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Older Drivers
At age 78, Sheila thinks she’s a good driver, and she would like to stay that way. But lately, she has been in minor accidents. Sheila wonders how she can stay safe behind the wheel. Will taking a class for older drivers help?
You may have asked yourself this question, or maybe a family member or friend has asked about your driving. Getting older doesn’t make you a bad driver. But you should know there are changes that may affect driving skills over time.
Your Body
As you age, your joints may get stiff, and your muscles may weaken. This can make it harder to turn your head to look back, turn the steering wheel quickly, or brake safely.
What you can do:
•See your doctor if you think that pain or stiffness gets in the way of your driving.
•If possible, drive a car with automatic transmission, power steering, power brakes, and large mirrors.
•Be physically active or exercise to keep and even improve your strength and flexibility.
Your Vision
Your eyesight may change as you get older. At night, you may have trouble seeing things clearly. Glare can also be a problem—from oncoming headlights, street lights, or the sun. It might be harder to see people, things, and movements outside your direct line of sight. It may take you longer to read street or traffic signs or even recognize familiar places. Eye diseases, such as glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration, as well as some medicines, may also change your vision.
What you can do:
•Have your vision checked every 2 to 4 years if you are age 40 to 64 and every 1 to 2 years if you are 65 or older, as recommended by the American Academy of Ophthalmology. There are many vision problems your doctor can treat.
•Talk to your eye doctor if you can’t see well enough to drive because you have a cataract. You might need surgery to remove the cataract.
•If you need glasses to see far away while driving, make sure your prescription is correct. And always wear them when you are driving.
•Cut back on night driving if you are having trouble seeing in the dark.
Your Hearing
Your hearing may change, making it harder to notice horns, sirens, or noises from your own car. That can be a problem because these sounds warn you when you may need to pull over or get out of the way. It is important that you hear them.
What you can do:
•Have your hearing checked. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association recommends doing this every 3 years after age 50. Your doctor can treat some hearing problems.
•Get a hearing aid to help—don’t forget to use it when you drive.
•Try to keep the inside of the car as quiet as possible while driving.
•Pay attention to the warning lights on the dashboard. They may let you know when something is wrong with your car.
Your Reactions
In order to drive safely, you should be able to react quickly to other cars and people on the road. You need to be able to make decisions and to remember what to do. Being able to make quick decisions while driving is important so you can avoid accidents and stay safe. Changes over time might slow how fast you react. You may find that your reflexes are getting slower. Stiff joints or weak muscles can make it harder to move quickly. Your attention span may be shorter. Or, it might be harder for you to do two things at the same time.
What you can do:
•Leave more space between you and the car in front of you.
•Start braking early when you need to stop.
•Avoid high traffic areas when you can.
•If you must drive on a fast-moving highway, drive in the right-hand lane. Traffic moves more slowly there. This might give you more time to make safe driving decisions.
•Take a defensive driving course. AARP, American Automobile Association (AAA), or your car insurance company can help you find a class near you.
•Be aware of how your body and mind might be changing, and talk to your doctor about any concerns.
Your Health
Some health problems can make it harder for people of any age to drive safely. But other conditions that are more common as you get older can also make driving difficult. For example, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, and arthritis can interfere with your driving abilities. At some point, someone with health problems may feel that he or she is no longer a good driver and may decide to stop driving.
People with illnesses like Alzheimer’s disease (AD) or other types of dementia may forget how to drive safely. They also may forget how to find a familiar place like the grocery store or even home. In the early stages of AD, some people are able to keep driving safely for a while. But, as memory and decision-making skills worsen, driving will be affected. If you have dementia, you might not be able to tell that you are having driving problems. Family and friends may give you feedback about your driving. Doctors can help you decide whether it’s safe to keep driving.
What you can do:
•Tell a family member or your doctor if you become confused while driving.
Your Medications
Do you take any medicines that make you feel drowsy, lightheaded, or less alert than usual? Medications can have side effects. People tend to take more medicines as they age, so pay attention to how these drugs may affect your driving.
What you can do:
•Read the medicine labels carefully, and pay attention to any warnings.
•Make a list of all your medicines, and talk to a doctor or pharmacist about how they may affect your driving.
•Don’t drive if you feel lightheaded or drowsy.
Are You A Safe Driver?
Maybe you already know that driving at night, on the highway, or in bad weather is a problem for you. Older drivers can also have problems when yielding the right of way, turning (especially making left turns), changing lanes, passing, and using expressway ramps.
What you can do:
•When in doubt, don’t go out. Bad weather like rain or snow can make it hard for anyone to drive. Try to wait until the weather is better, or use buses, taxis, or other transportation services available in your community.
•Look for different routes that can help you avoid places where driving can be a problem. Left turns can be quite dangerous because you have to check so many things at the same time. You could plan routes to where you want to go so that you only need to make right turns.
•Have your driving skills checked. There are driving programs and clinics that can test your driving and also make suggestions about improving your driving skills.
•Update your driving skills by taking a driving refresher course. (Hint: Some car insurance companies may lower your bill when you pass this type of class.)
Showing posts with label age. Show all posts
Showing posts with label age. Show all posts
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Prescription 'Drugged Driving' a Growing Problem
As Americans get hooked on more and more prescription drugs, then clamor behind the wheel of their automobiles while dazed or sleepy, more auto accidents can't be far behind.
Turn on the TV, open a newspaper, or go online and you'll find the pharmaceutical industry is making a killing pushing pills. There are pills to wake you up, calm you down, get you excited, lower your blood pressure, ease your hypertension, and get you back to sleep again. While many of these prescription drugs do help with certain ailments, the side effects can be deadly when someone affected by these powerful drugs tries to drive. Many of these drugs cause a reduction in mental alertness and physical responsiveness, both of which are necessary to safely operate a motor vehicle.
Unlike drunk driving, which has definitive limits, and can measure blood alcohol levels, drugged driving has no limits to measure. If you're blood alcohol level is .008 or higher, you can be convicted of DUI, but there are no tests to determine improper levels of prescription drugs. There are so many different legal drugs legally prescribed, with each one having a different effect on the user, that it is very difficult to set legal limits. In addition, prescription drugs can linger in the system for days or even weeks, making it hard to determine when it is safe for the patient to return to the road.
How commonplace is driving while drugged? According the the National Highway and Safety Administration's 2007 National Roadside Survey, more than 16 percent of weekend, nighttime drivers tested positive for illegal, prescription or over-the-counter medication.
Lately more attention has been given to drugs other than alcohol, as law enforcement has begun to recognize the hazards it poses to traffic safety.
What Makes Drugged Driving Hazardous?
Drugs acting on the brain can alter perception, cognition, attention, balance, coordination, reaction time, and other faculties required for safe driving. The effects of specific drugs of abuse differ depending on their mechanisms of action, the amount consumed, the history of the user, and other factors.
Many medications (e.g., benzodiazepines and opiate analgesics) act on systems in the brain that could impair driving ability. In fact, many prescription drugs come with warnings against the operation of machinery -- including motor vehicles -- for a specified period of time after use. When prescription drugs are taken without medical supervision (i.e., when abused), impaired driving and other harmful reactions result.
Enforcement Lacking
Police and Highway Patrol personnel are trained to spot, test and arrest persons under the influence of alcohol, but people affected by prescription drugs are more difficult to prosecute. Breathalyzer tests will only show if the person has been drinking, even though the motorist's ability to drive is clearly compromised. With defense lawyers quick to point out that many of these drivers are taking legal medication, in proper doses that are prescribed by a doctor, police are reluctant to pursue punishment due to the ambiguity of the law.
Canada Gets Tough
Yet some countries are getting tougher. In 2008, Canada passed a drugged driving law which makes it illegal for drivers to drive under the influence of drugs, legal or not.
Prior to this legislation, police were allowed to ask drivers for a urine, blood or saliva sample if they were suspected of being under the influence of drugs. However, officers had to inform drivers that they were not obligated to take the test.
“There was no monitoring in place for us to make this demand at all,” said Toronto Police Sgt. Tim Burrows, “New ground has been broken.”
Under this new legislation, drivers suspected of drug use are taken to traffic services and tested by a specially trained drug recognition expert. The test involves looking at indicators such as pupil size, blood pressure and the ability of the driver to multi-task. The final part of the test is a bodily fluid swab test.
Those caught driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol will face at least a $1,000 fine for a first offense, a minimum of 30 days in jail for a second offense and 120 days in jail if they are caught a third time.
In the U.S., many states are starting to pass 'per se' laws, making it illegal to operate a motor vehicle if there is any detectable level of a prohibited drug, or its metabolites, in the driver's blood. Other state laws define "drugged driving" as driving when a drug "renders the driver incapable of driving safely" or "causes the driver to be impaired."
But, persuading a jury to convict someone of drugged driving is difficult, as it doesn't have the stigma that drunken driving has, thanks to the efforts of groups such as Mothers Against Drunk Driving.
"Because most people on the jury will also likely be taking prescription drugs for some ailment," said Douglas Gansler, the attorney general in Maryland, "whether it's Lipitor or allergy pills or whatever it might be, they might think, 'I don't want that to become criminal.'"
Sources: DrugFreeWorkplace.com, The New York Times, National Highway and Safety Administration.
