http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips.aspx 60 en-us http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/ntsb-proposes-ban-of-hands-free-phones-800758274.aspx Distracted driving campaigns launched by the Department of Transportation have been central in raising awareness to certain driving behaviors that may cause auto safety issues and result in serious, sometimes fatal, car accidents. While government initiatives have called attention to the dangers of texting or using a hand-held phone while driving, a new proposal would also seek to ban hands-free cellphone use while operating a vehicle.

National Transportation Safety Board chairman Deborah Hersman spoke before a distracted driving symposium recently, reiterating her concern that distracted driving continues to pose dangers to drivers and passengers, according to AOL Autos*. Hersman called for an immediate ban on hands-free phone use, despite requests from other transportation professionals to commission more research on the issue and how it affects drivers. DOT Secretary Ray LaHood echoed the requests of other officials, and said it may be more prudent to make a decision after more data has been compiled.

However, Hersman noted that nearly 5,500 individuals were killed in 2009 alone from distracted driving, and hands-free cellphone use played a role in those figures, AOL Autos reports.

"It's clear that we don't need another decade of investigations and recommendations," Hersman said.

However, automakers say they are keeping auto safety concerns in mind by developing vehicles with built-in voice command centers that allow drivers to access a variety of portals, ranging from their cellphones to their music. Some industry professionals say having voice command systems available that allow drivers to connect to other systems may curb dangerous behavior by removing drivers' temptations to use cellphones and iPods while operating their vehicles.

Current cellphone legislation

Currently, 36 states, Washington D.C. and Guam all have a ban on texting while driving, according to the Governor's Highway Safety Administration**. Ten states, D.C. and the Virgin Islands have laws against any type of hand-held cellphone use while operating a vehicle. However, no U.S. state or province carries legislation that penalizes both hand-held and hands-free cellphone use.

As distracted driving issues become more prominent across the United States, many states have their own legislation in the works to protect individuals on the roadways.

*according to AOL Autos on March 28, 2012
**according to the Governor's Highway Safety Administration on April 5, 2012 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/ntsb-proposes-ban-of-hands-free-phones-800758274.aspx Sun, 22 Apr 2012 17:10:29 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/conference-of-mayors-calls-for-approval-of-federal-transportation-legislation-800746191.aspx The U.S. Conference of Mayors* has sent a letter to the federal government, asking that Congress pass a bill that would create numerous jobs and enhance public transportation through rehabilitation projects nationwide.

The group urged Congress to pass a piece of Surface Transportation Reauthorization legislation currently awaiting approval from the House of Representatives. The Senate has already approved of the bill.

The mayors said the bill would spur economic growth in the United States. and provide public transit services, such as green energy modes like high-speed rail.

"Next year, cities and their metro areas will generate 90.4 percent of our Gross Domestic Product and 85.6 percent of the nation's jobs," the mayors stated in the letter. "Our local areas are the engines of the U.S. economy, and investment in our future is an investment in the nation's future prosperity."

L.A. mayor notes importance of legislation to jobs, transportation

Following the Senate passage of the legislation, Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa issued a statement, noting how much the reauthorization of the bill could help improve the country's job market and transportation system.

"The bipartisan effort to create jobs and speed expansion of our transportation systems took a major step forward today with Senate passage of a surface transportation bill that includes America Fast Forward," said Villaraigosa.

One issue surrounding the legislation that may be a factor as to why the House has not approved it is the question of how much revenue the transportation projects that would be funded following the bill's passage would create.

Mayors also push for change in gas tax revenue decision

In the letter, the Conference of Mayors added it also supports the repeal of a pending bill in the House of Representatives that would prevent gas tax revenues from being used to fund public transit projects throughout the country.

"As mayors, we believe it is crucial that bicameral, bipartisan surface transportation legislation move forward to help us accelerate the financing of highway and transit infrastructure, create well paying jobs and help get our economy back on track," the mayors concluded.

*according to The U.S. Conference of Mayors on March 6, 2012 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/conference-of-mayors-calls-for-approval-of-federal-transportation-legislation-800746191.aspx Thu, 05 Apr 2012 12:09:51 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/officials-delay-regulations-requiring-back-up-cameras-800741999.aspx A decision from federal regulators means that regulations intended to require automakers to include rearview video cameras will be delayed.

Several months ago, The Associated Press* reported that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration proposed a rule along those lines, which would have required all new vehicles have rear-mounted cameras with display screens, starting with 2014 models.

The rules are intended to help improve driving safety and alert drivers that children or other obstructions might be behind them when they back up. However, officials said more time was needed to study the issue.

"I believe it is important to allot additional time to ensure that the final rule is appropriate and the underlying analysis is robust," Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood wrote in a letter to lawmakers.

While the letter did not mention any of the concerns raised by the auto industry about the proposed requirement, according to the AP, many companies had said mandating rear-facing cameras would increase the cost of buying a new car once the rules took effect. Officials with the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers said that the overall cost of the rule would be roughly $2.7 billion per year, while simply requiring additional mirrors would cost less than half of that sum.

"We had urged the government to explore all the options, including mirrors with a wider field of vision," Gloria Bergquist, vice president of the Alliance, said in an interview with the AP. "There are a variety of tools that could be used."

Advocates ask for action to reduce fatal accidents

Consumers advocates were somewhat disappointed in the decision, saying that delaying the implementation of the auto safety rules puts more children at risk.

"Every vehicle has a blind zone immediately behind the rear bumper," said Ami Gadhia, the Senior Policy Counsel for Consumers Union**, the policy and advocacy arm of Consumer Reports. "It can be five feet or 50 feet, depending on the car's styling. Lost in that space might be a fire hydrant, a pet, or even a child."

Many vehicles already have back-up cameras installed. KidsandCars.org*** says these options come standard on more than 40 percent of new 2012 vehicles, and are a potential add-on for another 23 percent, giving those models enhanced car safety.

Gadhia added that in approximately 70 percent of cases in which children are killed, the driver was one of their parents or relatives, making the trauma even more severe.

Data from the NHTSA shows that almost 300 people are killed and thousands more injured annually in back-over incidents. In addition, information from KidsandCars.org finds that 80 percent of fatal back-over accidents involve children 3 years old or younger.

*according to The Associated Press on February 29, 2012
**according to Consumers Union on February 29, 2012
***according to KidsandCars.org on March 20, 2012 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/officials-delay-regulations-requiring-back-up-cameras-800741999.aspx Fri, 30 Mar 2012 13:09:53 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/new-technology-may-help-sleepy-drivers-stay-awake-800725450.aspx Distracted driving and drunk driving are two of the most dangerous and common reasons many auto accidents in the United States occur. However, another common, yet overlooked, reason that contributes to a high percentage of auto accidents in the country centers around drivers who fall asleep at the wheel. Data from the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration shows nearly 100,000 accidents that occur each year are the result of drivers who fall asleep.

Several pieces of legislation hope to cut down on distracted and drunk driving, but laws and regulations may do little to lower the incidence of accidents caused by drowsy drivers. For this reason, many automakers have stepped in and developed new auto technology that may help drivers stay awake and circumvent accidents.

Crash avoidance technology is gaining more attention as an effective tool to curb the incidence of these types of accidents. This type of technology includes a variety of features, including adaptive headlights to improve night vision as well as a number of warning systems, Edmunds* reports. This includes emergency brake assistance, forward collision warnings and lane departure warnings. The latter two systems rely on cameras to monitor a vehicle's location between lanes and its proximity to other vehicles. Systems that are more sophisticated also come with automatic brakes to help stop a moving vehicle from getting too close to another object. Other systems sound off chimes and warning systems to drivers who are dangerously approaching lines or other vehicles.

Future of auto safety technology

Although some automakers have implemented this technology in models dating back to 2007, reviews on the effectiveness of these systems are far and few between as the technology is still in its earliest stages, Edmunds reports. In addition, analysts and automakers alike agree that the technology, which can be helpful in notifying drivers of dangerous situations, cannot replace an alert driver who is all caught up on sleep.

However, some industry professionals did provide some feedback to drivers on what to look for when buying a car with this type of technology. Volvo's Adam Kopstein encourages drivers to seek out systems that do not have to be manually activated, as drivers may be forgetful, he told Edmunds. In addition, Kopstein recommends that drivers check the auditory level of the warning chime, as those that are too loud may scare drivers who traveling at high speeds and inadvertently result in an accident.

Many automakers have adopted the technology, including Ford, Lexus, Volvo and Mercedes. Industry experts say that other automakers that have been slow to adopt these types of systems are likely to do so in the future as more consumers focus on auto safety measures.

*according to Edmunds on January 12, 2012 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/new-technology-may-help-sleepy-drivers-stay-awake-800725450.aspx Thu, 08 Mar 2012 08:04:38 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/nhtsa-offers-distraction-recommendations-for-automakers-800724618.aspx Due to a high prevalence of electronic devices among consumers and in an effort to enhance motorists' driving safety, many automakers have installed in-vehicle electronic systems that are compatible with various technologies. As a result, the Transportation Department has issued some recommended guidelines manufacturers may want to follow so that car safety can be enhanced further.

Released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which is governed by the Department of Transportation*, the guidelines establish certain safety criteria that apply to various mobile technologies, such as entertainment systems and navigation devices.

Ray LaHood, secretary of the DOT, said the guidelines are there to help manufacturers incorporate modern-day technologies without encouraging distracted driving.

"Distracted driving is a dangerous and deadly habit on America’s roadways - that's why I’ve made it a priority to encourage people to stay focused behind the wheel," said LaHood. "These guidelines are a major step forward in identifying real solutions to tackle the issue of distracted driving for drivers of all ages."

NHTSA says devices should be as functional as possible

While the guidelines are recommendations and do not necessarily need to be followed by automakers, NHTSA says the suggestions could help diminish accidents caused by distracted driving. Some of the recommended actions include making in-device systems easy to use and capable of being operated with one hand, limiting the number of manual buttons required to use the devices and designing them in a way that doesn't require looking at them so they can focus on the road.

David Strickland, administrator of the NHTSA, said he well understands automakers' delicate balancing act of making mobile technology use for drivers easier without contributing to distraction. Thus, the safety agency's suggestions could help make the task easier.

"We recognize that vehicle manufacturers want to build vehicles that include the tools and conveniences expected by today's American drivers," said Strickland. "The guidelines we're proposing would offer real-world guidance to automakers to help them develop electronic devices that provide features consumers want—without disrupting a driver’s attention or sacrificing safety."

NHTSA's recommendations also include equipping the in-device systems with locking mechanisms that would prevent motorists from engaging in certain behaviors while the vehicle is in motion, such as text messaging, internet browsing, phone dialing or social media interaction.

The safety agency notes that if the recommendations prove to be effective, additional guidelines may be in the offing.

*according to the Department of Transportation on February 16, 2012 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/nhtsa-offers-distraction-recommendations-for-automakers-800724618.aspx Wed, 07 Mar 2012 12:46:10 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/in-industry-first-general-motors-installs-front-center-air-bags-800719079.aspx One of the country's leading automakers is adding an extra layer of security to several of its models in an effort to enhance driving safety. According to the New York Times*, General Motors recently revealed at the Chicago auto show that it was equipping its GMC Acadia, Chevrolet Traverse and Buick Enclave models with front-center air bags, which the company says is an industry first.

The paper reports that the models will have an airbag that deploys from the center console, thereby enhancing the protection of front-seat occupants, especially if they are involved in a side-impact crash.

Scott Thomas, a senior safety engineer for GM, told the Times that side-impact crashes can leave people seriously injured if preventive actions are not made, which is what inspired the company to take the measures they did.

"In a side impact it's very easy for the occupant to slip out of the shoulder belt and then start leaning or tipping across the vehicle head-first," said Thomas. He added that in these instances, occupants' heads or torsos could easily strike the center console, as it typically jets out slightly farther than the rest of the dashboard panel.

He also noted that the new air bags would not have been possible were it not for years of auto safety research being conducted by analysts from both GM and automotive supplier Takata.

Air bag technology has focused on driver's side

According to Adrian Lund, president of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, automakers have primarily focused on how to protect motorists who are involved in crashes on the near-side of vehicles, or the side in which the driver is situated on. This latest installation gives passenger—or far-side crashes—more protection.

"It is to GM and Takata's credit that they got together and developed this air bag to begin to deal with this situation of far-side impacts, and especially side impacts where you have two occupants in the same seating row," Lund told The New York Times.

It is unknown if more automakers will begin installing similar air bags in their vehicle models, which are not required by federal regulators.

*according to The New York Times on Feb. 9, 2012
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/in-industry-first-general-motors-installs-front-center-air-bags-800719079.aspx Wed, 29 Feb 2012 12:05:34 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/automakers-react-to-mobile-world-by-installing-more-tech-friendly-devices-800719060.aspx Hoping to improve driving safety, automakers are installing more advanced technological systems into vehicles in an effort to accommodate a driving public that is increasingly focused on mobile devices.

According to ABC News*, one of the companies at the forefront of this is Ford. The company's system, Sync, is installed in a select number of Fords and enables users to control their mobile devices—such as MP3 players and smartphones—with their voice so that they can keep their hands on the wheel while making calls or changing songs. General Motors has its own app-friendly device called the CUE, which gives motorists the ability to make calls at the touch of a button.

Detractors say systems may encourage multi-tasking

Rob Reynolds, executive director for the distracted driving awareness organization FocusDriven, said automakers have felt pressure to install these systems because so many people continue to use their mobile devices despite warnings and laws that discourage the practice. Ultimately, however, they may pose more harm than good.

"You shouldn't be interacting with computers when you're driving," Reynolds told the national news outlet. "Distracted driving is an epidemic. This will cause crashes, I guarantee it."

He added that by automakers installing these technologies, it essentially gives consumers the green light to use their mobile devices.

Automakers: Responding to public's desire while maintaining safety

However, Alan Hall, Ford's technology communications manager, told ABC News that the in-dash technology systems are necessary because mobile device use likely will not go away any time soon.

"Drivers that are doing these activities—checking tweets and listening to Pandora—we are providing a safer alternative to them," said Hall. "This is a growing trend inside of the car. Technology is critical for our customers."

Not only have automakers implemented the technologies to make mobile technology use safer, but Carroll Lachnit, features editor at Edmunds.com, said automakers are responding to the general public's desire to see more of these systems become standard in today's crop of automobiles.

"Carmakers are in the business of selling cars … [and] meeting customer demand," Lachnit told ABC News. "Automakers are trying to reach an accommodation and give consumers what they want in a safe way."

She added that while automakers are reacting to customer demand, it should not be construed as an endorsement of mobile technology use in the vehicle, saying motorists' primary job is to focus on the road.

*according to ABC News on February 10, 2012 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/automakers-react-to-mobile-world-by-installing-more-tech-friendly-devices-800719060.aspx Wed, 29 Feb 2012 11:54:57 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/list-of-top-rated-cars-for-families-released-800717611.aspx A new list of the best ranked family cars was recently announced and may help simplify the process of buying a car. U.S. News and World Report* has compiled a list of the 2012 Best Cars for Families Awards, to help parents on the search for a new car.

Vehicles across eighteen different segments earned titles for having above-average ratings in safety, reliability, passenger and cargo volume and other features that are family-friendly. Eight different brands, including U.S. and foreign automakers, made the list with Honda and Ford having four rated models.

Honda's CR-V, Odyssey among winners

The recently redesigned Honda CR-V was named the best affordable compact SUV for families as it has earned strong reliability ratings, offers comfortable passenger room and space for storage/cargo, all while still being stylish. Voice controlled features that were previously exclusive to luxury models have also made their way into Honda's 2012 lineup.

The Buick Enclave earned the title as the best affordable 3-row midsize SUV for families and was recognized as an IIHS Top Safety Pick with features including rear-view cameras, voice controls and OnStar services. The spacious third row makes this car good for large families who need extended room for passengers.

The list also includes the Ford Taurus, which received the award for the best full-size car for families based on its crash test ratings and expansive interior. U.S. News and World Report recommends the model for families who have kids in car seats or teenagers.

After testing well in all weather and being selected as an IIHS Top Safety Pick, the Subaru Impreza was named the best model for families in the compact car division. The model is available as both a hatchback and sedan, both offering roomy seating as well as ample room for cargo.

The Honda Odyssey was named the best minivan for families as it did well in car safety tests and provides movable seating arrangements and family-friendly features including a mini cooler space for drinks and snacks as well as rear seat entertainment. The technologically advanced model is expected to do well with sales as the automaker increases production in 2012.

*according to US News and World Report on February 1, 2012 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/list-of-top-rated-cars-for-families-released-800717611.aspx Tue, 28 Feb 2012 10:34:48 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/cool-cars-that-could-become-collectibles-800717603.aspx For many car buyers, desired features include reliability, safety and fuel efficiency. While a car's likelihood of becoming a collectible in later years isn't typically a concern for many consumers interested in buying a car, The Wall Street Journal* reports that there are some models on the roads today that have the potential to become a collectible in the future. The news source covers an auto insurance company's hot list of cars that they predict will become classics.

Lower-end models

The least expensive vehicle to make the list is the Fiat 500 Abarth, which starts at just $22,000. The WSJ reports that the small car offers drivers 160 horsepower along with a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine and dual exhaust all in the convenience of a compact car.

Next in price is the Buick Regal GS, currently priced around $32,000. The news source reports that the newer model redefines the reputation of Buicks being driven by the elderly with a true three-pedal manual transmission.

Another small model, the Volkswagen Golf R, made the list of potential collectibles. The Golf is said to resemble a car already turned classic, the MK I GTI, and the WSJ says the all-wheel drive model will continue to impress drivers for years to come.

The Dodge Charger SRT8, offered at $46,795 has gained notoriety for its fancy insides including an oversized touch screen and performance pages that inform drivers of driving stats such as horsepower and torque, according to the news source.

