Since I was 10 I have been living in San Diego and seriously, during the whole year it rains maybe 15 times. No one in San Diego ever thinks about rain because for 99 percent of the time, it does not rain in summer. But there is still one per cent left and I experienced this exact percentage a few days ago.
I went with my family to the beach, which is very close to us, but instead of walking we decided to take the truck in order to transport all the beach gear in the truck's bed. So it was not out of laziness, but rather it was just the most comfortable way to transport the beach rackets, surfboards and baseball bats. We arrived at the beach around two o'clock and the sun was shining, bright as ever. Beside that, the waves were pretty good so we could really enjoy this day at the beach! If you live in San Diego, you can start thinking this great weather and these beautiful beaches here in California are the most normal things of the world. I know that there are so many people who did not have the opportunity to relax in the sand looking at your surfing sons in the Pacific. So I really appreciate this wonderful lifestyle and days like this make me realize how lucky I am.
We were hanging around at the beach till around 6 pm and afterwards we decided to eat something in one of the beach restaurants because everyone was starving. These restaurants are not just known for their great food but also for their very high prices. But my stomach was not very interested in walking miles to a cheaper café. Like the commercial says:"Hunger gets what hunger wants" and my case underlines the truth of this statement. While were enjoying our delicious seafood, we noticed that clouds appeared over the ocean but we were not very interested in them. Remember, it never rains during the summer, so why should this be an exception? So we kept on eating. Suddenly the clouds became pitch-black and it started raining. It is hard to describe my feeling at this moment, but I was shocked because the rain became stronger and stronger. And I remembered that I had a lot of papers and documents in my truck bed, which I left there after work two days ago. There are two facts that emphasize why I was not the smartest man this week. First of all, I should have a cover for my truck bed, which protects my stuff in it. Secondly, I should never trust rules, especially any rules referring to nature. The weathermen try so often to forecast natural events, but they always fail.
But instead of being angry with myself I tried to learn from this disaster. And my first step was the purchase of a hard tonneau cover for my truck bed. In doing this I can prevent repeating an experience like the last one. So I look forward to my next day at the beach, hopefully with a better ending.
Thursday, September 27, 2007
What Is A Car's Real Trade-in Value? by: Joshua Rose
We all have the same goal when it comes to buying a car and making sure we get the most possible for our trade-in. At the least, we want to make sure that we're not being taken advantage of. So, with the advent of the internet and the myriad of car information now available to us, we point ourselves over to Kelley Blue Book to find this all-important value. Later, when we're actually negotiating with a Dealer, we find it's not quite this easy. The Dealer's trade-in figure is lower than the one we got from the internet. So, we whip it out and ask for an explanation, and rightfully so. The truth of the matter is that a vehicle's "trade-in value" is not a number that is simply black and white. It's quite "gray" actually. You see, it's not unlike valuing your own home. What is your home worth? Well, you can get a ballpark idea ... maybe a general price range. But a precise and fair figure? Nope. Why? Because there are a number of other factors that determine "value". What have similar homes (or cars) sold for recently? How long did it take them to sell? Is demand currently strong? Weak? Somewhere in between? What's the premium currently being paid for extra features such as a pool or a shed (sunroof or leather)? A Dealer tries to access such issues, and of necessity, "opinion" and "subjectiveness" are going to play a significant role. And much the same way as having your house appraised for a loan, you'll get different answers from different "experts". Another factor is very fluid. The Dealer will certainly check what similar vehicles have sold for at the wholesale, Dealer-Only car auctions. Have there been a lot of them? Did the bidding of other Dealers indicate local Dealer demand? What could he buy this same car for at the auction? If he's unable to sell it, what price would he likely get for it at the auction? Does he have other similar vehicles in stock that have been difficult to sell? And then, whatever figure the Dealer comes up with, he's going to reduce it a bit further to reduce the risk he's taking in investing in your car. He doesn't want to lose the profit he's making on your new car when selling or disposing of your trade-in. So what's a consumer left to do? Well, unfortunately, it's negotiate, negotiate, negotiate ... as unpleasant as it is. The best alternative, however, is to sell the car on your own. Although this takes additional time and effort, it is often well worthwhile. One way to do this is actually very simple: just put a "For Sale" sign in your back window. We've seen this for years, but now that virtually everyone has a cell phone, it often works quite quickly. Another alternative is to list your vehicle online since people shop for cars on the internet now far more now than reading newspaper classified ads. High traffic sites such as AutoTrader or Cars.com charge in the $40 to $70 range and usually the ad runs until the vehicle is sold.
SUV Rollover Deaths by nick johnson
Shortly after the turn of the millennium, sport utility vehicles began experiencing awful difficulties with pre-mounted tires that accompanied the vehicle when it left the lot. Specifically, the Firestone tire company began experiencing terrible difficulties in manufacturing new tires, and this difficulty became a direct influence in causing SUV rollover deaths. In a study conducted by the United States government, it was found that around 300 people died in SUV accidents involving a rollover in 2003. Despite gas prices, sport utility vehicles continue to be a popular choice at the car lot. It's important, before purchasing your next vehicle, to understand the facts and statistics records on its safety.Court cases have been heard throughout the country, involving people involved in accidents that included SUV rollover deaths. In some, the jury has walked away undecided if driving was a factor in a particular case; in others, the jury has awarded millions of dollars. In any given year after the year 2001, nearly four thousand people have been killed either as a result of mixed signals on the highway, or reckless driving. Many thousands more have been killed in similar accidents. The statistics are grim. It is far safer to drive a four-door sedan than a sport utility vehicle. Despite that, many people buy SUVs for the thrill of sitting higher and the perceived safety of having a tougher or better-constructed vehicle.Driving an SUV is completely unlike driving a sedan. Turning radii are different, time required to speed up and slow down are different, and, most importantly, the aerodynamics of an SUV versus a car is vastly different. By taking these differences into account and living by a few simple suggestions, you can greatly improve your chances of not suffering a fatal accident.First, with a different turning radius, SUVs also have a different center of balance than typical four-door vehicles. Because of these interrelated differences, special care must be taken when driving your SUV around curvy roads, especially if those curves are enhanced by height and speed. Always slow down when approaching curves; many accidents occur when drivers turn too quickly and lose control of their vehicle. If your SUV comes equipped with a traction system, ensure it is always engaged. When driving your vehicle in four-wheel drive instead of a normal driving mode, ensure that you are in the right gear and that your turns are made that much more carefully.Next, avoid becoming a statistic as an SUV rollover death by understanding that it takes longer both to speed up and slow down in an SUV rather than in a car. Because SUVs are larger and heavier than typically automobiles, and because their different size and bulk add weight to their frame, speed can be a definite factor. When driving your SUV, always allow adequate room behind the car in front of you, so that if they need to stop in a hurry, you will not cause an accident. When traveling at slower speeds, you should be able to see a bit of ground behind the tire of the car in front of you; this will indicate that you are following at a safe distance. When you are in faster traffic, use the rule of three: locate a sign and start counting just when the car in front of you passes it. Stop counting when you pass that vehicle. That means time's up!Finally, keep in mind that due to vastly different aerodynamics, your SUV will drive quite a bit differently than a four-door sedan. Wind blowing in your area may have a role in the stability of your vehicle. Minimize this role by planning your drives, especially in windy weather, quite carefully. Many drivers tend to lose their cool when a gust of wind blows a car a few feet sideways. When this happens, drivers tend to jerk the steering wheel in the opposite direction, and end up overcompensating for the difference in geographic placement.If the worst happens and one of your family members is involved in an accident including SUV rollover deaths, you'll need to give serious consideration to mountain a lawsuit against various parties for having a share of the blame in your accident. Typical lawsuits are against automobile manufacturers, while some also include tire corporations. Do not assume that just because a loved one has died, a lawsuit is winnable. Many factors can lead to a fatal occurrence in your SUV. In court, if it can be proven that the driver was in some way responsible, the outcome will not necessarily be favorable. Driver responsibility includes knowing the condition of tires, pointing out obvious defects. The key fact to keep in mind is that additional safety and well-thought-out planning can go a long way towards preventing you and your family from turning into one of the statistics of SUV rollover deaths.
Should You Do Your Own Car Upholstery? by Aazdak Alisimo
When you are considering an upgrade in your auto upholstery or need to make a repair to the existing upholstery, you might be thinking about doing it yourself. It is not easy, but a lot less expensive.
Although much attention is given to the engine and the exterior of your automobile, the interior is where you and your passengers actually come into contact with the automobile. The comfort of your ride can make or break the whole driving experience, and quality upholstery is the key to comfort. When you are thinking of upgrading your upholstery or are forced to replace or repair it due to interior damage, you can be in for an expensive situation.
The reason that auto upholstery repair is expensive is the skill and experience that is required to do the work. It is also true that many upholstery shops take advantage of their rather exclusive ability to perform the repairs and charge a bit more than really is consistent with the costs of materials and labor involved. Although you can shop around for a better deal and you can be lucky and find an extremely honest shop, there are some advantages to a do it yourself approach.