Turn on the TV, open a newspaper, or go online and you'll find the pharmaceutical industry is making a killing pushing pills. There are pills to wake you up, calm you down, get you excited, lower your blood pressure, ease your hypertension, and get you back to sleep again. While many of these prescription drugs do help with certain ailments, the side effects can be deadly when someone affected by these powerful drugs tries to drive. Many of these drugs cause a reduction in mental alertness and physical responsiveness, both of which are necessary to safely operate a motor vehicle.
 |
| An accident caused by a drugged driver. |
How commonplace is driving while drugged? According the the National Highway and Safety Administration's 2007 National Roadside Survey, more than 16 percent of weekend, nighttime drivers tested positive for illegal, prescription or over-the-counter medication.
Lately more attention has been given to drugs other than alcohol, as law enforcement has begun to recognize the hazards it poses to traffic safety.
What Makes Drugged Driving Hazardous?
Drugs acting on the brain can alter perception, cognition, attention, balance, coordination, reaction time, and other faculties required for safe driving. The effects of specific drugs of abuse differ depending on their mechanisms of action, the amount consumed, the history of the user, and other factors.
Many medications (e.g., benzodiazepines and opiate analgesics) act on systems in the brain that could impair driving ability. In fact, many prescription drugs come with warnings against the operation of machinery -- including motor vehicles -- for a specified period of time after use. When prescription drugs are taken without medical supervision (i.e., when abused), impaired driving and other harmful reactions result.
Enforcement Lacking
Police and Highway Patrol personnel are trained to spot, test and arrest persons under the influence of alcohol, but people affected by prescription drugs are more difficult to prosecute. Breathalyzer tests will only show if the person has been drinking, even though the motorist's ability to drive is clearly compromised. With defense lawyers quick to point out that many of these drivers are taking legal medication, in proper doses that are prescribed by a doctor, police are reluctant to pursue punishment due to the ambiguity of the law.
Canada Gets Tough
Yet some countries are getting tougher. In 2008, Canada passed a drugged driving law which makes it illegal for drivers to drive under the influence of drugs, legal or not.
Prior to this legislation, police were allowed to ask drivers for a urine, blood or saliva sample if they were suspected of being under the influence of drugs. However, officers had to inform drivers that they were not obligated to take the test.
“There was no monitoring in place for us to make this demand at all,” said Toronto Police Sgt. Tim Burrows, “New ground has been broken.”
Under this new legislation, drivers suspected of drug use are taken to traffic services and tested by a specially trained drug recognition expert. The test involves looking at indicators such as pupil size, blood pressure and the ability of the driver to multi-task. The final part of the test is a bodily fluid swab test.
Those caught driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol will face at least a $1,000 fine for a first offense, a minimum of 30 days in jail for a second offense and 120 days in jail if they are caught a third time.
In the U.S., many states are starting to pass 'per se' laws, making it illegal to operate a motor vehicle if there is any detectable level of a prohibited drug, or its metabolites, in the driver's blood. Other state laws define "drugged driving" as driving when a drug "renders the driver incapable of driving safely" or "causes the driver to be impaired."
But, persuading a jury to convict someone of drugged driving is difficult, as it doesn't have the stigma that drunken driving has, thanks to the efforts of groups such as Mothers Against Drunk Driving.
"Because most people on the jury will also likely be taking prescription drugs for some ailment," said Douglas Gansler, the attorney general in Maryland, "whether it's Lipitor or allergy pills or whatever it might be, they might think, 'I don't want that to become criminal.'"
Sources: DrugFreeWorkplace.com, The New York Times, National Highway and Safety Administration.
Monday, July 19, 2010
Red Light Cameras Help Reduce Traffic Accidents
As more and more cities install cameras at busy intersections to catch drivers who run red lights, the debate rages as to how effective they are in reducing traffic accidents.
How Do Red Light Cameras Work?
Red light cameras are mounted at selected signalized intersections, and automatically photograph vehicles whose drivers run red lights. A red light camera system is connected to the traffic signal and to sensors that monitor traffic at the crosswalk or stop line. The camera is triggered by any vehicle entering the intersection above a preset minimum speed and following a specified time after the signal has turned red. Many red light camera programs provide motorists with grace periods up to 1/2 second, but it is up to each municipality to determine what grace period, if any, will be allowed. Cameras record the date, time of day, time elapsed since the beginning of the red signal, vehicle speed and license plate. Tickets are typically mailed to the registered owner, based on a review of the photographic evidence.
Effective Accident Reduction
Accident statistics support the contention that these cameras are effective in substantially reducing traffic accidents. Highway Safety Institute evaluations in Fairfax, Virginia and Oxnard, California, showed that camera enforcement reduced red-light-running violations by about 40 percent. In addition, this effectiveness carried over to other signalized intersections not equipped with red light cameras, indicating community-wide changes in driver behavior. An Institute evaluation of red light cameras in Philadelphia found that after red light violations were reduced by 36 percent following increased yellow signal timing, and the addition of red light cameras further reduced red light violations by 96 percent. In the Oxnard, Calif. study, injury crashes were reduced by 29 percent after red light cameras were in operation. Front-into-side collisions -- the crash type most closely associated with red light running -- were reduced by 32 percent overall, and front-to-side crashes resulting in injuries were reduced by 68 percent!
Success Rates of Red Light Cameras
New Orleans, LA -- Red light cameras led to an 85% drop in red light running and speed cameras led to an 84% drop in speeding.
Council Bluffs, IA -- 90% reduction in red light running crashes.
Washington, DC -- Red light running fatalities were reduced from 16 to 2 in the first two years of red light cameras.
Fairfax, VA -- 44% reduction in red light running crashes.
Oxnard, CA -- 22% reduction in red light crashes citywide.
New York City -- 34% reduction in red light violations.
Who is Responsible for the Ticket?
Each state has its own set of rules determining who is responsible for running a red light. 25 states currently have red light camera enforcement, and each has its own set of rules and limitations. In Washington state, which is one of the states that does, it is the registered owner's responsibility, whether or not they were driving the car. A ticket for running a red light can mean up to a $250 maximum fine, but does not go on the violator's driving record. It is treated like a parking ticket.
Red Light Cameras are Popular with the Public
A 2002 nationwide survey by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and conducted by the Gallup Organization found that 75 percent of drivers favored the use of red light cameras. a 1996 survey by the Insurance Research Council found that the highest support for red light cameras was in large cities, where 83 percent of respondents supported their use. There are opponents of this kind of enforcement, but so far its legality has stood up in court challenges.
References: Insurance Industry for Highway; National Highway Traffic Safety Administration; Wikipedia; National Campaign to Stop Red Light Running
Red light cameras are mounted at selected signalized intersections, and automatically photograph vehicles whose drivers run red lights. A red light camera system is connected to the traffic signal and to sensors that monitor traffic at the crosswalk or stop line. The camera is triggered by any vehicle entering the intersection above a preset minimum speed and following a specified time after the signal has turned red. Many red light camera programs provide motorists with grace periods up to 1/2 second, but it is up to each municipality to determine what grace period, if any, will be allowed. Cameras record the date, time of day, time elapsed since the beginning of the red signal, vehicle speed and license plate. Tickets are typically mailed to the registered owner, based on a review of the photographic evidence.
Effective Accident Reduction
Accident statistics support the contention that these cameras are effective in substantially reducing traffic accidents. Highway Safety Institute evaluations in Fairfax, Virginia and Oxnard, California, showed that camera enforcement reduced red-light-running violations by about 40 percent. In addition, this effectiveness carried over to other signalized intersections not equipped with red light cameras, indicating community-wide changes in driver behavior. An Institute evaluation of red light cameras in Philadelphia found that after red light violations were reduced by 36 percent following increased yellow signal timing, and the addition of red light cameras further reduced red light violations by 96 percent. In the Oxnard, Calif. study, injury crashes were reduced by 29 percent after red light cameras were in operation. Front-into-side collisions -- the crash type most closely associated with red light running -- were reduced by 32 percent overall, and front-to-side crashes resulting in injuries were reduced by 68 percent!
Success Rates of Red Light CamerasNew Orleans, LA -- Red light cameras led to an 85% drop in red light running and speed cameras led to an 84% drop in speeding.
Council Bluffs, IA -- 90% reduction in red light running crashes.
Washington, DC -- Red light running fatalities were reduced from 16 to 2 in the first two years of red light cameras.
Fairfax, VA -- 44% reduction in red light running crashes.
Oxnard, CA -- 22% reduction in red light crashes citywide.
New York City -- 34% reduction in red light violations.
Who is Responsible for the Ticket?
Each state has its own set of rules determining who is responsible for running a red light. 25 states currently have red light camera enforcement, and each has its own set of rules and limitations. In Washington state, which is one of the states that does, it is the registered owner's responsibility, whether or not they were driving the car. A ticket for running a red light can mean up to a $250 maximum fine, but does not go on the violator's driving record. It is treated like a parking ticket.
Red Light Cameras are Popular with the Public
A 2002 nationwide survey by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and conducted by the Gallup Organization found that 75 percent of drivers favored the use of red light cameras. a 1996 survey by the Insurance Research Council found that the highest support for red light cameras was in large cities, where 83 percent of respondents supported their use. There are opponents of this kind of enforcement, but so far its legality has stood up in court challenges.
