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Resources
Graciously provided by Drive Insurance
Car Accident Tips
Emergency Items
Child Passenger Safety
Seat Belts
Car Maintenance and Cleaning
Winter/Summer Tips
Boating Season
Motorcycle Season
Following these guidelines will help you if involved in an accident:
*Staying calm can help you keep control
*Move your car off the road, if possible, but remain at the scene; turn on your hazard lights
*Do not admit fault and stay at the scene of the accident
*Call the police as soon as convenient so the accident can be reported
*Give your information to the other driver; be sure to get their information (name, address, phone number, license number, insurance info; for all drivers and witnesses.
*Do not discuss the accident with anyone other than police
*Call your insurance company to report the claim
The following items are useful in the event of an emergency:
Spare Tire (actual full-sized tires would be best)
Jack
Tool box with screwdrivers, wrenches, a small hammer, tape, scissors, etc.
Coat or Jacket
Flares
Extra water for radiator/Anit-Freeze
Can of Fix-a-Flat
Fire extinguisher
Empty gas can
Motor oil
Radio with batteries
Insurance information
Car registration
Flash light with batteries
First aid kit
Bottled water
Jumper cables
Tire pressure gauge
Pen/paper
Window scraper for ice
Reflective vest
Drivers are responsible for the children in their car, and safety seats and seat belts are essential for their protection.
On average, seven children age 14 and under are killed in traffic accidents each day. (Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration)
Research conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows that when a driver is unbuckled, children in the same car are properly restrained less than 25 percent of the time. Non-use of seat belts is a conscious decision thousands of adult drivers and passengers make. Unfortunately, children tend to be the victims.
Seat belt tips for child passenger safety:
All children age 12 and under should be buckled up in the rear seat of the vehicle. Children should ride in an appropriate child safety seat until 8 years of age, unless they are 4 feet 9 inches tall and weigh 80 pounds.
Holding a child in your lap provides no additional safety. An unrestrained 10-pound infant would instantly be ripped from an adult's arms in a 30-mph collision.
Don't place a single seat belt over yourself and a child. In a front-end collision, the child could be crushed by your body. A seat belt must be adjusted to the size of a child. As with adults, the lap belt should cross the child's upper thighs and the diagonal belt should cross the upper chest and a point between the neck and the center of the shoulder.
Children should continue to use a belt-positioning booster until the lap and shoulder belts fit properly and the child's legs are long enough to bend at the edge of the seat.
Child safety seat tips:
Safety requirements change as children grow. Learn the basic facts for proper use of child safety seats.
Infants - From birth to 1 year and at least 20 pounds, infants should be placed in rear-facing child safety seats in the back seat of the car. The harness straps should be at or below shoulder level.
Toddlers - From 1 year and at least 20 to 40 pounds, toddlers should be placed in forward-facing child safety seats in the back seat of the car. The harness straps should be at or above the shoulders. Children who are less than 1 year but weigh more than 20 pounds should ride in restraint seats approved for higher rear-facing weights.
Young children - Children more than 40 pounds but less than 4 feet 9 inches tall should be placed in forward-facing booster seats in the back seat of the car. Lap belts should fit low and tight across the thighs, and shoulder belts should fit snugly across the chest and shoulder to prevent abdominal injuries.
Child passenger safety facts:
Child safety seats save lives. Correct use of a child safety seat can reduce the risk of accident-related injuries and deaths by more than 70 percent. (Source: NHTSA) Seat belts can ensure child passenger safety. Six out of 10 children who die in passenger vehicle crashes are unbelted.
In today's time, seat belts are a common addition to vehicles, but the modern three-point automotive seat belt has only been around since 1959; and it's saved thousands of lives since then.
The three-point seat belt was invented by Swedish aircraft engineer Nils Ivar Bohlin, who spent the early years of his career designing aircraft ejector seats. He designed the belt as a combination lap and diagonal belt positioned across the pelvic and rib cage.
