. Together we can improve our environment and interactions while arriving safely and happily at each destination.

Tech and the Auto Industry

Today the use of technology is prevalent throughout society and it is only continuously growing. Car companies are partnering with major companies to develop technology so the driver can use their mobile devices to interact within their vehicles. The tool that is already used for many of everyday tasks is now finding a way to help people along their commute.  Many new vehicles feature a GPS system, hands free communication, and the ability to sync music, but the development is only continuing to move forward.

The question that will be an issue for car companies and the public is how this may become another distraction for drivers. While many benefits outweigh the negatives the possibility of dangers it may cause to drivers on the road is always a concern to consider. What do you think of the development of this technology? Do you think it will better assist drivers or cause additional problems on the road?

How to Keep Your Car Clean During the Holidays

During the holiday season, our vehicles can certainly take a toll from the constant usage, quick runs for food, and all those last minute gift getting. Here are some simple tips to keep your vehicle clean this holiday season.

1.Clean out while you are at the pump

Take the time to clean out all of the unnecessary receipts, food, and other garbage that may be floating around your car. Keeping the interior clean will not only help in the look of your vehicle, but will also keep you sane around this crazy holiday period.

2. Get the kids involved

Driving around with your children can sometimes be difficult in keeping your vehicle clean, but that does not have to be the case. By getting the kids involved will not only help you, but will also help them in teaching them some organization, and cleaning skills and encouraging them to be on their best behavior for the holidays. It’s all about creating happy holiday memories.

3. Keep a trash in your vehicle

We all have trash that we have to throw away, so why not keep a small bag or bin in your vehicle. By having a trash bin will help to keep the unnecessary junk in one place.

4.Organize your trunk

Our trunks often take a hard hitting and many times will be occupied with unnecessary objects. By taking the time to organize your trunk you can have plenty of room for all of those presents and keep the interior of your car clean.

5.Cover the coffee and snacks

With all the constant quick runs that you may be doing be sure to cover your coffee and keep food in closed containers. Not only will this save you time from having to clean up a spill, but you will also be able to enjoy that quick boost of energy.

By keeping your vehicle clean, you can let yourself a happy and have a productive holiday season this year. Happy Holidays!

SHOCK and Awe: Avoiding Shock Treatment When Exiting Your Car

We’ve all been there.  You’re casually cruising in your car, glancing over to peer at your German Shepard as he soaks in the sun from an open window.  You stop for gas and begin to exit the vehicle, and you’re greeted with a quick jolt of static electricity.  Bzzt!  In today’s blog, we’re providing you with some quick tips to avoiding the shock treatment. 

1.    Be cautious of clothing – fleeces and synthetic materials can increase your risk of shock.

2.    Grip the frame of the door to expel static charge – Having your hand on the car frame when you get up lets it discharge more slowly. 

3.    Watch your shoes – Beach shoes with foam soles are conducive to static electricity, be careful!

4.    Touch the glass – as your exit your vehicle.  This option discharges any electricity and avoids shock.

5.    Hold a key in your hand and touch the metal doorframe as you exit.  It acts as a lightning rod and discharges the static without pain.

Static shock may seem like a minor issue for the average driver, but these tips are actually meant for your safety.  Static electricity has the capacity to cause small explosions at the gas pump.  You should NEVER re-enter your car while gassing up, as this could provide MORE static electricity build up.  If you have another tip for us, please comment below!

Preventing Auto Theft

The restaurant is dimly lit; creating an ambiance that is both inviting and tasteful. You bite into your steak, looking through the window outside as you measure the flavor of your first morsel. It’s then; you see a shadowy figure huddled by the drivers’ side of your car. You watch, as if in slow motion, as the individual quickly enters your car via force and drives off in your brand new car. 

The scariest moment during theft is watching your hard earned vehicle being taken by someone who wanted a quick buck.

