Category: Safety

How Do Back Up Cameras Work?

Whether or not you have noticed, back up cameras (or rearview cameras) are one of the latest innovations to help drivers back their way out of a bad spot or their own driveway to prevent back up issue accidents and other mishaps. These cameras are now part of every new car coming off the assembly line and have been mandated by federal law for all new cars, vans, trucks and any other vehicles that have a weight of less than 10,000 pounds.

Essential Mirrors

Rear view mirrors have been an essential part of most any motorized equipment for over a hundred years. Mirrors, whether for rear or side viewing are, of course, useful, but they do have their disadvantages. It is difficult to see right behind a vehicle at a lower level, plus there is no mirror positioning for wide-angle viewing. With these mirror limitations, thousands of deaths and injuries have occurred and that includes backover accidents with various objects and tragic occurrences with young children.

How Back Up Cameras Work

Back up cameras operate on a fairly simple basis, yet they are quite advanced and continue to progress in their technical aspects. They work through a camera that is placed at the back of a vehicle. The camera action is initiated when a vehicle is put in reverse. An image is sent to a screen monitor at the front of the vehicle that displays what is happening on the outside. The image that is produced is quite intricate as it transmits a mirror image to the screen in a way that the orientation or positioning of the image is exactly as it should be in determining what is or isn’t behind a vehicle. The image that is shown or displayed on the screen is in the correct placement so no mistakes are made with steering in the wrong direction when exiting an area.

The backup cameras are actually installed on the rear of the vehicle in several different locations. They can be found in the rear decorative trim of a vehicle where they are obscured and not that easy to see. They might also be concealed within the bumper, by the license plate area, in the tailgate of a truck or SUV, or in the lid of a vehicle trunk. Those cameras are directed in a downward position to give the most optimal view behind the vehicle. The cameras also contain lenses that are wide-angle, which give an inclusive image as opposed to a normal rear view mirror that is a feature of older vehicle models.

Monitor Mounting and Types

The monitor can be placed anywhere in a drivers line of vision, though most newer cars already have built-in screens that have multi-functional uses for navigation, entertainment viewing, climate control and other activities. This same screen or display is also used for a backup camera system. Other types of displays rely on a section of the rearview mirror itself as a display, which is a good feature as drivers are used to looking in their rear view mirrors, but this type of monitor has image limitations and is not comparable to a larger screen.

Early monitors and aftermarket camera systems were colorless but almost all models in use today have color displays that are considered high resolution and high definition cameras. In addition, many luxury vehicles have night vision capacities built into their backup display systems. Backup systems are also available for older model vehicles and can be manually installed.

Some Disadvantages

The disadvantages with backup camera systems are few but there are some operational issues, which can be alleviated with simple maintenance. Here are some of the glitches that include:

poor image quality – can be caused by road debris, snow, mud and dirt. Simply clean the camera lens with a soft cloth.
wireless systems – (usually found on aftermarket camera models) may cause interruption or matching or pairing problems with a signal. Incompatibility issues usually occur because of purchasing the camera and monitor apart from one another.
malfunctioning camera – should be repaired by an expert technician
not a guarantee of complete safety – back up cameras are not a total replacement for mirrors. Regular mirrors should still be used as should the action of turning around and observing on all sides and the rear of a vehicle
not using the system negates any benefits – warning alarms within the system help to trigger use

If you are interested in finding out more about back up cameras and how they work, simply complete the online contact form and an expert will get back to you with the information you need.

How Does A Seatbelt Protect You In a Car Accident?

Alright, let’s first be honest with ourselves. Most people actively dislike having to wear seatbelts. There’s something admittedly claustrophobic about them, and seatbelt laws (at least those not pertaining to minors) are a very divisive thing.

Well, we’re not really here to debate the rights or wrongs of adult seatbelt legislation – but we’re here to tell you, with complete conviction, that seatbelts do indeed save lives. In the event of a car accident, or even a very sudden stop, they can be the difference between mild whiplash or broken bones, internal injuries, or even a very unpleasant death.

How They Work

In order to understand how a seatbelt protects you – and from what – we need to first understand a little bit about inertia. When you’re in your car, and you’re traveling at a consistent speed, down a more or less straight and well-paved road, it almost feels like your body is stationary. You really only notice your velocity when you’re speeding up, slowing down, or making severe course corrections.

Basically, if your car is moving at sixty miles per hour, so are you. Unfortunately, when the vehicle stops or slows down at a rapid rate, you don’t immediately do the same – this is why you feel a sense of being thrown forward during a collision or a sudden stop.