High-performance never goes out of style

The Audi TT RS is expected to become a classic as it reportedly has global appeal which is predicted to increase consumer demand in years to come. The vehicle is listed just under $57,000.

Naturally, a handful of muscle/sports cars made the cut for predicted classics. The Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 makes the list for offering 580 horsepower, giving the Mustang a run for its money, says the WSJ.

According to the source, the Ford Mustang Boss 302 Laguna Seca Edition has been referred to as a racecar with a license plate. The model is expected to follow the already collectible Boss 302 and will cost drivers around $48,100.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 is the only SUV that made the list and is credited for holding onto its rugged features while still offering high performance, all for around $61,785.

Last but certainly not least, the Nissan GT-R Black Edition has made the transition from video game dream car to owning the streets. With 530 horsepower coming from a six-cylinder engine, the WSJ says the $95,100 car will surely become a collectible over the years.

*according to The Wall Street Journal on January 27, 2012 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/cool-cars-that-could-become-collectibles-800717603.aspx Tue, 28 Feb 2012 10:31:03 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/electric-cars-may-be-losing-ground-800696724.aspx Federal subsidies and more-stable gasoline prices aren't appealing enough for car buyers to overlook the high sticker prices of plug-in electric cars, USA Today* reports.

The source says that electric cars, including the Nissan Leaf and Chevrolet Volt, have had issues since being on the market. These troubles include not having places to plug in to recharge outside of being home, which limits their usage. USA Today also says that cars with a backup gas engine, such as the Volt, have been under scrutiny for their car safety after crash damage.

The number of consumers who said they are willing to consider buying a Volt has dropped from just 1 percent in July to 0.6 percent in December, believed to be connected to the recent safety reports. Potential Volt buyers showed interest dropping from 4.3 percent in July to 2.1 percent this month, says the source. General Motors has also reportedly fallen short of goal to sell 10,000 Volts before the new year as Autodata reports that only 6,142 have been sold up through November. The source reports that Nissan is content with the number of Leafs sold, reaching 8,720 by the month of November.

According to the source, the combined sales of the Volt and the Leaf are still just 0.1 percent of November's 11.5 million new car and truck sales. Toyota's popular hybrid Prius still tops sales, with nearly 120,000 sold.

Buyers have shown an increased interest in being more eco-friendly, as many homeowners report being green as one of the most desired features of new and existing homes. Potential car buyers most likely love the idea of being green but the source reports that the prices of buying and maintaining an electric car are discouraging. The Leaf's average price is $36,050 while the Volt is tagged at $39,995, but the source reports that many buyers qualify for a federal tax credit of $7,500 and some states offer other tax benefits for being green.

"The big obstacle is price," says Craig Giffi, vice chairman and automotive sector leader for consultants Deloitte.

The source reports that relatively stable gas prices and low cost non-electric cars have led to the decrease in interest and Giffi says that gasoline prices would have to hike up to around $5 a gallon for consumers to turn back to electric cars. According to USA Today, this could mean a delay in President Obama's goal of having 1 million electrified vehicles and advanced hybrids on the road by 2015.

*according to USA Today on Jan. 20, 2011 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/electric-cars-may-be-losing-ground-800696724.aspx Tue, 31 Jan 2012 08:48:45 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/us-officials-worried-about-cars-being-hacked-800696713.aspx As technological advances have changed the way cars and trucks function, one source says U.S. security officials are concerned with protecting automobiles from being hacked.

The San Jose Mercury News* reports that recent studies show that vehicles have become more vulnerable to cyber attacks. The source says one study found that a car's computer controls could be accessed using Bluetooth, Wi-Fi or OnStar connections, allowing impostors access to the cars' functions, personal phone calls and detailed location descriptions. Hackers could be anyone from neighborhood thieves to worse, and many are worried at the damage that could be done.

According to the paper, the number of car hackings has been low but the car safety  threat has caught the attention of automakers and the federal government.

"The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is aware of the potential for hackers and is working with automakers to better understand what steps can and are being taken to address the problem," the agency stated. Additionally, the National Academy of Sciences was asked to investigate the matter.

The source reports that automakers have upped the amount of tech features in cars to keep up with consumer demands for convenience, entertainment and vehicle safety. Some luxury and sports cars have up to 70 computer-controlled features, says the news source, connecting everything from the engine, transmission, brakes, air bags and cruise control.

The Mercury News also reports that a recent study showed that warning systems could be easily accessed, prompting drivers to pull over for a roadside inspection and increasing vulnerability to criminal activities. Another study showed that thieves could wirelessly command cars to report their GPA location and identification numbers, making it easy to determine the location and value of the vehicle. After locating the most desirable car, they could be easily stolen after commanding the vehicles to disable their alarms and start their engines, says the source.

According to the Mercury News, a Michigan based company has been working with car manufacturers to detect hackers. The source says André Weimerskirch, CEO of Escrypt, gives manufacturers credit for working to improve auto safety  and security.

While a lot of information and research has been done to prevent crooks from hacking into car systems, one study participant who is also a computer scientist told the source it would be hard to anticipate all of the ways offenders would try in the future.

*according to the San Jose Mercury News on Dec. 29, 2011 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/us-officials-worried-about-cars-being-hacked-800696713.aspx Tue, 31 Jan 2012 08:39:32 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/crash-test-in-latin-america-show-lack-of-safety-800681536.aspx The Latin New Car Assessment Program was formed as a crash-test program and works with other organizations including the FIA Foundation to promote auto safety , but recent results have many questioning the safety standards for the cars.

The Latin NCAP says that the best-selling cars are 20 years behind the five-star safety standards common in North America and Europe. Unfortunately, one-star cars continue to dominate the market in Latin America.

NCAP is pushing for the government, manufacturers and consumers to place a higher value on car safety  in the region. New car buyers are being advised to only purchase vehicles equipped with an airbag. The New York Times reports that none of the lowest-rated cars meet the safety requirements of the U.S. or Europe.

The group is also advocating that governments in their region make it mandatory for passenger cars to meet standards set by the United Nations and want manufacturers to do the same on a voluntary basis. The UN standards are not present and airbags, considered standard in the U.S., are still an option.

Cars that were selected for testing were all basic and most popular versions, as standard cars lack airbags. Only two countries in Latin America have made having airbags a requirement by 2014.

Another weakness in the top-selling Latin cars is the body shell. Tests show that the structural performance does not hold up to standards required in nearly every other country. Body shell integrity is crucial in protecting passengers from being injured, even if an airbag is present. A stable body shell can also help when passengers must be rescued from within the car.

Cars that are standard are the least expensive and these are the ones failing the crash tests. Some vehicles would meet common standards in the U.S. but are generally more expensive. The Latin NCAP believes that applying the UN standards is the only way to improve the safety of drivers in Latin America.

The UN recently declared a Decade of Action for Road Safety with the goal to cut road-related deaths by 50 percent by the year 2020. The Global Plan for the Decade would push members to apply global testing standards and would increase the number of assessment programs such as Latin NCAP.
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/crash-test-in-latin-america-show-lack-of-safety-800681536.aspx Wed, 11 Jan 2012 09:03:16 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/ntsb-wants-nationwide-ban-on-electronics-while-driving-800680592.aspx The National Transportation Safety Board has officially called for the first ever nationwide ban on driver use of portable electronic devices while operating a motor vehicle to improve auto safety . The decision comes after a board meeting on a 2010 multi-vehicle highway accident in Missouri.

Tragic accidents

On August 5, 2010, on a section of Interstate 44 in Gray Summit, Missouri, a pickup truck ran into the back of a truck-tractor that had slowed due to an active construction zone. The pickup truck was hit from behind by a school bus. The bus was then hit by a second school bus that had been following. In this one accident, two people died and 38 were injured. An investigation revealed that the driver of the pickup truck had sent and received 11 text messages within minutes of the accident. The last text message was received moments before the pickup truck hit the back of the truck-tractor.

This was by no means the first or last horrific or tragic accident caused by distractions and NSTB reports that similar accidents have happened in many modes of transportation. In 2004, a motorcoach driver was distracted by a hands-free cell phone, and failed to move to the center lane and struck a low hanging stone bridge in Virginia. Eleven students were injured, proving that even hands-free communication is a threat.

In 2008, a commuter train collided head-on with a freight train in California after the train engineer ran a red signal while texting. The accident killed 25 people and injured many more.

"According to NHTSA, more than 3,000 people lost their lives last year in distraction-related accidents," said chairman Deborah Hersman. "It is time for all of use to stand up for safety by turning off electronic devices while driving."

National ban

The call-to-action would ask for all 50 states the District of Columbia to ban the nonemergency use of portable electronic devices for all drivers. The safety recommendation also urges use of the NHTSA model of high-visibility enforcement to support the ban and to inform drivers of the new laws.

According to the source, there are 5.3 billion mobile phone subscribers, equaling 77 percent of the world's population, and that number is even higher in the United States. The high usage of mobile communication devices positively correlates with an increased number of auto fatalities. A study shows that a safety-critical event is 163 times more likely if a driver is texting, emailing or surfing the web. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/ntsb-wants-nationwide-ban-on-electronics-while-driving-800680592.aspx Tue, 10 Jan 2012 10:46:58 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/saving-money-through-mechanical-breakdown-insurance-800618353.aspx Driving safe and obeying traffic laws doesn’t always do people justice. Sometimes drivers can still face the burden of paying hefty bills for repairs. However, by adding mechanical breakdown insurance policy, a car owner covers the cost of repairs for plenty of years and miles, Insurance.com reports.

Mechanical breakdown policies can be acquired through an insurance company, car dealership or financial institution. The policy doesn't cover scheduled car maintenance, but it increases the level of protection on an extended warranty, as well as coverage for breakdown issues when the warranty expires. Generally, standard mechanical breakdown plans cover transmission, drive axle housings, trans-axle cases, and engine parts. Supplemental coverage can be added to this plan to cover cooling, steering, electrical, air conditioning, and fuel system repairs, the news source says.

Some insurance agencies will only pay for mechanical repairs at their preferred auto body shops, while other policies pay for any authorized mechanic.

David Scott, vice president of mechanical breakdown division at an insurance agency in Oklahoma City, told the insurance website that the plan is paid for upfront and it lasts for a specific set of time or miles. The price of service depends on the type of vehicle, the level of protection, the contracts' length and the overall cost can vary between a couple hundred to thousands of dollars. Certain insurance agencies will offer a maximum coverage of six years or 100,000 miles for mechanical breakdown insurance plans.

Some insurance agencies will offer consumers the option of raising their deductibles to lower premium costs. And, if a car owner with mechanical breakdown insurance wants to sell their car, they may be reimbursed.

Contrary to the primary auto insurance plan, the rates are not increased if a car owner gets in an accident, as Robert Passmore, senior director of personal lines for Property Casualty Insurers Association of America told the site.

"There's no connection between mechanical breakdown insurance and car insurance, because the breakdown insurance only covers repairs," says Passmore. "Repairs are not part of your driving record unless they are needed because of an accident. If you have an accident, those repairs are covered by your auto insurance."

For consumers wary of the extra cost, they can decide to adjust the coverage on their mechanical breakdown policy. For instance, a car owner may only want coverage on their electrical and   http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/saving-money-through-mechanical-breakdown-insurance-800618353.aspx Thu, 13 Oct 2011 16:31:04 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/americans-with-disabilities-the-focus-of-am-generals-mv-1-800611655.aspx With the recently amended Americans with Disabilities Act, AM General LLC has developed an automobile that accommodates the handicapped driver, Fox News reports.

The handicapped-accessible MV-1 is the first vehicle purely designed for disabled drivers. It comes with a built-in ramp, wheelchair restraint system and sliding door, and unlike other standard automobiles, it doesn't require aftermarket handicapped conversion, according to the news source.

Rick Smith, president of commercial business at AM General, noted in a press conference that it had been more than two years since his company produced an automobile. He mentioned that given the economic stress the country is going through, it's even more of an accomplishment to start a brand of revolutionary vehicles and a testament to AM General's persistence and innovation.

Mark Buonic's football career ended when he was paralyzed after a tackle. Car prices for handicap-accessible vehicles are generally high. Buonic, who received the first MV-1, said his current unsafe and unreliable handicap-accessible vehicle costs $20,000 more than the MV-1. The MV-1 is priced at less than $40,000, according to WNDU News.

According to AM General, the MV-1 is built like a truck, but drives like a sedan. With front short long arm suspensions, drivers can turn tightly, and with steal leaf springs and air shocks to support the frame, passengers will experience a smooth ride.

MV-1 uses a compressed natural gas system, which is primarily a domestic resource. Therefore, every time a driver refills the tank, they're supporting American businesses, while refueling with green-inspired resources. According to AM General, the MV-1 has a 290-mile CNG range, added with a light indicator once the vehicle has 40 miles or less worth of gas. With more than 29 cubic feet, the luggage space is the best-in-class.

Fred Drasner, chairman of The Vehicle Production Group, mentioned to WNDU news that his factory would produce approximately 1,000 MV-1s during the next year.

"The only vehicles that compete with us are aftermarket conversions, which we think are expensive and have obviously have reliability, durability issues," Drasner said. "So you end up with 6,000 pound vehicle that was designed to be a 4,000 pound vehicle and the result is the suspension doesn’t hold up very well, the brakes don’t hold up very well."

The MV-1 took the new policies of the Americans with Disabilities Act in mind and produced a safe, eco-friendly and reliable product of which both able-bodied and disabled drivers can take advantage.
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/americans-with-disabilities-the-focus-of-am-generals-mv-1-800611655.aspx Wed, 05 Oct 2011 08:58:36 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/pontiac-ghost-expected-to-sell-for-nearly-500000-800608932.aspx Looking to buy a used car worth a few hundred thousand dollars? As a featured vehicle of the 1939 New York World's Fair, the Pontiac Ghost Car may be sold at an auction for more than 20 times its initial cost, Autoblog reports.

During the unveiling of the 1939 transparent Pontiac, visitors were fortunate enough to see the visionary work of Norman Bel Geddes and General Motor's Futurama exhibit, which presented futuristic technologies, many of which actually came to fruition in the auto industry, according to the news source.

After touring the United States, the Pontiac Ghost found a home at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. until 1947, according to the news source. A series of Pontiac dealers owned the car when it was purchased by Don Barlup of New Cumberland, Pennsylvania. Six years later, Leo Gephart, an auto collector, bought it from Barlup and it has since been passed down his family line.

The exterior of the car was developed by Rohm & Haas, a chemical company that developed Plexiglas. As the first ever transparent acrylic sheet, Plexiglas is commonly used for aquariums, airplanes, hockey boards, protective gear and police riot shields, in addition to many other products.

The wheels have never been replaced since its construction—running on the exact same white U.S. Royal tires, accompanied by white rubber running boards. In its approximate 70-year existence, only 86 miles have been driven on the Pontiac Ghost and its fuel lines were recently replaced.

The automobile is in excellent condition, in large part because it was well-preserved and maintained by previous owners, according to Autoblog. While it has some dings and bruises, the vehicle's structure is intact and the guts of the vehicle are still clearly visible.

Although Pontiac suggests the car will sell for $308,000 at an upcoming auction, other reports say that bidders may offer upwards of $500,000. This is the last remaining Pontiac Ghost car in the world, according to Autoblog.
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/pontiac-ghost-expected-to-sell-for-nearly-500000-800608932.aspx Fri, 30 Sep 2011 15:56:26 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/honda-recalls-more-than-85000-vehicles-800608257.aspx Because of the economic crisis and natural disasters this year, vehicle sales are declining. According to CNN, the annual rate of sales projection reduced from 12.2 million to 12.1 million. Car owners are adding tens of thousands more miles to their vehicles than in the past, which is both a testament to the weak international economic state and the advances of car technology that allows us to drive cars so long without having to buy a new one.

Even without a financial crisis, car buying is never an easy process, especially when the industry faces yet another recall.

CR-V, CR-Z and Fit

Honda recently stated that it will recall approximately 80,000 2006 CR-Vs and more than 5,500 CR-Z hybrid vehicles, The New York Times reports.

According to the Times, the window switch of the 2006 CR-V created a potential fire hazard for drivers, while the CR-Z had an electrical issue which caused the vehicle to move on its own.

The Honda Fit was also recalled again, which is the second time in two years. In January 2010, approximately 150,000 Fits were recalled due to a water malfunction in the engine that caused a fire hazard. Following the initial recall of Fit, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration investigated Honda's CR-Vs and concluded they, too, were a fire hazard.

Furthermore, a month prior to the CR-V recalls, Honda recalled 1.5 million Accords that were made between 2005 thru 2010. According to Honda, the software controlling the automatic transmission needed updating.

Recall results

If it weren't for the recalls and bad reputation as a result, Honda Accord would currently be in the top five for individual vehicle year-to-date sales, as of September 2011. According to The Wall Street Journal, Honda sold 18 percent fewer Accord vehicles over the past year. Yet surprisingly, it remains in the top ten in most sold vehicles during that span.

Ford F series were the most sold vehicles during the year to date through September 2010. The Volkswagen Jetta experienced the highest sales increase of 60 percent over the last year. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/honda-recalls-more-than-85000-vehicles-800608257.aspx Fri, 30 Sep 2011 09:04:37 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/prepare-for-that-last-summer-drive-800587231.aspx The end of summer is quickly approaching and many families may be gearing up for a late family vacation before children are immersed in the school year.

Most travelers do a quick auto tune-up in the beginning of summer to prepare themselves for months of mini vacations and road trips, but may neglect their vehicles during the tail end of August. In the weeks leading up to Labor Day, the roads are often busy with last-minute travelers, so it's important to give a vehicle proper time and attention.

Conduct a check of all fluids

The fluids in your car are pivotal to ensuring that the equipment is running smoothly, so it's important to make sure the levels are sufficient. Check your auto manual for a detailed summary of the fluids, when they need to be changed out, and how high these levels should be. Failing to maintain the proper levels could result in your vehicle overheating while you're on the road, among other problems, according to the Washington Post. In addition, make sure you have not exceeded the deadline for your oil change, as this could cause your engine to seize up.