References: Insurance Industry for Highway; National Highway Traffic Safety Administration; Wikipedia; National Campaign to Stop Red Light Running
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Driving Drowsy is as Dangerous as Driving Drunk
Nice summer weather and long days of sunshine mean putting the top down on the convertible and going out for nice long drives. It can also mean taking the family on a car vacation.But, before venturing out on the road, make sure you've had enough sleep. A recent poll found that 54 percent of Americans say they have driven drowsy at least once in the last year, while one quarter admit to doing so at least once a month. This can have very dangerous consequences.
A National Sleep Foundation survey revealed that a full 37 percent of the drivers they polled had actually fallen asleep at the wheel!
"Most people know the dangers of drinking and driving," says Troy Green of the American Automobile Association. "However, driving drowsy can be just as dangerous as driving drunk."Like drugs or alcohol, sleepiness slows reaction time, decreases awareness, impairs judgment and increases your risk of an accident. However, it is difficult to attribute crashes to sleepiness because there is no standardized test for drowsiness, like there is for intoxication. This lack of criteria for determining when a driver is too sleepy to drive may be one reason there is little or no police training in identifying drowsiness as a crash factor.
How many highway crashes are attributable to drowsiness?
Since police-reported crash data is unreliable due to the difficulty in detected fatigue or drowsiness, the accident reports tend to minimize the frequency of this. Based on police reports, about one percent of all crashes and about three percent of all fatal crashes are due to the driver falling asleep. The actual percentage is probably much higher, and some experts estimate that there are about 56,000 accidents involving a drowsy driver, and at least 1,500 deaths a year.
What are the warning signs of fatigue?
Failure to remember the last few miles driven; wandering or disconnected thoughts; difficulty focusing, keeping eyes open, keeping head up; drifting from lane; yawning repeatedly; tailgating or missing signs; jerking car back into the lane.
Get a good night's sleep before heading out on a long car trip; don't drive alone; schedule regular stops; avoid alcohol or medications that impair performance.
Experts also warn that old remedies such as opening a window or turning the music up in the car do not help a drowsy driver maintain alertness. It may temporarily wake them, but will not last more than a minute or two before drowsiness overcomes the mild stimulus.
The best idea when fatigue sets in is to pull over to the side of the road and take a brief (20 to 30 minute) nap, and then drink coffee or a cola drink to provide short-term alertness. Getting there a few minutes later is better than not getting there at all!
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
AAA Commends Delaware as it Becomes the 30th State to Prohibit Text Messaging While Driving
AAA is more than half way to the goal!
AAA Commends Delaware as it Becomes the 30th State to Prohibit Text Messaging While Driving
WASHINGTON, July 6 -- Nearly a dozen states have enacted texting while driving bans this year
WASHINGTON, July 6 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- AAA applauds Delaware on becoming the 30th state to outlaw text messaging by all drivers. Governor Jack Markell signed the bill into law today, making Delaware the 11th state in 2010 to ban text messaging while driving. Last September, AAA launched its campaign to pass texting bans in all 50 states.
"By passing a law banning texting while driving, Delaware continues the momentum in statehouses across the country in outlawing this dangerous form of driver distraction," said Robert L. Darbelnet, AAA president and CEO. "In the last two years alone, almost half of all states – 12 in 2009 and 11 this year – have enacted text messaging bans for all drivers. AAA is encouraged by the recent and rapid progress toward our campaign goal of passing texting bans in all 50 states.
"Too many people are being injured and killed in vehicle crashes that are preventable. AAA will continue to educate the public about the mental and physical distraction associated with text messaging while driving and continue to advocate for texting bans in states without such laws."
Delaware's new law also makes it illegal to talk on a handheld cell phone while driving. Delaware joins California, Connecticut, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Washington, and the District of Columbia in permitting drivers to talk on a cell phone only with a hands-free device.
"AAA Mid-Atlantic congratulates the Delaware Legislature and Governor Markell on the passage of this new law to combat distracted driving, and we commend their efforts to improve highway safety in the state of Delaware," said Don Gagnon, AAA Mid-Atlantic president and CEO. "AAA Mid-Atlantic has long advocated for comprehensive distracted driving legislation and this is a major step forward in combating texting and other distracted driving in Delaware."
Legislation to establish or improve an existing ban on text messaging while driving is currently being considered in the following states: California, New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania.
The following states and the District of Columbia now prohibit text messaging by all drivers: Alaska, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin and Wyoming. Delaware's law will become effective January 3, 2011. Delaware joins Georgia, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nebraska, Vermont, Wisconsin, and Wyoming in enacting text messaging bans for all drivers in 2010. The effective dates for those new laws are as follows:
WASHINGTON, July 6 --
Delaware – January 3, 2011
Georgia – July 1, 2010
Iowa – July 1, 2010; penalties effective July 1, 2011
Kansas – Effective immediately when signed on May 24; warning citations to be issued until January 1, 2011
Kentucky – Effective immediately when signed on April 15; penalties effective January 1, 2011
Massachusetts – October 1, 2010
Michigan – July 1, 2010
Nebraska – July 15, 2010
Vermont – Effective immediately when signed on June 1
Wisconsin – December 1, 2010
Wyoming – July 1, 2010
Read more: http://www.sunherald.com/2010/07/06/2311689_p2/aaa-commends-delaware-as-it-becomes.html#ixzz0swGYnN4G
AAA Commends Delaware as it Becomes the 30th State to Prohibit Text Messaging While Driving
WASHINGTON, July 6 -- Nearly a dozen states have enacted texting while driving bans this year
WASHINGTON, July 6 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- AAA applauds Delaware on becoming the 30th state to outlaw text messaging by all drivers. Governor Jack Markell signed the bill into law today, making Delaware the 11th state in 2010 to ban text messaging while driving. Last September, AAA launched its campaign to pass texting bans in all 50 states.
"By passing a law banning texting while driving, Delaware continues the momentum in statehouses across the country in outlawing this dangerous form of driver distraction," said Robert L. Darbelnet, AAA president and CEO. "In the last two years alone, almost half of all states – 12 in 2009 and 11 this year – have enacted text messaging bans for all drivers. AAA is encouraged by the recent and rapid progress toward our campaign goal of passing texting bans in all 50 states.
"Too many people are being injured and killed in vehicle crashes that are preventable. AAA will continue to educate the public about the mental and physical distraction associated with text messaging while driving and continue to advocate for texting bans in states without such laws."
Delaware's new law also makes it illegal to talk on a handheld cell phone while driving. Delaware joins California, Connecticut, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Washington, and the District of Columbia in permitting drivers to talk on a cell phone only with a hands-free device.
"AAA Mid-Atlantic congratulates the Delaware Legislature and Governor Markell on the passage of this new law to combat distracted driving, and we commend their efforts to improve highway safety in the state of Delaware," said Don Gagnon, AAA Mid-Atlantic president and CEO. "AAA Mid-Atlantic has long advocated for comprehensive distracted driving legislation and this is a major step forward in combating texting and other distracted driving in Delaware."
Legislation to establish or improve an existing ban on text messaging while driving is currently being considered in the following states: California, New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania.
The following states and the District of Columbia now prohibit text messaging by all drivers: Alaska, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin and Wyoming. Delaware's law will become effective January 3, 2011. Delaware joins Georgia, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nebraska, Vermont, Wisconsin, and Wyoming in enacting text messaging bans for all drivers in 2010. The effective dates for those new laws are as follows:
WASHINGTON, July 6 --
Delaware – January 3, 2011
Georgia – July 1, 2010
Iowa – July 1, 2010; penalties effective July 1, 2011
Kansas – Effective immediately when signed on May 24; warning citations to be issued until January 1, 2011
Kentucky – Effective immediately when signed on April 15; penalties effective January 1, 2011
Massachusetts – October 1, 2010
Michigan – July 1, 2010
Nebraska – July 15, 2010
Vermont – Effective immediately when signed on June 1
Wisconsin – December 1, 2010
Wyoming – July 1, 2010
Read more: http://www.sunherald.com/2010/07/06/2311689_p2/aaa-commends-delaware-as-it-becomes.html#ixzz0swGYnN4G
Monday, June 28, 2010
Tips for Saving Vacation Costs on the Road
Take some food and beverages with you. Put a cooler filled with water and other thirst-quenching beverages in the car with you. Bring some non-perishable snacks like granola bars or potato chips, too. That way everyone can keep hydrated and not hungry during the car ride. It saves you from a car full of grumpy passengers, cuts down on expensive restaurant meals, and allows you to reach your destination in less time.
Stick to a budget. If you haven't saved up for the vacation, it's not a good idea to run up your credit cards while on the trip. It may not seem like it at the time, but when you're paying big credit card bills each month for the rest of the year and beyond, it might keep you from having enough for the next vacation. Decide how much you can afford to spend, then live within that limit. If that means one less amusement park for the family, you can spend a day at the beach or at a nice park. Variety is the spice of life!
Save on gas. When you're travelling long distances by automobile, slow down a little. Even a small reduction in vehicle speed will mean rather substantial fuel savings. Driving 62 mph vs. 75 mph will reduce fuel consumption about 15 percent.
Have good tires. Keep tire pressure at the manufacturer's recommended level. Over- or under-inflated tires will reduce your gas mileage, and will wear out your tires much faster. A single tire, underinflated by 2 pounds per sq. inch, increases fuel consumption 1 percent. Worn tires are more prone to blow-outs or flats, causing delays on your trip.