The most basic function of a seatbelt is to safely bring you to a stop at roughly the same time as the vehicle, rather than your body being violently tossed forward into the dashboard, steering column, or seat in front of you. In the event that the vehicle rolls, it also keeps you from being rattled around like dice in a cup – something guaranteed to badly injure you if not kill you before the rolling even stops.

Modern seatbelts are a mixture of two ancestral technologies – the lap belt and the sash belt. Alone, neither of these was entirely effective across the board. The lap belt allowed you to bend at the waist, which allowed for head or back injuries. Sashes prevented this but could allow you to slide out of your seat if the vehicle rolled or was impacted from a bad angle.

The modern three-point system utilizes both.

A Note on Properly Wearing a Seatbelt

Some people have a habit (an understandable one) of not wearing a seatbelt properly due to the discomfort of the sash component. People are known to tuck it behind them, or tuck it under an arm, to keep it off of their chest and neck. This should never be done – the sash should cross the collarbone and torso in a diagonal at all times. Accessories can be employed to reduce the discomfort they cause.

To learn more about how seatbelts can save your life in an accident, and to learn some statistics about injuries in accidents without them, fill out our contact form or call us today!

What’s The Difference Between AWD and 4WD?

Four-wheel drive used to be something limited to “big” vehicles noted for hard work or off-road capabilities. There were things like SUVs, pick up trucks, RVs and utility vehicles. But, in the past twenty years or so, four-wheel drive has become a common feature offered on most modern vehicles. This is great and all, but it can be confusing because, in recent times, there seems to be a choice between four-wheel drive and all-wheel drive.

Aren’t these the same? After all, cars have four wheels, so if it has four-wheel drive, then isn’t it all wheel? Well, let’s take a look today and find out what the differences are, and which is best suited for what conditions. You may be surprised by what’s revealed here.

All-Wheel Drive

All-wheel drive lives up to its name in pretty much every way. It is, in fact, a system where all four wheels are attached to a drive train system to provide traction and power in various adverse conditions. But, there are actually two types of all-wheel drive, one where it’s continuous (full-time AWD) and one where it’s intermittent (part-time AWD). The latter is usually computer-controlled these days.

How It Works

AWD systems, both full and part-time, generally work automatically, with no user control. They use one or two drive trains and multiple compound clutches to smartly distribute power to one or both sets of wheels accordingly.

You generally won’t notice the transition, in the case of part-time AWD, as smart sensors shift modes to deal with less traction or other adverse conditions (steep inclines, severe temperatures).

Pros and Cons of AWD

The most convenient aspect of AWD is the fact that it handles itself. As a driver, you don’t have to respond to conditions and enable/disable it. It’s electronically-controlled, usually with pretty intelligent systems to govern it. It works rather well in multiple conditions, and if you’re not a serious off-roader, then you might find this to be the least hassle-inducing choice to make.

However, those serious about off-roading or who deal with a constant bevy of rough road conditions, the control granted by 4WD is often considered more desirable due to the ability to pace and adjust traction based on intelligent intuition as an experienced driver.

Four-Wheel Drive

Four-wheel drive (4WD) is an older technology and was once a huge selling point of select vehicles in an age when a single axis bore all the torque in most designs. Today, there are two types of 4WD just as there are with AWD – full-time and part-time.

How It Works

While automatic 4WD with smart switching is an available feature in select vehicles, traditionally, 4WD is activated or deactivated by the user, with compound clutches to distribute torque between one or both axels depending.

With full-time 4WD, it can’t actually be turned off, but the user usually has the ability to control torque distribution between the axels. Conversely, part-time 4WD, which may not allow this precise distribution, can be activated or deactivated by the driver at will.

Pros and Cons

As we said earlier, off-road enthusiasts and professional drivers who handle a lot of consistent adverse road and weather conditions tend to prefer the level of control and agency provided by 4WD systems as opposed to AWD. They do handle rough, difficult conditions, on average, more effectively, especially if you can adjust torque precisely, and know what you’re doing with that.

However, unlike AWD, which is very fuel efficient, 4WD can result in some perceptible “gas guzzling”, meaning that if fuel efficiency matters highly, it may not be the option to go with.

Which Handles Snow Best?

For the average driver, the biggest adversary on the road is going to be snow. Yeah, it’s not that magical once you’re not a kid anymore. If you’re someone driving professionally, you’ll definitely prefer 4WD in snowy conditions, due to the control you get, which you need with heavier utilitarian vehicles.