Be sure to check tires and brakes, which play a crucial role in your safety. Listen closely when you drive for any whines and high-pitched sounds when you slow down or stop, which may indicate it's time for new brakes. In addition, check your tires to make sure the treading is still good. Driving with worn tires may lead to auto accidents and higher auto insurance rates down the road.

Take preventative measures

Think back to the last time you changed your air filter or made sure your wiper blades were working efficiently. On average, air filters should be replaced every 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first, according to auto website Edmunds.com. There is no standard lifespan for your wiper blades, but when they stop working well, replace them right away. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/prepare-for-that-last-summer-drive-800587231.aspx Wed, 31 Aug 2011 11:39:49 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/hybrid-owners-in-california-lose-carpool-lane-privileges-800547032.aspx California residents with hybrid vehicles, such as the Toyota Prius and Honda Insight, no longer have access to high-occupancy vehicle lanes—also known as carpool lanes—due to a new ruling by the California Department of Motor Vehicles.

As of July 1, the state's DMV announced drivers of hybrid models with yellow stickers—which signify the automobile is environmentally friendly—can no longer drive in carpool lanes unless the minimum number of passengers required by law is met.

Motorists with hybrid vehicles were allowed to drive in the HOV lanes for the past few years in an effort on the state's part to promote eco-friendly transportation.

Impact minimal on non-hybrid drivers

While many hybrid car owners may be upset with the new rule, a highway official in California told the Los Angeles Times the impact on all other motorists will likely by small.

"To have a measurable impact on traffic, you really need to talk about significant changes in volume or demand, and this isn't big enough to really create any significant change one way or the other to either the HOV lanes or the general purpose lanes," Marco Ruano, chief of freeway operations for the California Department of Transportation's seventh district, told the newspaper.

Citing a Caltrans report, the Times reports hybrid vehicles made up just 6 percent of all drivers using the HOV lanes in Los Angeles County during peak hours in 2008.

Thousands affected by rule

According to Reuters, roughly 85,000 California motorists have hybrid vehicles with yellow stickers. Though many of these drivers can't use the lanes anymore without the requisite number of passengers, a spokesman for State Senator Leland Yee told the news source the ruling was necessary.

"If you have these stickers go on forever and then you create the new stickers for the cleaner cars, eventually you just fill up those lanes and there's no point to them," said Adam Keigwin, chief of staff for Yee.

New sticker offered in 2012

The California DMV stated it plans to roll out a new sticker program on January 1, 2012, to promote the use of cleaner-running hybrids and other eco-friendly cars.

USA Today states hybrid users who want to qualify for the new green sticker program may want to buy a new car with even higher energy standards, such as the Chevy Volt or Nissan Leaf. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/hybrid-owners-in-california-lose-carpool-lane-privileges-800547032.aspx Thu, 07 Jul 2011 14:44:06 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/voice-activated-systems-have-issues-hearing-women-correctly-800528011.aspx As technology continues to advance in the car market, more vehicles are incorporating voice recognition software into their systems to improve auto safety, according to AOL Autos. However, experts have found that these systems have a more difficult time recognizing the voice of a woman over a man.

"I do find myself screaming at it sometimes," Rebekah Page-Gourley, the owner of a vehicle with this technology, told the news source. "I look like a crazy person screaming at my car."

Dangers of distracted driving

While design experts acknowledge flaws in the systems, the reduction in distracted driving is seen as an overall benefit, even with the frustrations. In 2009, 5,474 people were killed in the U.S. in accidents that reportedly involved distracted driving, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Another 448,000 were injured in distraction-related crashes.

Distracted driving comes in many different forms, including cell phone use, texting, eating, drinking and using in-vehicle technologies and portable devices, the NHTSA reports. While car manufacturers acknowledge the dangers of distracted driving, they also believe that people are not going to stop these behaviors altogether, according to AOL Autos.

Instead of hoping drivers will be more cautious when operating their electronics in the car, the auto industry believes that making advancements in voice-operated technology may be the true life-saver. Through these programs drivers can call, text and change the radio station all by using their voice, if the car can understand them.

Many people have trouble with the system

Women are not the only ones that have trouble with the systems, AOL reports. People that have foreign accents, or even thick regional ones, have difficulty operating the systems. Manufacturers are making efforts to help their systems better understand a wide range of voices and dialects.

"Today the technology has advanced such that it works for both genders and nearly all dialects," OnStar spokesman Adam Denison, told the news source.

In an effort to fix the problems in their vehicles, Ford has collected 50 percent more female voice samples than male samples. As a result, the computers now misunderstand women's voices just 2 percent more often than men's, which the company sees as minimal, the news source reports.

"SYNC customers by and large are satisfied and happy with the system," Wes Sherwood, a spokesman for Ford, told the media outlet. "We're very pleased with customer satisfaction and we're going to continue to improve."

The government wants people to stop all distractions

The Department of Transportation feels that distracted driving is a top safety concern. Many safety officials do not believe that hands-free communication will solve this problem. Experts feel that people should simply put their phones away when they are driving and focus on the road, according to the news outlet.   http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/voice-activated-systems-have-issues-hearing-women-correctly-800528011.aspx Fri, 10 Jun 2011 13:47:30 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/long-commutes-may-be-bad-for-health-800527998.aspx With more than 33,000 fatal car accidents happening in the United States every year, driving a car may seem dangerous, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. However, motorists who commute to work are also at a higher-risk of many other life-threatening illnesses and problems, Slate.com reports.

Why is commuting bad for drivers' health?

When motorists are stuck in their cars for hours every day, for five days a week, they are not spending as much time exercising, playing with the dog or spending time with their children. A research team out of Sweden has found couples who have one partner that commutes are 40 percent more likely to get a divorce than their locally employed counterparts, according to the news source.

Experts have found drivers who spend a long time traveling to and from work suffer from disproportionate pain, stress, obesity and dissatisfaction. Most drivers do not like commuting and therefore start and end their day on an unpleasant note. This negativity can spill over into work and family relations, the media outlet reports. Motorists that choose not to wear seat belts are also increasing their risk when traveling that often.

The emotional toll of the drive

Drivers may tend to feel more lonely when dealing with a long commute because they are often alone. This form of self-isolation detracts from time that could be spent interacting socially with friends and loved ones.

In addition to feeling disconnected from the outside world, one in three motorists who commute more than 90 minutes tends to have recurrent neck or back problems, according to a Gallup Poll. This same group of drivers is more likely to have high cholesterol and a body mass classifying them as obese.

Hours spent driving may take away from sleeping

Drivers with long commutes seem to be unhealthy and increasingly unhappy, according to the news source. In addition to loneliness and bad habits, lack of sleep may also play a negative role in the life of a commuter, Slate reports. Getting up extra early to beat traffic can take away vital hours of sleep that the body needs to regenerate.

Why are Americans commuting even more?

A real kicker is that the number of time Americans spend commuting every day has risen steadily since the 1960s. The average one-way commute is 24 minutes, according to Slate.com. One in six workers may drive 45 minutes each way to work and 3.5 million drivers spend 90 minutes each way commuting. Experts believe workers apparently would rather have a nicer home that is further away from work than a small place around the corner from the office.  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/long-commutes-may-be-bad-for-health-800527998.aspx Fri, 10 Jun 2011 13:43:18 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/clever-ways-to-help-save-on-gas-800527986.aspx Whether they are heading to the beach for the weekend, or driving to grandma's house, drivers are constantly looking for ways to save gas. The national average remains at approximately $3.75 a gallon, and experts are unsure of how much that may fluctuate over the next several months, according to the National Gas Average.

Instead of cutting back on trips, or spending money buying a new car, some experts recommend drivers find ways to get the most mileage out of the vehicle they have, according to MSNBC.

Remove excess cargo

For starters, drivers should check their trunk for unnecessary weight. Many drivers will not realize that carrying around a cooler or lawn chairs could be limiting their car's fuel efficiency. A car's fuel economy may drop up to 2 percent for every additional 100 pounds of weight placed inside, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

The drive-through can waste gas while saving time

Millions of Americans visit drive-through restaurants for coffee and food every day, but experts say that by simply parking the vehicle and getting out, a person can save a significant amount of gas. One study found that waiting in line for 15 minutes wasted a quarter gallon of gas, MSNBC reports.

Slow down

One gas saving tip that may not be a big surprise is that aggressive driving wastes gas. Motorists that speed, swerve through traffic and constantly slam on their brakes are diminishing their vehicle's fuel economy, the media outlet reports. Drivers who operate their cars calmly can save up to 33 percent on their gas bill. Those with a lead foot may want to set the cruise control to keep the vehicle at a safe and steady speed.

Driving at slower speeds on the highway can also save money. The Department of Energy reports that for every five miles per hour over 60 miles a person travels, they could end up spending an additional 24 cents per gallon in gas.

Don't drive aimlessly

For drivers that are concerned with gas prices, some experts also recommend planning out any trip. When running errands, if the driver has a plan they will be less likely to waste gas and time driving to the same area twice.

Also, when planning a longer trip it may help to look at more than one option. Some navigation devices may be pre-programmed to avoid toll roads, which could end up taking a motorist way off-track, costing them money in the long-run.

Kick the tires

Many drivers also have underinflated tires, which can sap fuel economy. Ensuring that a vehicle is running on tires with the right pressure can also help improve fuel efficiency by as much as 3 percent, according to MSNBC.   http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/clever-ways-to-help-save-on-gas-800527986.aspx Fri, 10 Jun 2011 13:37:02 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/too-many-gadgets-could-be-hazardous-to-driving-safety-800527980.aspx Most people live in a fast-paced world, one in which they are used to getting their information immediately. This mentality seems to be spilling into the auto manufacturing market with the growing invention of electronic car accessories in new model cars, according to the Wall Street Journal.

"There's absolutely no reason for any person to download their Facebook into the car," U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood, told the news source. "It's not necessary."

Distracted driving is dangerous

The percentage of driving fatalities associated with distracted driving grew from 10 percent in 2005 to 16 percent in 2009, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Drivers under the age of 20 had the most recorded distracted driving accidents, followed by 20 to 29-year-olds.

As these numbers continue to grow, LaHood is hoping to curb the amount of technology that is built into cars by expressing his displeasure with the trend to many top manufacturers, the WSJ reports.

Technological advances could take away from driver awareness

General Motors, which is currently in the early stages of developing a Facebook update feature for its Chevy Cruze through the car's OnStar system, is trying to make their technology advancements without distracting drivers at the same time. Because the company is still partly owned by the government, it is unknown if the program will be ready for massive roll-out, or whether it will be given government approval, the media outlet reports.

The Department of Transportation is working on a new set of guidelines to govern the design of in-vehicle communications technology. The DOT is also trying to determine if using a hands-free device actually makes a difference, because some experts believe the phone call itself is the distraction, the WSJ reports.

Are new safety programs hurting more than they are helping?

Some experts believe that while technology may pose a risk to drivers, the overabundance of electronic safety systems may be creating a false sense of security. Between cruise control, drowsy-driving systems, and alerts when another vehicle is too close, people may be more tempted to check their phones or play with the radio than ever before.   http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/too-many-gadgets-could-be-hazardous-to-driving-safety-800527980.aspx Fri, 10 Jun 2011 13:32:52 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/dont-run-the-yellow-light-many-drivers-fail-knowledge-tests-800525056.aspx The results from a national drivers test are in, and they are not good. According to the results, one in five people licensed to drive in the U.S. would not pass a written driver's education test today. That number translates to 36.9 million American motorists who may not meet the basic driving requirements if they took the test.

One of the main points of contention was appropriate action when approaching a yellow light, according to The New York Times. A shocking 85 percent of those tested could not correctly identify what to do in this situation. Many have been taught a yellow light means caution, but experts agree stopping is usually the correct choice, the news outlet reports. However, if the vehicle is less than 100 feet from the intersection it may not be possible to stop safely, and driving through the intersection would be the correct choice, according to Driver'sEdGuru.com.

Overall scores up

Overall, test results were up from 76.2 percent in 2010 to 77.9 percent in 2011, according to the report, showing an improvement in drivers' knowledge. The study tested 5,130 drivers between the ages of 16 and 60, and questioned people in every state. There were 20 driver knowledge questions given from state Department of Motor Vehicle exams, according to the news outlet.

DC home to worst drivers, men scored better than women

The worst drivers in the country, according to the test, reside in the District of Columbia. New York State had the worst offenders for three years running, but "improved" to 45th worst nationwide, according to the Times. However, the results were still unsettling, with one out of three of all drivers in both areas failing the test.

Men scored better on the test, with one in four women failing, according to the report. The average score of females was 74.1, with men hitting an average of 80.2 percent.

Also, the Northeastern portion of the country scored the worst overall with a 74.9 percent, with the Midwest achieving the highest scores getting an average of 77.5 percent. In the Southeast, drivers averaged a 76.9 percent score with the Southwest receiving similar results. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/dont-run-the-yellow-light-many-drivers-fail-knowledge-tests-800525056.aspx Tue, 07 Jun 2011 16:00:11 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/tips-for-sharing-the-road-with-truckers-800524753.aspx Many may think truckers are some of the worst drivers. Some say they're too inattentive and not mindful of other drivers on the road. However, despite this common perception, Edmunds.com says motorists create issues for themselves when driving around truckers.

The source states drivers should learn how to drive around these truckers to reduce the chance of getting into an accident and having to file an auto insurance claim.

Don't ride in truckers' blind spots

When on the highway, many drivers tend to get frustrated with truckers cutting them off. However, Edmunds.com says a number of these near-accidents occur because a driver was in a trucker's blind spot.

According to the source, truckers have significant blind spots to the right of their vehicles. Driving in this blind spot is one of the worst things a driver can do, the site states, so if one wants to pass a truck, they should do so quickly. Otherwise, staying well back is the best move.

Cutting off truckers a dangerous move

Numerous drivers think it's OK to change lanes in front of a trucker as they would to any other car on the highway. Edmunds.com states, though, this lane change could be dangerous if there is a limited amount of space in front of a trucker.

Braking is more of a challenge for truckers than it is for regular drivers, the source says. On average, the site states it takes truckers three times as long to brake any distance than typical motorists take. Cutting off an 18-wheeler could cause a severe accident, the source states, so drivers should allow extra space.

Allow truckers to merge into traffic

Though it may take more time, Edmunds.com says letting truckers gradually enter into traffic on the highway is a wise practice. Losing patience can be common, as it generally takes truckers a while to pick up speed and transition into traffic smoothly.

The risk of getting into an accident in this scenario is remote, according to the source. But, it's common courtesy to help out truckers get onto the roadway. Many truckers are under strict time limits from their companies. Regular drivers should help truckers, the news site says, even if they do slow traffic for a few seconds.

Truckers may take time reversing, turning

Oftentimes, truckers need to back up a few feet to make a turn properly or back their load into their drop-off point, Edmunds states. Though this may cause some issues with traffic, the source says it's necessary for truckers to ensure they make safe turns just like every other driver.

Drivers who see a trucker backing up should accommodate them, according to Edmunds. Otherwise, motorists could be stuck for an even longer period of time. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/tips-for-sharing-the-road-with-truckers-800524753.aspx Tue, 07 Jun 2011 13:07:42 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/the-growing-demand-for-clean-energy-800520991.aspx As national gas prices hover around $4 on average, there has been a rising interest in eco-friendly vehicles which run on natural gas, according to the Chicago Tribune. Honda is currently the only company selling cars in the U.S. that run off of this fuel source. The company has seen sales of its Civic GX triple this year, with natural gas costing around $2.25 per gallon, the Tribune reports.

The company only manufactured 643 vehicles in the states and is expecting to sell out by the end of the summer. They will be presenting a larger, redesigned model this fall, according to the paper. The newer model is also projected to have better fuel economy. The Compressed Natural Gas-Civic currently gets 24 miles per gallon in cities and 36 on the highway.

"The interest in this car has grown significantly," Honda spokesman Eric Rosenberg told the news source.

Why buy an energy efficient car?

These vehicles emit less pollution than their gas guzzling counterparts, and in states such as California, they will be eligible to drive in the carpool lane in the near future, the source reports. Natural gas is the cleanest burning fossil fuel, and there is an abundance of it in North America, according to NaturalGas.org.

While there are an extremely limited amount of these vehicles available on the market, there are also ways to retrofit certain cars to run off of natural gas by using conversion kits, according to the media outlet. However, this can be a difficult process because some states do not allow people to install kits themselves, according to Greencar.com. The Environmental Protection Agency considers non-certified installation a violation of federally approved emissions systems.

Companies investing in CNG cars

The Texas Senate has approved a bill that would establish incentives for companies to buy CNG vehicles, according to the Associated Press. Grants would also be provided by the state to businesses that build natural gas refueling centers as part of the Texas Clean Transportation Triangle. This triangle would connect Dallas, Houston and San Antonio. Funds for the program would come from the Texas Emissions Reduction Program, at an estimated cost of $41.7 million, the AP reports.   http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/the-growing-demand-for-clean-energy-800520991.aspx Wed, 01 Jun 2011 15:28:48 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/taking-some-of-the-stress-out-of-an-accident-800518777.aspx Memorial Day weekend is one of the busiest driving holidays in the country, and traffic often leads to increased accidents.

Not only can car accidents be traumatic, they can cause a person's car insurance rates to skyrocket, the reports Edmunds.com. In an effort to reduce the amount of injuries and accidents during the busy summer months, the Consumer Protection Association of America has developed a list to help drivers who have been in an accident in order to make the process less traumatic, according to the site.

What to do after an accident

Drivers should keep their car insurance information in the glove compartment, as well as a blank accident form in case there is a crash, MSNMoney reports. Having this paperwork can make the process at the scene move along more quickly and help the driver remember to get all of the pertinent information.