Today's seat belts use Bohlin's harness with a simple pendulum and ratchet mechanism which locks the belt in sudden-stop situations. This design helps improve the comfort of belt wearers, as the belt is not locked in position under normal operation.
However, for a seat belt to be effective, it must fit and be used properly. If not, it may fail during collision, injuring you and your passengers. Follow these tips to ensure that your seat belts provide the safety you and your passengers deserve:
Always wear your seat belt, and insist that your passengers do the same. One non-restrained passenger can seriously injure others in the vehicle.
Seat belts help prevent internal injuries by spreading the force of a collision across two of the human body's strongest areas: the pelvis and upper chest. To ensure the proper distribution of force, the lap belt should be positioned across the upper thighs, and the diagonal belt across the chest.
Never slip the diagonal belt behind your body - the lap belt alone cannot prevent you from being thrown forward or out of the vehicle. Use the lap belt at all times, as well. Without this restraint, your body would be thrown under the diagonal belt and into the dashboard or steering wheel.
Make sure your belt fits snugly against your body. If it is too loose, you could be injured by being thrown against the belt itself.
Facts: In 2002, 39 percent of passenger car occupants involved in fatal crashes were not wearing seat belts. Seat belts save an estimated 11,000 lives each year. Every 13 minutes, someone is killed in a traffic accident.(Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration)
Preventive maintenance can help keep your car on the road for years to come. The following is a few basic tips to help keep your car purring.
A trained, qualified mechanic with the expertise and equipment to do the job correctly should perform most of the maintenance on your car. You also should pay attention to what's going on under the hood. The owner's manual for your car will provide you with a maintenance schedule for your specific make and model.
Change the oil and oil filter regularly. A good rule is to change them every 3,000 to 4,000 miles.
Check all the fluids. This includes brake, power steering, transmission, transaxle, windshield washer, and antifreeze fluids. Also be sure to check your radiator to ensure that it has enough anti-freeze and/or water. NEVER open the radiator cap unless the car is cold or has cooled off enough that your temperature gauge does not move when you turn the switch on.
Check the air pressure level in your tires at least once a month. This can also help when it comes to gas mileage.
Make sure all your lights work. This includes headlights, turn signals, brake lights, and taillights. A good tip for checking taillights, when by yourself, is to back up in front of a glass window or door and press your brakes.
Replace the windshield wiper blades periodically. If your wiper blades are cracked or torn, or if they begin to streak, it's time to replace them.
Keep a check on the engine belts; if they start cracking, replace them.
Check the air filter. The filter should be clean, not clogged or damaged. An air hose will give it a good cleaning.
A clean car protects against dirt, salt, and other contaminants picked up from the road every day. If it all possible, wash it once a week and make sure the inside is clean as well. Crumpled newspaper will polish the glass and not leave lint behind.
Wax and polish will also go a long way to make your car shine. A regular application of wax is the best way to protect your car from the elements. Thoroughly wash your car's exterior. Use a pre-wax cleaner, which will remove blemishes. Apply the wax to one body panel at a time with a damp cloth or manufacturer-supplied applicator. Follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding exactly how to apply the wax (i.e., in a circular versus straight motion). Allow the wax to dry on the body panel, then buff it to a smooth shine. The wax usually dries in a few minutes, and you can use a smooth terry cloth towel to buff the panel. For an exceptional shine, you may choose to apply a second coat of wax. Allow sufficient time for the wax to cure - usually 12 to 48 hours - between applications. Wax often enough to keep your car protected. Natural waxes typically need to be reapplied every six to 10 weeks. Synthetic waxes will last six to nine months between applications.
Winter:
Winter storms create treacherous driving conditions, evidenced by news stories of crashes caused by icy roads and reduced visibility. Before you hit the road this winter, follow these steps to make sure the road does not hit you.
Before heading to your destination, clear ice and snow from your car. Brush or scrape your windshield, windows, mirrors, headlights, and taillights. Make sure the top of your car, your trunk, and hood are cleared of heavy snow that could slide onto your windows while driving.
Turn on defrosters to help melt ice on the outside of your windshield. Make sure you have plenty of windshield washer fluid so you can keep the slush off.