For the average user, part-time AWD with smart switching handles snow easily, without distracting you so you can focus on keeping control of your vehicle. Snowy, icy roads are stressful, especially because you can’t control the other drives on the road.

Which Do You Need?

This all boils down to where you live and what you do with your car. Are you a professional driver who encounters rough terrain and harsh weather regularly? Are you an off-road enthusiast? Then you probably want 4WD with its adjustable torque and control.

Are you an average civilian driver who just needs that extra torque and power in hilly terrain and occasional nasty weather? Then full or part-time AWD is probably going to suffice, and save you fuel efficiency frustrations to boot.

To learn more about the technical science behind AWD and 4WD, and learn more key facts about their performance and applications, fill out our contact form below.

What Is Hydroplaning and How To Avoid It

If you have ever lost control of your car, even slightly, on a wet road, it is possible you experienced hydroplaning. A skid can last a split second or can be catastrophic when the roads are wet. In order to protect yourself, it is important to understand what, exactly, hydroplaning is so that you can avoid it.

What is Hydroplaning?

Hydroplaning normally refers to sliding or skidding on a wet surface. Your tires are designed to scatter water as you travel on a wet road. When the tire encounters a larger amount of rain than it can scatter, you hydroplane. Pressure in front of the tires pushes water under it, causing the tire to leave the road way and ride on top of a thin film of water. This means your vehicle no longer has traction which can lead to a loss of steering, braking and control of your car.

When Does Hydroplaning Happen?

Anytime the road is wet, you can hydroplane. However, statistics show that hydroplaning is most common in the first ten minutes of a light rain. Light rain can mix with residue on the roads, like oils, which can cause cars to hydroplane. This is especially true if you are traveling at more than 35 miles per hour. Drivers tend to slow down during fog, ice, snow and heavy rain, but because light rain happens so often, drivers tend to travel at the same speeds they do on dry roads. Although heavy downpours and blinding snow can be dangerous, it is often the slippery conditions caused after a light rain that cause the most damage as drivers are not prepared for them.

Avoiding Hydroplaning

Although it is impossible to avoid hydroplaning at all times, there are steps you can take to reduce your chances of hydroplaning. Be sure your tires are properly inflated and that the tread is in good condition. Slow down when the roads are wet, even if it was only a light rain. Avoid puddles and standing water which increase the chances of hydroplaning. Try to remain in the tracks of the cars in front of you as they indicate the area on the road where water is already displaced. Do not use cruise control on wet roads and drive in a lower gear if possible. Try not to brake hard or make sharp turns.

If you have been involved in an accident after hydroplaning, contact us by filling out the easy online form or give us a call to schedule an appointment.

Aggressive Driving Increases Your Risk Of An Auto Accident

In 2016, a report published by AAA found that nearly 80 percent of drivers expressed significant aggression, anger or road rage while driving at least once in a year. The report also found that approximately 8 million drivers engaged in driving that demonstrated extreme road rage, such as getting out of the car to confront another driver or purposely tailgaiting. Aggressive driving can put you and your passengers at risk of an accident, yet it seems to be on the rise in the United States.

What Is Aggressive Driving?

Deliberately tailgaiting, speeding or cutting off vehicles are examples of aggressive driving. Aggressive driving is operating a motor vehicle in a manner that is unsafe and hostile without any regard for others who are on the road. Aggressive driving not only leads to accidents, it can also lead to road rage. This occurs when you use your vehicle to deliberately harm someone else. You may be guilty of aggressive driving if you hit the gas when a light turns yellow rather than slowing down or you ride the bumper of a vehicle moving slowly and pass even if it is risky. If you cut off last-minute mergers to “teach them a lesson” or blast the horn if a car in front of you does not move the second the light changes from red to green, you may be an aggressive driver.

How Common is Aggressive Driving?

According to the AAA report, aggressive driving is extremely common. Of those who responded to the study, 51 percent admitted they had purposefully tailgated while 47 percent admitted yelling at another driver. As many as 45 percent have honked to show they are annoyed or angry and 33 percent say they have used angry gestures. Over the past year, 24 percent said they tried to block another driver who was changing lanes, 12 percent purposely cut off a vehicle and 4 percent got out of their vehicle so that they could confront another driver. What was most alarming was that 3 percent of those who responded admitted to bumping or ramming another driver on purpose.