An emergency kit should be kept in the car at all times. Inside this safety package a driver should place a cell phone, pen and paper, and a disposable camera. If carrying around an accident form is not practical, then the pen and paper will work almost as well, and the camera should be used to document all aspects of the accident, according to the news source.

A medical card is an extremely important piece of information to have in the emergency kit. The driver should write down any medical conditions or allergies they have in the event the crash is so bad they are unconscious or unable to speak for themselves, the site reports.

After an accident, assuming everyone involved is not hurt, the vehicles should be moved to the breakdown lane as quickly as possible, Edmunds.com suggests. This may help prevent additional accidents, damages or injuries. Do not leave the scene until the proper authorities have arrived, MSNMoney says. Take down the names of the reporting officers and make sure they get versions of the accident from everyone involved.

Moving forward after a crash

Once the parties involved in the crash have shared information and followed all the legal requirements at the scene, the process is not quite over, according to the news source. A person should call their auto insurance agent as soon as possible. Even if the driver lives in a no-fault auto insurance state, where the other person's car insurance company may pay for damages on their vehicle, they will not cover medical expenses, MSNMoney warns.

The site also recommends the people read their insurance policy thoroughly. Drivers are encouraged to look at the conditions of the policy and check details such as rental insurance coverage and uninsured driver protection, according to MSNMoney.
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/taking-some-of-the-stress-out-of-an-accident-800518777.aspx Tue, 31 May 2011 08:13:56 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/cars-could-soon-be-communicating-with-each-other-800518755.aspx As technology advances, experts believe it is no longer a matter of if, but when vehicles will be communicating on their own, according to the Wall Street Journal. Manufacturers and highway agencies have been working toward a system in which drivers will be connected to an information grid which can alert them to potential collisions, traffic jams and tolls.

"Ford believes intelligent vehicles that talk to each other through advanced Wi-Fi are the next frontier of collision avoidance innovations that could revolutionize the driving experience," Sue Cischke, Ford's group vice president of sustainability, environment and safety engineering, told Wired.com.

Infrastructure is almost ready to be tested in the U.S.

The government is hoping to begin road testing systems by late 2012, the WSJ reports. The main point of testing will be to determine if the hardware will help reduce collisions.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration believes this technology may reduce 81 percent of accidents not involving an impaired driver, according to the news outlet. Some experts believe this type of a breakthrough could dramatically reduce car insurance rates while bringing up the cost of buying a new car equipped with this technology.

Experts believe it could take at least a decade to outfit all of the vehicles on the road with these programs, so people with immediate access may have a limited number of other cars to interface with, the WSJ reports.

Additional savings

Not only could this new technology reduce the number of accidents significantly, but it could potentially save an astronomical amount of gas, the news source reports. An estimated 3.9 billion gallons of gas are wasted each year by cars idling in traffic jams. If drivers were alerted to the problem areas ahead of time, they could potentially seek out an alternate route.

Testing results

Audi is about to launch the Urban Intelligent Assist program, according to Wired. The three-year program will link drivers to the road through connected cars and use them to try to ease congestion, increase safety and reduce time wasted sitting in traffic.

"Technologies that help motorists become more aware and efficient are a crucial step toward solving some of the biggest transportation challenges on the horizon across the world," Dr. Burkhard Huhnke, head of Audi's research laboratory, told the source. "Audi is confident that this initiative will provide an important insight on the future of urban transportation and produce innovative concepts that promote efficient, pleasant and safer mobility."

A group of auto manufacturers have agreed to a certain set of standards, which includes the use of a strong form of Wi-Fi called 5.9 gigahertz DSRC, according to the news source. The system creates a 300-meter, 360-degree circle of connectivity around the vehicle.
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/cars-could-soon-be-communicating-with-each-other-800518755.aspx Tue, 31 May 2011 07:59:20 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/myths-about-getting-traffic-tickets-800518715.aspx While many older drivers know a lot about how buying a car, paying for auto insurance and other rules and facts of the road, many new and inexperienced drivers might believe certain myths and legends about driving—particularly regarding traffic tickets, according to Edmunds.com. These misconceptions could end up costing young drivers money, the source says.

Amnesty for 18 year olds

A number of young drivers believe when they turn 18 years old, their permanent driving record begins and all mistakes and violations they made before that age will no longer be on their records.

This is one of the most common misconceptions, Edmunds states. However, the source says while turning 18 yields many benefits, including the ability to vote, having old traffic violations stripped from their record isn't one of them.

The radar gun myth

Many drivers believe they have the right to look at a radar gun used by a police officer who pulled them over for speeding. This is untrue, though, Edmunds says.

The source states no U.S. state has a law which requires police officers to divulge the speed at which a driver was traveling when pulled over. Edmunds recommends not even asking to see the speed, as it could irritate the officer and possibly increase the punishment.

Out-of-state driver myth

Some drivers believe if they get a ticket outside of their home state, their insurance company won’t find out. This is not the case, Edmunds states.

Citing the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators, Edmunds says every state but Michigan and Wisconsin is part of either the Non-Resident Violator Compact or the Driver License Compact, or both, which requires states to share driver information with one another. This means if you get pulled over for speeding in Ohio and live in Iowa, your auto insurance provider and state officials will know of the ticket. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/myths-about-getting-traffic-tickets-800518715.aspx Tue, 31 May 2011 07:32:49 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/quiet-cars-may-be-a-danger-to-pedestrians-800516453.aspx As the number new car purchases of electric and hybrid vehicles expands across the American landscape, some experts worry they are presenting a safety hazard to people on the street, according to the Associated Press.

Blind people, bicyclists and joggers all use sound cues to help navigate the streets. For them, these energy efficient cars which make virtually no sound at certain speeds, may be potentially life threatening.

"This is an example of too much of a good thing," John Pare, executive director for strategic initiatives with the National Federation of the Blind, told the news source. "Cars got quieter, that was good. Suddenly they got to be so quiet that it added an element of danger."

President Barack Obama signed the Pedestrian Safety Enhancement Act into law at the beginning of 2011, in an effort to combat this growing problem. The law requires the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to conduct a two-year study on how to protect the blind and others from being killed by these eco friendly cars, according to the Chicago Tribune.

"The blind, like all pedestrians, must be able to travel to work, to school, to church, and to other places in our communities, and we must be able to hear vehicles in order to do so," said Dr. Marc Maurer, president of the National Federation of the Blind.

The NHTSA found hybrid vehicles were twice as likely to be involved in pedestrian crashes, the Tribune reports. More than 4,300 people traveling on foot were killed in 2008 and experts fear this number will continue to grow, according to the Department of Transportation.

Once the study has been completed, the secretary of Transportation will report the findings to Congress. The government will also establish a vehicle safety standard for all new vehicles sold in the states within 90 days, the Tribune reports. Vehicle manufacturers will then have two years to comply with these new standards.

Some carmakers are already experimenting with artificial sounds, according to the AP. The Nissan Leaf will make distinct sounds when backing up or accelerating. The vehicle will produce a whirring sound which changes pitch as it accelerates and a bell will ring when the car is in reverse. The Chevrolet Volt is trying to develop more of a chirp sound to alert pedestrians and Toyota is developing ways to make the Prius louder at slower speeds, the media outlet reports.
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/quiet-cars-may-be-a-danger-to-pedestrians-800516453.aspx Thu, 26 May 2011 09:42:13 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/drivers-still-face-traditional-driving-hazards-800515253.aspx There has been a lot of attention placed on the risks of texting and driving this year, but experts find traditional dangers may still be the worst, according to Edmunds.com. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says drunk driving, people not wearing seat belts, tailgating and speeding continue to be the main hazards facing drivers.

"Historically, the threats that faced the fleet are still with us," David Strickland, NHTSA administrator, told the news source.

More than 33,000 people died in traffic accidents in 2009, the lowest number since 1975. The NHTSA reported safer roads, safer vehicles and stricter laws all contributed to this decline in fatalities.

"Those safety programs worked," U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood, told Good Morning America.

Seat belts

Experts still feel this number is high. Strickland says thousands of those deaths could have been avoided if people simply wore seat belts, Edmunds reports. Out of the 33,000 deaths, 11,000 were people who were not strapped in.

While the percentage of people who wear seat belts has grown by 27 percent in the last 16 years, now up to 85 percent of drivers, the NHTSA would like that number to continue to increase until it hits 100 percent, according to the news source.

Drunk and distracted driving

Driving while intoxicated continues to be a significant factor in the number of accident related deaths. More than 7,000 people who died in 2009 had a blood alcohol level above the legal limit, Edmunds reports. That number is one third of the total drivers who died that year, but it is an improvement from 1982 when more than half of the driving fatalities were alcohol related, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation.

People are also increasingly dependent on their cell phones, and as a result, distracted driving accidents have grown. Almost 6,000 people died in 2009 from distracted related accidents, 18 percent of which were directly related to cell phone use, according to the news source.

Changing the behavior

The NHTSA feels a comprehensive program which covers driver behavior, vehicle crashworthiness and the development of lifesaving crash-avoidance technologies is the best method to reduce the amount of traffic-related fatalities, the news source reports.

Car safety is improving as technology becomes more advanced, according to Edmunds. The NHTSA is promoting the use of electronic stability control systems (ESC), which can prevent a rollover or a skid. It will be a requirement in new cars next year, and could potentially save 10,000 lives a year.

No matter how much technology and car safety measures improve, experts say at the end of the day the responsibility falls on the person behind the wheel.

"There's only so many times a cop can pull you over," Strickland says.

Years ago many people used to think it was okay to have a few drinks and drive, but as society learned how dangerous it was, it became less acceptable, Edmunds reports. The NHTSA is hoping the same type of mental realignment will soon happen with distracted driving.
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/drivers-still-face-traditional-driving-hazards-800515253.aspx Wed, 25 May 2011 08:29:39 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/new-york-streets-set-to-be-a-little-quieter-800515239.aspx New Yorkers may finally see the noise level lowered on city streets, according to the New York Times. The city's new fleet of high-tech taxicabs will feature a low-annoyance horn, which will be less sharp and grating, the city's taxi commissioner said. However, he would not go so far as to say it would be sweet sounding.

Nissan said the company is working on developing a horn which uses kinder tones, the Times reports. The company's NV200 was selected as the winner of the city's Taxi of Tomorrow competition earlier this month. This will be the first vehicle built specifically for use in the city.

"Never before in the 100-plus year history of the taxi industry has its combined strength been used to drive the design and creation of a purpose-built vehicle, tuned to the streets it will be driving on," said Taxi Commissioner David Yassky.

The vehicle will become part of the city's regular fleet in 2013 and all cabs currently operating will be phased out by 2018, CNET reports. Nissan is also giving New York six plug-in cars for taxi drivers to test, free of charge. The NV200 will also allow the city the option to convert them into eco friendly electric vehicles starting in 2017.

New taxi features

The new cabs will be the first ever to complete U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration crash testing with the cab's clear partition and other equipment installed. They will also come equipped with passenger airbags, a transparent roof, charging stations for mobile devices and built-in GPS, according to Mayor Michael Bloomberg.

"We started this process to leverage our taxi industry’s purchasing power to get the highest quality taxi, one that can expand and redefine the legendary image of New York City taxicabs," Bloomberg said. "The new taxis will be custom-designed to meet the specific demands of carrying 600,000 passengers a day in New York City traffic and the vehicle meets the top priorities identified by the public in our on-line survey."

The implementation of GPS in city cabs was a point of contention with drivers, due to privacy rights, CNET reports. However, once the city decided to put them in all cabs, it was discovered passengers had been overcharged by $8 million from 2008 to 2010.

Different sounds on the street

The confluence in sounds that the new fleet's horns will provide may staunchly contrast the hodgepodge racket current taxis are making, according to the media outlet. Each type of cab now operating has a distinct and separate honk.

In musical terms, the Ford Escape has a sound experts compare to a jazz player's blue note, which is just below an A flat, while the Nissan Altima has more of a trumpet-like vibrato, the Times reports. The horn of the traditional Crown Victoria has a Gershwinesque sound that is almost a major third.
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/new-york-streets-set-to-be-a-little-quieter-800515239.aspx Wed, 25 May 2011 08:22:30 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/how-to-handle-common-driving-emergencies-800514638.aspx While having car insurance can help people who get into accidents while driving, a report by Edmunds.com states there are numerous measures drivers can take to prevent an accident from occurring in the first place.

Blown-out tire

Though it may seem like the best thing to do is to slam on the brakes and turn onto the side of the road if a tire blows out, Edmunds states this isn't the proper way to handle the situation.

According to the source, the first thing a driver should do is avoid the brakes and hit the accelerator, as this will help keep him in control of the vehicle. After a few seconds, Edmunds recommends motorists ease off the gas while keeping the car steered straight ahead. This should help the drag from the flat tire to gradually slow down.

Once the car reaches 30 miles per hour, Edmunds states drivers should put their turn signals on and gently steer their car onto the shoulder of the road, and mildly step on the brakes.

To avoid a flat tire, the source recommends getting ones tire pressure checked out frequently.

Tread separation

Though it may feel similar to a tire blowout, Edmunds says tread separation on tires is much worse.

Should a driver experience this issue, the source says to step on the gas for an instant and then slowly step off, all the while driving straight down the road. Next, motorists should allow the vehicle to decelerate on its own. However, tapping on the brakes may be necessary if traveling at a high speed. Drivers should then put on their turn signals and get to the side of the road.

Inspecting the car's tires is important after this incident, according to Edmunds. Though a tire may look fine at first glance, the source says a close-up examination is necessary.

If you drive the car after tread separation occurs, the vehicle may seem to operate fine for a short period, but the remaining steel blade will eventually slash open the tire, Edmunds says. The proper course of action is to call a tow service and get the automobile inspected and fixed by a mechanic.

Front tires slide

Edmunds states most drivers' first reaction to their front tires sliding is oftentimes the correct one. To properly deal with a front tire that slides—which typically occurs on slick roads—the news source says motorists should remove their foot from the accelerator, but stay off the brakes, and avoid steering anywhere but straight ahead.

According to Edmunds, traction typically returns shortly after losing control and sliding, so turning the wheel left or right could damage the car once it returns to normal road conditions. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/how-to-handle-common-driving-emergencies-800514638.aspx Tue, 24 May 2011 14:55:53 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/distracted-driving-a-global-issue-800497553.aspx With cellphones being a central part of today's culture, instances of distracted driving are becoming an increasingly prevalent auto safety issue on U.S. roads, causing accidents throughout the year.

Despite efforts by lawmakers around the globe, The Economist reports it remains difficult to get the public to stop using their phones behind the wheel.

High level of distraction

While texting behind the wheel is one of the most dangerous driving practices, many drivers feel they are fine as long as they use hands-free devices while driving. However, a study by researchers at Carnegie Mellon University, using a brain scan, found just listening to someone on the phone decreased activity in the part of the brain that controls driving by 37 percent.

"Drivers need to keep not only their hands on the wheel; they also have to keep their brains on the road," said Carnegie Mellon neuroscientist Marcel Just. "Engaging in a conversation could jeopardize the judgment and reaction time if an atypical or unusual driving situation arose."

Other studies have found the level of distraction caused by texting or using a cellphone behind the wheel is equal to or worse than that caused by drunk driving, putting both the driver and others on the road at serious risk of injury.

New regulations

The source says Japan was the first country to ban the use of handheld phones while driving, and many other countries around the globe, excluding the U.S., have done the same.

While many states have adopted those bans—New York being the first in 2001—there's been no nationwide regulation for all drivers. Twenty states still have a no handheld ban in place.

Enforcement difficult

One of the main problems of these bans, The Economist reports, is that law enforcement officials sometimes have difficulty enforcing the rules. In order to write a ticket, an officer must actually see the driver looking down at their phone for a few seconds, which is difficult when the vehicle is likely traveling at a high speed while the police cruiser may be standing still.

However, making enforcement efforts visible can provide a deterrent. The paper says police officers in New York and Connecticut last year experimented by sharply stepping up enforcement for a two week period. After that time, they said driver use of mobile phones fell off significantly, even after the trial period had ended.
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/distracted-driving-a-global-issue-800497553.aspx Fri, 29 Apr 2011 17:20:15 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/tips-on-saving-money-during-a-road-trip-800495264.aspx In the U.S., road trips are a time-honored summer vacation tradition, allowing people to easily explore the country and interact with people and cultures that differ from their own. Unfortunately, while road tripping used to be a cheap and easy vacation, the rising cost of gas may make many people unwilling to hit the roadways. However, Edmunds.com reports planning ahead can keep the cost of motoring vacation relatively low, and offers some simple tips for drivers interested in road-tripping.

Plan accommodations ahead of time

Before setting out, Edmunds says road trippers should map out their route—such as where they plan to stay and buy gas—especially if they won't have internet access on the road. Travelers should remember hotels located inside of large cities or near tourist areas are likely to be considerably more expensive than those in rural areas. For the lowest fares, travelers should look for hotels in towns that aren't served by an interstate.

Thrifty road trippers can also opt for camping instead of paying extra for a bed. According to the source, state and national parks usually allow campers for a low fee. However, like hotels, travelers may need to make reservations in advance to ensure they'll be able to find a space.

Travelers should also remember that like hotels, gas prices are significantly higher in urban and tourist areas, which include state and national parks. The website said mid-size cities usually have the lowest fares since competition there can drive prices even lower than rural service stations.

Make sure vehicle is running properly

On a road trip, the condition of a vehicle is key—no one wants to find themselves stranded on the side of a highway 1,000 miles from home. Vehicle owners should have all of the essentials, such as their oil, transmission fluid and coolant checked before hitting the road, reported the source. Drivers should also make sure their tires are properly inflated, as under-inflated tires can reduce mileage and pose some serious safety risks.

Incorporate hyper-miling techniques

Gas prices are killer, so naturally road trippers want to get as much from each gallon of fuel as possible. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, drivers can save fuel by cutting out aggressive driving such as rapid acceleration and braking. Observing the speed limit is also key to reducing gas consumption, as the government reports gas mileage rapidly decreases at speeds over 60 miles per hour.