Keep your gas tank full; when traffic moves slowly, trips take longer and cars consume more fuel. A full gas tank also helps prevent gas line freeze and helps fuel injection systems work more smoothly.
Check your tire treads to verify they're not worn and to ensure they're ready for snow.
Perform regular car maintenance to ensure everything is working properly.
Increase your following distance on icy roads. A general rule is to increase following distance from 3 seconds to 6 seconds. Many winter car accidents are caused when one car hits an ice patch on the road and slides into another car.
Accelerate carefully and avoid sudden starts, stops and turns. Your car may take longer to react when the road surface is slippery. Pump your brakes to slow down or stop, or keep steady pressure on your brake pedal if you have anti-lock brakes.
Speed limits posted on the road are set for ideal road conditions. In treacherous winter weather, driving slower can protect you and your car.
If you do become stuck in the snow, a good idea of becoming unstuck is to place your floor mats in front of your tires to provide traction. This will also work if you are stuck in mud. It's also a good idea to keep a small shovel with you.
The most important tool to use in winter weather is common sense. Preparing your car, taking your time, and driving carefully can help you reach your destination safely.
Summer:
Before you head out on the road for a vacation, follow these steps for a safer summer trip.
Plan your trip and know where you're going - lost or confused drivers are more vulnerable in dangerous situations. Call ahead or go online for proper directions to get to your destination safely, and have maps of the area on hand to help you navigate once you're off the main road.
Bring along light snacks and a cooler with cold drinks. This will help you avoid making unplanned stops.
Make sure you have tested your battery and that your tires are functioning properly. Don't forget to check the spare.
Perform regular car maintenance to ensure everything is working properly. For summertime, you may want to have your air conditioning system serviced. Leaks can occur, and refrigerant should be replaced.
In 2003, more Americans were killed in traffic accidents during the summer months of June, July and August than any other time of the year, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
In 2003, seat belts saved an estimated 14,903 lives of passenger vehicle occupants over 4 years old. In that same year, if every passenger vehicle occupant older than 4 years was strapped in, an additional 6,081 lives could have been saved.
In 2003, speeding contributed to 31 percent of all fatal crashes and 13,380 deaths. Taking your time to reach a destination can mean the difference between a fatal mistake or getting there safely.
To avoid injury from air bag impact, kids under age 12 should be buckled up in the back seat. Small children also should be strapped into a properly secured car seat.
If you're on a long drive, stop for a walk or meal at dusk to avoid getting sleepy behind the wheel.
Stop, get out of the car, and stretch tired muscles. Exercise increases the oxygen flow to the brain and boosts wakefulness. Avoid sugary snacks and caffeine.
A general rule is to keep both eyes on the road and both hands on the wheel at all times while driving.
1. Change the Engine Oil and Spark Plugs.
Many boat manufacturers recommend that, in addition to regular scheduled oil changes, you change the engine oil and filter twice a year: prior to storage and in the spring. During storage, the oil can separate, causing a condensation buildup that may harm your engine. While you're changing the oil, replace the spark plugs. Use a gap setting tool to set the gaps according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
2. Prepare the Outdrive.
The outdrive has many parts that need your attention. Check or change the oil in the gear housing, inspect the seals for signs of deterioration, check the power steering oil level, and grease the entire drive.
3. Check the Battery.
Clean the cables and terminals with a wire brush and reconnect. Depending on your battery, you may have to fill the cells with distilled water.
4. Flush the Cooling System.
If you drained the cooling system and filled it with a mixture of antifreeze and water to prevent freezing during storage, you need to flush and replace with a proper coolant. Be sure to check for cracks in all hoses and replace if necessary.
5. Check the Fuel System.
Replace the fuel filter and examine the fuel lines for cracks. Make sure the lines are connected and supported with approved clips and straps. Also inspect fuel tanks and pumps for leaks.
6. Perform other basic maintenance.
Be sure to check the belts for signs of wear and tear. Inspect the bilge pump, adjust the steering cables, and check all navigational equipment.