Use air conditioning sparingly. If it's not hot, roll down the windows or just have the fan on. Air conditioning is a drag on your engine and reduces fuel efficiency.
Service your car before the trip. Regular maintenance helps fuel economy, and adds to engine life. Dirty fuel filters, air filters and low fluid levels can make your engine labor unnecessarily, and could mean breakdowns in remote, unfamiliar areas.
Travel light. The heavier your car is weighted down, the more gas you will use. Pack as light as possible, and avoid dragging trailers behind your car if possible. This can reduce fuel efficiency by more than 25%.
By doing a little pre-trip planning, you can avoid a lot of problems while on the road. Happy motoring!
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
New Cellphone Law May Not Reduce Accidents
A new law went on the books that makes using a handheld cellphone a primary offense while driving. If you get a ticket, it won't become part of your driver's permanent record or be reported to your insurance company, but it's gonna cost you. The fine is $124 for texting or talking without a headset.
If you're under 18, the law is even tougher. You can't use a cellphone at all, even with a hands-free device, while behind the wheel.
There are some exemptions, such as transit and emergency vehicle personnel, tow truck operators and drivers with hearing aids. And if you're calling or texting to report illegal activity or summon emergency help, you will not be cited.
With distracted drivers causing more and more accidents, legislators are trying to crack down on the distractions. But does this new law actually help make the roads safer? Surprisingly, lots of research says no. Many drivers have invested in expensive hands-free devices such as Bluetooth headsets, but many researchers are saying that the problem is not that your hands are busy, but that your mind is distracted when talking on the phone.
"It's a 'feel-good law'. It makes people think we're trying to do something to address the problem," says professor David Strayer, of the University of Utah's psychology department.
He has been involved with the research that shows that cellphone-using drivers can be just as impaired as drunken drivers. And he's not alone in that conclusion. Other research institutions, notably the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, as well as a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine show that there is no difference in driver impairment between talking while holding the phone and a hands-free device.
When driving and talking at the same time, the brain gets overloaded with processing information, and the chances for an accident in that situation are many times greater.
So, before you go out and buy an expensive hands-free device, keep in mind the safest thing to do while driving is to keep both hands on the wheel and your mind focused on the road ahead.
If you're under 18, the law is even tougher. You can't use a cellphone at all, even with a hands-free device, while behind the wheel.
There are some exemptions, such as transit and emergency vehicle personnel, tow truck operators and drivers with hearing aids. And if you're calling or texting to report illegal activity or summon emergency help, you will not be cited.
With distracted drivers causing more and more accidents, legislators are trying to crack down on the distractions. But does this new law actually help make the roads safer? Surprisingly, lots of research says no. Many drivers have invested in expensive hands-free devices such as Bluetooth headsets, but many researchers are saying that the problem is not that your hands are busy, but that your mind is distracted when talking on the phone.
"It's a 'feel-good law'. It makes people think we're trying to do something to address the problem," says professor David Strayer, of the University of Utah's psychology department.
He has been involved with the research that shows that cellphone-using drivers can be just as impaired as drunken drivers. And he's not alone in that conclusion. Other research institutions, notably the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, as well as a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine show that there is no difference in driver impairment between talking while holding the phone and a hands-free device.
When driving and talking at the same time, the brain gets overloaded with processing information, and the chances for an accident in that situation are many times greater.
So, before you go out and buy an expensive hands-free device, keep in mind the safest thing to do while driving is to keep both hands on the wheel and your mind focused on the road ahead.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
SAV-ON Records Third Straight Month of Incredible PEMCO Policy Sales
After establishing a new record of 84 new policies in March, SAV-ON obliterated that total, writing 111 policies in April. Continuing that torrid pace, they wrote 85 policies in May, for a total of 280 policies in three months! (These counts include not only auto insurance, but all lines of business that PEMCO insures.)
"We've been amazed at the number of PEMCO policies that SAV-ON has sold, and we hope they're able to continue this trend," said PEMCO Community Agent Supervisor Steve Milliren. "I can't say enough about the commitment, the loyalty, and the direction of the SAV-ON leaders, as well as the fantastic work done by their dedicated front-line staff. With their help, we're moving closer to meeting our customer growth goal."In appreciation of SAV-ON's exceptional work, PEMCO sent balloons and congratulations to all the SAV-ON offices. They also treated SAV-ON employees to a Sounders FC soccer game on June 10th in an executive suite at Qwest Field, complete with catered food and beverages. In addition, each SAV-ON Insurance office will get a PEMCO lunch at the restaurant of their choosing!
"Our ultimate goal is to sell policies in the triple digits for PEMCO each month," Phil states. "We have a strong sales team, and we're excited about selling PEMCO policies. We really appreciate our partnership and the way PEMCO has helped us reach these heights."June already has the makings of another big month, which would add to the lofty sales figures for a fourth straight month. With a dedicated team, and good, low rates from a terrific insurance company, who knows how long this could continue?
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Why Choose an Independent Insurance Agent?
Some people think it doesn't really matter where they buy their insurance. But this misconception could be costing them money, service and protection. Buying insurance isn't like buying bread or milk. Insurance is an important safety net for your family, your home, your car or your business. Don't treat the purchase lightly!
There is a difference in where you buy your protection. Many people don't realize there are three sources for insurance:
•Captive Agents, who can sell you the insurance of only one company.
•Telephone Representatives, who can offer you the insurance of one company, and only on the telephone.
•Independent Insurance Agents, who represent an average of eight insurance companies, and research with these firms to find you the best combination of price, coverage and service.
Your Independent Insurance Agent:
•Is a licensed professional with strong customer and community ties.
•Gives you excellent service and competitive prices because your agent can access the insurance coverage from more than one company.
•Unlike other agents, is not beholden to any one company; thus, you don't need to change agencies as your insurance and service needs change.
•Assists you when you have a claim.
•Is your consultant, working with you as you determine your needs.
•Offers you a choice of insurance plans and programs.
•Is a value hunter who looks after your pocketbook in finding the best combination of price, coverage and service.
•Offers one-stop shopping for a full range of products-home, renters, auto, business, life and health.
•Can periodically review your coverage to keep up with your changing insurance needs.
•Treats you like a person, not just another number.
•Customer satisfaction is the key to an independent agent's livelihood. So, serving you is your independent agent's most-important concern.
There Is A Difference !
Compliments of the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of Washington
There is a difference in where you buy your protection. Many people don't realize there are three sources for insurance:
•Captive Agents, who can sell you the insurance of only one company.
•Telephone Representatives, who can offer you the insurance of one company, and only on the telephone.
•Independent Insurance Agents, who represent an average of eight insurance companies, and research with these firms to find you the best combination of price, coverage and service.
Your Independent Insurance Agent:
•Is a licensed professional with strong customer and community ties.
•Gives you excellent service and competitive prices because your agent can access the insurance coverage from more than one company.
•Unlike other agents, is not beholden to any one company; thus, you don't need to change agencies as your insurance and service needs change.
•Assists you when you have a claim.
•Is your consultant, working with you as you determine your needs.
•Offers you a choice of insurance plans and programs.
•Is a value hunter who looks after your pocketbook in finding the best combination of price, coverage and service.
•Offers one-stop shopping for a full range of products-home, renters, auto, business, life and health.
•Can periodically review your coverage to keep up with your changing insurance needs.
•Treats you like a person, not just another number.
•Customer satisfaction is the key to an independent agent's livelihood. So, serving you is your independent agent's most-important concern.
There Is A Difference !
Compliments of the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of Washington
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Washington State intends on running its own temporary federally funded High risk Health Insurance Program
We here at Sav-on like to help spread the word regarding Insurance related news affecting the Pacific North West. This was a news release sent out by Washington State Insurance Commissioner's Office.
OLYMPIA, Wash. – Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler and Gov. Chris Gregoire have notified Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius that Washington state intends to run its own temporary, federally-funded high risk health insurance program.
“We cannot afford to miss this opportunity to provide much needed coverage to our uninsured,” said Kreidler. “There are many details that need to be worked out, but we plan to leverage the administrative framework and experience of the Washington State Health Insurance Program (WSHIP).”
The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act designated $5 billion in federal funds to create temporary high risk pool programs to provide health insurance to currently uninsured individuals with preexisting conditions from July 1, 2010 to Jan. 1, 2014. States could either let the federal government run the program or contract with the federal government to set up the high risk pools through state programs or private non-profit entities.
“Signaling our intent to run the new program ourselves is the first step in the process,” said Kreidler. “We expect to receive more details before formal applications are due at the end of May.”
Under the new law, there are specific requirements for the high risk pools regarding eligibility, benefits, and funding. For instance, participants must:
■be a citizen or national of the U.S. or lawfully reside in the U.S.,
■must have been uninsured for at least six months,
■and must have a preexisting health condition.
“Many of the details regarding benefits still need to be determined, but once the formal application has been made we intend to hold a public meeting to share information about the new program,” added Kreidler.
OLYMPIA, Wash. – Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler and Gov. Chris Gregoire have notified Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius that Washington state intends to run its own temporary, federally-funded high risk health insurance program.
“We cannot afford to miss this opportunity to provide much needed coverage to our uninsured,” said Kreidler. “There are many details that need to be worked out, but we plan to leverage the administrative framework and experience of the Washington State Health Insurance Program (WSHIP).”