Be fair with expenses

Traveling companions should set some ground rules before embarking on their road trip adventure, according to Edmunds. For instance, travelers should figure out how they plan on splitting expense before the trip so no one is suddenly surprised by a bill at the end of the journey. In groups of three or more, the website recommends charging expenses on a prepaid credit card or gift card, which can automatically set a monetary limit on travel costs.   http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/tips-on-saving-money-during-a-road-trip-800495264.aspx Thu, 28 Apr 2011 09:14:44 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/parents-can-use-smartphones-to-monitor-teen-driving-800485726.aspx Handing over the car keys to a new teen driver can be a proud - but nerve wracking - experience for parents. While even five years ago parents could do nothing but smile and tell their son or daughter to keep their eyes on the road, these days there are a number of devices and smartphone apps that can allow them to remotely monitor their teen's driving.

Smartphone devices

While the company Taser may be known as a nonlethal weapons manufacturer, Fast Company magazine reports it also produces an in-car tracking device called the Protector. The device can limit driving distractions by automatically locking a programmed smartphone once the vehicle's engine is switched on, preventing calls and text messages except to 911 and select numbers authorized by parents. The Protector sells for $249 on its website, plus a monthly subscription.

Allstate has created a new application for smartphones that will allow parents to keep in touch with their children. The Tag In application, which works on iPhone, Android and Blackberry phones, allows kids to send a simple message and GPS location saying they've arrived safely or are on their way home.

Speedbump, an Android-enabled smartphone application, can promote car safety by alerting parents if their child drives faster than a certain predetermined speed, according to the source. The application—which is more affordable at just $12.99 a month for automatic speed detection—can also give teens more freedom than the Protector since its tracking in only activated when a violation is detected.

Apple also offers an iPhone application known as the Safe Driver Program, which can allow users to document acceleration, braking, cornering, and speed. If something like a pre-set speed limit is violated, the program automatically sends a text message or email to parents, including information on the vehicle being used, time of the incident, and the actual violation.

Car cameras can record aggressive driving

There are also car monitoring devices available for families who don't have smartphones. For instance, one Wisconsin company is now offering a Teen Safe Driver Program that includes the installation of a camera capable of recording 20-second videos in and outside of the car during an aggressive driving event. The video would then be posted on the manufacturer DriverCam's website that can then alert the driver's parents of the incident.

How to prepare teens for the road

Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for U.S. teens, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which says eight teens are killed in a collision each day. The agency said safety programs such as the graduated driver licensing laws—which limit high-risk conditions such as driving at night or with other teen passengers for newly licensed drivers—are credited for decreasing the number of 16-and 17-year-old drivers involved in fatal crashes by 34 percent between 2004 and 2008.

The CDC said parents are key in instilling safe driving practices in their teens. To set a good example, the agency said parents should make sure to avoid talking on the phone, texting or driving without a seat belt when their teen is in the car to convey the message that those behaviors are unacceptable. They should also discuss the rules or the road with their teens and set solid consequences if they are broken.  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/parents-can-use-smartphones-to-monitor-teen-driving-800485726.aspx Fri, 15 Apr 2011 08:52:46 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/texas-may-increase-speed-limits-on-some-highways-800484705.aspx Some Texas highways may soon have the highest speed limit in the nation under legislation passed last week by the state's House of Representatives.

Support from lawmakers

The measure, which is part of a larger transportation bill, would increase the speed limit on designated lanes or some entire roadways from 80 to 85 miles per hour.
Representative Lois Kolkhorst, who introduced the bill, told the Associated Press that some European cities already have high-speed roadways that have proved to be efficient.

"Given the right engineering, we should consider it," Kolkhorst said. 

Representative Joe Picket also voiced his support for the move, telling the news source that it would make a difference for citizens who frequently drive long distances. Picket added that the state's Interstate 10 would be a perfect roadway for the change, because, "it's flat with a long line of sight, wide lanes and good shoulders."

The Texas Senate is also considering a similar bill, according to published reports.

Safety and vehicle hazards

However, some auto insurance companies and car safety advocates say raising the speed limit is a major safety concern. A driver is more likely to lose control of a vehicle if it is traveling at excessive speeds, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which said high speeds can also make it harder for a car to brake and can increase the severity of potential crash injuries. 

Jerry Johns, a spokesman for the Southwestern Insurance Information Service, told the AP that drivers already go over the speed limit and that increasing speeds could add to the state's motor vehicle death and injury rate.

"Any little hitch can cause an accident at that speed. There is still traffic on those roads, and to drive 85 mph is simply ludicrous," Johns said.

High-speed driving also reduces the fuel economy of a vehicle, something that can dramatically raise costs for motorists as gas prices hover around $4 a gallon. Fuel mileage decreases rapidly at speeds above 60 mph, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, which said that for every 5 mph a motorist drives above that speed is the equivalent of paying an extra 0.24 cents per gallon of gas.   http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/texas-may-increase-speed-limits-on-some-highways-800484705.aspx Thu, 14 Apr 2011 08:50:09 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/mercedes-benz-to-open-us-driving-school-800476216.aspx Soon teens may be flocking to driving school, if only to get the behind the wheel of a luxury automobile. Mercedes-Benz announced it is planning on opening a school for motorists in the U.S., adding a stylish alternative to a teen's usual driver's education options.

Courses for both new and seasoned drivers

While the company has not settled on the location or price of the course, the program is set to open its doors toward the end of this year. The curriculum will follow current graduated license guidelines, although Mercedes-Benz said instruction will also go beyond current curricula to provide a more challenging driver's education option for new motorists. However, prices may climb higher than traditional driving school programs, as teens will actually pilot Mercedes-Benz vehicles as part of the course.

Mercedes-Benz isn't the first high-end car company to offer instructional programs. BMW also has North American performance driving schools with various options for new teen drivers, experienced drivers looking to enhance their skills and motorcyclists interested in improving off-road performance. All programs are available in one- or two-day options, and range from $495 to more than $1,000.

More instruction can improve teen safety

These premium driving schools may offer an appealing way to convince teens to focus and prioritize safety when operating a vehicle. Car accidents are the leading cause of death for drivers between the ages of 16 and 19, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention, which said those drivers are four times more likely than older motorists to be involved in a collision. In 2009, more than 3,000 teens were killed in an auto accident and more than 350,000 were treated for injuries sustained in a crash.

Some lawmakers and advocacy groups have called for an increase in the driving age in an effort to minimize teen collisions. In Florida, lawmakers are considering a bill that would increase the age for a learner’s permit to 16 and solo driving to 17. Meanwhile, multiple U.S. senators have voiced their support for the STANDUP act, a piece of federal legislation that would increase the national driving age to 18. The law would create three stages of licensing for new drivers, with a learner's permit available to those 16 and older. An intermediate license, contingent on a safe driving record, would follow, while a full driver's license would not be available until age 18.

The CDC reports that teens who participate in a graduated driver licensing program are significantly less likely to be involved in a serious accident, so the courses could help lower a new driver's auto insurance rates. The program, which introduces participants to driving in a low-risk environment, is available in almost all U.S. states, and allows participants to receive a full driver's license by age 16, with restrictions until 18.   http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/mercedes-benz-to-open-us-driving-school-800476216.aspx Fri, 01 Apr 2011 10:04:51 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/traffic-congestion-reaches-pre-recession-levels-as-employment-rises-800472834.aspx As the job market improves slightly and the U.S. slowly pulls itself out of the grips of a recession, many Americans are finding themselves spending more and more time behind the wheel of their car. According to Forbes Magazine, a report from the latest National Traffic Scorecard has found that roads are becoming more congested - while commute times rise - as Americans get back to work.

The scorecard tracks congestion across the country using GPS data from commercial vehicles, reported the magazine. Rick Schuman, the scorecard's author, told the source that 75 of the nation's largest 100 metro areas had less traffic congestion in 2009 than they did in 2006. However, data showed that as the economy began to improve toward the end of 2009, traffic jams started to reach pre-recession levels.

"We've turned the clock back on congestion," he said.

Schuman added that traffic congestion is only likely to worsen as the country's unemployment level potentially drops.

"If jobs come back slowly, congestion will come back slowly. If employment snaps back, we'll be back on the old curve," he told the magazine.

The scorecard also found that the average travel time tax - the extra time added to a drive due to traffic - rose from 8 to 10 percent between August and October of 2009, corresponding with the beginning of the economic recovery.

Drivers in the Los Angeles area experience the worst traffic, reported the source, with major highways experiencing congestion for an average of 85 hours a week. The City of Angels was followed by New York City and Chicago, which were also the top three most-congested cities in last year's scorecard. While Los Angeles generally has the worst traffic, New York City's Cross-Bronx Expressway was the worst single traffic bottleneck in 2010, with Forbes reporting it was congested for about 94 hours - or almost four full days - each week where it meets the Bronx River Parkway.

While sitting in traffic is annoying, it may also have serious health effects on some drivers. A 2009 German study discovered that those stuck in heavy congestion were three times more likely to have a heart attack within an hour. Scientists believe that exposure to exhaust and air pollution from other cars, combined with a spike in stress levels, could be responsible for inducing a cardiac event.

With gas prices hovering near $4 a gallon in many parts of the country, sitting in traffic can also waste money. Americans spent an average of 34 hours a year stuck in traffic in 2009, according to the Texas Transportation Institute, burning through about $808 worth of fuel. Nationally, congestion costs Americans $87 billion that year.

To save fuel, experts recommend traveling in carpools if possible, which can significantly reduce the cost of gas per person. Making slight driving adjustments such as using a vehicle's cruise control system when possible and coasting to a stop instead of riding the brakes can expend less fuel. Resisting the urge to speed can also have financial benefits, as the Consumer Energy Center reports that a car loses fuel economy once it reaches speeds above 55 miles per hour.   http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/traffic-congestion-reaches-pre-recession-levels-as-employment-rises-800472834.aspx Tue, 29 Mar 2011 08:06:54 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/iihs-announces-top-safety-picks-for-2011-800436920.aspx Based on several crash tests, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety released its list of the safest car models in 2011, dividing the cars by categories that included small cars, mid-size SUVs and more.

Among the tests taken into consideration were a 40 mph frontal crash test, a side crash test that measures the durability of the vehicle's sides, a rollover rating, a bumper evaluation, and whether or not the car has electronic stability control.

Cars are given a rating of good, acceptable and poor, and to make their "Top Safety Pick" list, a vehicle must have a good score in all tests.

Among the highlighted safe cars this year were the Audi A3 and the Audi A3 sedan in the small car division, the Chrysler 200 and the Dodge Charger in the large car category and the Honda Element for small SUVs.

When buying a new car, finding a model that is safe and reliable is key for avoiding injury during a car accident. With IIHS's categorizing of these highly safe cars, it's easy to find one that suits your family's needs. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/iihs-announces-top-safety-picks-for-2011-800436920.aspx Tue, 01 Mar 2011 17:22:50 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/consumer-reports-names-favorite-2011-car-models-800436914.aspx In its annual report, Consumer Reports named what it thought were the best cars in ten different categories, picking from roughly 270 cars from six manufacturers and eight brands. Cars from Japan, the U.S., and South Korea were chosen.

Their choices, the organization says, were based on the road tests they conducted on each car, reliability based on their annual consumer auto survey and auto safety features.

Among the small car choices, the Hyundai Elantra won, with analysts citing its sleek appearance, fuel economy and emergency control. The Honda Fit won the Best Budget Car category, with 2011 models costing between $16,000 and $17,000.

Best Family SUV went to the Kia Sorento because of its fuel-efficient four-cylinder engine and its spacious interior. The Chevrolet Avalanche was named the Best Pickup Truck.

With categories that are aimed at different types of drivers, the annual Consumer Reports survey makes it easier for car buyers to find the car that will best suit their lifestyle. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/consumer-reports-names-favorite-2011-car-models-800436914.aspx Tue, 01 Mar 2011 17:16:04 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/man-shot-during-maryland-road-rage-incident-800435604.aspx A Maryland man faces a prison sentence after road rage led him to shoot another man.

A 25-year-old Maryland man has been charged with attempted murder following an episode of road rage that caused him to shoot another man in the elbow, reported the Baltimore Sun.

According to paper, police said the suspect and the victim had been at the same nightclub during the night of the incident. The altercation began when the men were getting into their vehicles outside of the establishment, which police told the paper transformed into an episode of road rage. SWAT team officers on patrol witnessed the fight and arrested the suspect in the parking lot adjacent to I-83 at about 3 a.m.

The suspect was charged with attempted murder, assault, reckless endangerment and handgun violations, reported the paper. Police spokesman Anthony Guglielmi told the newspaper the suspect did not seem to have any fear.

"He took a handgun into a bar without fear for the penalties," Guglielmi said.

Roadragers.com reports that road rage is when a person exhibits dangerous or violent behavior under the influence of heightened, aggressive emotions involving car use. Injuring another person, vehicle or object, or firing a weapon from an automobile all constitute road rage and can lead to jail time or - in the best case scenario - higher car insurance rates.   http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/man-shot-during-maryland-road-rage-incident-800435604.aspx Tue, 01 Mar 2011 10:26:11 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/steps-to-take-following-a-car-accident-800435538.aspx Car accidents happen unexpectedly, and can often place a driver in state of chaos and confusion. While it can be difficult to know how to react in a moment of fear - or blind fury - the website egmCarTech has offered some simple steps a driver should take immediately following a collision.

Immediately after a car accident, the driver should pull over their vehicle, check themselves and any passengers for injuries, and call the police to report the incident. Drivers should be sure to stay on the scene until police arrive and have taken their statement.

Motorists should also be sure to exchange information with the other driver involved, including contact information, license plate number and auto insurance details. However, the website warns drivers they should never immediately admit fault or discuss the details of the collision, as insurance companies will use information garnered from all parties to determine the cause of the accident.

For some extra security, drivers should take pictures of their own car, and each other’s, to have hard evidence of the damage that resulted from the collision.

Removing distractions such as cell phones, loud music or an overabundance of passengers can help a driver avoid a car accident, as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports 20 percent of traffic accidents in 2009 were caused by distracted driving.   http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/steps-to-take-following-a-car-accident-800435538.aspx Tue, 01 Mar 2011 10:10:05 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/two-teens-detained-following-road-rage-violence-800435486.aspx  One man was hospitalized and another two arrested following a New Jersey road rage incident that ended in violence, reported The Record.

The newspaper said officers responded to Route 23 North after receiving reports that two men had punched another driver, who sustained injuries from the assault. According to police, the incident began after one driver was tailgating, while the other slammed on its breaks to intentionally cause an accident.

"It was all stemming from a road rage incident that started on Newark Pompton Turnpike and ended up on Route 23 North," Sgt. James MacIntosh told the paper.

Police determined that the occupants of one vehicle - two North Jersey residents ages 19 and 15 - jumped out of their car while stopped in traffic and attacked the other driver, a 24-year-old man from Riverdale. The victim was transferred to a hospital for minor injuries, although the paper said police also charged him with reckless driving.

Tailgating is the most common outlet for road rage, reported the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, an action that can easily cause an accident and lead to more expensive car insurance rates.   http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/two-teens-detained-following-road-rage-violence-800435486.aspx Tue, 01 Mar 2011 09:57:08 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/oregon-highway-patrol-takes-tougher-stance-on-traffic-safety-800428859.aspx As part of the Three Flags Campaign, a statewide Oregon campaign that focuses on reducing the number of traffic fatalities on roads, police officers are being stricter about speeding, driving while impaired and wearing a seat belt.

Since early February, the Deschutes County Sheriff's Department says they have added three patrol cars to monitor drunk driving and 21 more that are cracking down on sea tbelt violations.

Since the start of the Three Flags Campaign, DCSD has arrested one impaired driver, issued two suspended driving citations, four citations to minors in possession of alcohol or drugs, and 70 tickets or warnings for seat belt violations and speeding citations.

Oregon has the third-highest rate of drivers who use their seat belts regularly, with 97 percent of front-seat drivers buckling up.

Oregon is not the only state with targeted traffic safety campaigns going on. In both Florida and Pennsylvania, highway patrol officers are increasing their efforts to fend off reckless driving. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/oregon-highway-patrol-takes-tougher-stance-on-traffic-safety-800428859.aspx Fri, 25 Feb 2011 10:12:41 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/south-carolina-highway-patrol-to-crack-down-on-speeding-800428708.aspx In an attempt to curb speeding-related car crashes, a grant from the South Carolina Department of Transportation will allow the South Carolina Highway Patrol to focus their energy on stretches of state highways that are particular susceptible to speeding, says SCnow.com.

The SCDOT analyzed crash data and identified the tracts of road where traffic injuries and fatalities are the most common, honing in on those areas as strategically important for their troopers, according to the local news site.

"The partnership established between SCDOT and SCDPS in recent years has resulted in a dramatic drop in highway fatalities. This latest initiative is aimed at keeping the momentum going and reducing high-speed crashes and deaths even more in 2011," transportation secretary H.B. "Buck" Limehouse told SCNow.com.

The site says speeding is the second leading cause of traffic fatalities in South Carolina.

In addition to speeding causing a higher risk of an accident or injury, multiple speeding tickets can impact your driving record and lead to higher car insurance premiums. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/south-carolina-highway-patrol-to-crack-down-on-speeding-800428708.aspx Fri, 25 Feb 2011 09:33:42 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/ohio-bill-would-ban-texting-while-driving-800428703.aspx Ohio Representatives Rex Damschroder and Nancy Garland proposed a new bill in the Ohio House that would put a statewide ban on sending or reading texts while driving, according to the Newark Advocate.

Under the law, police offers would be able to pull over drivers they saw texting while driving. Drivers caught doing so could be charged with a misdemeanor and charged a fine of up to $150, the paper says.