In today’s blog, we discuss some solutions for protecting your car from theft. Theft begins with opportunity, as we all know. The thief sees a opportune moment to strike. Diminish these opportunities by being prepared. An alarm system is a good beginning, however most thieves have a full understanding of most theft systems. Here are some ways to protect your vehicle:

Obviously, you should never do any of these things:

• Never leave the windows down or the sunroof open;

• Never leave the keys in the ignition, or someplace else in the car such as under the visor;

• Never leave the car running and unattended, even for only a few minutes;

• Never leave car unlocked

• Don't leave your spare key somewhere a thief is likely to look, like magnetically stuck to the exhaust pipe or sitting on top of the tire;

• Only leave the ignition key with the valet, and make sure that the key to the glove box is a different cut;

• When you park on the street, turn the front wheels sharply into the curb and always use the emergency brake;

• Disable the car in some way, either by removing the electronic ignition fuse or by some other method;

Stolen vehicles are usually sold as parts because it’s more difficult for police to track hundreds of vehicle parts, as opposed to an entire car. Want to keep your car immune from theft? Consider these options:

• Ignition and fuel kill switches;

• Floorboard, gearshift, tire/wheel and hood locks;

• Vehicle tracking device

• If you have a rear-wheel drive vehicle, back into the driveway; if you have a front-wheel drive vehicle, drive straight into the driveway;

• If you have a garage, clean it out and park your vehicle in there, and always lock your garage doors;

• Install a motion-sensor light or alarm system on your garage doors;

We hope that we provided some great tips for you, guys. Have a great week!  Feel free to share any experiences you might have had, or additional tips.

Breaking Down Your VIN Number

A Vehicle Identification Number is a series of numbers we see all too often, but do we really have an understanding for what they are?  To the normal eye, it looks like a confusing series of numbers.  A VIN is the 17-digit string of numbers assigned to every vehicle.  It can reveal A TON of facts about your car, including airbag type, country of origin, engine size, model year and even the trim level!  It’s can be stamped into a plate that’s mounted on the dashboard, near the windshield, or on the driver-side doorjamb.  It could also be stamped on the engine firewall. 

If you’re looking to decipher the code, you can visit a site called decodethis.com, this site will translate the number into a readable document, changing the set of numbers into understandable content.  The information is accurate and worth a peek.  We ran a random vehicle, the result being:

The benefit of this info is using it to obtain a vehicle history report.  Before you buy a used car — even if it's from a dealer — it's important to get the vehicle's VIN and use it to run a history report that can reveal if the car has been reported stolen or if it has a salvage title. 

Deciphering your VIN number is easy once you understand it! Check out our blog for details!

Advantages of going Green with Automobiles

 

Today more companies are deciding to make the transition to produce electrical and hybrid version of their vehicles. Many people are also jumping on the bandwagon of not only saving money for themselves, but lessening the carbon footprint they are leaving behind. Here’s a look as to why making the switch to an eco-friendly automobile could be a smart choice.

Financially:

·      If you buy a new eco-friendly car, you may be eligible for as much as $3,000 as a tax credit. However, this does not necessarily apply to every brand and type of hybrid vehicle.

·      Your insurance company may offer lower rates on some eco friendly automobiles.

·      Your wallet will be thanking you. By switching to an electric powered or hybrid vehicle you will be saving and spending half as much on fuel or none at all.

Environmentally:

·      By eliminating the use of fuel it will lead to less pollution and will reduce harmful effects on the environment.

·      Using less or no oil at all limits the amount of carbon emissions that are released into the air and helps to have a lesser a chance of polluting water and land sources.

Car costs:

·      Most of the green vehicles are more fuel efficient in comparison to standard gas powered vehicles. By making the switch you will be sure to see a major improvement in your gas mileage.

·      Not only will you be saving on the road, but also limiting the amount of time your car needs to be spend in the shop.  Eco friendly vehicles are built differently in regards to handling and operating causing less maintenance.    

Making the switch seems like a smart choice to and beneficial financially and environmentally in the long run.