The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act designated $5 billion in federal funds to create temporary high risk pool programs to provide health insurance to currently uninsured individuals with preexisting conditions from July 1, 2010 to Jan. 1, 2014. States could either let the federal government run the program or contract with the federal government to set up the high risk pools through state programs or private non-profit entities.
“Signaling our intent to run the new program ourselves is the first step in the process,” said Kreidler. “We expect to receive more details before formal applications are due at the end of May.”
Under the new law, there are specific requirements for the high risk pools regarding eligibility, benefits, and funding. For instance, participants must:
■be a citizen or national of the U.S. or lawfully reside in the U.S.,
■must have been uninsured for at least six months,
■and must have a preexisting health condition.
“Many of the details regarding benefits still need to be determined, but once the formal application has been made we intend to hold a public meeting to share information about the new program,” added Kreidler.
Monday, May 17, 2010
Her Last Call Was From a Cell Phone
Cell phone use is a dangerous practice and many states -- including Washington -- have outlawed the use of a hand-held cell phone. Why? Because a distracted driver is a danger to themselves and everyone on the road.The photos you see are of a deadly crash between a speeding motorcycle and a compact car. The woman driving the VW was talking on her cell phone when she pulled out from a side street, apparently not seeing the speeding motorcycle racing towards her.
The Volkswagen actually flipped over from the force of the impact and landed 20 feet from where the collision took place.
This graphic wreck was displayed at at motorcycle show by the police, in order to remind people what can happen when a driver is distracted while talking on a cell phone.
Monday, May 10, 2010
40% of Workplace Fatalities are Transportation Related
Transportation incidents continue to be the No. 1 cause of on-the job deaths, a trend that has been the case since 1992, according to the American Society of Safety Engineers' (ASSE). In fact, in 2008, 40 percent of all workplace fatalities were transportation related, the association noted.
"These crashes are preventable. With roadway construction up and the summer travel season just around the corner we must all do our part to prevent roadway crashes," said Portland, Oregon's Lee Briney, ASSE Columbia-Willamette Chapter President. "What is stunning is that the overall price tag for transportation crashes in the U.S. each year is $170 billion dollars (NHTSA) and we all end up paying for it. Those costs represent about $1,000 per person each year for property damage (streets, lampposts, guardrails, emergency services, court costs, insurance administration and much more). This figure doesn't take into account the extreme grief caused by the loss of a loved one. There is no way to calculate that cost."
Briney recently met with several trucking, state and federal officials to discuss the high, tangible and intangible costs of car crashes . She joined several officials including ASSE's David Parsons, Oregon's May Trucking Company Senior Vice President David R. Jostad, Oregon Department of Transportation's Motor Carrier Division's Investigative/Safety/Federal Programs Department Head David McKane, Jubitz Travel Center COO Mark Gram and Sgt. John Naccarato of the Clackamus, Ore., police department, to address this issue.
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Briney went on to note that businesses alone pay about $60 billion per year in medical care, legal expenses, property damages, lost productivity and increased workers' compensation, social security, and private health and disability insurance costs as well as for the administration of all these programs. The average vehicle crash cost to an employer, according to the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), is $16,500. When a worker is involved in an on-the-job crash with injuries the cost to the employer is $74,000. Costs can exceed $500,000 when a fatality is involved -- many times the employees did not cause these accidents, they were the victims.
A recent Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) report estimates that the cost of a police-reported crash involving trucks with a gross weight rating of more than 10,000 pounds averaged $91,112; a crash with trucks with two or three trailers involved were the rarest, but their cost was $289,549. The cost per nonfatal injury crash averaged $195,258 and fatal crashes cost an estimated $3,604,518 per crash.
"Many businesses have driver safety programs that protect their workers," Briney said. These programs not only make good business sense but also help reduce the risks faced by employees and their families while protecting the bottom line."
Those programs include: garnering senior management commitment and employee involvement; developing written policies and procedures (including seat belt use); regularly checking the safety of the motor vehicles; crash reporting and investigation; vehicle selection, maintenance and inspection; driver training and communication; not requiring workers to drive irregular hours or far beyond their normal working hours; developing work schedules that allow employees to obey speed limits and to follow applicable hours-of-service regulations; enforcing mandatory seat belt use; and banning cell phone use or texting while driving; not allowing employees to conduct work while driving, and more.
Safety professionals also provide information on:
•Securing materials for transport. L oose objects can slide around or come out of the vehicle and become airborne;
•Requiring seat belt use. Each year seatbelts save more than 12,000 lives and prevent 325,000 serious injuries;
•Distracted driving is a factor in 25 percent to 30 percent of all traffic crashes;
•Driving under the influence. DUIs are involved in 40 percent of all fatal crashes;
•Fatigued driving causes about 100,000 crashes a year;
•Aggressive driving -- speeding, tailgating, failure to signal, and running a red light -- can be deadly;
•Young drivers. Under federal law 16-year-old workers are not allowed to drive as part of their job;
•17-year-olds may drive for work but only under strictly limited circumstances. Some state laws may be more restrictive.
Founded in 1911, the Des Plaines, Ill.-based ASSE is a professional safety organization and is committed to protecting people, property and the environment. Its more than 32,000 occupational safety, health and environmental professional members lead, manage, supervise, research and consult on safety, health, transportation and environmental issues in all industries, government, labor, health care and education.
"These crashes are preventable. With roadway construction up and the summer travel season just around the corner we must all do our part to prevent roadway crashes," said Portland, Oregon's Lee Briney, ASSE Columbia-Willamette Chapter President. "What is stunning is that the overall price tag for transportation crashes in the U.S. each year is $170 billion dollars (NHTSA) and we all end up paying for it. Those costs represent about $1,000 per person each year for property damage (streets, lampposts, guardrails, emergency services, court costs, insurance administration and much more). This figure doesn't take into account the extreme grief caused by the loss of a loved one. There is no way to calculate that cost."
Briney recently met with several trucking, state and federal officials to discuss the high, tangible and intangible costs of car crashes . She joined several officials including ASSE's David Parsons, Oregon's May Trucking Company Senior Vice President David R. Jostad, Oregon Department of Transportation's Motor Carrier Division's Investigative/Safety/Federal Programs Department Head David McKane, Jubitz Travel Center COO Mark Gram and Sgt. John Naccarato of the Clackamus, Ore., police department, to address this issue.
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Briney went on to note that businesses alone pay about $60 billion per year in medical care, legal expenses, property damages, lost productivity and increased workers' compensation, social security, and private health and disability insurance costs as well as for the administration of all these programs. The average vehicle crash cost to an employer, according to the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), is $16,500. When a worker is involved in an on-the-job crash with injuries the cost to the employer is $74,000. Costs can exceed $500,000 when a fatality is involved -- many times the employees did not cause these accidents, they were the victims.
A recent Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) report estimates that the cost of a police-reported crash involving trucks with a gross weight rating of more than 10,000 pounds averaged $91,112; a crash with trucks with two or three trailers involved were the rarest, but their cost was $289,549. The cost per nonfatal injury crash averaged $195,258 and fatal crashes cost an estimated $3,604,518 per crash.
"Many businesses have driver safety programs that protect their workers," Briney said. These programs not only make good business sense but also help reduce the risks faced by employees and their families while protecting the bottom line."
Those programs include: garnering senior management commitment and employee involvement; developing written policies and procedures (including seat belt use); regularly checking the safety of the motor vehicles; crash reporting and investigation; vehicle selection, maintenance and inspection; driver training and communication; not requiring workers to drive irregular hours or far beyond their normal working hours; developing work schedules that allow employees to obey speed limits and to follow applicable hours-of-service regulations; enforcing mandatory seat belt use; and banning cell phone use or texting while driving; not allowing employees to conduct work while driving, and more.
Safety professionals also provide information on:
•Securing materials for transport. L oose objects can slide around or come out of the vehicle and become airborne;
•Requiring seat belt use. Each year seatbelts save more than 12,000 lives and prevent 325,000 serious injuries;
•Distracted driving is a factor in 25 percent to 30 percent of all traffic crashes;
•Driving under the influence. DUIs are involved in 40 percent of all fatal crashes;
•Fatigued driving causes about 100,000 crashes a year;
•Aggressive driving -- speeding, tailgating, failure to signal, and running a red light -- can be deadly;
•Young drivers. Under federal law 16-year-old workers are not allowed to drive as part of their job;
•17-year-olds may drive for work but only under strictly limited circumstances. Some state laws may be more restrictive.
Founded in 1911, the Des Plaines, Ill.-based ASSE is a professional safety organization and is committed to protecting people, property and the environment. Its more than 32,000 occupational safety, health and environmental professional members lead, manage, supervise, research and consult on safety, health, transportation and environmental issues in all industries, government, labor, health care and education.
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Sharing your car for profit? Insurance Companies frown?
Sharing cars in one way or another has grabbed quite a few headlines lately. From iPhone apps that help you line-up carpooling buddies to private companies that find vehicles available for use, several options exist to help you either find a ride or share your vehicle with someone else. All of these programs are great, but when it comes down to the simplest method of car sharing, handing the keys over to someone in return for cash, the law frowns.
You see, insurance companies don't like this idea of offering up your car to someone else for dough. In fact, they can legally deny coverage of your vehicle if you do so. Current laws In California, and many other states, prohibit the private rental of your vehicle to somebody else, but that could change soon. A bill (AB 1871) written up by Assemblyman Dave Jones (D-Sacramento) aims to change the state's car insurance laws to allow personal vehicles to be rented out without the risk of losing insurance.