One of the advantages of any type of do it yourself experience involved with auto repair is that it makes you much more knowledgeable about the costs and labor involved. This is the general rule of auto repair. The customer who brings a car to a mechanic and shrugs and says, "I have no idea what is wrong", has put themselves in a very disadvantageous position. When you have done upholstery work yourself, you are able to evaluate the expected cost of having a job done for you by a shop.
Of course, once you have gained some experience in auto upholstery repair and replacement, you might find you no longer need a shop at all. In order to gain this experience, you should make your first attempts to replace, repair, or upgrade auto upholstery on a less expensive vehicle. This can either be a used car or a restoration project. This allows a bit of trial and error.
The repair and replacement of auto upholstery is not on the level of brain surgery, but neither is it a simple repair project. It is very much like furniture upholstery repair. After all the car seats are really just the furniture of the car's interior. Many people with skills in furniture upholstery repair can use these skills with an automobile job as well. There are a number of books and manuals that can walk you through the steps of an auto upholstery repair job. You should not be afraid to give it a try and the savings will be ample reward, but do not go into it thinking it is simple. It is a definite skill.
Although much attention is given to the engine and the exterior of your automobile, the interior is where you and your passengers actually come into contact with the automobile. The comfort of your ride can make or break the whole driving experience, and quality upholstery is the key to comfort. When you are thinking of upgrading your upholstery or are forced to replace or repair it due to interior damage, you can be in for an expensive situation.
The reason that auto upholstery repair is expensive is the skill and experience that is required to do the work. It is also true that many upholstery shops take advantage of their rather exclusive ability to perform the repairs and charge a bit more than really is consistent with the costs of materials and labor involved. Although you can shop around for a better deal and you can be lucky and find an extremely honest shop, there are some advantages to a do it yourself approach.
One of the advantages of any type of do it yourself experience involved with auto repair is that it makes you much more knowledgeable about the costs and labor involved. This is the general rule of auto repair. The customer who brings a car to a mechanic and shrugs and says, "I have no idea what is wrong", has put themselves in a very disadvantageous position. When you have done upholstery work yourself, you are able to evaluate the expected cost of having a job done for you by a shop.
Of course, once you have gained some experience in auto upholstery repair and replacement, you might find you no longer need a shop at all. In order to gain this experience, you should make your first attempts to replace, repair, or upgrade auto upholstery on a less expensive vehicle. This can either be a used car or a restoration project. This allows a bit of trial and error.
The repair and replacement of auto upholstery is not on the level of brain surgery, but neither is it a simple repair project. It is very much like furniture upholstery repair. After all the car seats are really just the furniture of the car's interior. Many people with skills in furniture upholstery repair can use these skills with an automobile job as well. There are a number of books and manuals that can walk you through the steps of an auto upholstery repair job. You should not be afraid to give it a try and the savings will be ample reward, but do not go into it thinking it is simple. It is a definite skill.
How to Deal with an SUV Rollover by tim dillard
SUV rollovers are notoriously dangerous. Thousands of motor vehicles are involved in rollovers every single year, and the unfortunately thing about that is not only are many of these accidents preventable, but also that once people get into accidents, they have absolutely no idea what to do. If you own an SUV it is important to learn about rollovers so that you can avoid them and, God forbid your SUV does rollover, you know what to do. SUV rollovers occur because Sport Utility Vehicles have a high center of gravity. Think of a car like a typical Christmas tree and an SUV as an upside down Christmas tree. You'll have to push a lot harder to get the first tree to topple over! To find the safest SUV available, you want to look for an SUV with a larger distance between the back tires and a heavier bottom when compared to the top. However, the best step to preventing an SUV rollover is to use common sense. Car manufacturers now make electronic systems that can monitor your vehicle's stability and correct problems, but nothing can serve in the place of your good sense. Most SUV roller accidents happen when you accidentally run off the road and your SUV hits a ditch or some kind of obstacle. Therefore, if you pay attention to your driving and slow your speeds, you should be able to prevent most rollovers from ever happening in the first place. That said, there are certain steps you should take if you are involved in an SUV rollover. Taking these steps can truly help you medically, financially, and legally so that you can make sure you are treated in the best way possible. Because accidents are so frightening, it may be difficult to stay calm and do what you need to do, but if you know the steps beforehand, you have a better chance of not forgetting crucial actions that you need to take. First and more most, take care of yourself medically. If you are hurt and in no immediate danger, stay put and wait for paramedics to arrive. In some cases, the best thing you can do is to quickly and safely exit the vehicle. If your SUV is still running, turn it off, and if you are upside down, carefully release your seatbelt and crawl out of the door or window. This is especially crucial if you smell gas, because explosions and fire are a main concern. Call the police. Even if the accident was your fault, and even if you have no insurance coverage, don't try to hide SUV rollovers or any other accidents. If your vehicle rolled over, chance are that someone has already called the police, but it is very important to do so if this hasn't happened. Think about what happened and always tell the truth. Cooperation is key, and make sure that you are very detailed about the accident so that everything goes into the police report. Before you leave the scene of the accident, talk to the eyewitnesses, and make sure that they talk to the police officer as well. If possible, take down names and numbers. This kind of information may be paramount to an investigation later. After you've left, call your doctor to set up an appointment, just in case you have any internal injuries, and notify your insurance company about the SUV rollover. Again, your full cooperation will help you in the long run. Report the accident it's the law. If you have been injured or if there was another car involved, your final step is to seek legal advice. When SUV rollovers happen, you may be entitled to a settlement. If you were injured in the rollover, it may have been due to a fault in the manufacturing of the vehicle. If another car was involved, the entire accident may not be your fault.Every single SUV rollover case is different. Seeking legal advice in this situation is important because you may not realize that you are not completely at fault. Even if you are, you have nothing to lose by talking to a lawyer, since most are happy to briefly review your case for free. Protecting yourself legally when involved with SUV rollovers can help you get the money you need to care for medical injuries and fix your SUV. Of course, when the case is closed, remember to take extra precautions in the future so that you are not involved with another SUV rollover accident. It can happen to anyone, but if you drive safely, it has less of a chance of happening to you.
Car Accessories for Fashion and Security by: Alexus Devon
Do you know the most cost-effective way of making a car flashy and comfy? It is the way of making some additions to it. Car accessories offer a gainful and easy option of doing up a set of wheels. So, don’t worry if your car looks like a box on wheels! You can revamp it with lots of small and cute kits and give it a give a complete new look. You can even make it comfortable from inside and more secured to drive even. The automobile market has endless options on car accessories. Both for interior and exterior add-ons, there are endless options to choose from. From trifle things like tattoos to important accessories like security kits, leading manufacturers have everything on offer. While some accessories can be used as mere fashion, some others can be added to the car to get valuable service from them. Most of these accessories are easily affordable; though a few of them can be expensive. Alarms, central locking, immobilisers are some of the kits that certainly beefs up the security of the car. On the other hand, dash kits, gear knob, car mats, roof boxes etc. serve the purpose of both glamorizing the car and increasing its beauty too. Tattoos and stickers are the accessories mostly used by young people and liked by kids. Seat covers, seat belts are for comfy feeling and security precautions. Car mats are one of the commonest of car accessories. They are available in all variety. Regarding size, colour and style, floor mats offer endless options. Whether for the front or the rear side; or even for the trunk─ there is an exhaustive variety of mats available in the market. They save the floor from damage by preventing liquid penetrate inside. If kept in the trunk, car mats can save goods from damage by keeping tight hold on them.
Getting Rust Out of Your Upholstery by Aazdak Alisimo
Among the most difficult stains in upholstery fabric on any kind is a rust stain. You can get rust out of your upholstery, but it isn't easy.
Rust can stain upholstery fabric when it comes in contact with a rusting metal object. Vinyl automobile or furniture upholstery is especially susceptible to this kind of stain because of its highly porous nature. Rust removal from vinyl or fabric upholstery can be a tricky process, but help is available from several chemical based cleaners. Most chemical rust removal products contain a substance called oxalic acid.
Oxalic acid is a rather strong chemical compound. It is about 10,000 times stronger than acetic acid. This is the reason that certain precautions must be used when it is used for rust removal from upholstery fabric. As is the general rule in any cleaning of upholstery, the procedure is always to clean a small part of the fabric first. This small part should be in an out of the way spot that is not easy to see. Perform the cleaning procedure on the test spot exactly as you will on the rust stain. Make sure you wait for a long enough period to be absolutely certain that there will be no fading or damage to the fabric.
If you are using a powdered rust removal product, you will need to make a paste first. You then apply the paste to the stain and work it into the fabric. It will take a little while for the rust to be totally dissolved. After it has, you can rinse the spot carefully. You should be prepared to do several reapplications. It will be important to neutralize the acidic substance completely after use to avoid further damage to the fabric. The instructions on the product will give you the proper neutralization procedure.
There are some products available from carpet cleaning companies that are designed to remove rust stains from fabric without the use of harsh acidic chemicals that have to be neutralized after use. You can rinse these products with plain water. Most of them are in gel form rather than power and liquid. This makes it easier to apply directly to the stain.
