Auto Magazine

Bad Accident? 5 Ways to Avoid Pesky Legal Issues

by Carsurfer Admin on 2016/01/27 in Auto Accident with Comments Off

Unfortunately, accidents are never planned hence why they are called an accident. Therefore, when they happen numerous things need to be done very quickly. Otherwise, a simple legal situation may become very complex. To keep this from happening, there are five things that accident victims can do to protect themselves and in order to follow the law.

Take Detailed Notes

If a person is involved in an accident, it pays to take detailed notes if possible while still at the scene. Writing down the date, time, names of people involved, what led up to the accident, and more can play a pivotal role if the case goes to court. However, copies of these notes should not be given to police officers at the scene or any insurance company personnel. Instead contact a law firm such as Hammett, Bellin & Oswald LLC and turn the notes over to them for use as potential evidence in the case. With these notes, try and take photos if you can and keep them with the notes that you have already taken.

Call the Police

If an accident involves injuries to others or significant property damage, the police should be contacted as soon as possible. In fact, if more than $1,000 in damages is done to personal property or $200 damage to government property, the law requires that police be called to the scene. The police will then take statement from any and all parties involved in the accident to get an accurate report of what actually happened. This report can be accessed by all parties should any legal or insurance issues arise. Make sure that you do not leave the scene of the accident until you are dismissed by the police officer.

Photos and Videos

Thanks to cell phones, photos and videos can be taken instantaneously at virtually any accident scene. If a case goes to court or is questioned by an insurance company, these key pieces of evidence can turn the case around in a hurry. If possible, take pictures of the damage done to the vehicles, the accident scene itself, and anything else that may be relevant to the case.

Make Sure the Scene is Safe

To ensure no other damage is done or people injured, make the scene as safe as possible. If able, get vehicles moved out of the way of traffic and use flares, blinkers, or other lights to alert others to the accident scene.

Contact an Attorney

In addition to the previous steps, contacting an attorney experienced in accidents and personal injury can be crucial to getting any compensation you may deserve. Accident cases, especially auto accidents, are very complex and usually require an attorney with many years of experience in this area.

By taking these steps when involved in an accident, it may be possible to avoid many legal pitfalls later on. However, it may not be possible if any other party involved decides to pursue legal action. While it’s never guaranteed how any accident will play out in court or with insurance companies, being as prepared as possible will put the odds greatly in your favor.

Cocktail of Danger: How to Avoid Accidents on the Road

by Carsurfer Admin on 2016/01/25 in On the Road with Comments Off

Accidents on the road are frighteningly common, and you’ll never know when they will happen. But there are ways to diminish the chances of these accidents happening, and these tips could potentially save your life.

Drive Defensively

It is important when driving to remember that even if you do have the right of way, or the law is on your side in some other way, it will not matter in an accident. Make sure that you look beyond the laws of the road to avoid an accident. In a perfect world, everyone on the road would follow every traffic law, but this is not the case. Drivers run red lights, perform rolling stops at stop signs, exceed the speed limit, change lanes without signaling, etc. None of this can be prevented by you as another driver, you must simply recognize that this is happening and stay out of the way of a reckless driver who may cause you harm.

Limit Distractions

Although this may seem like a fairly obvious point, it’s a point which is lost on many new and experienced drivers. Make sure that when you get into your car, you put your cell phone and other pieces of mobile technology far enough away from you that you cannot reach it while driving. If you listen to the radio while you are driving, try to choose a station and then stick with that station. Moving your eyes away from the road for only a split second can have disastrous consequences. It is essential that you maintain focus on the road at all times. If you need to take or make a call, pull over to do so.

Use Your Mirrors

When driving, it is easy to only focus on what is in front of your vehicle, it is of utmost importance that you do not fall into this habit. The mirrors which are provided in your vehicle are there for a reason. You must know what is going on around your vehicles on all sides at all times. As difficult as this sounds, it becomes intuitive after falling into this habit.