You may be wondering why anyone would want to rent out their ride to a stranger. It makes sense if you look at a heavily congested city like San Francisco (pictured). Many residents of the Bay Area do not own personal vehicles and must rent one for trips outside of the city limits. On the flip side, people who do own vehicles rarely use them. In situations like this, private car sharing could be a perfect answer, if the law allowed it.
You see, insurance companies don't like this idea of offering up your car to someone else for dough. In fact, they can legally deny coverage of your vehicle if you do so. Current laws In California, and many other states, prohibit the private rental of your vehicle to somebody else, but that could change soon. A bill (AB 1871) written up by Assemblyman Dave Jones (D-Sacramento) aims to change the state's car insurance laws to allow personal vehicles to be rented out without the risk of losing insurance.
You may be wondering why anyone would want to rent out their ride to a stranger. It makes sense if you look at a heavily congested city like San Francisco (pictured). Many residents of the Bay Area do not own personal vehicles and must rent one for trips outside of the city limits. On the flip side, people who do own vehicles rarely use them. In situations like this, private car sharing could be a perfect answer, if the law allowed it.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
How To Get An Immediate 10% Savings On Your Car Insurance ? Maybe......
How To Get An Immediate 10% Savings On Your Car Insurance
Insurance can be confusing at the best of times, but here are some of the most common misconceptions about auto insurance coverage. The colour of your car affects your insurance rate. Most people may not know it, but the insurance industry is colour-blind. It doesn't matter if your car is blue, red, silver, white, or black, your insurance rate for that make and model of car will always remain the same. A 2-door car is more expensive to insure than a 4-door. Not true. In fact a 4-door is often more expensive. This is because insurance companies look at the price of the car, repair costs, theft frequency and its previous claims history when determining your rate.
Getting a parking ticket means your insurance rates will go up. If that were the case, we'd all be singing the blues. Parking tickets by themselves do not count against your driving record or your insurance, but unpaid fines could affect your ability to renew your driver's licence or worse result in a licence suspension - which will affect your rate. Getting a speeding ticket means your insurance rates will go up.
Not necessarily. Your first minor speeding ticket (up to 15 mph over the speed limit) will probably not affect your insurance rate. But accumulate two or three convictions and you'll probably be paying more to be insured. A major speeding ticket (more than 15 mph over the speed limit) and your rates go up for sure.
You don't have to pay your deductible if the police said the accident was not your fault. The police may not have deemed you criminally responsible for the accident, but it's your insurance company who has the final decision as to whether you pay your deductible or not. If they investigate the accident and rule that it's not your fault, they have the right to waive your deductible. Until then, you better be prepared to pay...
Cheaper cars cost less to insure and luxury cars more to insure. Not necessarily. The premium you pay for your auto insurance is based on many factors including the price of the car, its repair costs, theft frequency and its previous claims history. When these factors are combined, a cheaper car could cost more to insure than a luxury model. It doesn’t matter which insurance company I have auto insurance with, I’ll end up paying the same rate. Not true. Auto insurance rates vary from company to company - sometimes by hundreds of dollars per year!
Insurance can be confusing at the best of times, but here are some of the most common misconceptions about auto insurance coverage. The colour of your car affects your insurance rate. Most people may not know it, but the insurance industry is colour-blind. It doesn't matter if your car is blue, red, silver, white, or black, your insurance rate for that make and model of car will always remain the same. A 2-door car is more expensive to insure than a 4-door. Not true. In fact a 4-door is often more expensive. This is because insurance companies look at the price of the car, repair costs, theft frequency and its previous claims history when determining your rate.
Getting a parking ticket means your insurance rates will go up. If that were the case, we'd all be singing the blues. Parking tickets by themselves do not count against your driving record or your insurance, but unpaid fines could affect your ability to renew your driver's licence or worse result in a licence suspension - which will affect your rate. Getting a speeding ticket means your insurance rates will go up.
Not necessarily. Your first minor speeding ticket (up to 15 mph over the speed limit) will probably not affect your insurance rate. But accumulate two or three convictions and you'll probably be paying more to be insured. A major speeding ticket (more than 15 mph over the speed limit) and your rates go up for sure.
You don't have to pay your deductible if the police said the accident was not your fault. The police may not have deemed you criminally responsible for the accident, but it's your insurance company who has the final decision as to whether you pay your deductible or not. If they investigate the accident and rule that it's not your fault, they have the right to waive your deductible. Until then, you better be prepared to pay...
Cheaper cars cost less to insure and luxury cars more to insure. Not necessarily. The premium you pay for your auto insurance is based on many factors including the price of the car, its repair costs, theft frequency and its previous claims history. When these factors are combined, a cheaper car could cost more to insure than a luxury model. It doesn’t matter which insurance company I have auto insurance with, I’ll end up paying the same rate. Not true. Auto insurance rates vary from company to company - sometimes by hundreds of dollars per year!
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Car Cloning don't be a victim
Car Cloning: The Stolen Car Makeover. This is a relatively new phrase for most of us. Find out more about what can happen when your license plates are stolen.
(NAPSI)-If you're shopping for a used car, experts say it's worth remembering the old adage: "If a deal is too good to be true, it probably is."
A growing number of these "deals" turn out to be part of a con involving stolen vehicles and thousands of dollars. This scam-known as "VIN cloning" or "car cloning"-uses a vehicle identification number (VIN) from a legally registered car to mask the identity of a stolen one. Unfortunately, these stolen vehicles often end up in the hands of unsuspecting consumers.
The FBI recently broke up one of the largest car theft rings in the country with the help of CARFAX. Car thieves in Florida, Illinois and Mexico cloned more than 1,000 vehicles worth $25 million.
"Scam artists can make off with as much as $30,000 of your hard-earned money and leave you paying off a loan for a car you no longer own," said Larry Gamache, communications director at CARFAX. "What's worse, you may become part of a criminal investigation as well."
Car thieves obtain VINs by simply swiping the plate or the number from vehicles sitting at dealerships or in parking lots. They then use the counterfeit numbers to alter existing ownership documents using the stolen vehicle identity. Or, they just forge new documents.
The best way to make sure your car is legitimate is with thorough research. A vehicle history report, such as those offered by CARFAX, can be part of the solution to help car buyers avoid becoming victims.
Consumers are also advised to follow these steps to help identify a potential clone:
• Ask the seller to provide the title, service receipts and any other documents for the vehicle. Closely examine each document to make sure the VIN and names all match.
• Tell the seller to show you a CARFAX Vehicle History Report. Pay close attention to where and when the vehicle was registered. Registrations in multiple states over a short time should raise a red flag.
• Check if the mileage readings on all documents are consistent with the current odometer display.
• Have the vehicle inspected by a trusted, professional mechanic prior to purchase.
You can learn more at www.carfax.com.
A vehicle history report could help used-car buyers avoid a scam known as "car cloning."
(NAPSI)-If you're shopping for a used car, experts say it's worth remembering the old adage: "If a deal is too good to be true, it probably is."
A growing number of these "deals" turn out to be part of a con involving stolen vehicles and thousands of dollars. This scam-known as "VIN cloning" or "car cloning"-uses a vehicle identification number (VIN) from a legally registered car to mask the identity of a stolen one. Unfortunately, these stolen vehicles often end up in the hands of unsuspecting consumers.
The FBI recently broke up one of the largest car theft rings in the country with the help of CARFAX. Car thieves in Florida, Illinois and Mexico cloned more than 1,000 vehicles worth $25 million.
"Scam artists can make off with as much as $30,000 of your hard-earned money and leave you paying off a loan for a car you no longer own," said Larry Gamache, communications director at CARFAX. "What's worse, you may become part of a criminal investigation as well."
Car thieves obtain VINs by simply swiping the plate or the number from vehicles sitting at dealerships or in parking lots. They then use the counterfeit numbers to alter existing ownership documents using the stolen vehicle identity. Or, they just forge new documents.
The best way to make sure your car is legitimate is with thorough research. A vehicle history report, such as those offered by CARFAX, can be part of the solution to help car buyers avoid becoming victims.
Consumers are also advised to follow these steps to help identify a potential clone:
• Ask the seller to provide the title, service receipts and any other documents for the vehicle. Closely examine each document to make sure the VIN and names all match.
• Tell the seller to show you a CARFAX Vehicle History Report. Pay close attention to where and when the vehicle was registered. Registrations in multiple states over a short time should raise a red flag.
• Check if the mileage readings on all documents are consistent with the current odometer display.
• Have the vehicle inspected by a trusted, professional mechanic prior to purchase.
You can learn more at www.carfax.com.
A vehicle history report could help used-car buyers avoid a scam known as "car cloning."
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
9 Things That Make Allergies Worse
With Allergy season upon us, we here at Sav-On found these findings a wealth of information for our readers. Keep healthy!
1.Stressful work deadlines
Researchers at Ohio State University College of Medicine found that allergy sufferers had more symptoms after they took an anxiety-inducing test, compared with when they performed a task that did not make them tense. Stress hormones may stimulate the production of IgE, blood proteins that cause allergic reactions, says study author Janice Kiecolt-Glaser, PhD. If you’re under stress, get enough sleep. A sleep deficit can worsen both allergy symptoms and stress, she says.