Rust is usually associated with metal, of course, but rust stains are actually quite common on carpets from furniture legs, file cabinets, or contact with other metal objects. These stains can also get onto upholstery, especially vinyl upholstery in a vehicle. Rust removal can be a hassle, but there are some very good products available to help make it easier. As with all chemical cleaning of upholstery, do not forget to test for damage or fading first.
Rust can stain upholstery fabric when it comes in contact with a rusting metal object. Vinyl automobile or furniture upholstery is especially susceptible to this kind of stain because of its highly porous nature. Rust removal from vinyl or fabric upholstery can be a tricky process, but help is available from several chemical based cleaners. Most chemical rust removal products contain a substance called oxalic acid.
Oxalic acid is a rather strong chemical compound. It is about 10,000 times stronger than acetic acid. This is the reason that certain precautions must be used when it is used for rust removal from upholstery fabric. As is the general rule in any cleaning of upholstery, the procedure is always to clean a small part of the fabric first. This small part should be in an out of the way spot that is not easy to see. Perform the cleaning procedure on the test spot exactly as you will on the rust stain. Make sure you wait for a long enough period to be absolutely certain that there will be no fading or damage to the fabric.
If you are using a powdered rust removal product, you will need to make a paste first. You then apply the paste to the stain and work it into the fabric. It will take a little while for the rust to be totally dissolved. After it has, you can rinse the spot carefully. You should be prepared to do several reapplications. It will be important to neutralize the acidic substance completely after use to avoid further damage to the fabric. The instructions on the product will give you the proper neutralization procedure.
There are some products available from carpet cleaning companies that are designed to remove rust stains from fabric without the use of harsh acidic chemicals that have to be neutralized after use. You can rinse these products with plain water. Most of them are in gel form rather than power and liquid. This makes it easier to apply directly to the stain.
Rust is usually associated with metal, of course, but rust stains are actually quite common on carpets from furniture legs, file cabinets, or contact with other metal objects. These stains can also get onto upholstery, especially vinyl upholstery in a vehicle. Rust removal can be a hassle, but there are some very good products available to help make it easier. As with all chemical cleaning of upholstery, do not forget to test for damage or fading first.
SUV Rollover Accidents - What to Know Before Buying an SUV by tim dillard
SUVs - Sport Utility Vehicles - are more popular than ever. Ownership of SUVs increased dramatically by 250% in the United States from 1995 to 2002 as many people, especially families, were seduced into buying an SUV partly in the belief that bigger meant safer. If you are thinking of buying an SUV, there is good news and bad news as far as safety is concerned. In general an SUV is more than twice as likely to roll over in an accident as a car. Children are especially at risk, they are three times more likely to be injured in an SUV rollover accident than if they were in a car.And contrary to popular belief, the more weight that an SUV carries, the higher the chance of an accident. Most SUVs are designed - and owners are encouraged - to carry extra weight in the form of extra passengers and cargo, whether it is on the road or off the road. One way to minimize the risk of a rollover if you do drive an SUV is to drive with less weight. In 2004 (the most recent year with data available) rollover accidents killed just over 10,000 people in the United States. Rollovers are actually rare (less than 3% of all car crashes) but they are responsible for around 30% of all traffic related fatalities. However, rollovers are particularly serious types of accident as they often result in head injuries, or passengers being thrown from vehicles.The good news is that SUVs are currently safer than ever, a trend that seems certain to continue. An increasing number of SUVs are being made with electronic stability control which dramatically decreases the chance of an accident. This may become a requirement in the next few years. Manufacturers are also making more so-called car-based SUVs, vehicles that combine the appearance of a car and an SUV. These usually ride closer to the ground than regular SUVs and are therefore significantly safer. And at least fifteen major car manufacturers have agreed that by 2009, all their SUVs would be built lower to the ground, saving an estimated 600 to 800 lives every year. Other safety features are being introduced. Newer SUVs now have rollover air bags, designed specifically to protect passengers from injury during a rollover. A sensing device will detect a rollover and trigger an airbag to inflate, usually on the side of the vehicle, at the same time tightening the seat belts. If you are still interested in an SUV, choose your model carefully. Cost, features, and gas mileage will all influence your purchase, but safety should also play an important part in deciding which make and model to buy. Many automotive web sites offer unbiased reviews of SUVs and their safety rating.Give some thought as to whether you really need an SUV. Statistics show that fewer than 5% of owners will actually use their SUV off the road. A car or minivan may suit your needs just as well, and will usually cost less. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) published rankings for 2006 which show which SUVs are most and least likely to rollover in an accident. The figures are based on the chances of a rollover in a single vehicle accident, they don't take in to account multi-vehicle accidents. The figures also don't take into account what causes the accident in the first place.The least likely models to rollover are the Chevrolet HHR, Ford Freestyle and Chrysler Pacifica. The models most likely to rollover are the Nissan Xterra and the Chevrolet Avalanche along with several other models hovering just behind these two as far as the rankings are concerned. Car manufacturers are understandably concerned with these rankings, the cost in financial terms and buyer confidence is enormous. There have been a spate of vehicle recalls over the last few years; one of the most far-reaching was by Ford in 2003, recalling almost 1.7 million Explorers and Mercury Mountaineers. And Toyota recalled almost a million SUVs in 2005 because of a defect that could possibly affect the ability to steer the vehicle.So before you buy your next SUV, do a little research. It may just save your life if you are involved in an accident.
Car Accessories: Necessity of Both the New and Used Cars by: Alexus Devon
One of the easiest ways of making your car look swanky is to add some accessories to it. The market is fraught with cool and cute kits that can increase the glamour of an auto to a greater degree. Manufactured in nice designs and available in fluorescent colours, these car accessories are sold at reasonable price. Whether a flashy new car or a used one is to be decorated, there are accessories that will match with its design and jell with its colour. Yet, not all car accessories are meant for beautifying a set of wheels. Some car accessories are for the purpose of security. Some others are there for sheer necessity. Without both these type of add-ons, a car will remain far from being a pleasure to drive. Without adequate security kits, you may have to be in tension while driving the car. Sans the exigent ones, you will fail to feel at home. One accessory that is exigent for the car but not contribute that much in accentuating it is floor mats. Without car mats the floor of the car is most likely to be damaged. There lies the danger of liquid falling on the floor and cause rusting. This ultimately results in the damage of the floor. Putting some good quality mats on the floor of the car is the best way to overcome this threat. If you feel that your car need some add-ons but you do not have time to go to the market and buy the necessary accessories, you can log on to the internet. A plethora of options will be there for you on car accessories. A number of online shops deal in auto kits. Simply browsing through the sites of a few of them, you can gather enough knowledge as to which accessory to buy and how to buy them at the best price.
Do It Yourself Auto Repairs - How Best To Handle Road Emergencies by Tope Olawumi
It is not an understatement to say that vehicles manufacturers are working hard to come out with perfect cars.Cars that will be more convenient, reliable and comfortable, but the truth of the matter is that no matter how perfect these vehicles are sometimes they brake down, even when we least expected. This article shows you how best to handle emergency cases.
How prepared are you for a breakdown?
If you are driving on the highway, and suddenly your car develop fault, what can you do? The first thing you have to do is to try as much as possible to manage the car to the side of the road, make sure you move it away from the high way to avoid being hit by other fast moving oncoming vehicles. Open the hood, get back into your car, activate your emergency light, and lock your door, then try to think of how you can get help, you can make use of your cell phone to call a service center nearby.
If the vehicle cannot be managed to the side of the road, right where you are put on the emergency light, do not come out of the vehicle, this is highway, if you do, it is very dangerous, the most important thing is your safety and the safety of your passengers; so sit tight in the car if anyone approaches your vehicle don't come out, lock the door, just wind down the glass a little to tell the person to send help.
Road emergencies like this, could turn out to be a nightmare. You will do yourself a lot of good if you know little about vehicle repairs, I am talking about Do-It-Yourself Auto Repairs.
If you learn D1Y and you also equipped yourself with Do-It-Yourself auto repair manuals, you will safe yourself and your family from ugly situations like this. You can imagine what can happen if you get a breakdown in the middle of nowhere, in the the night, far away from home.Many people put off the opportunity of learning Do-It-Yourself Auto Repairs, but you never can tell when you will be in dare need of it. It is better to prepare yourself for a breakdown before it happens. Because it is a matter of when, not if.
How prepared are you for a breakdown?
If you are driving on the highway, and suddenly your car develop fault, what can you do? The first thing you have to do is to try as much as possible to manage the car to the side of the road, make sure you move it away from the high way to avoid being hit by other fast moving oncoming vehicles. Open the hood, get back into your car, activate your emergency light, and lock your door, then try to think of how you can get help, you can make use of your cell phone to call a service center nearby.
If the vehicle cannot be managed to the side of the road, right where you are put on the emergency light, do not come out of the vehicle, this is highway, if you do, it is very dangerous, the most important thing is your safety and the safety of your passengers; so sit tight in the car if anyone approaches your vehicle don't come out, lock the door, just wind down the glass a little to tell the person to send help.