While Damschroder and Garland introduced the bill themselves, it was three high school students who approached Damschroder with the idea of the bill, according to the Advocate. The students attend Fremont Ross High School and are enrolled in the school's criminal justice program, and were working on a project called "Just Wait: Teens Against Texting and Driving."

"All you have to do is pick up the newspaper and you can read about incidents happening where motorists are killed due to other motorists engaging in this reckless activity," Damschroder told the paper.

As it is, some Ohio municipalities have similar laws, but many feel it is time for the state to have one, comprehensive ban on texting in cars. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/ohio-bill-would-ban-texting-while-driving-800428703.aspx Fri, 25 Feb 2011 09:30:49 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/author-and-psychiatrist-offers-ways-to-grapple-with-angry-emotions-800428684.aspx Author and psychiatrist, Dr. Judith Orloff, wrote an article for the Huffington Post in which she offered insights into extreme anger and daily habits people can use to deter those emotions on the road or in the office.

Orloff focused on the physical aspects of rage, noting when anger is not handled in a healthy way, the increased heart rate and surge of stress hormones can contribute to illnesses such as high blood pressure, chronic pain or irritable bowel syndrome.

One piece of advice she offered was to count to slowly ten when you sense yourself becoming angry, allowing yourself to "regroup" during the quiet, focused time.

In addition, Orloff wrote that addressing anger when you're in a hurry or when you're tired is a bad idea, as you will not be clear-headed during either time. Choose a moment when you're alert and not rushed to take on conflicts, she says.

One of the most common places for anger to get out of hand is while driving. Orloff's advice can be used to deter road rage, and in turn reduce your risk of a collision. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/author-and-psychiatrist-offers-ways-to-grapple-with-angry-emotions-800428684.aspx Fri, 25 Feb 2011 09:22:27 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/ford-fiesta-earns-international-accolades-for-safety-800424182.aspx Recently, the 2011 Ford Fiesta became the first vehicle of its kind to earn top ratings from crash testers in China, the U.S., Europe and Australia, the largest auto markets in the world, after earning a top rating from the China New Car Assessment Program.

The model is also the only car in its segment to receive the title of Top Safety Pick from the U.S. Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

The Michigan-based manufacturer says that much of the Fiesta's safety comes from its structure, over half of which is high-strength steel. The car also comes with driver knee and side impact airbags.

Its ratings have made it a popular car, as well: it's the best-selling small car in Europe, and has sold over 1 million models worldwide.

While the Fiesta has helped Ford's reputation as a safety-conscious company, its safety efforts in other areas has helped solidify this, as well. This past month, the company invested $1 million in a safety program for teen drivers called Driving Skills for Life. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/ford-fiesta-earns-international-accolades-for-safety-800424182.aspx Wed, 23 Feb 2011 14:49:40 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/florida-ghost-cars-to-help-highway-officers-spot-aggressive-driving-800424181.aspx The Port St. Lucie police department recently upgraded their car fleet to include two "ghost cars" that will help them crack down on aggressive driving more effectively, says TCPalm.com.

After receiving a state grant of over $150,000 for new or upgraded equipment, the department invested in two Dodge Chargers, which have no police markings, and are equipped with sirens on the inside of the car and very faint exterior decals to camouflage them on the highway, according to the local news site.

TCPalm.com says that the officers driving these cars will look for drivers who are speeding, ignoring red lights, tailgating or weaving in and out of traffic.

The site says that often, when an officer writes a ticket for aggressive driving instead to just speeding, judges will fine them a higher amount or make them take an aggressive driving course, the site points out.

Florida recently appeared on the National Transportation Safety Board's list of most wanted states for high traffic fatalities and lax highway safety laws. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/florida-ghost-cars-to-help-highway-officers-spot-aggressive-driving-800424181.aspx Wed, 23 Feb 2011 14:47:10 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/pennsylvania-troopers-to-crack-down-on-aggressive-driving-800424176.aspx Police officers in Pocono, Pennsylvania, have begun to target aggressive driving as part of a statewide initiative to cut down on reckless driving and road rage, according to the Pocono Record.

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation has given out a total of $2.1 million in grants to help individual municipalities put more officers on roads where there is a history of aggressive driving and accidents, the paper says. The "zero-tolerance campaign" will last through March 27.

Pocono received $2,000 in grants as part of the initiative, and the police department is beginning to target offenses like passing in a no-passing zone, running red lights and speeding. Officers have already arrested 26 impaired drivers and responded to 136 crashes, many of which resulted from aggressive driving, according to the Record.

"For people to see the departments out there not necessarily trying to penalize anyone, but really trying to let these people know that type of driving is unacceptable," Sean Brown, a spokesman for PennDOT's District 5, told the paper.

Earlier this year, Pennsylvania was given a failing grade by the Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety because of its lenient traffic safety laws. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/pennsylvania-troopers-to-crack-down-on-aggressive-driving-800424176.aspx Wed, 23 Feb 2011 14:44:01 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/driving-while-using-a-cell-phone-will-add-points-to-ny-drivers-licenses-800420216.aspx Though New York State already has a relatively comprehensive set of laws concerning driving while using handheld electronic devices, the penalties will now become even steeper, according to state officials.

The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles is enacting a new law that will add two points to a driver's license if they are caught driving while using a cell phone. The infraction has been reclassified as a moving violation, triggering the additional license points. Though hands-free devices are still approved, any device that may distract the driver by requiring manual activation is considered illegal.

In addition to the two points, drivers still face a fine of up to $100 for talking and $150 for texting while driving , plus up to $85 in surcharges and fees for both violations. The sole caveat to the law, according to the New York Department of Motor Vehicles is cell phone use "to call 911 or to contact medical, fire or police personnel about an emergency."

License points lead to increases in auto insurance premiums and, if a driver racks up a high tally, may even lead to license suspension in some areas.
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/driving-while-using-a-cell-phone-will-add-points-to-ny-drivers-licenses-800420216.aspx Tue, 22 Feb 2011 09:58:09 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/limousine-drivers-sad-to-see-town-car-go-800416295.aspx Many limousine drivers are saddened by the news that Lincoln has discontinued its Town Car line, according to Chicago Business.

"The Town Car has been the workhorse of our industry for as long as I can remember," Dale Schahczinski, general manager of O'Hare-Midway Limousine Service, told the news source.

Referring to the discontinuation as the "sad end of an era," Schahczinski told the paper that 80 of the 85 vehicles in his fleet are Lincoln Town Cars. Other limousine drivers and passengers lauded the Town Car for its spacious interior, comfortable upholstery and expansive trunk space.

The car's dependability will also be missed. Edward Douglas from Metropolitan Limousines told Chicago Business that he enjoyed the Town Car so much he purchased one for himself. Though his has 120,000 miles on it, he expects it to last much longer.

In the meantime, Ford is trying to come up with a comparable replacement for it to ease the concerns of livery drivers looking to buy cars. The crossover Lincoln MKT, which has now been tacked with the name "town car" to strike familiarity with limousine drivers, was recently unveiled as the vehicle's replacement, according to USA Today.
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/limousine-drivers-sad-to-see-town-car-go-800416295.aspx Sun, 20 Feb 2011 12:04:33 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/kansas-fog-causes-several-accidents-along-highways-800416285.aspx The Wichita, Kansas, area experienced dense fog that led to multiple accidents along many of its main stretches of highway, reported KSN-TV.

The city's temperatures have been climbing into the 60s and 70s, which early in the morning created poor driving visibility for south-central Kansas. The lowest visibility in the area was recorded at the local airport, KSN said, and measured one sixteenth of a mile.

However, along major interstates like I-235 and K-96, local officials suspected the visibility to be even closer to zero, which in turn caused many crashes, the station reported. Luckily, no one was seriously injured because of the accidents.

While the fog began to burn off later in the morning, the station reports, the city expected further light rain, which could mean more fog in the future.

The spring season brings a host of road hazards to drivers, from heavy fog and wet roads to pot holes and blinding sun. These conditions are a common cause of accidents that can lead to increased auto insurance premiums. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/kansas-fog-causes-several-accidents-along-highways-800416285.aspx Sun, 20 Feb 2011 11:22:54 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/proper-restraint-for-children-essential-in-reducing-risk-of-traffic-fatalities-800416283.aspx The Edwards Law Firm reminded parents that a leading cause of child death in car accidents is failure to restrain children in the car, and offered ways to make sure their children are properly protected.

Citing the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the firm said that nearly three out of four children are not adequately secured in cars, increasing the chance of infant and toddler death during a crash.

In every U.S. state, car safety regulations require children under the age of five to be put into a car seat, a law that 10 percent of parents still don't adhere to, despite evidence that shows car seats reduce injury risk.

The law firm noted that many parents choose to take their children out of car seats before they're five years old, which increases their risk of injury. Parents should also be sure to read the instruction manual before using a car seat.

The National Center for Statistics and Analysis found that 250,000 children are hurt in traffic accidents each year, and 2,000 are killed. That makes traffic fatalities the leading cause of death in children ages two through 14. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/proper-restraint-for-children-essential-in-reducing-risk-of-traffic-fatalities-800416283.aspx Sun, 20 Feb 2011 11:19:18 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/chicago-braces-for-onset-of-spring-potholes-800410499.aspx As Chicago looks forward to the start of warmer weather, road crews from the Chicago Department of Transportation are already starting to battle the potholes that spring brings each year.

Over the weekend, the CDOT received 100 reports of potholes from city drivers calling 311. That number increased to 400 with Monday's commuting. The city uses these 311 reports for the 20 road crews that are out on the roads each day trying to fill in the potholes.

The CDOT says they have already filled 84,100 potholes since the beginning of December, and they're planning on using weekend and overnight crews to keep up with driver reports.

"Every pothole reported to 311 is important to us, and will be repaired. 311 is a great tool that allows us to track the thousands of requests we receive ... When CDOT crews arrive to fill the 311-reported pothole, they also fill all the other potholes on the block," said Bobby Ware, commissioner of CDOT.

Potholes occur when streets freeze and then thaw, breaking up pieces of the road and leaving large holes. They're not always easy to see, and can lead to severe accidents, which may increase car insurance premiums. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/chicago-braces-for-onset-of-spring-potholes-800410499.aspx Wed, 16 Feb 2011 18:55:19 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/new-electric-vehicle-sensor-reduces-risk-of-shock-800407066.aspx Automotive supplier Continental recently unveiled a new product that will greatly reduce the risk of severe electric shock to emergency service workers who would come assist victims after an electric vehicle crash.

The new appliance is called evSAT and stands for "satellite for electronic vehicles," and employs an algorithm that detects collisions in the front, rear and sides of a vehicle. It also is able to sense when a vehicle has flipped.

evSAT then sends a signal to the battery management system that shuts off the high-voltage battery within half a second. Even when the vehicle is shut off, evSAT remains in standby mode to prevent the battery from discharging.


"The major benefit of our product is that it prevents fire and rescue service personnel sustaining high-voltage injuries when coming into contact with vehicle metal parts or if they have to cut through the vehicle to recover accident victims," says Dr. Axel Gessell, senior manager of platform development sensors and satellites for Continental.

The batteries in electric vehicles typically generate 400 watts of electricity, which is twice the amount generated by standard cars. A shock from such a battery could be fatal to crash assistance personnel in the event of an auto emergency.
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/new-electric-vehicle-sensor-reduces-risk-of-shock-800407066.aspx Tue, 15 Feb 2011 14:58:11 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/nhtsa-absolves-toyota-from-accusations-of-faulty-software-800407063.aspx After an intensive 10-month investigation, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has concluded that the unintended acceleration of Toyota cars reported by customers a year ago was not caused by any electronic defect in the cars.

When reports of unintended acceleration started occurring in 2007, some of which resulted in traffic fatalities, Toyota recalled 8 million cars for auto safety and spent $48.8 million in civil penalties.

The NHTSA collaborated with NASA engineers to examine all the aspects of Toyota electronics and software that could have led to unintended acceleration, like electromagnetic interference and software integrity. Their report says that, so far, the only known causes for the acceleration are sticking pedals and a design flaw wherein floor mats would catch the accelerator pedal.

While NHTSA concluded that nothing about Toyota's electric systems is defective, they are proposing regulations that would standardize keyless ignition and brake override systems

In 2010, automakers across the world made a record number of safety recalls, suggesting that Toyota was not the only company with such mechanical and design shortcomings.
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/nhtsa-absolves-toyota-from-accusations-of-faulty-software-800407063.aspx Tue, 15 Feb 2011 14:55:59 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/salt-lake-county-predicts-more-treacherous-potholes-than-usual-this-year-800407058.aspx The public services department of Salt Lake County, Utah, is predicting even deeper and more frequent potholes this spring than in previous years, according to the Salt Lake Tribune.

In January alone, the department filled 261 potholes, and is predicting they'll need to go back and fill in gaps in the upcoming months, the local paper reports, since colder weather means the asphalt mixture doesn't adhere as tightly.

"It seems like we've had a lot of freezing and thawing," public services director Doug Hill told the Tribune. This, he says, means that Salt Lake County drivers will likely see worse potholes than in previous, less erratic seasons.

While the potholes make for more dangerous driving, Hill says road crews are working as efficiently as possible to respond to notifications from drivers and residents.

Each year, as warm weather sets in and freezing water begins to thaw, asphalt disintegrates and leaves dangerous potholes. Potholes catch drivers off-guard, causing damage or an accident to raise their car insurance premiums.
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/salt-lake-county-predicts-more-treacherous-potholes-than-usual-this-year-800407058.aspx Tue, 15 Feb 2011 14:53:44 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/hydroplaning-is-dangerous-but-avoidable-consumer-reports-says-800407050.aspx Consumer Reports Magazine recently released a guide on how to reduce the risk of hydroplaning for drivers getting ready to hit the road in wet conditions.

Hydroplaning, which happens when a car's tires lose touch with the road because of water, can be prevented by avoiding standing water, they write. The far edges of the road are typically where water collects the most.

They also warn against driving too fast on wet roads. Driving faster greatly increases your chances of hydroplaning, the magazine says, so if you're driving through sheets of water, reduce your speed to well below the limit.

Another essential part of avoiding hydroplaning is making sure you're driving on the right tires. If you've been driving on the same tires for a long time, chances are that the grooves are worn down, giving them less traction and protection against hydroplaning. Consumer Reports recommends the Michelin HydroEdge and the Continental ProContact EcoPlus+ tires for their resistance treads.

Driving on wet roads, which are more common in the springtime, increases the chances of a serious accident caused by hydroplaning, which can in turn raise auto insurance premiums.
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/hydroplaning-is-dangerous-but-avoidable-consumer-reports-says-800407050.aspx Tue, 15 Feb 2011 14:50:20 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/utah-bill-aims-to-recover-fines-from-parking-violators-800405881.aspx It's too easy for some drivers to brush off paying for parking tickets, which is why the Utah state legislature has proposed a new bill that would allow the Department of Motor Vehicles to revoke the registration of any car that has at least four outstanding tickets, according to multiple reports.

There are more than 1,800 people in Salt Lake City alone who have unpaid parking tickets, adding up to about $1.5 million in unpaid fines. The bill’s sponsor, State Senator Stuart Reid, told ABC News too many state residents are "ignoring" the law without consequences.

"The municipality will have to notify [car owners] after the fourth ticket. And once they receive that notification they'll have 30 days to pay that ticket," Reid told the station.

The bill is currently being sent to the full Utah senate for consideration, the report said.

While a single parking ticket will not usually affect auto insurance rates , multiple unpaid tickets could lead to drivers license suspension in some states which would likely affect premiums.   http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/utah-bill-aims-to-recover-fines-from-parking-violators-800405881.aspx Tue, 15 Feb 2011 10:03:27 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/florida-ranks-among-the-countrys-worst-states-for-highway-safety-800404596.aspx The National Transportation Safety Board recently put Florida on its list of states that need the most improvement in their highway safety laws, says Wink News, a local TV news station in the Orlando area.

One of its most egregious offences to the NTSB was its lack of a booster seat law for children up to 8 years old. Florida is one of just three states that don't have such a law. And while Florida is one of the 19 states where a police officer can pull over a driver for a safety belt violation, the NTSB wants the state's enforcement of the law to be stricter.

Florida is also one of just 20 remaining states who have not yet enacted any form of restrictions on talking or texting on cell phones while driving. However, last year the Florida Highway Patrol passed a new policy for its troopers, forbidding them from using a cell phone without a hands-free device.

Despite safety concerns, Florida actually saw a decrease in traffic fatalities last year, with 133 fewer people dying on the roads than in 2009.

Florida, however, is not alone in its need to step up its highway safety legislation. The NTSB gave Pennsylvania a failing score on its driver safety laws for the second year in a row. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/florida-ranks-among-the-countrys-worst-states-for-highway-safety-800404596.aspx Mon, 14 Feb 2011 19:01:37 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/beach-towns-in-gulf-are-attractive-road-trip-locations-800396247.aspx For students interested in exploring nontraditional vacation spots, the Detroit Free Press recommends five beach towns around the Gulf of Mexico worth visiting on a spring break road trip.

First stop on the trip is Holly Beach, Louisiana, a small town in the western part of the state that was reduced to almost nothing after a series of hurricanes in 2005 and 2008. While the newspaper said the town is basically a few small streets, the beaches are wide, warm and perfect for a day of fun in the sun.

The other four locations can all be found in Texas. While the Lone Star state isn't typically associated with beach vacations, the paper said Crystal Beach, Galveston, Port Aransas and Padre Island National Seashore are all worth exploring. In Padre Island, tourist can see one of the longest stretches of undeveloped barrier reef in the world, reported the newspaper, which also said the area around the beach is still largely undeveloped.