Reducing Aggressive Driving

There are ways to reduce incidents of aggressive driving. If some of the examples sound like you, the first step is recognizing that you have a problem. Always allow extra time to get to where you are going as many aggressive driving incidents are because drivers are running late. If you are already stressed or angry, don’t get behind the wheel. If you can avoid peak traffic times, this can help reduce aggressive driving as well. There are apps you can download that will allow you to avoid traffic or you can tune to your local traffic channel. Turn on soothing music or listen to a relaxing audiobook while you are driving. If another driver is aggressive or is not driving properly in some way, don’t take it personal. Simply get around them when it is safe.

If you have been involved in an accident as the result of aggressive driving or for any other reason, contact us today by phone or by filling out the easy form online to schedule a no obligation appointment.

Common Types Of Fraud In Collision Repair

Collision repair in general can be a harrying experience, but when fraud is involved, the situation is ramped up for both the vehicle owner, the insurer and anyone else involved in the repair process. Though the majority of collision repair shops operate by the book and utilize honorable business practices, there are those few shops that exploit and manipulate unsuspecting customers.

The use of a disreputable shop can lead to insurance fraud. In order to avoid that dilemma, customers should be made aware of how the collision repair process is supposed to work. Avoiding scams at all costs and protecting customers are the goals of any insurer. When consumers are armed with the right information, they can make informed decisions before they are faced with collision costs.

Shop Fraud Tactics

Here is a listing of the different fraud tactics and hazards that involve collision repair. They should be of benefit in helping customers avoid any kind of trap before seeking advice and repair estimates.

Estimates for Damages

Be on the lookout for damage estimates that seem beyond what would be considered normal. A less credible shop will try to pad costs and add considerably more in the way of materials, parts and labor to a repair bill. They’re banking on a customer either not being aware of cost breakdowns as well as being in a hurry to get their vehicle repaired. Such shops are also hoping that the customer and their insurer will not detect anything out of the ordinary with an estimate. Watching for services that were never completed and parts and materials that were not necessary, or ever installed, are areas that can be easily manipulated by a dishonest shop. Review the estimate and question any procedure that seems fishy or out of the ordinary.

Hidden Deductibles

A number of repair shops will offer their customers the cost-free incentive of hiding or burying insurance deductibles within repair expenses, which leads to an insurance company picking up the tab for the total bill, while supposedly benefiting the customer with a free pass for costs. While this may be a temptation to vehicle owners in need of a less expensive way out of repair costs, they need to realize that the dishonesty of the repair shop goes beyond just charging the insurance company full cost. Charges for parts and other items made to the insurance company will be top dollar, while the vehicle owner will likely get replacement parts that are inferior, old or simply junk. It is definitely a risk to agree to an offer that buries costs that come out of your insurance carrier’s pocket and eventually yours.

Airbag Deception

In the case of most collisions, an airbag or airbags will likely have deployed, which means replacement. Fraudulent shop owners will try to replace an airbag with one that has been stolen or used, plus they will have gotten the airbag for next to nothing. Some shops will simply turn around and charge the insurance company with the full price of a new airbag. This is one devious and dangerous practice.

In order to inflate an estimate, dishonest shops will also try to deceive customers and insurers through the use of an already opened and expanded airbag that has been placed in the steering wheel area of a vehicle. This practice will lead to, once again, charging an insurance company the full price of a new airbag that is added into an estimate.

All of these tactics with airbags are deceitful and dishonest and can cause dangerous occurrences down the road. To avoid these kinds of crooked dealings with airbags, always insist on examining any packaged airbag or looking at the original invoice from a reputable airbag manufacturer. Also, both the customer and the insurance agent should thoroughly scrutinize estimates for airbag issues as well as watch for anything that seems suspicious or incorrect.

Fraud Avoidance

Insurers need to encourage their customers to look beyond repair shops and deals that seem too good to be true. If a repair shop lacks organization and is poorly kept, it is probably wise to go on to another shop that is professional and well organized. In addition, customers should be advised of the importance of requesting an estimate before any work is initiated. If questions arise concerning a repair bill, a customer needs to be reassured that their insurance agent is a constant companion concerning estimate issues. Finally, policy holders should be encouraged to only deal with ASE accredited repair shops and other reputable businesses.

There are always going to be questions concerning fraud and dealings with any kind of repair work. Seeking guidance through a reputable shop is the safe way to approach repairs without being mislead or scammed. If you need more answers concerning collision repair, complete the online contact form, and an experienced agent will get back to you with the answers you need to safely and honestly repair your vehicle.