Wondering Where to Get Safety Ratings on Used Cars?

 

 

Every year we see reports that are published regarding vehicle safety ratings for new cars but you may be wondering how to get safety information on a used car you are interested in buying.  It is actually easier to do than you may have thought. 

Safercar.gov is a website that is run by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and is loaded with all kinds of good information including data on car safety ratings.   Their unbiased crash test safety ratings go all the way back to 1990 and you can use the information to compare vehicles.  The NHTSA's 5-Star Safety Ratings cover crashworthiness and rollover safety by model, class and manufacturer as well as the comparison safety ratings.

They do warn that starting with 2011 models tougher standards were used on their new 5-Star Safety Rating system to provide consumers more information on safety and new crash avoidance technologies.  Given this, they recommend you do not compare older 1990-2010 models with 2011 and newer vehicles, and even then only compare vehicles of a similar size and weight class.  

In order to do a search on your vehicle, go to the Safercar.gov website and open the tab along the top for “Vehicle Shopper”.   Hit the link to the 5-Star Safety Ratings page and from there you will be able to search for vehicles by model, class, manufacturer, and compare safety ratings.  There is a separate section for 2011 vehicles and newer. 

The NHTSA states that the new 5-Star Ratings include, “side pole testing, using different sized crash-test dummies, collecting more crash data, offering a single Overall Vehicle Score per vehicle, and highlighting new crash avoidance technologies.”  They state the reason for the new rating system is to encourage manufacturers to continue to build the safest vehicles. 

safercar.gov/Safety+Ratings

The Car Show, Inc. has been a trusted name for used vehicles for over 25 years and was chosen to be the "Quality Dealer of the Year" by the Colorado Independent Auto Dealers Association (CIADA).  Come in and browse our showroom or check out our online site for the most extensive selection of outstanding used cars, trucks, motorcycles, and new and used RVs. 

Tips for Driving Defensively on a Motorcycle

We understand the enjoyment of riding a motorcycle as most of us at The Car Show ride one, but we also know how important it is to ride safely.  A quote that is worth taking notice of from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says that, "The typical motorcycle accident allows the motorcyclist just less than 2 seconds to complete all collision avoidance action."  This statement reinforces the fact that bikers should be aware of safe driving habits and practice them every time they ride a motorcycle.

We know that while on a motorcycle, a person is completely exposed to the dangers of the road that is unlike riding in a car or truck.  Safety must be a biker’s number one priority and there are some easy things you can do to help ensure a safe ride. 

To start with, experts recommend that you keep your bike in tiptop shape by doing routine maintenance and repairs as needed.  Frequently check tire pressure, brakes, lights, and gas and oil levels.  Wear safety gear each time you get on a bike and even if your State no longer requires a helmet, use one!  Make sure it is DOT certified and wear eye protection.  Additionally the NHTSA states, "The use of heavy boots, jacket, gloves, etc., is effective in preventing or reducing abrasions and lacerations, which are frequent but rarely severe injuries."

It is strongly advised that all beginner riders take a MSF-approved rider-training course to learn to drive safely and defensively.  Be sure to follow these tips from the NHSTA:

·         Be extra vigilant at intersections where up to half of all motorcycle-vehicle accidents occur.

·         Check the rearview mirrors before changing lanes or stopping and use your signals as well as make a visual check to assure a clear path.

·         Watch the road surface and traffic ahead to anticipate problems and road hazards such as potholes, oil slicks, puddles, debris or other objects on the roadway, ruts, uneven pavement, and railroad tracks.

·         Use your headlights day and night.  

·         Maintain a safe speed consistent with driving conditions and your capabilities. Remember that gravel and slippery road surfaces can be hazardous.

·         Avoid sudden braking or turning.

 

Sources:

nhtsa.gov/Safety/Motorcycles

wikihow.com/Ride-a-Motorcycle-Defensively-and-Prevent-Accidents

The Car Show, Inc. is a family owned and operated dealership that has been offering unsurpassed service to the community since 1987.  While we understand there are many used car dealerships in Colorado Springs, our outstanding customer service sets us apart.  You will find our prices are competitive on high-quality pre-owned cars, trucks, and motorcycles. If you need a loan, we can do that too!

Drive Safe This Summer

 

Summer is finally here and many of us are planning to travel more frequently.  Each year we eagerly look forward to summertime family vacations and extended road trips.  What with an increase in traffic and a lot more road construction, sometimes a driver’s patience can wear thin but there are good reasons to keep our cool.