Road emergencies like this, could turn out to be a nightmare. You will do yourself a lot of good if you know little about vehicle repairs, I am talking about Do-It-Yourself Auto Repairs.
If you learn D1Y and you also equipped yourself with Do-It-Yourself auto repair manuals, you will safe yourself and your family from ugly situations like this. You can imagine what can happen if you get a breakdown in the middle of nowhere, in the the night, far away from home.Many people put off the opportunity of learning Do-It-Yourself Auto Repairs, but you never can tell when you will be in dare need of it. It is better to prepare yourself for a breakdown before it happens. Because it is a matter of when, not if.
Seven SUV Rollover Tips by tim dillard
SUVs are notoriously known in the automobile industry for being quick to get into rollover accidents. While this is not a totally unfounded claim, it is also important to note that SUV rollovers typically don't happen because of manufacturer defects or design flaws' they happen because drivers are dangerous in a vehicle that is already prone to rollovers under certain conditions. But how's a driver to stay safe? SUV rollovers happen more commonly than rollovers in other vehicles because, essentially, SUVs are top heavy. There's nothing you can really do to change that, short of not buying an SUV, but there are tips you can use to stay safe from SUV rollover no matter what kind of vehicle you drive. Take these tips to heart, they could very well save your life. 1. You can avoid SUV rollovers by choosing a smart SUV. Know what you're buying before you buy it! Check out consumer reports, guides, and rollover ratings. In general, SUV rollovers are most likely to happen with vehicles that are tall and "skinny." The best SUVs to buy when you're hoping to prevent rollover are the ones that have a father distance between the tires in the back. 2. The second tip, which you cannot overlook, is to drive your SUV "like an SUV". If you're used to driving a car, or even a truck or van, it is tricky to jump into an SUV and take off. You can't take curves as quickly in an SUV. If you try, rollover is likely. Before you speed down the highway, take a few days or weeks to learn the feel of your SUV's steering, brakes, acceleration, and so on. 3. When dealing with an SUV, drive safely. This is, of course, the best tip to use when driving anything, but it is important to note that most SUV rollovers only happen when the SUV goes off of the main road. If you're chatting on your cell phone, doing your makeup in the car, or tending to yelling children in the backseat, it is much more likely that you'll run off of the road, where you'll hit a ditch, curb, bump, or obstacle and be thrown head over heels. 4. To go hand-in-hand with the last tip, drive according to the road conditions. SUV rollovers are more likely on rural roads, simply because potholes are more common. If you're driving on a dirt road or road that rarely gets repaired after the winter, having an SUV can prevent you from sticking in the mud, but at the same time, a pothole can cause you to become off balance and, in effect cause an SUV rollover. Remember that driving for the road conditions also includes the weather. If it's raining, snowing, or foggy, slow down. 5. Avoid panicking when steering. The common response to losing control is to over-steer in attempts to regain control. Don't panic and fall into this trap! You'll only make matters much worse. Instead, grab the wheel firmly and try to keep the vehicle going in a straight path, as you pump the brakes to slow. When you panic and steer sharply, it has the same effects of going around a turn too quickly, and SUV rollovers are common. 6. Keep your car in tip-top shape if you want to avoid SUV rollover. Most importantly, check your tire pressure. If one tire is running low on air, this will not only cause efficiency problems, but will also make your SUV be prone to rollover. Keep in mind also that ESC systems are now available to upgrade your SUV. This kind of a system monitors your vehicle and your movements to prevent rollover. If you carry things in your SUV, make sure that these things are distributed evenly according to weight. Centrifugal force plays a huge roll in SUV rollovers, so check your loaded items often. 7. Wear your seatbelt. Okay, this isn't exactly a way to prevent SUV rollovers, but it is a way to prevent death if your SUV should happen to rollover, for whatever reason. More fatalities occur because the driver or passenger was thrown completely or partially out of the SUV as it rolled, and reports show that buckling up can reduce your risk of death when in an SUV rollover by up to 75%. Be safe, be smart, and if you do happen to become involved with an SUV rollover, which can happen to even the best drivers, contact a lawyer to learn about your legal rights.
Tyre Disposal and Recycling by: Black Circles
It is now standard practice for tyre retailers to impose a tyre disposal charge when you change your tyres, which tends typically to be about £1.00 a tyre. You may wonder why you have to pay this charge - after all tyre disposal charges have not always been the norm. The real answer to this question is that it is a simple case of economics - a case of supply and demand. Going back twenty years the scrap disposal scenario was totally different to the way it is today. It used to be the case that car tyre retreading companies would collect the majority of used tyres as the raw material for their production. They used to pick up the used tyres free of charge (or even pay for the privilege). However, that was when over 4 million retreaded car tyres were sold in the UK every year. In the meantime the market for British manufactured retreads has been squeezed by cheap new tyres from the Far East to the point where the UK market is no more than a tenth of what it was. This means that retreaders no longer pick up the scrap tyres. This is done by professional tyre disposal companies who need to charge the retailer for this service. Much of the tyre disposal in the UK is now carried out by members of the Responsible Recyclers Scheme, which is now administered under license by the Tyre Recovery Association. Members of the scheme guarantee that the tyres collected are disposed of in an environmentally friendly method, whether recycled or used as a fuel in cement kilns. As a guarantee, members of the scheme are subject to a stringent audit process conducted regularly by independent environmental audit specialists. The Responsible Recyclers Scheme also promotes best practice in the tyre recovery industry and helps protect against the continuing scourge of fly-tipping. In the UK around 40 million tyres are taken off car, vans, trucks and buses every year, a total of 440,000 tonnes. That is a huge amount of scrap to dispose of and it has to be paid for somehow. Although the UK tyre recovery industry currently has enough capacity to cope with scrap tyre arisings, the balance between overcapacity and undercapacity is relatively fine. Of key importance in the tyre disposal market in the UK is The Landfill Directive, which was adopted by the UK in July 1999. This banned the disposal of whole tyres by landfill from July 2003 and shredded tyres from July 2006. This has changed the entire scenario of how tyres are disposed of and recycled in the UK and Europe. There are a number of ways in which scrap tyres are recycled in the UK although all of these can be defined as either reuse, recycling or recovery. Retreading is still considered to be one of the most preferable method of tyre recycling as it effectively doubles the life of the new tyre, reducing the numbers of new tyres needed and thereby minimising waste. Retread still make up nearly half of all truck tyres on the road but the number of car tyres that are retreaded is now relatively small. Other common uses for scrap tyres include sports and recreational surfaces, landfill engineering, carpet underlay/floor coverings, and road building. Roads manufactured using crumb rubber last longer, have better traction and reduce noise. In the UK scrap tyres are also widely used as a fuel in cement kilns as an alternative to the traditional fuel, coal.
Tyre Retreading Helps The Environment by: Black Circles
Retreaded car tyres (or remoulds as they are sometimes better known) have been a part of the tyre market for many years. It is not that long ago that every tyre dealer in the country sold retreaded car tyres as a budget line. These days, the increased influx of cheap new tyres from China has meant that retreads are now available only through selected dealers. However, with environmental issues becoming more important to the general public, it is the retread’s status as a recycled product that is now becoming more important. How is a Retread Made? Firstly, the retreader takes a worn tyre casing and inspects it to check it is suitable for retreading. The remaining old tread rubber is then removed during a process called "buffing". This provides a profile and surface texture in preparation for the application of a new tread. The tyre is then inspected for a second time and any correction work is then carried out before the next stage of the manufacturing process, which is the application of a new tread and sidewall veneer. In car tyre retreading this is done by applying uncured tread and sidewall rubber, usually by using a strip-winding machine. The built tyre then moves on to the curing or vulcanisation process. In car tyre retreading this is carried out in individual curing moulds (similar to those used in new tyre manufacturing). After curing, a final inspection process is carried out identify any potential defect. Unacceptable tyres are rejected and scrapped. What is the Quality of Retreads Like? Despite the historical image, the quality of retreaded tyres today is very good. Since 2004 all retreaded car tyres in the UK have been subject to an ECE Regulation (Reg 108), which stipulates that all retreads have to meet the same load and speed test criteria as new tyres. Each retreader has to subject a proportion of his production for testing and, if his tyres fail, he runs the risk of being closed down. Retreaded tyres not produced to ECE 108 are illegal. One erroneously held belief is the idea that retreads cannot be used on motorways or above 50 mph. Absolute Rubbish! Most retreads sold in the UK market are rated to either T (118 mph), H (130 mph) or V (149 mph). The exception is some retreaded winter tyres which may be Q rated (99 mph) but these are mostly sold overseas. Another myth is the belief that the discarded tread rubber from truck tyres that you see on the side of motorways is from retreads. Not true. Truck tyre failures occur primarily as a result of poor tyre maintenance, for example by running a tyre underinflated or when the tyre has suffered some kind of damage. In this case the tyre will fail regardless of whether a tyre is a retread or a new tyre. Incidentally retreads make up about 40% of all truck tyres on the road and in many applications they routinely outperform new tyres. How Green Are Retreads? Retreads are extremely environmentally friendly. Firstly, the production of a retread saves substantial amounts of fossil fuels. In fact, the manufacture of a passenger retread requires 4.5 gallons less oil than a new tyre. Secondly, retreaded car tyres sold in the UK are almost exclusively manufactured in the UK, which means they don’t have to be shipped from the other side of the world, unlike many budget new tyres, a high proportion of which are manufactured in China and other Far East countries. Retreading is also the best practical environmental option for tyre recycling. Every retread used means one less new tyre saving in natural resources. It also means that less tyres ultimately have to be burned (the most common form of disposal in the UK) thereby reducing pollution. In fact, a recent study by the Environmental Association found that out of all the various options for tyre recycling, retreading has the least environmental impact. So retreads really are green.