Drivers preparing for a an extended road trip should check their vehicles' tire pressure, fluids and engine before setting off, all of which CNNMoney said can improve road safety in addition to fuel economy.
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/beach-towns-in-gulf-are-attractive-road-trip-locations-800396247.aspx Wed, 09 Feb 2011 17:43:02 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/nyc-continues-drive-for-low-traffic-fatality-rate-800396210.aspx Unprecedented efforts from the New York City Department of Transportation to research, isolate and target the causes of traffic fatalities appear to be maintaining the city's historically low traffic fatality rate, a new study says. The rate in 2010 was a quarter of the nationwide rate, new data shows.

According to the DOT, the 269 people killed in traffic accidents during 2010 was the second-lowest number of annual fatalities since it began keeping track in 1910. In 2009 there were just 258 traffic-related deaths, the city's record low. Since 2001, pedestrian deaths have decreased by 21 percent, and senior fatalities have fallen by 32 percent.

New York City still needs improvement in the area of motorcycle highway safety. The number of motorcycle deaths in 2010, in fact, accounted for most of the increase in all 2010's traffic deaths, with 10 more people dying in motorcycle crashes than in 2009. Though motorcycles account for just 2 percent of registered vehicles in New York City, says the DOT, 14 percent of traffic fatalities involve motorcycles. Close to half of those accidents are speeding-related, and bikers are 18 times more likely to die in a crash than car drivers.

The DOT has taken several actions over the past few years to study and prevent traffic fatalities, including the intensive Pedestrian Safety Study and Action Plan, which gathered crash data from 2004 through 2009.
The study found a driver's failure to yield was the cause of 27 percent of crashes wherein a pedestrian was seriously hurt or killed, and that 52 percent of traffic fatalities between 2005 and 2009 were pedestrians. In addition, crashes that happened during a left turn killed three times as many pedestrians than right-turn accidents did.

In addition to this study, the DOT has launched several campaign initiatives to raise public awareness of highway safety, including the "That's Why It's 30" campaign, which published poignant, catchy ads and billboards about why the 30 mph speed limit is important. The study showed that a pedestrian struck at 30 mph has an 80 percent chance of survival, as opposed to one struck at 40 mph, who has only a 30 percent chance.

In 2010, the "You The Man" campaign encouraged people to volunteer to be the designated driver among friends, and created ads targeted at men between the ages of 21 and 39, who account for 63 percent of alcohol-related crashes in the city.

But though the DOT praised its successes in preventing unnecessary traffic fatalities, they say their efforts are not yet finished.

"This historic era shows how far we've come on safety, but the statistics also bear a warning that we can't let up in our work to build safer streets. Too many crashes that take lives on our streets are still all-too avoidable and we need to do even more to prevent speeding, drunken driving, and simple failure to pay attention," says Commissioner Janette Sadik-Khan.

The DOT has plans for several pilot programs to increase traffic safety, including 20-mph speed limit test zones, re-engineering of several problematic intersections and a program to improve visibility at left-hand turns in Manhattan.

Their plans to improve highway safety are not alone. The National Transportation Safety Board recently announced new efforts to create a nationwide helmet law for motorcycle riders, an initiative preceded by such a law in North Carolina, where motorcycles account for 20 percent of traffic fatalities.
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/nyc-continues-drive-for-low-traffic-fatality-rate-800396210.aspx Wed, 09 Feb 2011 17:16:22 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/pennsylvania-auto-safety-laws-earn-low-score-for-second-year-in-a-row-800386174.aspx The Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety conducted their annual nationwide survey of driver safety laws, and, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer, gave Pennsylvania a "red light" score for the second year in a row, the lowest possible rating a state can achieve.

The survey bases its scores on whether or not state legislators have enacted auto safety laws including teen driving restrictions, texting bans and even booster seat requirements. According to the newspaper, states can earn a green light for good safety laws, a yellow light for mediocre ones, or a red light for bad legislation.

Pennsylvania legislators are now under pressure from safety advocacy groups to develop more stringent safety laws, like making the penalties for a seat belt offense more severe.
Judith Stone, executive director of AHAS, told the paper, "implementing a primary-enforcement seat-belt law" would save a state $46 million in Medicaid costs over ten years.

Pennsylvania has lagged behind other states' highway safety laws for two years, though state Representative Katherine M. Watson told the paper a law that would ban texting while driving had recently been introduced into the House. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/pennsylvania-auto-safety-laws-earn-low-score-for-second-year-in-a-row-800386174.aspx Fri, 04 Feb 2011 08:42:43 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/side-crash-tests-good-predictors-of-survivability-800366026.aspx Good ratings in side-impact crash testing are likely to translate directly into a higher chance of survivability, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety announced recently.

In a left-side crash, the organization said, the driver of a vehicle with a "good" safety rating is 70 percent less likely to die than the operator of one rated "poor," all else being equal.

IIHS chief research officer David Zuby said the results of a comparison between accident statistics and the institute's ratings were clear.

"This was our first look at how our ratings correlate with actual crash data since we started side tests in 2003, and the numbers confirm these are meaningful ratings. Vehicles with good side ratings provide occupants with far more protection than vehicles that do poorly in our test," he said.

Consumers interested in buying a new car should consult all available safety information when making their decision, experts say. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/side-crash-tests-good-predictors-of-survivability-800366026.aspx Wed, 26 Jan 2011 10:25:13 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/report-electric-car-batteries-need-some-care-and-attention-800365868.aspx The large lithium-ion batteries used to power the current generation of electric cars need to be handled correctly to extract the maximum amount of use from them, according to a report in the San Jose Mercury News.

Weather is one factor that can affect battery performance, scientist Sunil Chhaya told the newspaper.

"In general, a cold battery exhibits higher resistance to current flow, meaning that the same amount of power at the wheels will produce much larger amounts of heat inside the battery due to internal power dissipation. This generates localized heat and, while it warms up the batteries, it also accelerates their aging process," he said. Others told the Mercury News hard acceleration and improper charging could affect battery life.

In addition to maintenance issues, experts say the relatively low noise level from electric cars can pose a safety concern for pedestrians and cyclists used to being able to identify cars by sound. Safe driving habits in such vehicles require extra attention devoted to non-motorists on the road. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/report-electric-car-batteries-need-some-care-and-attention-800365868.aspx Wed, 26 Jan 2011 09:56:05 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/new-model-ford-focus-adds-teaching-software-for-eco-friendly-driving-800365851.aspx Changing some driving habits could keep motorists safer and help limit their environmental impact. Ford Focus owners will have a new tool for tracking those habits in the model's EcoMode program, the automaker announced in late January.

An engineer with Ford of Germany's core vehicle integration team, Thomas Schick, said driving habits make a huge difference to fuel economy.

"The foot of the driver has one of the biggest impacts on real-world fuel economy of a vehicle and was the starting point for the development of EcoMode. This is a useful tool that creates awareness between personal behavior and fuel consumption and offers up hints on how to improve. Applying those hints and recommendations is all up to the driver," he said.

In addition to fuel economy, safety is also highly dependent on the driver, experts say. Staying within the speed limit and paying close attention to road conditions are good habits to get into. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/new-model-ford-focus-adds-teaching-software-for-eco-friendly-driving-800365851.aspx Wed, 26 Jan 2011 09:52:47 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/new-laws-will-improve-vehicle-safety-during-rollover-accidents-800350047.aspx The U.S. Department of Transportation announced it is introducing a new rule for vehicle manufacturing aimed at decreasing the number of occupant ejections that occur during rollover crashes.

The new standard, which the department will begin phasing in during 2013, will require all car manufacturers to develop a countermeasure for light passenger vehicles that will prevent an unbelted adult from moving more than 4 inches past the side window during a crash. All new vehicles will be required by law to provide the protection by model year 2018.

"Rollover crashes are the deadliest of all crash types and this is another important step in our efforts to reduce fatalities and serious injuries that result from them,” said National Highway Traffic Safety Administration administrator David Strickland, who added the new standard will prevent approximately 373 fatalities and 476 serious injuries a year.

A precaution as simple as wearing a seat belt can drastically improve an individual's chances of surviving a serious car accident. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, wearing a seat belt can reduce the chance of dying in a vehicle collision by 45 percent.
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/new-laws-will-improve-vehicle-safety-during-rollover-accidents-800350047.aspx Tue, 18 Jan 2011 14:36:24 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/consumer-group-gives-ford-top-honors-for-brand-perception-800335071.aspx Until recently, homegrown cars didn't enjoy the best reputations for safety among the American public. A drastic shift the other way, however, is clearly happening, with Ford taking the top spot in Consumer Reports' annual survey rankings of car brands.

While Volvo maintained a tight hold on the safety rankings, Ford remained a clear second. Given that this category was rated far and away the most important by the survey respondents, the Detroit carmaker's performance must have gone a long way toward its victory overall.

Another strong second-place showing in the quality category helped Ford's performance, with their vehicles' reliability - and consequently lower auto insurance costs - proving popular with respondents.

In addition to posting a good result in the safety and quality categories, Fords were perceived as having the best value of any major brand sold in the U.S. by those polled, Consumer Reports said. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/consumer-group-gives-ford-top-honors-for-brand-perception-800335071.aspx Tue, 11 Jan 2011 09:38:34 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/device-shuts-off-cell-phone-features-to-reduce-distracted-driving-800325788.aspx Distracted driving resulting from cell phones and other electronic devices has been cited as causing many motor vehicle accidents each year.

Technology is stepping it up to help reverse the trend of cell phone use behind the wheel. A product called PhoneGuard can help keep texters in check as they drive.

The software turns off a phone's texting and emailing capabilities once speeds faster than 10 mph are reached. There is also a special feature for parents, which allows certain features to only work during designated periods of time.

There are a number of other cell phone tools and applications designed to produce similar results.

Cell phone use and distractions in general are a major problem in the country. Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration indicates 6,000 fatal motor vehicle accidents in 2008 occurred because of a distracted driver.

Motorists should use safe driving practices whenever they get behind the wheel. If software, such as PhoneGuard, isn't in use, the device should be turned or handed off to a passenger.
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/device-shuts-off-cell-phone-features-to-reduce-distracted-driving-800325788.aspx Wed, 05 Jan 2011 17:54:05 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/winter-driving-safety-feature-proposed-in-ohio-800325785.aspx Slick road conditions are making winter driving difficult for motorists in Ohio.

According to data from the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT), there have been more than 60 motor vehicle accidents involving snowplows so far this winter, already higher than what was recorded for the entire season last year.

To help reduce accidents, ODOT is considering using green flashing LED lights on top of snowplows to make them easier to see during storms.
The plows won't be outfitted with the new lights unless the incoming administration approves the proposal.

While green lights may be easier for motorists to see in traffic, not every community is going to have plows with the feature. However, using safe winter driving practices can help prevent accidents.

It's particularly important for motorists to leave additional space between vehicles during inclement weather should a sudden stop need to be made. Wintry conditions can also call for driving at speeds below the posted limit. Under some circumstances, it may be best not to drive at all.
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/winter-driving-safety-feature-proposed-in-ohio-800325785.aspx Wed, 05 Jan 2011 17:52:09 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/campaigns-confront-dangers-of-texting-while-driving-800325775.aspx Checking a text message only takes a second, but doing so while behind the wheel can have fatal consequences. Some cell phone service providers have created campaigns to help shed light on the dangers of texting while driving.

Phone service provider AT&T has created a 10 minute video highlighting the real life dangers of texting while driving. Eight individuals share stories on how someone's decision to use their cell phone while driving has permanently impacted their life.

AT&T global marketing officer and senior executive vice president Cathy Coughlin says the company feels it important to bring the hazards of text messaging while driving to attention.

"This documentary is a raw look at the reality and hazards of texting while driving, and we hope it will make wireless customers think twice before pulling out their cell phones in the driver's seat," says Coughlin.

AT&T started another campaign earlier this year, "It Can Wait," which gathered more than 21,600 pledges on Facebook.

Verizon Wireless has also created campaigns urging motorists to stop texting while driving. Earlier this year, the phone service provider teamed up with the Florida Highway Patrol for the "Danger Thumbs" initiative.

As with AT&T, Verizon's goal is to help consumers, particularly young motorists, realize reading or sending a text message while driving isn't worth the potential dangers the practice brings.
The campaign launched by Verizon brings the Florida Highway Patrol into driver's education classes in addition to featuring ads on billboards and brochures.

Verizon Wireless Florida region president Pam Tope says targeting young motorists will help ensure the roads are safer for travelers in the future.

"We're not picking on young people, but we definitely know how much they love to text," says Tope. "If we can promote safe habits while these drivers are young, it will be a good thing for all Floridians on our roads for many years to come."

Reaching out to young motorists is extremely important. Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reveals inexperienced drivers under the age of 20 are more likely than any other age group to be involved in a fatal accident involving a distracted motorist.

The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) also devised a campaign featuring videos to combat distracted driving. The "Faces of Distracted Driving" shares stories of young and old family members who have been victimized by distracted motorists.

USDOT Secretary Ray LaHood says the video sends a powerful message

"These videos are dramatic evidence that the lives lost to America's distracted driving epidemic aren't statistics. They're children, parents, neighbors, and friends," says LaHood.

Research has even shown using a hands-free device to talk on the phone still poses dangers to vehicle occupants on the road, highlighting the importance of avoiding phone use in any capacity while driving.

While cell phone use has garnered a great deal of attention, distractions for motorists can come in other forms. The NHTSA says GPS units and radio or CD players could also cause drivers to take their eyes and mind off the road.

It's important for motorists of all ages to always execute safe driving practices. The ramifications of poor driving range from minor accidents to higher auto insurance rates.

With all motorists’ combined efforts, fewer accidents to motor vehicle accidents and pedestrians can become a reality.
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/campaigns-confront-dangers-of-texting-while-driving-800325775.aspx Wed, 05 Jan 2011 17:48:01 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/proposed-cell-phone-ban-to-make-truckers-hang-up-800325744.aspx The U.S. Department of Transportation has proposed a ban on cell phone use for commercial truck and bus drivers.

A number of states have taken matters into their own hands and made phone use behind the wheel by motorists a punishable act. Regardless of whether a person is in their vehicle going to work or is a professional trucker, it's important to always use safe driving practices.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood says everyone is impacted when a motorists becomes distracted.

"Every time a commercial truck or bus driver takes his or her eyes off the road to use a cell phone, even for a few seconds, the driver places everyone around them at risk," says LaHood. "This proposed rule will go a long way toward keeping a driver's full attention focused on the road."

In addition to not using a cell phone while driving, motorists can be safer by wearing a seatbelt and looking twice before switching lanes on the highway. The simple actions can result in fewer accidents and lower auto insurance rates. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/proposed-cell-phone-ban-to-make-truckers-hang-up-800325744.aspx Wed, 05 Jan 2011 17:38:34 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/data-shows-costs-of-drunk-driving-800325739.aspx The consequences of drunk driving are costly and research from the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) reveals neglecting to buckle-up in addition to driving impaired has even stiffer ramifications.

Court fees, insurance costs and attorney expenses can run a motorist upwards of $19,000, according to IDOT.

Hospital expenses can increase for those who operate a vehicle impaired. IDOT data shows hospital fees for unbelted intoxicated motorists average $73,000 compared to $49,000 in accidents with drivers who are belted and sober.

IDOT secretary Gary Hannig says there are some consequences of impaired driving that a price tag can't be placed on.

"People who make the individual decision to drink and drive will face many costs they often can never repay," says Hannig."

In some states, convicted DUI offenders have to have an ignition interlock system installed in their vehicle. The device won't allow a vehicle to start if a driver fails a Breathalyzer test.

Motorists should always use safe driving practices and refrain from driving after having even one drink.  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/data-shows-costs-of-drunk-driving-800325739.aspx Wed, 05 Jan 2011 17:34:38 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/rear-end-collisions-most-common-accident-type-in-ohio-800325713.aspx Nearly a quarter of motor vehicle accidents in Ohio are the result of motorists following too closely, according to the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT).

In fact, ODOT statistics show more than 237,300 motor vehicle accidents between January and September of 2010 were caused by tailgating. The department is urging motorists to "look ahead" to help cut back on rear-end collisions.

ODOT also released several tips aimed at improving motorists' safe driving practices. The advice includes leaving a car lengths distance between vehicles, avoiding distractions and following the state law requiring motorists to have their headlights on whenever windshield wipers are in use.

Other safe driving tips include always coming to a complete stop at red lights and looking both ways before crossing an intersection.

It's also important for drivers and motor vehicle occupants to always wear a seatbelt, focus on the road, and avoid electronic devices or conservations.   http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/rear-end-collisions-most-common-accident-type-in-ohio-800325713.aspx Wed, 05 Jan 2011 17:25:44 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/south-carolina-roads-prove-fatal-during-holidays-800325701.aspx Christmas weekend proved to be a hazardous one for South Carolina motorists. Statistics from the state's Department of Public Safety (DPS) show there were 13 motor vehicle fatalities between December 23 and 26 of last year.

Data culled between December 24 and December 27 from the same department last year revealed only six motor vehicle deaths.

While the number of traffic deaths during the Christmas holiday period increased between 2009 and 2010, DPS data shows an overall decline in fatalities between the two years as of December 27, 2010.

An increase in deadly motor vehicle accidents between 2009 and 2010 was also noted in Pennsylvania. There were 11 fatalities during holiday celebrations in the state.

Motorists should always employ safe driving practices to help ensure the well-being of themselves and other vehicle occupants. It’s essential motorists never operate a vehicle while impaired and always wear a seatbelt  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/south-carolina-roads-prove-fatal-during-holidays-800325701.aspx Wed, 05 Jan 2011 17:23:20 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/holiday-motor-vehicle-fatalities-rise-in-pennsylvania-800325693.aspx The end-of-year holiday season provides much joy for many. However, some families experienced great loss in December due to motor vehicle accidents.

Between December 30, 2010 and January 2, 2011, 11 people were involved in fatal motor vehicle accidents in Pennsylvania, according to state police. A number of the deaths involved impaired motorists and unbelted passengers, highlighting the importance of using safe driving practices at all times.

Commissioner Frank Pawlowski does have some good news to report, however.