One of the curious things about driving in the summer is people can tend to let down their guard after driving through ice and snow all winter long and become somewhat lax about safety.  Statistics show that traffic accidents actually increase over the summer months despite better driving conditions.  So other than running into more congestion on the roads, why is there an increase in traffic accidents?

Some of the reasons may be the type of drivers, vehicles, and conditions on the road.  Summertime brings out more bicycle and motorcycle riders.  Teenagers, who are at higher risk for accidents are now out of school and on the road more frequently.  Road construction can also leads to accidents so drivers need to use caution and follow posted speeds. 

Safercar.gov urges drivers to start a road trip with a vehicle that is up-to-date on all required maintenance and repairs.  Drivers should do a visual inspection of the vehicle before starting out that includes checking tire pressure and wear, lights, wiper blades, and fluid levels.  They recommend that all children 13 years and younger ride in the backseat.  Only use car seats and booster seats that are appropriate for the age of the child and see to it that they are properly installed.     

Drivers need to be especially vigilant for pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists during the warmer weather.  Watch out for small children when in parking lots, campgrounds, and other family style activities.  Finally remember to stay sober when driving.  There are 32 alcohol related accidents every day in the U.S.

Sources:  http://www.safercar.gov/summerdrivingtips

Please check out our blog to keep you up-to-date with all the news and happenings at The Car Show as well as with any significant news from the industry. Or better yet, stop by and browse our inventory of the finest selection of Colorado Springs' used cars and trucks.  

Now that summer is here it is a good time to get a vehicle cleaned up and looking its best.  Many of us still like to wash our cars at home, but for some and certainly during the winter months, our local car wash is a convenient place to get a car clean.  Like most things today, there are many different types of car washes to choose from.

The first commercial car wash was started in Detroit, Michigan in 1914.  The Automated Laundry washed cars in an assembly line fashion with men pushing the vehicle from one “washing station” to the next.  The first semi-automated car wash was again started in Detroit in 1946 and used an automated pulley system along with men who manually used brushes to clean. 

Wikipedia states that car washes fall into the following categories:

·         Hand car washes that are completely done manually.

·         Coin operated, self-service bays.

·         In-bay automatic car washes such as the “touchless” method that uses water pressure rather than brushes.

·         Tunnel washes which conveyor the vehicle through the different washing stations.

·         Chemical car washes that use chemicals rather than water (started in Australia) and is considered to be more eco-friendly.

·         Steam car washes that use steam jets and micro fiber towels (started in South Korea).

·         Mobile car washes that travel to a site carrying the needed water, pressure washer, and supplies.

·         Mechanical car washes that use brushes that move alongside your car.

Consumer Report states that if you are going to wash your own vehicle, only use soap designed to wash cars as other types of soaps and detergents can strip a car’s finish.  Get in the habit of washing your car at least once a week and as soon as possible wash off any dead bugs, bird droppings, and tree sap as they too can damage the finish.

They further add that you should not wash your car in the direct sun, be sure to rinse it off before starting to wash, and use long, lengthwise strokes rather than a circular motion.  When you are done, rinse thoroughly and use a soft towel or chamois to dry. 

Sources:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Car_wash

http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/2012/12/do-s-and-don-ts-of-washing-your-car/index.htm

The Car Show, Inc. has been a trusted name for used vehicles for over 25 years and was chosen to be the "Quality Dealer of the Year" by the Colorado Independent Auto Dealers Association (CIADA).  Come in and browse our showroom or check out our online site for the most extensive selection of outstanding used cars, trucks, motorcycles, and new and used RVs. 

The Best Motorcycles for Beginning Riders

As most things in life, there is more than likely many differing opinions on which make or model is the best motorcycle for a beginner.  While riding a motorcycle can be a great adventure, it does require a certain skill to help keep you safe and that is best achieved by starting out with the proper bike.  Size is an important element as you must be able to easily maneuver and manage the motorcycle. 

The general consensus seems to be that a 250cc is a good, all-round choice for a first-time rider as it light-weight and easy to maneuver and balance.  The 250 will give you the chance to learn to shift properly and handle going into turns.  You can find a 250cc in cruisers or sportbikes as well as a good choice of standards and supermotos. 

Before you buy a motorcycle, check with your state to find out the licensing requirements for driving a bike and look into taking a safety training program.  The Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) RiderCourse website has information on their training courses available in your area.  Their training has classroom activities to improve perception and time spent on practicing basic riding skills.  Tim Buche, president of MSF states that, “People who have never touched a motorcycle have the basic skills by the end of the weekend."    