2. An extra glass of wine with dinner
Alcohol can raise the risk of perennial allergic rhinitis by 3% for every additional alcoholic beverage consumed each week, Danish researchers found. One potential reason: Bacteria and yeast in the alcohol produce histamines, chemicals that cause telltale allergy symptoms like stuffy nose and itchy eyes. Avoid alcohol when your symptoms are acting up, says Richard F. Lockey, MD, director of the division of and immunology at the University of South Florida College of Medicine.
3. Waiting too long to take meds
Medications that block histamines work best before you’re even exposed to allergens, says allergist James Sublett, MD, a spokesperson for the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology. Start medication a couple of weeks before the season commences or before you’ll be around allergens (if you react to grass, before a golf game, for example).
4. A not-hot-enough washing machine
If you find yourself sniffling in bed, crank your washing machine to the hottest setting. In a South Korean study, laundering cotton sheets at 140°F killed 100% of dust mites, while a warm 104°F wash destroyed just 6.5%. A machine's "sanitize" setting is likely hot enough; check the manual if your model lacks this option. Some units heat water internally, but others use what flows through the pipes, so you may need to boost your water heater. (Caution: This temp can scald in 5 seconds.)
5. Houseplants that make you sneeze
Your innocent orchid could bring tears to your eyes. More than 75% of hay fever sufferers are allergic to at least one common houseplant, found a Belgian study. Allergens in plant sap can diffuse into the air and set off your sniffling. Though any potted greens can be trouble, researchers found that ficus, yucca, ivy, palm, orchid, and fern varieties are most irritating to allergy-prone people.
6. Skipping medication in the evening
One time not to forget your allergy med? Before bed—so the medication will be circulating in your bloodstream early the next day. Symptoms such as sneezing, weepy eyes, and runny nose peak in morning, says Richard J. Martin, MD, chair of the department of medicine at National Jewish Medical and Research Center in Denver. Choose regular (instead of nondrowsy formulas) for extra help falling asleep promptly.
7. Water workouts in an indoor pool
Chlorine-filled lap lanes can wreak havoc on your system. Used to disinfect, chlorine is highly irritating to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract, says Prevention advisor Andrew Weil, MD. And a recent study in the journal Pediatrics found that teens who log more than 100 hours in a chlorinated pool have a 3 to 7 times higher risk of developing hay fever, compared with swimmers who dunk in chlorine-free pools.
8. Friends who smoke
Cigarettes—with their numerous toxic chemicals and irritants—are nasty for everyone, but allergy sufferers may be especially sensitive, according to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. In fact, one Japanese study of teenage students found that more than 80% of those who came from homes where family members smoked heavily showed signs of nasal allergies.
Even if you don’t hang around smoky bars or other areas, particles on the clothing of smoking friends or coworkers can pollute the air in your home or office
9. Showering in the AM only
Hay fever sufferers would benefit from a quick rinse as soon as they get home from work or after being outside for a while, says allergist Stanley Fineman, MD, a physician at the Atlanta Allergy and Asthma Clinic. That’s because hidden pollen particles can get trapped on your body, hair, clothes, and shoes—continuing to trigger symptoms after you’ve returned indoors.
If you’re prone to pollen allergies, slip off your shoes, throw your clothes in the hamper, and shower as soon as you get home to avoid dragging particles all over your home.
1.Stressful work deadlines
Researchers at Ohio State University College of Medicine found that allergy sufferers had more symptoms after they took an anxiety-inducing test, compared with when they performed a task that did not make them tense. Stress hormones may stimulate the production of IgE, blood proteins that cause allergic reactions, says study author Janice Kiecolt-Glaser, PhD. If you’re under stress, get enough sleep. A sleep deficit can worsen both allergy symptoms and stress, she says.
2. An extra glass of wine with dinner
Alcohol can raise the risk of perennial allergic rhinitis by 3% for every additional alcoholic beverage consumed each week, Danish researchers found. One potential reason: Bacteria and yeast in the alcohol produce histamines, chemicals that cause telltale allergy symptoms like stuffy nose and itchy eyes. Avoid alcohol when your symptoms are acting up, says Richard F. Lockey, MD, director of the division of and immunology at the University of South Florida College of Medicine.
3. Waiting too long to take meds
Medications that block histamines work best before you’re even exposed to allergens, says allergist James Sublett, MD, a spokesperson for the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology. Start medication a couple of weeks before the season commences or before you’ll be around allergens (if you react to grass, before a golf game, for example).
4. A not-hot-enough washing machine
If you find yourself sniffling in bed, crank your washing machine to the hottest setting. In a South Korean study, laundering cotton sheets at 140°F killed 100% of dust mites, while a warm 104°F wash destroyed just 6.5%. A machine's "sanitize" setting is likely hot enough; check the manual if your model lacks this option. Some units heat water internally, but others use what flows through the pipes, so you may need to boost your water heater. (Caution: This temp can scald in 5 seconds.)
5. Houseplants that make you sneeze
Your innocent orchid could bring tears to your eyes. More than 75% of hay fever sufferers are allergic to at least one common houseplant, found a Belgian study. Allergens in plant sap can diffuse into the air and set off your sniffling. Though any potted greens can be trouble, researchers found that ficus, yucca, ivy, palm, orchid, and fern varieties are most irritating to allergy-prone people.
6. Skipping medication in the evening
One time not to forget your allergy med? Before bed—so the medication will be circulating in your bloodstream early the next day. Symptoms such as sneezing, weepy eyes, and runny nose peak in morning, says Richard J. Martin, MD, chair of the department of medicine at National Jewish Medical and Research Center in Denver. Choose regular (instead of nondrowsy formulas) for extra help falling asleep promptly.
7. Water workouts in an indoor pool
Chlorine-filled lap lanes can wreak havoc on your system. Used to disinfect, chlorine is highly irritating to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract, says Prevention advisor Andrew Weil, MD. And a recent study in the journal Pediatrics found that teens who log more than 100 hours in a chlorinated pool have a 3 to 7 times higher risk of developing hay fever, compared with swimmers who dunk in chlorine-free pools.
8. Friends who smoke
Cigarettes—with their numerous toxic chemicals and irritants—are nasty for everyone, but allergy sufferers may be especially sensitive, according to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. In fact, one Japanese study of teenage students found that more than 80% of those who came from homes where family members smoked heavily showed signs of nasal allergies.
Even if you don’t hang around smoky bars or other areas, particles on the clothing of smoking friends or coworkers can pollute the air in your home or office
9. Showering in the AM only
Hay fever sufferers would benefit from a quick rinse as soon as they get home from work or after being outside for a while, says allergist Stanley Fineman, MD, a physician at the Atlanta Allergy and Asthma Clinic. That’s because hidden pollen particles can get trapped on your body, hair, clothes, and shoes—continuing to trigger symptoms after you’ve returned indoors.
If you’re prone to pollen allergies, slip off your shoes, throw your clothes in the hamper, and shower as soon as you get home to avoid dragging particles all over your home.
Monday, April 5, 2010
A personal message from one of our agents at Sav-on Insurance
This week, we here at Sav-On wanted to share the thoughts of one of our Insurance agents, Evelyn Morales. Evelyn works in our Des Moines Office and very recently was informed of a tragedy in her family, involving her cousin's seven year old daughter.
The following was sent via email to all the staff here at Sav-On, please read and pass it on!
Hello everyone, I just wanted to ask everyone of you, that if you are ever driving or riding with children under 10, and they cry b-cuz, they don't want to be in their car seats, or they don't want the seat belt on,, pleaseeeeeee,, please don't let them get away it, don't think that by giving in, you're been cool, or saving your selves a headache,, I was just inform that one of my cousin's daughter lost her life, in a horrible car accident. Her life could have been saved if she was in a car seat. She was 7yrs old and she had only a lap seat belt on. The SUV rolled over 4 times & because she wasn't in the appropriate car seat, she was not able to survive her injuries. Her parents were not allowed to see her because her fatal injuries were so unimaginable. So the next time your child or children in your car are whining,crying or complaining about being a car seat, think about life without them.
I just thought I share this with all of you, b-cuz,, we all have a lil ones that we love so much, it's either our niece, nephew, daughter, son, grandkids, or a lil friend who looks up to us... take care of them by being responsible..
The following was sent via email to all the staff here at Sav-On, please read and pass it on!
Hello everyone, I just wanted to ask everyone of you, that if you are ever driving or riding with children under 10, and they cry b-cuz, they don't want to be in their car seats, or they don't want the seat belt on,, pleaseeeeeee,, please don't let them get away it, don't think that by giving in, you're been cool, or saving your selves a headache,, I was just inform that one of my cousin's daughter lost her life, in a horrible car accident. Her life could have been saved if she was in a car seat. She was 7yrs old and she had only a lap seat belt on. The SUV rolled over 4 times & because she wasn't in the appropriate car seat, she was not able to survive her injuries. Her parents were not allowed to see her because her fatal injuries were so unimaginable. So the next time your child or children in your car are whining,crying or complaining about being a car seat, think about life without them.
I just thought I share this with all of you, b-cuz,, we all have a lil ones that we love so much, it's either our niece, nephew, daughter, son, grandkids, or a lil friend who looks up to us... take care of them by being responsible..