"Although the number of fatalities jumped from six to 11 compared to last year's holiday driving period, crashes decreased by nearly 39 percent and the number of people injured dropped almost 24 percent," says Pawlowski.

There have been a number of initiatives aimed at cracking down on impaired motorists during the holiday season as well as all year round. Such efforts include the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's "Buzzed driving is drunk driving" and "Drunk Driving. Over the Limit, Under Arrest" campaigns.  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/holiday-motor-vehicle-fatalities-rise-in-pennsylvania-800325693.aspx Wed, 05 Jan 2011 17:20:56 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/study-calls-for-variation-in-auto-crash-test-dummies-800323959.aspx A new study finds that obese drivers are more likely to die in a severe car accident, and calls on auto manufacturers to begin development of heavier crash test dummies to reduce that risk and improve driving safety.

According to the research, drivers who are moderately obese had a 21 percent greater risk of death in the event of a severe crash, while those classified as morbidly obese were 56 percent more likely to be killed.

The study, set to be printed in the American Journal of Emergency Medicine, also found that underweight or normal weight drivers were also more likely to be killed compared to people who were just slightly overweight.

"Crash test dummies ... are designed to represent normal-weight individuals," said Dr. Dietrich Jehle, professor of emergency medicine at the University at Buffalo School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. "If they represented our overweight American society, there could be further improvements in vehicle design that could decrease mortality."

The country's obesity rate has continued to rise in recent years. A report this year by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that more than one third of the U.S. population was classified as obese in 2008. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/study-calls-for-variation-in-auto-crash-test-dummies-800323959.aspx Wed, 05 Jan 2011 08:38:53 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/truckers-say-regulations-would-increase-aggressive-driving-800323929.aspx Trucking officials say efforts by the government to improve the safety and sleep habits of truck drivers would actually do more harm than good by making truckers more aggressive on the roads instead of promoting safe driving.

The proposed rules by the Department of Transportation's Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) would reduce the amount of time drivers could spend behind the wheel each day from 11 hours to 10, and drop the time frame in which they could complete those hours from 14 to 13.

The president of the American Trucking Associations (ATA) said the proposal was motivated by politics and not safety. In addition, the group said previous statements from the FMCSA said that eliminating the 11th hour of driving time would motivate new, inexperienced drivers to be more aggressive on the roads, leading to more accidents and higher auto insurance rates nationwide.

Data from the Department of Transportation has shown falling rates of crashes and injuries due to trucks and buses over the past few years. The Motor Carrier Safety Progress report shows a continuous decline in nearly every crash statistic since 2007. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/truckers-say-regulations-would-increase-aggressive-driving-800323929.aspx Wed, 05 Jan 2011 08:21:41 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/holidays-bring-increased-risk-of-drunken-driving-800308563.aspx Officials with Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) told the Columbus Telegram that driving safety is key during the holiday season, as many Americans will be attending parties where alcohol is served.

The group says that alcohol is cited as a contributing factor in roughly 52 percent of all deadly accidents on Christmas and 57 percent on New Years, the paper reports. At other times during the year, that ratio is 41 percent.

The source also says that in addition to the 1,200 people who may be killed in an alcohol-related crash this season, estimates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say that another 25,000 will be injured. The group says that drivers should avoid being on the roads overnight during the holidays, and always stay off the road if they've been drinking.

The government is also taking steps to crack down on drunk driving. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is now spearheading a "No Refusal" policy, in which a number of judges will always be available to quickly authorize blood tests for suspected drunk drivers who refuse a Breathalyser.  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/holidays-bring-increased-risk-of-drunken-driving-800308563.aspx Wed, 22 Dec 2010 21:13:02 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/the-great-hang-up-teaching-teens-to-put-down-their-cell-phones-while-driving-800308554.aspx An innovative exercise used by drivers' education classes in high schools near Tampa Bay, Florida forces teens to negotiate an obstacle course while being distracted by a cell phone and rowdy passengers, according to local television news outlet WTSP.

The station itself was involved in the creation of the program as part of the Great Hang-Up, an effort to teach safe driving habits to teens. WTSP said even more experienced teen drivers had difficulty passing the challenge without knocking over traffic cones.

The course was designed by Bruce Murakami, the founder of Safe Teen Driver, according to WTSP. Murakami's wife and daughter were killed in an accident caused by a reckless young motorist in 1998, the CBS affiliate added.

The local effort dovetails with broader national efforts to combat distracted driving. Although teens are frequently cited as the worst offenders in this area, recent studies have found that those in their middle to late 20s are even less responsible. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/the-great-hang-up-teaching-teens-to-put-down-their-cell-phones-while-driving-800308554.aspx Wed, 22 Dec 2010 20:57:58 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/illinois-motorists-urged-to-slow-down-in-wintry-conditions-800307875.aspx States across the country are prepared to handle wintry conditions. The Illinois State Police (ISP) has teamed up with the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) to keep streets as safe as possible during inclement weather.

IDOT says it takes a proactive approach to road safety by promptly clearing roads of snow and ice. However, ISP acting director Jonathon Monken says all motorists must take some responsibility while driving.

"Reducing speed, avoiding distractions, and practicing safe driving habits are crucial in the winter months," says Monken. "There is simply less room for error during inclement weather."

To help avoid getting into an accident, it's best for motorists to drive slower than normal. It takes more time for a vehicle to stop on a slick road. Furthermore, injuries and car damage are likely to be less severe if an accident occurs at a reduced speed.

Traveling should be avoided in extreme weather. It's a good idea to consult a news source before heading out if inclement conditions have been forecasted. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/illinois-motorists-urged-to-slow-down-in-wintry-conditions-800307875.aspx Wed, 22 Dec 2010 12:10:36 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/kentucky-fines-texting-motorists-800307044.aspx The New Year brings a slew of resolutions - and laws. Kentucky will kick off 2011 with a new regulation imposing fines on motorists caught texting while driving.

According to the Commonwealth of Kentucky, more than 57,000 motor vehicle accidents last year can be attributed to distracted drivers. Earlier this year, Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear signed a law prohibiting motorists under the age of 18 from using any electronic communication devices while behind the wheel. All motorists are prohibited from texting and driving.

State Transportation Secretary Mike Hancock says he thinks the new laws will make driving safer.

"We believe the law will encourage drivers to stay focused on the task at hand," says Hancock. "And with tighter provisions for those under 18, our new drivers will automatically be educated on this important safe driving practice."

Those who break the law by texting and driving may receive a $25 fine on the first offense and $50 thereafter.

Several other states nationwide have implemented similar regulations. Massachusetts, for example, has made the act of texting and driving a fineable offense.  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/kentucky-fines-texting-motorists-800307044.aspx Wed, 22 Dec 2010 09:53:11 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/motorists-reminded-to-slow-down-in-winter-weather-800307007.aspx Snow and ice are here to stay for several months. It's important for motor vehicle operators to adjust their driving to the elements.

The Insurance Information Institute (III) recommends motorists drive slowly to avoid the need to make sudden stops and accelerations. Roads covered with snow or ice are considerably more difficult to drive on than dry pavement.

III media relations vice president Michael Barry says motorists should also take care of their cars.

"Drivers should always keep their front and rear windshields clear, focus on operating their vehicle, and avoid speeding," says Barry. "But these safety measures are even more critical as motorists navigate windblown, icy and snow-covered roadways."

It's also advisable for motorists to check their auto insurance policies. The III says optional comprehensive coverage can be a good idea, especially where there is a likelihood of ice or a branch hitting a vehicle.

In some parts of the country, motorists are required to keep chains in their cars should they need to be placed on a vehicle's wheels. The extra traction can be helpful when driving on thick ice. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/motorists-reminded-to-slow-down-in-winter-weather-800307007.aspx Wed, 22 Dec 2010 09:45:35 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/consequences-of-impaired-driving-highlighted-800306971.aspx Safe driving practices have helped decrease the number of fatalities on the roads each year. According to the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT), the number of deaths from motor vehicle accidents involving an impaired driver has declined more than 30 percent since 2005.

However, even one death is too many. That is one of the reasons why MoDOT is reminding motorists not to drive impaired. The department says more than 280 people were killed last year because of an intoxicated motorist.

MoDOT safety director Leanna Depue says everyone needs to come together to stop impaired driving to save lives.
"Together, we remember," says Depue. "Together, we can make a difference by exercising personal responsibility and making the right choice - to drive sober."

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has launched multiple initiatives aimed at combating impaired driving. One, titled "buzzed driving is drunk driving," reminds motorists even one drink can impair their judgment behind the wheel.  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/consequences-of-impaired-driving-highlighted-800306971.aspx Wed, 22 Dec 2010 09:40:17 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/cars-and-bicyclists-told-to-share-the-roads-800306951.aspx Safe driving practices affect more than just other motorists. Cyclists, too, are dependent upon motor vehicle operators using good judgment.

Mississippi made it a law for motorists to make wise decisions when driving around bicyclists. In July of this year, the state passed a bill requiring motorists to allow at least 3 feet of distance between bicycle riders when passing.

Mississippi Department of Transportation executive director Larry Brown said the bill will increase safety for users of all modes of transportation.

"Passing this law will not only save lives but will also promote the importance of how critical it is for motorists to be aware of the danger of passing too closely to cyclists," he said

While it is important for drivers to play their part in keeping roads safe, bicyclists must do so as well. Those pedaling along the streets must make sure to wear a helmet and use appropriate handle signals when making turns. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/cars-and-bicyclists-told-to-share-the-roads-800306951.aspx Wed, 22 Dec 2010 09:37:05 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/safe-driving-tip-winterize-vehicles-800306926.aspx Frigid temperatures will be lingering throughout much of the country for the next few months. Motorists need to ensure their vehicles are prepared to operate in cold weather.

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) has tips for motorists to winterize vehicles. The advice includes ensuring wipers and lights are in working order. Tires should also be inspected to make sure the tread depth is sufficient.

PennDOT secretary Allen Biehler says inspecting a vehicle only takes a few minutes.

"One of the biggest risks that a driver can take is to venture out during the winter months without ensuring that their vehicle is properly prepared for the rigors of winter driving," says Biehler. "It takes less than 10 minutes to do a quick 'winter-ready' inspection of a vehicle and pack an emergency kit; two simple steps that will help keep drivers safe this winter."

In addition to winterizing a vehicle, motorists should also use safe driving practices for wintry conditions. Stopping on snowy roads takes longer than it does on a clear, dry day.  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/safe-driving-tip-winterize-vehicles-800306926.aspx Wed, 22 Dec 2010 09:31:11 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/safe-winter-driving-advice-800306884.aspx Winter weather can be a challenge, but there are steps drivers can take to successfully navigate the road. Rand McNally recently released a list of safe winter driving practices for motorists during the holiday season.
The company, known for maps and travel content, advises motorists to pay careful attention to weather advisories. There is a difference, Rand McNally notes, between the winter storm watches, warnings and advisories the National Weather Service issues.

Furthermore, the company urges drivers to leave plenty of distance between vehicles. It takes more time to stop with poor road conditions.

Rand McNally CEO Dave Muscatel says thinking ahead will help ensure a pleasurable trip.
"More than 60 percent of U.S. leisure travelers take road trips," says Muscatel. "Advanced planning and patience are the keys to traveling our roads safely, especially during inclement weather."

If conditions are too bad, it may be best to stay home. A happy holiday includes everyone staying safe. While traveling, leave extra time to account for slick roads and accidents. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/safe-winter-driving-advice-800306884.aspx Wed, 22 Dec 2010 09:21:18 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/impaired-driving-remains-a-major-problem-800296201.aspx Even with efforts to prevent impaired driving, some states reported an intoxicated motorists rate in excess of 20 percent last year, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

Wisconsin and North Dakota topped the list of states with impaired drivers.

Among motorists over the age of 16, 13.2 percent and 4.3 percent have driven under the influence of alcohol or drugs respectively within the past year.
SAMHSA administrator Pamela Hyde says the data shows too many people are making unwise decisions when it comes to impaired driving.

"Some progress has been made in reducing the levels of drunk and drugged driving through education, enhanced law enforcement and public outreach efforts," says Hyde. "However, the nation must continue to work to prevent this menace and confront these dangerous drivers in an aggressive way."

Drunk drivers claimed more than 11,000 lives in 2008, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Those who don't engage in safe driving practices put themselves and others in harm's way.  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/impaired-driving-remains-a-major-problem-800296201.aspx Thu, 16 Dec 2010 10:26:06 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/suv-bumpers-contribute-to-car-damage-in-collisions-800300255.aspx Being involved in a motor vehicle accident can be expensive. Repair costs and increased auto insurance rates can burn a hole in a person's wallet.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) says some repair costs are more expensive than they need to be if the accident involves an SUV. A study performed by the group looked at low-speed minor collisions between SUVs and cars.

The IIHS asserts damage to cars was higher when SUVs were involved because there aren't any federal bumper regulations for the larger vehicles.

"SUVs and cars share the road," says IIHS chief administrative officer Joe Nolan. "The problem is they don't share the same bumper rules, and consumers end up paying the price."

Car bumpers must be between 16 and 20 inches from the road, according to the IIHS, allowing them to absorb impact from an accident. Since SUVs don't have the same requirement, the bumpers don't always align.

How much a person's auto insurance premiums will increase after causing an accident varies depending on insurer and extent of damage. Using safe driving practices can help reduce the likelihood of a motorist being involved in a collision.
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/suv-bumpers-contribute-to-car-damage-in-collisions-800300255.aspx Thu, 09 Dec 2010 09:44:08 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/study-finds-many-motorists-are-texting-and-driving-800300256.aspx Numerous initiatives have been launched by many companies and organizations to combat distracted driving. However, recent research reveals the efforts aren't reaching all motorists.

A survey by the Insurance Research Council found more than 30 percent of motorists under the age of 24 admit to texting and driving within the past 30 days. Within the same time period, more than 40 percent of drivers between the ages of 25 and 39 admitted to the same behavior.

IRC senior vice president Elizabeth Sprinkel says something needs to be done to make people realize the dangers of distracted driving.
"These findings confirm that a large number of drivers are engaging in very dangerous behavior," says Sprinkel. "The need to find an effective response to this behavior is becoming increasingly clear."

Many states across the country have made it illegal to operate a vehicle while using a cell phone. In addition to not using a phone while driving, safe driving practices include wearing a seatbelt and following traffic signals.
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/study-finds-many-motorists-are-texting-and-driving-800300256.aspx Thu, 09 Dec 2010 09:40:45 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/nyc-looks-to-stop-drunk-driving-800300264.aspx New York City's police department and transit authority have teamed with musical entrepreneur Sean Combs and Ciroc vodka to promote public safety and stop drunk driving after New Year's festivities.

Combs proclaimed himself pleased to be participating in a statement.

"New York is the world's most iconic holiday destination, so I'm excited to lead by example to demonstrate that a smooth, sophisticated holiday season doesn't end when the ball drops, but when everyone gets home safely," the former rapper said.

The main part of the program is the distribution of "thousands" of gift cards containing up to $25 in value which can be used to pay for a cab ride, subway ticket, or even some livery car services, according to the statement.

New Year's safety should be one of the primary concerns of holiday revelers, and one of the easiest ways to stay out of danger is to not drive drunk or get in a car with a drunk driver.
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/nyc-looks-to-stop-drunk-driving-800300264.aspx Wed, 08 Dec 2010 14:03:46 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/wisconsin-motorists-face-fines-for-texting-while-driving-800300275.aspx Wisconsin has joined the expanding list of states banning texting while driving. There are currently 30 states with similar laws.

Motorists who don't abide by the law will find they've made a costly mistake. Officials can issue a citation for up to $400. Furthermore, a driver can be punished with four demerit points on their license.

Wisconsin State Patrol superintendent David Collins says patrols will be on the lookout for drivers breaking the law.
"All law enforcement officers hope that drivers realize the extreme danger of texting while driving and voluntarily comply with this new law," says Collins. "But if they don't, we're ready to take appropriate enforcement actions to prevent them from killing and injuring themselves and others."

Distracted driving is often associated with text messaging and cell phone use. However, grooming and changing the radio can also fall into this category. It's crucial that motorists use safe driving practices and keep their eyes and mind on the road while behind the wheel.
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/wisconsin-motorists-face-fines-for-texting-while-driving-800300275.aspx Wed, 08 Dec 2010 13:52:31 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/your-guide-to-driving-during-natural-disasters-800321783.aspx When the weather gets rough, one of the most important decisions you can make is to simply not drive. If that's not possible (if, say, you have to evacuate or a storm comes up while you're already on the road), knowing what to do could save your life.

The best thing to do depends on what the storm is. Here's a basic rundown:

Earthquakes

If you're driving, pull off to the side of the road. Don't stop on or under a bridge, or near power lines or road signs.

Flooding

More people drown in their cars than anywhere else during a flood. Don't drive through floodwaters. If you come to a flooded road, head back the way you came and figure out an alternate route.

Hail

Hail isn't usually life-threatening, but it can cause a lot of body damage to your car. If you can avoid driving through it, you obviously should. If you get caught in a hailstorm, pull over to the side of the road under an overpass or other shelter.

Hurricanes & Tornados

If you're driving when a hurricane or tornado hits, don't try to outrun it. Stop and get out of the car. Take cover in a building if you can. If there are no buildings nearby, lay facedown in a ditch, ravine, or other low area upwind of your car.

If you have to evacuate, know where you're going and keep track of where the storm is. Learn the best evacuation routes, and make sure there's a map in your car. (You might have to head through some unfamiliar areas.)

Lightning

As long as it's not a convertible or made of fiberglass, your car is probably a safe place to be during a lightning storm—and far safer than standing outside.

Wildfire

The most important thing to do if there are wildfires in your area is follow the directions of local officials. Make sure there's a map in the car in case you have to use an unfamiliar route to evacuate.  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/road-safety-news-and-tips/your-guide-to-driving-during-natural-disasters-800321783.aspx Fri, 04 Jun 2010 10:32:34