SUV Rollover Accident Attorneys by tim dillard
If you or someone in your family has suffered injury or death due to an accident in your sport utility vehicle, consulting with an SUV rollover accident attorney can be a good way to ensure proper compensation for the accident is procured. Your SUV rollover accident could be the result of faulty engineering of the vehicle or of tires whose propensity for blowout caused the incident. Before trying to tackle a car or tire manufacturer on your own, consulting an attorney will protect your interests.SUV rollover accident attorneys are experienced in working with families who have been affected by injury or death to ensure that after-accident procedures are handled appropriately. Before making an appointment for your first consultation, ensure that you have gathered all information pertinent to the accident, and also given thought to the end result you expect to achieve. The information you will need to gather prior to your consultation will include the accident report written out by local police, any estimates written on your vehicle by qualified repair shops, any hospital paperwork documenting the extent of injuries or exact cause of death, and any witness statements that may have been recorded at the scene. If speed or weather conditions played a role in the accident, the attorney will need to be apprised of that as well, so as to appropriately handle that circumstance when seeking to simultaneously prove that the car or tire manufacturer is at least partially liable for the accident.If you are seeking to be compensated for specific damages caused to your vehicle as a result of an SUV rollover accident, you will need to have exact estimates performed for replacement cost. If the vehicle is totaled as a result of the accident, the estimate will need to include the current value of the vehicle, rather than the value of replacement parts. Compensatory damages can often be sought out of court, as large car and tire manufacturers would prefer to come to a settlement in most instances rather than face a lengthy or embarrassing trial in court. Compensatory damages sought can also include the costs of any accident-related injuries treated at the hospital.There is also another type of damages you can seek: punitive damages. Punitive damages are a way to "punish" an entity which has caused harm. Punitive damages go far above and beyond compensating for actual damages, and are often calculated based on suffering caused by the accident, loss of use, lost income, and any other current or future losses that may be a result of your accident. Your SUV rollover accident attorney can help you to determine if punitive damages are appropriate in the case of your specific circumstances, and if appropriate, what a fair amount would be to request.In cases where punitive damages are sought, manufacturers will sometimes seek to settle out of court; again, it is often in their best interest to settle quickly rather than endure a lengthy trial. In some cases, however, manufacturers prefer to go to court in the hopes that they encounter a judge or jury that does not agree with the concept of punitive damages. Punitive damages can be a very thin wire upon which to walk - on one hand, it is often a necessary check on the power of car and tire manufacturers, so that the point is made that they must take responsibility for losses caused by their products. On the other hand, the punitive damages that are sought are often beyond believable levels and are so large that some judges and juries cannot fathom awarding such a large amount. Cases are sometimes thrown from court for being frivolous when the remedy being sought is not in line with the loss suffered.If death has been caused by your accident, your SUV rollover accident attorney will likely urge you to seek a much higher level of punitive damages than if it is a simple injury accident. Often, levels of punitive damages in this case are determined by the number of years lost income until the person who was killed would have retired, as well as amounts for loss to the person's spouse and children, and also loss of enjoyment or companionship. These calculations can often reach into the millions. It is always important to keep in mind that judges and juries will often agree with what they see as fair compensation; going to court is not a time to be greedy, but to be made whole again through some fashion of compensation after a loss.
Handling an SUV Rollover Lawsuit by nick johnson
Screech! You've had an accident and have either been injured as a result, or someone involved in the accident has been killed. Your accident may have been caused by any number of reasons, and as those reasons are explored, it may be in your best interest to investigate the option of filing an SUV rollover lawsuit. Before you make the first appointment with an attorney, there are a few important things you must consider to ensure that everything possible can be done in order to make you whole again after your accident.
First, the circumstances of the accident need to be fully explored. Accidents often have more than one contributing factor, and they are seldom as simple as they may appear to be. Therefore, you must carefully evaluate all aspects of the accident and ensure that you have the appropriate documentation to back up anything that may have contributed. Major contributing factors you will need to evaluate include the condition of the SUV and any propensity towards rolling over, the condition of the tires and any propensity towards blowing out, the weather conditions during the time of the accident and the subsequent road conditions, the factor of speed in the accident, and if any other vehicles were involved in the accident.
If your vehicle is found to have been unstable, whether as a result of being top-heavy or constructed poorly, your automobile manufacturer will be the target of your lawsuit. Testing can be done on the vehicle following the accident to determine how likely it is that the construction of the vehicle caused the accident to occur. Acting in collusion with the construction of your vehicle is the quality of your tires. In recent years, Firestone tires have come under criticism because certain models were more likely than other models and brands to experience random blowouts of such a proportion as to cause your vehicle to roll. Most of the models that came under fire were those commonly used on sport utility vehicles. As a result, the number of SUV rollover lawsuits increased substantially in the first few years of this century.
Weather and speed can also be a contributing factor in the accident you have experienced. They are often not the only factors at play, however. In most cases, qualified experts can determine what percentage of an accident is due to weather and speed, so that the other percentages can also be assigned and damages recovered. For instance, let's say experts determine that speed on wet roads contributed to the accident, but that the vehicle was also prone to rolling over due to equipment design.
In this example, those experts may decide that weather and speed contributed 40% to the cause of the accident but car design contributed 60%, you can still press a suit against the manufacturer to recover 60% of the damages caused. Therefore if the cost to repair the vehicle is $10,000 and the cost of your hospital bill totals $1,500, you can seek damages totaling $6,900 from the vehicle manufacturer. It is highly likely that the manufacturer will see out their own experts to assign percentages and assess damage values. Cases are often settle for the amount that divides the difference between the plaintiff and defendant's assessments.
You'll also need to account for the role any other vehicles played in your accident. Did another vehicle swerve in your direction, causing your accident? Were you rear-ended or hit head-on? Did another vehicle lose control, causing you to do the same? SUV rollover lawsuits can often have more than one defendant named; again, experts can be used to assign percentages of responsibility to determine which defendants are responsible for what damages.After assigning blame, you'll need to determine whether or not to seek punitive damages in addition to compensatory damages.
Punitive damages are used as a means to "punish" defendants for their actions. When you consult with an attorney prior to filing your SUV rollover lawsuit, they can advise you on whether or not punitive damages are appropriate in the case of your accident, and if they are appropriate, to what extent they are sought.
Finally, whether the accident caused injury or death must be carefully considered. Obviously, the affect of a death is far greater than an injury and will likely cause you to seek far greater damages. When seeking damages for your family because of a death, you must consider loss of wages, loss of enjoyment, loss of companionship as well as other factors and losses you will suffer because of the death.
Once you have compiled all of the information and documentation you need and consulted with a qualified attorney, you will be able to pursue an SUV rollover lawsuit that can bring closure and compensation to yourself and your family.
Drowse and Drive: How to Prevent Accident by: Atty. Gabriel Cosh
Those who have driven before knows the constitution necessary to stays awake while at the wheel. Falling asleep at the wheel accounts for some of the most devastating road accidents. Since the person as fault is asleep during these accidents, the impact of the collision is usually with great force. The injuries also are severe especially against the person who is asleep at the wheel since he is not ever remotely aware of the impending accident and has no conscious effort to protect or brace himself or herself for impact.
Reports showed that people who were involved in these kinds of accidents are those who usually tend to party hard all night and try to beat daybreak in order to go to work. However, even those who have self control and are responsible persons sometimes succumb to drowsing while driving. Other than people who are deprived of sleep due to long hours of work, even well rested individuals tend to get sleepy during long drives.
It is always better to park your car or get some rest at a gas station or diner to shake off the snooze. However, if it’s a matter of life and death or you are just the type of person who needs to be somewhere fast, these tips could probably save your life, especially others, whom you will be endangering by pushing yourself and driving sleepy.
1. As I advised earlier, try to take a break. Go to get gas and buy a soda or coffee. You can also go for a bathroom break or grab a bite at a diner.
2. If you have a companion, engage in active conversion. It helps too if you take turns driving.
3. If you have something to eat in your car, try to consume candy or anything with sugar or caffeine. It also helps to chew food that makes noise like chips to keep your senses working.