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Some facts about SB 6345
Chief of the Federal Way Police Department, was checking his e-mail with his cell phone while behind the wheel of a police cruiser when he rear-ended the motorist in front of him.
Imagine his embarrassment. No injuries. No damage, but a lesson for all of us.
Chief Wilson called Sen. Tracy Eide, D-Federal Way, a long-time champion of legislation to ban the use of hand-held cell phones while driving. The chief confessed his mistake and promised to come to Olympia to testify in support of Eide’s legislation — Senate Bill 6345.
With the support of Wilson, State Patrol Chief John Batiste and a slew of other people, the Legislature has passed Eide’s bill to ban texting while driving and ban the use of hand-held cell phones by drivers. The bill goes one step further and says drivers under the age of 18 may not use a cell phone at all — even a hands-free device.
Gov. Chris Gregoire signed SB 6345 into law on Friday. Law enforcement officers should start writing tickets June 11. Under the bill, police could immediately pull over someone for texting or talking without a headset and give them a $124 ticket.
A ticket will not become part of a driver’s record and dialing a phone is not considered text messaging. The measure exempts emergency vehicle personnel, as well as anyone who is text messaging or calling and not using a headset to report illegal activity or summon emergency help.
People who are using a hearing aid or operating a tow truck also are exempt.
Passage of the cell phone bill has been a long-standing goal of Eide who introduced her first cell phone bill in 2000. It took until 2007 to get a bill through the Legislature.
That made use of a hand-held cellular phone while driving a secondary offense. In other words, a police officer had to observe a driver breaking another traffic law before the officer could cite the driver for breaking the cell phone law.
Washington was the only state in the union to make its cell-phone ban a secondary offense. As a result, you see people everywhere driving while holding a phone to their ear.
Now, with the new legislation making texting or use of a hand-held phone a primary offense. “Patience is a virtue, but I was close to running out of patience,” Eide admits.
Her bill passed the House on a vote of 60-37 and the Senate 33-15.
“The time has finally come,” Eide said. “People finally recognize it’s a safety issue, and people finally recognize that lives will be saved.”
Eide said a driver traveling on the freeway at 60 miles per hour who glances down at a text message for five seconds will travel one and a half football fields without looking at the road. “People know when they pick up a phone and they’re going 60 miles an hour on the freeway, it’s not a good idea,” Eide said. “Banning this practice is simply common sense.”
Eide is right.
Those who testified in the House and Senate hearings, made some excellent points:
• Driving while using a cell phone is as dangerous as driving while intoxicated.
• Distracted drivers miss up to 50 percent of their visual cues.
• Drivers who text have a 23 percent higher risk of being involved in an accident.
• Bicyclists are at risk of being hit by drivers who are not paying attention to the road.
• There are many examples of people who have lost loved ones because of distracted drivers on cell phones and many more of near misses.
• Seventy-six percent of drivers in Washington support a ban on texting and cell phone use while driving.
• Distracted driving needs to be made as socially unacceptable as drunken driving is today.
Eide said that it took her three years to convince her legislative colleagues to pass the graduated driver license law that requires teens to get more driving experience before they can have unrestricted driving privileges.
In the first year the graduated license law was in place, teen traffic fatalities were down 48 percent, Eide said.
Now that the governor has signed SB 6345 into law, let’s hope banning texting and hand-held cell phones while driving will have a similar effect on public safety in the state of Washington.
Imagine his embarrassment. No injuries. No damage, but a lesson for all of us.
Chief Wilson called Sen. Tracy Eide, D-Federal Way, a long-time champion of legislation to ban the use of hand-held cell phones while driving. The chief confessed his mistake and promised to come to Olympia to testify in support of Eide’s legislation — Senate Bill 6345.
With the support of Wilson, State Patrol Chief John Batiste and a slew of other people, the Legislature has passed Eide’s bill to ban texting while driving and ban the use of hand-held cell phones by drivers. The bill goes one step further and says drivers under the age of 18 may not use a cell phone at all — even a hands-free device.
Gov. Chris Gregoire signed SB 6345 into law on Friday. Law enforcement officers should start writing tickets June 11. Under the bill, police could immediately pull over someone for texting or talking without a headset and give them a $124 ticket.
A ticket will not become part of a driver’s record and dialing a phone is not considered text messaging. The measure exempts emergency vehicle personnel, as well as anyone who is text messaging or calling and not using a headset to report illegal activity or summon emergency help.
People who are using a hearing aid or operating a tow truck also are exempt.
Passage of the cell phone bill has been a long-standing goal of Eide who introduced her first cell phone bill in 2000. It took until 2007 to get a bill through the Legislature.
That made use of a hand-held cellular phone while driving a secondary offense. In other words, a police officer had to observe a driver breaking another traffic law before the officer could cite the driver for breaking the cell phone law.
Washington was the only state in the union to make its cell-phone ban a secondary offense. As a result, you see people everywhere driving while holding a phone to their ear.
Now, with the new legislation making texting or use of a hand-held phone a primary offense. “Patience is a virtue, but I was close to running out of patience,” Eide admits.
Her bill passed the House on a vote of 60-37 and the Senate 33-15.
“The time has finally come,” Eide said. “People finally recognize it’s a safety issue, and people finally recognize that lives will be saved.”
Eide said a driver traveling on the freeway at 60 miles per hour who glances down at a text message for five seconds will travel one and a half football fields without looking at the road. “People know when they pick up a phone and they’re going 60 miles an hour on the freeway, it’s not a good idea,” Eide said. “Banning this practice is simply common sense.”
Eide is right.
Those who testified in the House and Senate hearings, made some excellent points:
• Driving while using a cell phone is as dangerous as driving while intoxicated.
• Distracted drivers miss up to 50 percent of their visual cues.
• Drivers who text have a 23 percent higher risk of being involved in an accident.
• Bicyclists are at risk of being hit by drivers who are not paying attention to the road.
• There are many examples of people who have lost loved ones because of distracted drivers on cell phones and many more of near misses.
• Seventy-six percent of drivers in Washington support a ban on texting and cell phone use while driving.
• Distracted driving needs to be made as socially unacceptable as drunken driving is today.
Eide said that it took her three years to convince her legislative colleagues to pass the graduated driver license law that requires teens to get more driving experience before they can have unrestricted driving privileges.
In the first year the graduated license law was in place, teen traffic fatalities were down 48 percent, Eide said.
Now that the governor has signed SB 6345 into law, let’s hope banning texting and hand-held cell phones while driving will have a similar effect on public safety in the state of Washington.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Prius Fixed Under Recall Still Speeds Out of Control
James Sikes was driving his 2008 Toyota Prius last week when unintended acceleration hit. Before calling 911, he reached down to pull up his stuck accelerator pedal, but it didn't move.
"My car can't slow down," he began when a California Highway Patrol dispatcher answered his call.
Dispatcher Leighann Parks, repeatedly told him to throw the car into neutral but got no answers, later found out he had to set the phone on the seat next to him in order to apply both hands to the wheel.
Finally, Todd Neibert, the CHP officer caught up with him and gave instructions to Sikes over a loudspeaker as they went east on mountainous Interstate 8 in San Diego County Monday afternoon, stating he smelled burning brakes when he caught up with the Prius.
Neibert told Sikes to shift into neutral but the driver shook his head no, later telling reporters he was afraid his car would flip. Sikes did, however apply his brake; straightening his body and lifting off the seat in order to press it down fully and applied the emergency brake.
Both cars maneuvered around two trucks going uphill to a clear, open road giving Neibert about 15 miles to stop the Prius before a steep downgrade and even considered spike strips to puncture the tires as a last resort.
The wild ride lasted 23 minutes, and finally, the Prius rolled to a stop.
Ironically, James Sikes' Prius was one of the vehicles serviced in the recall for floor mats.
Toyota has recalled around 8.5 million vehicles worldwide (over 6 million in the U.S. alone) due to acceleration problems in multiple models and for braking issues in the Prius. Regulators link 52 deaths to crashes caused by accelerator problems. And there are over 60 more reports of sudden acceleration in cars "fixed" under the recall.
"My car can't slow down," he began when a California Highway Patrol dispatcher answered his call.
Dispatcher Leighann Parks, repeatedly told him to throw the car into neutral but got no answers, later found out he had to set the phone on the seat next to him in order to apply both hands to the wheel.
Finally, Todd Neibert, the CHP officer caught up with him and gave instructions to Sikes over a loudspeaker as they went east on mountainous Interstate 8 in San Diego County Monday afternoon, stating he smelled burning brakes when he caught up with the Prius.
Neibert told Sikes to shift into neutral but the driver shook his head no, later telling reporters he was afraid his car would flip. Sikes did, however apply his brake; straightening his body and lifting off the seat in order to press it down fully and applied the emergency brake.
Both cars maneuvered around two trucks going uphill to a clear, open road giving Neibert about 15 miles to stop the Prius before a steep downgrade and even considered spike strips to puncture the tires as a last resort.
The wild ride lasted 23 minutes, and finally, the Prius rolled to a stop.
Ironically, James Sikes' Prius was one of the vehicles serviced in the recall for floor mats.
Toyota has recalled around 8.5 million vehicles worldwide (over 6 million in the U.S. alone) due to acceleration problems in multiple models and for braking issues in the Prius. Regulators link 52 deaths to crashes caused by accelerator problems. And there are over 60 more reports of sudden acceleration in cars "fixed" under the recall.
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