Avoid Impairment

Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is not only dangerous but a serious legal offense. While many people believe that they can have a few drinks and then drive home without issue, even light drinking can put one over the legal limit. Even if you stay beneath the legal limit, in Georgia you could be deemed "less safe" and charged with driving under the influence to the extent that you are less safe behind the wheel (learn more at http://athenscriminallawyer.com/). The best way to avoid this is to abstain from alcohol if you plan to drive later or call a taxi if you’ve been drinking and need to get somewhere.

Anticipate Every Possibility
When you drive, you need to foresee the actions of other drivers and pedestrians before they perform the action. It is also important that you see and recognize the behaviors of pedestrians, to make sure they do not accidently put themselves in peril of being struck by your vehicle. Make sure that your eyes are constantly moving around and assessing what could happen in the next few seconds.

Accidents on the road are a terrifying thing. They are unforeseeable, and they happen in a split second. Luckily for us, there are actions we can take to minimize the risk of being in a situation which could result in an accident.

Urban Thinking: Best Compact Cars for Surviving City Life

by Carsurfer Admin on 2016/01/22 in Auto Buying Tips with Comments Off

A big, full-size SUV can be hard to maneuver in busy metropolitan areas, and urban dwellers need a small vehicle that does not burn a lot of fuel. Here are some of the best compact vehicles for surviving city life.

Fiat 500 Abarth

The Fiat 500 Abarth for is for the commuters who desire an extra measure of performance. Featuring Fiat’s exclusive Multi-Air technology, the hatchback’s turbocharged engine produces a satisfying 160 horsepower. Meanwhile, a sports-tuned suspension enables the 500 Abarth to deliver sports car-like handling. The vehicle’s race-inspired styling makes it even more appealing. In terms of gas mileage, drivers can average up to 34 mpg.

Honda Fit

The Fit is a fun-to-drive hatchback that offers a lot of versatility and tends to sell very fast. The car’s quick-revving engine makes it a joy to drive on an everyday basis, and although the Fit may look small, it actually offers a family-sized interior. If you need to transport extra cargo, the rear seats can be easily folded down.

Nissan LEAF

With a maximum driving range of more than 100 miles, the Nissan LEAF is an ideal electric vehicle. Drivers can cruise around the city without spending any money on fuel. When attempting to park in a tight spot, the LEAF’s tiny size will certainly come in handy. The best part is that Nissan offers a convenient home-charging system. Up to five people will be able to tag along for the ride.

Toyota Prius C

Over the past few years, the Toyota Prius C has become very popular. The urban vehicle’s combined gas mileage of 50 mpg will intrigue a lot of drivers, and an Entune audio system provides constant entertainment. Owners will definitely appreciate the Prius C’s low cost of maintenance.

Honda CR-Z

This is one of the few hybrid vehicles that actually offer a manual gearbox. The sporty two-seater is perfect for the people who don’t need to haul around a family. Honda’s renowned Vtec technology helps the CR-Z’s hybrid engine to develop an exciting 130 horsepower. If you desire a quick burst of performance, you can press the nifty Sport Plus button. Exotic paint colors such as Milano Red and Aegean Blue make the CR-Z stand out from the crowd.

Every vehicle on this list is perfect for navigating the urban jungle. However, only you can decide which automobile best suits your particular lifestyle. For low cost or used options, don’t forget to check out the Autobank of Kansas City to see tons of different models.

4 Tips for Staying Safe on Your Motorcycle

by Anica Oaks on 2016/01/20 in Motorcycles with Comments Off

Motorcycles are cool, but they are not as safe as cars. A bike can travel as fast as a car, but it lacks most of the safety features that cars have. However, riding a motorcycle should not be a death-cheating exercise. There are many steps you can take to ensure you remain safe while riding.

Wear a Helmet

Wearing a helmet while riding is the most important protective measure you can take. It protects your head, and head injuries are the leading cause of death for motorcyclists. Wearing a helmet alone is not enough; you must wear the right helmet. When shopping for a helmet, look for one that is approved by the Department of Transportation (DOT). These have been tested and confirmed to provide the minimum protection you need. The helmet should not be too tight or too loose, and it should also not obstruct your vision.