4. Listen to not so soothing music. Also it works if you listen to a conversation on the radio.
5. Ultimately, if you have day worth of driving to do, the best thing to do is to take a nap. You can take a nap at a nearby motel. Do not try to take a nap inside your car though, you might get monoxide poisoning or even get victimized by lawless elements in the area.
Although the above tips could probably save you from certain disasters, it is best not to toy with your life as well as others. Be responsible, don’t drowse and drive.
Car Accessories - Shop Wisely, Shop Conveniently by Alexus Devon
Going by the present trends, every other reasonably important things in your life call for some bit of beautification or the other, be it your home, your office, shop or even your car, there is always a scope to practice your creative aesthetic skills. While homes, offices and shops offer greater space to deliver extra beauty, dressing up your vehicles can be a bit tricky. This is the reason why you need to be very calculative when you are out buying car accessories for your vehicle.
Personally, I would prefer dividing all the car accessories available in the market to two categories - One that enhances the look of your car and the other that offers utility that is simply unpardonable. Depending on the make and the design of your vehicle, you had best ascertain the value of the accessories that you come across.
The car accessories market in the UK is one that spells success all the way with a huge list of items available for all kinds of vehicles. However, your step of purchasing these accessories requires careful planning to sort them out according to their priority. Accessories like car mats, roof racks and boxes, security alarms and rear spoilers can easily be categorised under the more important lot, while items like alloy wheels, car graphics, interior styling, GPS navigation systems and sports grilles are additional enhancers. As the popularity of such accessories continues showing a positively escalating graph, buyers find themselves at the disposal of newer and better options.
Shopping for your car accessories can be pretty enjoyable and relaxing too, as the providers and makers of these items have presented their collection on the Web world to target a greater audience. Besides the pleasantries and the access to a wider collection at a single platform, buyers can even benefit from great incentives like discounts and other perks.
Personally, I would prefer dividing all the car accessories available in the market to two categories - One that enhances the look of your car and the other that offers utility that is simply unpardonable. Depending on the make and the design of your vehicle, you had best ascertain the value of the accessories that you come across.
The car accessories market in the UK is one that spells success all the way with a huge list of items available for all kinds of vehicles. However, your step of purchasing these accessories requires careful planning to sort them out according to their priority. Accessories like car mats, roof racks and boxes, security alarms and rear spoilers can easily be categorised under the more important lot, while items like alloy wheels, car graphics, interior styling, GPS navigation systems and sports grilles are additional enhancers. As the popularity of such accessories continues showing a positively escalating graph, buyers find themselves at the disposal of newer and better options.
Shopping for your car accessories can be pretty enjoyable and relaxing too, as the providers and makers of these items have presented their collection on the Web world to target a greater audience. Besides the pleasantries and the access to a wider collection at a single platform, buyers can even benefit from great incentives like discounts and other perks.
Killing your Driver Examiner (And 5 Other Mistakes to Avoid on Your Road Test) by: Jeff Kelly
If you're one of the millions of people who will take their driving test in the United States this year, chances are it's a very big deal to you. For teens, passing the driving test marks a right of passage and is one of the biggest accomplishments in a young person's life. For others, passing the road test can mean the freedom to take better care of their family or to pursue a more lucrative job. Unfortunately, about half of those taking their test for the first time will fail. And it happens for a variety of reasons. As a former DMV examiner, I have seen just about everything that can happen on a road test. I've been in a car that has pulled in front of an oncoming semi, I've been rear-ended after stopping for no apparent reason and I've had someone hit the gas instead of the brake and plough right into the DMV building (much to the delight of my fellow examiners). I've even seen other examiners end up in the hospital. If you have a flair for the dramatic and a car that you're looking to get rid of, there are plenty of heart-stopping ways to fail your drivers test. Here are five mistakes that may seem harmless but can lead to dangerous situations.
1. Stopping in a yield. Looking for an excellent way to get hit from behind and fail your drivers exam? Look no further. Stopping unnecessarily in a yield is a great way to write off that old clunker that mom lent you for the road test. Even if you don't get hit from behind, simply forcing the person behind you to slow or stop unnecessarily will probably get you a failure. The correct procedure? As you enter a yield to make right hand turn, look at the traffic in front of you. If it is slowing or coming to a stop, do the same. If it is not stopping or slowing down, take a look to your left to ensure that it is safe for you to go. If there is no traffic coming and it is clear in front of you, keep it moving!! On the other hand, if it isn't safe to proceed, then slow down or stop. The point is that you should keep moving if it is safe to do so. Otherwise, you may find your trunk in your back seat.
2. Signalling too soon. Where there are two upcoming streets on the right side of your vehicle and the driver examiner tells you to make a right hand turn at the second one, ensure that you do not start signalling until you have passed or are very close to passing the first street. The reason for this? If you signal too soon, traffic waiting at the first street may see you approaching with your signal on, assume that you are turning right away and pull out in front of you. Anyone for a juicy t-bone? Ouch.
3. Signalling too late. Signalling too late is also a problem. When making a turn, make sure that you signal before you start braking. This warns the car behind you that you will be slowing down and gives them extra time to prepare for it. Even if you don't cause an accident, signalling too late will cost you points on your test.
4. Hesitating. Often, new drivers are either so nervous or so determined to show the examiner how careful they are that they hesitate to go when it is safe to do so. Sometimes they even wait for awhile, realize that they should have gone earlier and then pull out in front of oncoming traffic at the last second (kind of like a squirrel crossing the street). It's one thing to make sure that it is safe before proceeding. It's another thing to sit there so long that your car begins to rust. Be careful but be confident. Hesitating is not only a nuisance to other drivers but can result in a dangerous situation.
5. Backing up improperly. This one happens A LOT, usually right at the start of the road test. If you are parked in a stall at the beginning of your test and need to back up, make sure that you are aware of the vehicles parked on either side of your car. Remember that if you are looking behind you and start turning the steering wheel as soon as you begin to back up, the front end of your car will swing out sideways and hit the parked car next to you. I can't tell you how many times I had to grab the wheel out of someone's hand to prevent this from happening. It's an automatic failure so be careful. Make sure that you have backed up straight far enough so that when you turn the wheel, the front of your car will clear the car parked next to you.
Remember these five driving tips and keep both you and your examiner on the road and out of the hospital. Good luck and good driving!
Demystifying an SUV Safety Report: Are Rollovers a Threat? by nick johnson
When it comes to SUV rollovers, most people commonly approach them in one of two ways, either they are worried about the danger of rollover every time they get into an SUV or they brush it off as a myth, believing that SUV rollovers are only as common as any other vehicle rolling over. The truth, however, is somewhere in between these two trains of thought. Riding in an SUV isnt a death sentence as long as the driver is cautious and follows all traffic rules, but at the same time, Sport Utility Vehicles do tend to rollover more readily than other vehicles. SUV rollovers are a safety issue you must understand; if you aren't aware, you can't protect yourself and your passengers, whether they be co-workers riding with you on a commute to work or your children in the backseat heading to soccer practice. The most common and easy way to learn about your particular SUV and the rate of rollover is to read the safety report. However, these reports can be a bit intimidating, presenting you with lots of figures and scientific data, so learning exactly how to read the report is crucial. The first rollover reports appeared by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in early 2001. Of course, these reports were clouded in controversy, as not every SUV performed well. Companies such as General Motors went on the record as saying that the reports are misleading to consumers, which may have a shade of truth to it, since most people don't accurately know how to read the entire report. The most important part of the SUV rollover report is the SSF, which stands for Static Stability Factor. If you majored in physics in college, you probably are nodding your head, but for the rest of us, let me put it into simpler terms: SSF is reports how top-heavy your SUV is. Imagine putting a heavy basket of fruit on top of your head, as you'd try to walk, you'd feel unstable, like you were going to topple over, right? Top heavy means an SUV will be more likely to topple over as well, and so SUV rollovers will be more common.SSF is a number computed by measuring the center of gravity on the SUV, which is largely due to the track width. Track width is just a fancy way of saying the distance between the tires, and the back tires are always used to keep everyone's report consistent. Go back to imagining yourself with a basket on your head. Imagine the result if you if you stand with your feet together versus if you stand with your feet a shoulder width's apart. You'll definitely feel more stability with your feet apart, right? The same is true in SUV rollover reports: the farther the tires (feet) are from one another, the more stable the SUV will be and the less likely for SUV rollovers to happen.In theory, this is a perfect way to determine how likely your SUV is to rollover. That said, there are things that your SUV rollover report isn't telling you. For instance, the vast majority of SUV rollovers occur when the driver accidentally (or purposely) drives off of the road and a wheel of the SUV hits a ditch, bump, curb, or other change. The speed you are traveling also makes a difference, and a reaction to running off the road can play into the rollover as well. Would you slam on your brakes or pump the pedal? Would you jerk the wheel to gain control or try to keep steady, would you shift gears? Each of these factors in your own personal situation will help to determine if you will be involved in a rollover or not. Also, one must take into consideration other safety features of an SUV before buying. When compared to all other vehicles, SUVs are, hands down, the safest in a collision due to their size and build. Use your common sense if you are worried about SUV rollovers. Death occurs largely do to the roof crushing, so of course a less stable roof, found if the roof is removable or has a sunroof, will be more dangerous if you actually get into a rollover situation. That doesn't mean that a rollover report is senseless. The rollover report's SSF should weigh in your mind at least a bit, and can help you to decide between two vehicles if you are truly on the fence. Drive safely and SUV rollovers should never be an issue in the first place. All the safety reports in the world can't make up for a bad driver.