It may be a good idea to start out by getting a used bike as it provides the chance to learn to become an experienced rider, and when or if you are ever ready, you can easily trade up for a bigger, more powerful bike.   Furthermore, please do not forget that you will need all of the proper safety gear.

* http://www.msf-usa.org/

The Car Show, Inc. is a family owned and operated dealership that has been offering unsurpassed service to the community since 1987.  Our motto is "If it has wheels, we sell it." You will find our prices are competitive on high-quality pre-owned cars, trucks, and motorcycles.

Do Vehicle Back-up Cameras Prevent Accidents?

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently announced that “rear visibility technology” would be required as standard equipment on all vehicles weighing less than 10,000 lbs.  The law will go into effect for vehicles built in and after May 2018. Presently many automakers offer the backup cameras as an option and Honda and Acura will be the first to include one as standard equipment on all 2015 models. 

This got us wondering exactly how good these cameras are and do they really help to reduce injuries or fatalities.  The answer turns out to be a resounding yes.  According to the Department of Transportation, an average of 210 people a year are killed and 15,000 are injured in backover crashes.  As one would expect, many of the accidents involve young children or senior citizens. 

The NHTSA states, “Including vehicles that already have systems installed, 58 to 69 lives are expected to be saved each year once the entire on-road vehicle fleet is equipped with rear visibility systems meeting the requirements of today's final rule.”  The cameras must provide a field of view 10-ft. x 20-ft. directly behind the vehicle.  Further requirements include details regarding the image size, linger time, response time, durability, and deactivation.  

Many of the automakers already offering backup cameras have installed the display screen in the rear-view mirror that only displays input from the camera once the car is put in reverse.  The cost to consumers is expected to range from $132 to $142 to have a complete system installed and anywhere from $43 to $45 to add a backup camera to a vehicle that is equipped with a display screen.

http://www.nhtsa.gov/About+NHTSA/Press+Releases/2014/NHTSA+Announces+Final+Rule+Requiring+Rear+Visibility+Technology

The Car Show, Inc. is a family owned and operated dealership that has been offering unsurpassed service to the community since 1987.  Our motto is "If it has wheels, we sell it." You will find our prices are competitive on high-quality pre-owned cars, trucks, and motorcycles.

The Dangers of Distracted Driving

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, distracted driving causes 23% more accidents than non-distracted driving.  The AAA Insurance Company cites that 25 to 50% of all accidents may involve distracted driving.  Statistics indicate that in 2012, 3,328 people were killed in accidents that were classified as distracted driving crashes.  So what constitutes distracted driving and are you guilty of engaging in it?  

The problem has become so prevalent that the NHTSA has a website that is dedicated to identifying and educating people on the dangers of distracted driving.  They define distracted driving as any behavior that “could divert a person's attention away from the primary task of driving.”  As part of their educational campaign, they want the public to understand that whenever a driver is distracted, they create a danger to fellow passengers, any bystanders as well as to themselves.

It is no surprise that the most dangerous activity while driving is texting as it requires the most concentration and thereby the highest level of distraction to a driver.   It is an especially common activity for young, inexperienced drivers under twenty years of age with many reported instances of dire consequences (16% of all distracted driving crashes are caused by drivers under twenty). 

The NHTSA’s list of distracted driving habits:   

·         Texting

·         Using a cell phone or smartphone

·         Eating and drinking

·         Talking to passengers

·         Grooming

·         Reading, including maps

·         Using a navigation system

·         Watching a video

·         Adjusting a radio, CD player, or MP3 player 

As part of the education process, NHTSA offers many facts and statistics on the dangers.  They have a library of articles concerning distracted driving behaviors along with all of the crash statistics.  If you visit their site, be sure and check out the interactive map of the U.S. that shows the current laws on cell phone usage and texting for each state.  Read the FAQ’s for even more reason to discontinue distracted driving habits or Take the Pledge. 

* http://www.distraction.gov/content/get-the-facts/facts-and-statistics.html

The Car Show, Inc. is a family owned and operated dealership that has been offering unsurpassed service to the community since 1987.  While we understand there are many used car dealerships in Colorado Springs, our outstanding customer service sets us apart.  You will find our prices are competitive on affordable quality pre-owned cars, trucks, and motorcycles as well as both new and used RVs.