7. Prepare the Hull.
Visually inspect the hull for signs of cracking and peeling paint. Seal any cracks with a marine sealant approved for your type of boat, wait for the sealant to cure, and prepare the hull for painting below the water line. After painting, apply a high quality wax to the hull above the waterline and deck, avoiding areas where passengers may walk.
8. Prepare the Trailer.
If you plan to tow your boat, don't forget to inspect the trailer. Check the tires and spare for cracks, worn treads, and correct tire pressure. Check and grease the hubs. The back up and taillights should be tested. If needed, replace the bulbs and cracked wires. You also may want to operate the winch to be sure it is working properly.
9. Prepare the Safety Equipment.
Even after all the mechanical components have been checked, you should never board a boat that does not have properly working safety equipment. Take the time to inspect personal floatation devices, check the expiration dates on fire extinguishers, replace old flares, test the radio, and sound all warning horns.
10. Be Sure You're Covered.
After making all the routine checks listed above, be sure to check your insurance policy and review your coverages to make sure they meet your current needs. If you have added any equipment, you'll want to make sure it is covered.
1. Remove your bike from storage.
First things first. Remove the cover and any blocks that were used to keep your bike in place during winter storage. Also remove any plugs or covers from the exhaust pipes. Wash away any wax you may have applied to protect the frame, rims, and chain.
2. Change the engine oil and spark plugs.
Many bike manufacturers recommend that, in addition to regular scheduled oil changes, you should change the engine oil and filter prior to storage and in the spring. During storage, the oil can separate, causing a condensation buildup that may harm your engine. While you're changing the oil, replace the spark plugs. Use a gap setting tool to set the gaps to the manufacturer's recommendations. You also should check and clean your carburetor, replace the air filter, and check the transmission fluid.
3. Check the battery.
If you removed the battery for storage and kept it charged, all you have to do is clean the cables and terminals with a wire brush, then grease, and reconnect. Depending on your battery, you may have to fill the cells with distilled water. If your bike has a fuse box, check the fuses and replace them, if necessary. Keep spare fuses on hand, as well.
4. Flush the cooling system.
Flush and replace the old antifreeze with a proper coolant. Be sure to check for cracks in all hoses and replace if needed.
5. Check the fuel system.
Replace the fuel filter and examine the fuel tank, fuel lines, and fittings for cracks and leaks. If your bike has a petcock, turn the fuel system to "ON." If there is a "PRIME" option, turn to it for about 20 seconds, then to "ON." After burning the fuel from storage, add a fuel cleaner the next few times you fill your tank.
6. Check the brakes.
When it comes to safety, brakes may be the most important part of a bike, so spend time checking them on a regular basis. Inspect the brake pads and discs for wear. Check the brake lines for cracks. Lubricate the front brake hand lever and throttle cables. Check and fill the brake fluid level or replace if dirty.
7. Inspect the frame and suspension.
Visually inspect the frame for hairline cracks around the engine and transmission brackets. Inspect the handlebars for cracks and oil the cable connections. If needed, tighten all nuts, bolts and mounting brackets. Adjust the forks and lube all bearings. Lastly, inspect the rear shocks and fender mounting hardware and grease the side stand.
8. Check the tires, wheels, and chain.
Check the tires for cracks, worn treads, and correct tire pressure. Inspect the rims for dents and carefully tighten any loose spokes. Grease the bearings. Check for wear on the chain and sprockets. Also check and adjust the chain slack.
9. Prepare to ride safely.
Even after you've checked all the mechanical components, never ride a bike without proper safety precautions. Inspect the headlight, including high and low beams, the taillights, brake light, turn signals, instrument panel lights, and horn. Take the time to clean and adjust the mirrors. It's also important to wear the proper gear, such as a good helmet, eye and face protection, and protective clothing, even on short trips.
10. Be sure you're covered.
After making all the routine checks listed above, check your insurance policy and review your coverages to make sure they meet your current needs. If you have added any custom parts or equipment, you'll want to make sure they are covered.