How To Chose your Aftermarket Automotive Accessories by Terry Bolton
No matter what type of product you try to buy, there will always be someone trying to sell a counterfeit, especially in the area of aftermarket automotive accessories. The world is full of people trying to make a fast buck off consumers who might not know any better. If you know what to look for, you can save yourself from being swindled.
This is not a new problem. Since the 1980's, criminals have been selling fraudulent high performance car accessories at a cheaper price. The dangers go beyond loss of revenue to the automotive industry. The lower price may save a few bucks in your pocketbook in an automotive world where gas prices are ballooning out of control. It's understandable but dwell on this: most of these discount car accessories and parts sacrifice quality and safety with more inexpensive and less strong materials.
A few years ago, the CBS Evening News featured Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA) on a counterfeit aftermarket automotive accessories report. One segment featured a set of rip-off brake pads that were filled with compressed grass or wood instead of the standard friction material. Imagine purchasing a popular brand of brake pad thinking you're getting a great deal, having them installed, then, in an emergency situation, you find your brakes fail because they're filled with grass! The dangers are apparent. Be very wary of performance car accessories at low prices.
How can the average consumer protect against aftermarket automotive accessory fraud? Here are some tips:
If the price is too good to be true, it probably is. Seeing a popular brand of an auto body kit you've been eyeing for half price may not be for real. Many counterfeiters have started to counter this tact by lowering the price just enough to avoid suspicion. Do your research. Don't settle with finding the item in one place. Shop around to see what the average price is for the accessory and make an educated decision based on what you've observed..
Take a look at the package. At first glance, the package may look legitimate but closer inspection may reveal some flaws that could be signs of the part being fraudulent.
Visit trusted stores or well-recommended shops. Stick to places you or someone you know trusts. This doesn't insinuate that every small shop is deliberately being crooked by selling you discount car accessories; sometimes they are fooled just as much as you can be. Going to distributors you've had good service with reduces risk as distributors often buy from the same manufacturer that has never steered them wrong.
Contact the manufacturer directly. If you're still unsure, the manufacturer can often verify if the performance car accessory is real. Most major companies have anti-fraudulent protocols to prove the authenticity of an accessory. Sometimes this is as simple as a code engraved on the part.
Your vehicle, your money, and your life are important. It would be foolish to settle on purchasing discount car accessories just to save a few bucks. Most manufacturers have phone lines or websites devoted to reporting fraudulent aftermarket automotive accessories and parts. Protect yourself, and report these crimes if you feel you've been a victim.
This is not a new problem. Since the 1980's, criminals have been selling fraudulent high performance car accessories at a cheaper price. The dangers go beyond loss of revenue to the automotive industry. The lower price may save a few bucks in your pocketbook in an automotive world where gas prices are ballooning out of control. It's understandable but dwell on this: most of these discount car accessories and parts sacrifice quality and safety with more inexpensive and less strong materials.
A few years ago, the CBS Evening News featured Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA) on a counterfeit aftermarket automotive accessories report. One segment featured a set of rip-off brake pads that were filled with compressed grass or wood instead of the standard friction material. Imagine purchasing a popular brand of brake pad thinking you're getting a great deal, having them installed, then, in an emergency situation, you find your brakes fail because they're filled with grass! The dangers are apparent. Be very wary of performance car accessories at low prices.
How can the average consumer protect against aftermarket automotive accessory fraud? Here are some tips:
If the price is too good to be true, it probably is. Seeing a popular brand of an auto body kit you've been eyeing for half price may not be for real. Many counterfeiters have started to counter this tact by lowering the price just enough to avoid suspicion. Do your research. Don't settle with finding the item in one place. Shop around to see what the average price is for the accessory and make an educated decision based on what you've observed..
Take a look at the package. At first glance, the package may look legitimate but closer inspection may reveal some flaws that could be signs of the part being fraudulent.
Visit trusted stores or well-recommended shops. Stick to places you or someone you know trusts. This doesn't insinuate that every small shop is deliberately being crooked by selling you discount car accessories; sometimes they are fooled just as much as you can be. Going to distributors you've had good service with reduces risk as distributors often buy from the same manufacturer that has never steered them wrong.
Contact the manufacturer directly. If you're still unsure, the manufacturer can often verify if the performance car accessory is real. Most major companies have anti-fraudulent protocols to prove the authenticity of an accessory. Sometimes this is as simple as a code engraved on the part.
Your vehicle, your money, and your life are important. It would be foolish to settle on purchasing discount car accessories just to save a few bucks. Most manufacturers have phone lines or websites devoted to reporting fraudulent aftermarket automotive accessories and parts. Protect yourself, and report these crimes if you feel you've been a victim.
Checklist For Buying the Perfect Used Travel Trailer by Emily Sandburg
Buying a used travel trailer can be a scary prospect indeed. But, armed with a little information and the attitude that the right trailer is out there for you, you can get through the buying process and come out on the other end with a fantastic used travel trailer!First, you must know how much trailer you need to suit your situation and how much you can handle in terms of price and towing capability. I can't help you much with price--you'll have to decide beforehand what you range is, but you can research what trailers are available for what prices on the internet. As far as towing capability is concerned, you need to be concerned with two numbers--GTW (gross trailer weight),which is the maximum weight your vehicle is designed to pull, and TW (tongue weight); that's the downward force (measured in pounds) your hitch ball can support. Both of these figures can be found in your vehicle's owner's manual and should be topmost in your mind when considering which trailer you can tow.Now to the fun part; once you have decided some of your basic needs, you can start shopping! You may have used RV dealerships in your area. That's great news since you will have a wider selection and a salesperson to offer suggestions and recommendations. Of course if you don't, you can find plenty of used trailers for sale through your local classifieds and online. Don't be shy--see a lot of trailers; it's the only way to find the one that's just right for you!Once you do find a trailer to consider, there are a lot of things to keep in mind; I suggest making a checklist to remind yourself what you are looking for and to take notes about the features and condition of each model you see.Starting with the exterior, look for dents and dings, rusted spots, rusty or loose screws. Check if the exterior compartments are clean and dry. Inspect the roof; are the rubber seals cracking or discolored from water/sun damage? Are the vent covers secure? Is there a roof rack? Check any awnings and pullouts to see if they operate smoothly and look to be in good repair. Is the awning discolored or mildewed? Is it large enough?Moving inside, check the doors; do they close securely? Check the hinges and handles and locks. Is there a pull out step? Does it work well and store securely? Are the windows in good condition? Do they operate smoothly and lock securely? Are all the screens in place? Are they in good repair?Consider the interior walls and flooring. Are there signs of water damage, including discoloration and soft spots? Do you like the colors? Are the walls or flooring marked with stains?What is the condition of the furniture? Are all the appliances in working order? Turn everything on and check it's performance. The refrigerator and freezer will take a few hours to fully cool, but if this trailer is on your "short list," be sure to check them. Turn on all faucets to check for leaks; check the water heater and all holding tanks for leaks by filling them with water. Check if the bathroom is big enough. Lay down on the bed; do you feel comfortable in the sleeping space? Are the closets big enough? Can you see your family vacationing happily in this space?If so, then you know all your hard work has paid off, and you have found the perfect travel trailer for your family! If not, you know your checklist has weeded out another poor choice, and you are that much closer to finding your trailer. So, get out there and get to work; your next family vacation could be in your very own perfectly used travel trailer.
Car Insurance: Protect Your Assets by: Millard Hiner
We all need to make the important decision about which car insurance we'll choose for our car. These days, not only do we need to find appropriate insurance for the vehicle we drive, but it is also required by law in almost every country. As a result, you need to make sure you keep the expiry date of your car insurance in mind.
Now, when it comes to car insurance, the other important matter is selecting an appropriate and reliable company that provides car insurance. In some countries, there are only state-owned automobile insurance companies that are allowed to offer car insurance to customers whereas in several other countries in the world, there are lots of insurance companies in the private sector too dealing in automobile insurance.
With this in mind, it is essential you choose a reliable company that offers competitive premiums for its auto policy. You'll also want to make sure the company is fair and effective if you should need to make a claim for accidental repairs, or any other insurance claims that may arise. It is at times such as these that you'll need to depend on your insurance company, which is why choosing wisely is so important.
Cheap auto insurance is something of a gamble. On one hand, the expense of car insurance is considerable and a factor that cannot be ignored. A company that can provide low rates and high levels of customer service may be an excellent selection. However, if the company does not do a good job of following up on policyholders' claims, cheap auto insurance may do nothing more than illustrate the adage that you get what you pay for.