Educate Your Passengers

You must ensure that your passengers wear the right gear. Like you, they should wear protective clothes and sturdy shoes. You need to practice having a passenger in a safe area such as a parking lot. Doing this gets you used to the extra weight on the bike, and your passenger also gets accustomed to the feel of the motorcycle. Ensure your passengers learn not to distract you, and also avoid panicking. If you are carrying a child, follow the laws of your state.

Avoid Distraction

Distracted riding is not a good idea. You need to stay fully aware of what is going on around you. Remember, many drivers find it difficult to see motorcycles, especially when they are driving big cars and SUVs. So, when you see them, try to avoid them, and don’t bet for them to see you. Don’t fiddle with your phone or iPod because this cuts your reaction time by several seconds. Also, don’t take your hands off the bike even for a second because this compromises your braking, shifting, or accelerating. However, when riding, you cannot avoid the mistakes of other road users. So, in case you get involved in an accident, find a good motorcycle accident lawyer from places like Arrington Schelin & Munsey PC to represent you.

Watch the Weather

A motorbike is not as stable as a car, and riding it in the rain is riskier than driving a car in the rain. Since it has two wheels only, its traction is half that of a car. And since a motorbike lacks a windshield and wipers, it has compromised visibility during bad weather. So, when preparing for a trip, check the weather first. If the weatherman predicts ice, snow, or heavy rain, leave your bike at home. But, if you must ride, don’t ride immediately after the storm starts because the rain conjures up oil and other residues that make the road exceedingly slippery. Thus, wait until the rain has washed off the oil and slick stuff that has been brought up, and then ride slowly and cautiously, allowing plenty of space for stopping.

A motorcycle is not as safe as a car, but you can ensure that you protect yourself from injury by wearing a helmet, educating your passengers, watching the weather, and avoiding distractions while riding.

Preventing Collisions: Tips For Safer Driving Habits

by Carsurfer Admin on 2016/01/18 in Auto Accident with Comments Off

In some states, motor vehicle fatalities have increased this year. Various factors may be to blame, including driving under the influence, poor road conditions, and texting while driving. While you can’t be sure what other drivers will do, the average person behind the wheel can do several things to help prevent collisions.

Don’t Drive Under the Influence of Anything

We all know this is a very bad idea, but some do it anyway. If you’re drinking, taking medicine that makes you sleepy, or feeling very ill, don’t drive anywhere. Wait for a ride or call a taxi. A substantial number of road accidents happen because of driving when people aren’t able to manage a vehicle.

Don’t Get Distracted While Driving

Texting, using a mobile phone, playing with the vehicle’s radio or CD player, and trying to quiet screaming toddlers or arguing adults takes your attention off the road where it should be. Although some distractions can’t be avoided, for example, taking your little ones to preschool, you may want to pull over and calm your child before resuming the drive. Other distractions can and should be minimized.

Don’t Play Games While Driving

This means not to challenge other drivers to race you on the highway or accept a dare from one of your vehicle’s passengers, like outdistance an approaching train. Taking chances and behaving foolishly has led to many serious and some fatal collisions.

Obey Traffic Laws

This seems obvious, but for many it is optional. Traffic laws are implemented to protect drivers and passengers. When rules are broken, accidents are more likely to occur, and it is at that time that contacting a professional like Attorney Trevor M. Quirk is the right move to do. Negligence on your part can lead to costly repair fees and potential jail time. Don’t be the one on the road that others are worried to be around.

Avoid High-traffic Roads or Times

Again, this may not be possible all the time, especially if you drive to and from work at rush hour. But some drivers leave a little early to avoid the heaviest traffic patterns, especially in bad weather. Try to find a less-congested route to your destination if it doesn’t require significantly more time or gas.

Schedule Your Vehicle for Routine Checkups and Maintenance

Most late-model vehicles have indicators to show the oil life remaining. Some indicators will let drivers know air pressure is low. Do not ignore warning lights. It is also a good idea to have your vehicle checked at least once or twice a year to ensure important parts are working properly, including headlights, brakes, and belts.

Tips like these can mean the difference between life and death. Pay attention, drive safely, and keep your vehicle in good working condition.