Another key feature of an automobile insurance policy is the online insurance availability or lack of it. This feature is the most important for professionals, especially if their jobs include lots of travelling assignments. In such cases, access to online insurance becomes very convenient so that the customers can get extensions of their policies and make premium payments online, saving much time.
Life insurance is meant to protect our assets and, perhaps more importantly, our piece of mind in case of disaster. The knowledge that there is a large financial company looking out for you in times of trouble provides a sense of security at a time that is naturally highly emotionally fraught. If you can choose the right life insurance policy, then you can relax knowing that emergencies will be taken care of.
Here Are The Factors You Need To Consider When Choosing Wheels For Your SUV by gregg hall
is important on any vehicle but perhaps even more so on an SUV because they can drastically affect the comfort of the ride as well as handling and safety. Aside from the safety and performance issues most SUV owners choose custom wheels that will give their vehicle a personalized look that suits them. Some people just choose to stay conservative and just choose a plain chrome or aluminum wheel with normal tires. Other SUV owners may opt for the oversize look that is so in now with 26 inch rims or bigger and low profile tires.
Probably the first thing that anyone should do before setting out to invest in new custom wheels is decide on a set budget to spend. Custom wheels can be very pricey and you can find yourself spending several thousand dollars if you aren't careful. If you don't set a budget you will have a tough time not divesting yourself of a huge sum of money just because you fall in love with a certain set of wheels. When you set a budget and stick to it you will only allow yourself to look at products that are in your budget and nothing else.
As with other vehicles, the custom wheels for SUVs come in a wide variety of metals such as stainless steel, chrome, and aluminum and custom color matched wheels as well. There is no right or wrong choice here, it is all a matter of what you like and what kind of look you want for your vehicle. Just bear in mind that the wheels will need cleaning to keep them looking good so choose one that is easy to maintain if you tend to be the type that doesn't like to spend a lot of time on maintenance.
In addition to the different choices in metal you also have an enormous variety of styles to choose from. When I was growing up there were only a handful of choices, now there are probably hundreds. Again there are no right or wrong choices to make here, it is all a matter of what kind of look you are after. You can choose a really thick spoked wheel that comes across as very mean looking or something that conveys more of a luxurious look. I think that the type of wheel one chooses really says a lot about them as a person and shows a lot of their personality.
You can find just about any kind of custom wheel you want for your SUV on the internet. What I love about some of the websites is that they have a virtual feature that will allow you to view what the actual wheels would look like on your vehicle. These companies usually have large inventories in stock but they will also find anything for you and custom order it if necessary.
Need to Carry Extra Luggage! Add Roof Boxes by: Alexus Devon
The roof of a car generally remains vacant and does nothing extra except being a part of the body. Yet the part it plays is in no way negligible. In winters, it protects the boarders from snow and cold. In summers, it prevents rain from pouring inside the car. But this is not all that the roof of a car can do for you. You can attach roof boxes on it to get a better service from the hitherto unused part of your car.
On a normal day, when you use your car for day-to-day commuting like going to and coming from the office or shop, you do not feel the necessity of roof boxes that much. But on weekends or on holidays, when you set out for a journey that is different from your daily drive, the need for roof tops is badly felt. On that occasion, you need to carry things that you would not require on an average day.
Suppose you are on a journey with your family and you need to carry a lot of extra luggage that the boot of the car cannot accommodate. In such a situation, the roof boxes will be of great value. You can put all the extra accessories in it. Similarly, if you are out on fishing, tracking, biking etc. then also you have to take equipment that cannot be kept inside the boot of the car.
Some of the apparatus one needs to carry with him while he is on some outdoor activities may be not accommodated within a box. Hence, there occurs the necessity of some other kit that can take care of the rather bigger accessory. And it is the roof racks that serve the purpose very well. Bikes, fishing rods and wheel chairs etc. cannot be accommodated in a box but can be easily fixed with a rack.
Upgrading Those Rims by jim brown
Does your ride look old or dull? Do your friends roll on tricked out cars? A major look enhancer for your car can be modifying the rims. Car rims are like hair on people. Changing that hairstyle can usually be a subtle change but can enhance your over all look. By principle changing your car rims may make your ride look sporty but that's all there is to it the look. But this can cause losses on power and on your pockets.
Choosing the Right Diameter Size
Initially everyone wants their ride to stand out from the rest, shoving an almost impossible to steer rims under that fender. Some would go as big as 20 inch rims for that Asian compact car, but would that be all worth all the hassle, all the trouble it can cause for not being able to steer well?
Aftermarket rims come in all sizes starting from 13 inches to a whooping 26 inches all suited for compacts, muscle, Asian Utility, and Sports Utility Vehicles. Now for all serious racers or budding racers to be, it is a must to know that to the bigger the rim diameter the heavier it becomes which translates to a loss in precious horsepower. But for those who opt for form over function the bigger the rims the lower the car looks. When the rims are bigger in diameter the tire size becomes thinner and the wheel becomes heavier. The thinner the rubber the more expensive it can get.
Is Having a Custom Rim Worth All That?Having a custom ride starts with the rims and this could turn your ride into a chick magnet. But would this be all worth it? Installing custom rims could alter your ride's handling and gauge readings.
The car's speedometer can be affected if you change the diameter of the rims and the tires especially if it is bigger or smaller than what it had on from the factory. Having larger wheels can trick the car's gauges to think that the car is going slower since there is lesser wheel revolution per kilometer or mile covered. With this set-up the driver might get speeding tickets and a wrong reading on the odometer.
Bigger rims can make the driver cause an under steer in order that the tires and the fenders don't come in contact with each other. This as well prevents damaging the paint. Another thing to be extra careful about if you are driving a vehicle with wheels having large diameter rims are potholes, street gutters and street furniture. A wheel that has thin rubber tires means that the rims are closer to the ground and may come in contact with street furniture and potholes that could damage your rims permanently.
Diesel vs. Unleaded: The Truth About Fuel Economy by: Gina Sarento
Ahh, you remember it, don't you? Sitting in the back of your family's station wagon as a kid, your father pulls up to the gas pump and a station attendant—an occupation about as extinct as the dinosaurs—came running out with a rag in his hand, leaned into the driver's window and said… "Diesel or unleaded?"
Those days are long gone. And I'm not just referring to the attendant. Nowadays, at least in the U.S., you can expect to find three things at a gas pump: self-serve, pay first, and unleaded gasoline only.
Misconceptions about diesel fuel being "dirtier" than unleaded gas several years ago ultimately led to diesel's obsolescence in the more environmentally progressive United States. Car companies began to manufacture cars that, for the most part, ran on traditional gasoline.
In response, however, steps were taken to improve the cleanliness of diesel and now major car companies have begun to sell diesel-powered vehicles to consumers once again.
In the past, especially in the United States, diesel fuel was considerably dirtier than unleaded gasoline. Vehicles in the United States also tended to be built for traditional gasoline, with the exception of large trucks, buses, and semis. In recent years, however, steps have been taken to improve the cleanliness of diesel fuel through regulation, and many companies have begun selling popular consumer cars that run on diesel fuel.
One such company is Isuzu Motors, known for its popular 5-passenger Ascender SUV, and two models of high-performing pick up trucks (the i-290 and i-370). Isuzu's diesel engines have won a laundry list of awards in past years including "Truck of the Year" by Motor Trend Magazine, "Executive Diesel Car of the Year 2002" by Diesel Car Magazine (a publication in the U.K.), "Germany's best small and compact car of the Year 2001" by Mot Magazine (published in Germany), as well as having been named multiple times by Ward's Communications of the U.S. as one of the "10 Best Engines." In addition, Isuzu vehicles were voted the top medium-duty truck brand six times in seven years by truck dealers. Impressive, but not fully convinced that diesel's better? Keep reading…
Diesel fuel actually burns more efficiently than gasoline, thus having a better fuel economy—about 30% more efficient on average. Why?
Diesel is denser than its unleaded competitor. Proponents of gasoline are quick to point out that diesel engines produce more greenhouse emissions, which is true, emissions with diesel are about 15% higher than those of traditional unleaded gas due to higher volumetric energy density. However, the increased fuel efficiency more than offsets the higher percentage, so in the long run, diesels produce less emissions— 15% more per gallon used, but a trip in the good ole family car will use 30% less fuel to get to wherever you're going.
Granted, this wasn't the case with Dad's old wagon. Back then, before the anti-diesel crusade, diesel engines were creating more emissions because they simply weren't efficient. Now, with the modern diesel engine achieving a 20- 40% better fuel economy, it's time to give diesel a second look.
But that's not the only exciting news about diesel. Originally, the diesel engine was created as a way to run vehicles using vegetable oils. While farmers originally couldn't compete with big oil companies, with gas prices soaring, there's been a renewed interest in alternative fuel sources—and food-based diesel fuels can be produced quickly, cheaply, and with the abundance of products grown in our very own country. These "hybrid diesels" also known as "biodiesel" are compatible with existing diesel engines and can also be made from waste oils gathered from restaurants or homes—an alternative that serves several ecological benefits at the same time.
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