Driving safely is easier said than done. Every driver who has been trucking for any length of time knows the basic rules of the road for safety, but, every now and then, either a reminder or a few trucking safety tips can help. Staying safe on the road, particularly during winter weather can be hard, and while roadside assistance is just a phone call away if something goes wrong, no trucker wants to make that call.
How to Drive in a Tornado
Do:
- Go to the nearest solid shelter if you see a tornado in the distance. The more walls between you and a tornado, the better.
- Drive at a 90-degree angle away from the tornado’s path.
- Be aware of your surroundings. If the tornado is close and there is no shelter nearby, look around to see if you can safely get noticeably lower than the level of the roadway. Next, exit your car and lie in that area, covering your head with your hands.
- If the tornado is close and there is no shelter or low-lying areas nearby, stay in the car with the seat belt on. Put your head down below the windows, covering your head with your hands and a blanket if possible.
Don’t:
- Try out-running a tornado that is close by. Tornados can travel at high speeds and don’t necessarily follow the road.
- Use unpaved roads. The strong rains that often accompany tornados can quickly make dirt or gravel roads impassable.
- Take shelter under an overpass or a bridge as winds can accelerate and cause injury or death from flying debris.
- Take shelter in a culvert. You can easily become trapped and risk drowning if it becomes clogged with water or debris.
- Take shelter under your vehicle. Vehicles can easily be rolled over or even carried long distances in a tornado.
Tips For Night Driving In The Rain
Driving in heavy rain at night can be treacherous. The darkness and the weather can combine to create extremely dangerous conditions. However, you can stay safe on the road with a few simple safe driving tips.
In this blog post will discuss some tips for driving in heavy rain at night.
Tip 01: Check everything before heading out.
Before you even turn on your car, it’s important to check a few things. Make sure your car’s windshield wipers are in good working condition and that you have plenty of windshield wiper fluid.
It’s also wise to check your tires. In heavy rain, your tires can make the difference between staying on the road and hydroplaning. On slippery roads, balding tires may significantly diminish traction resulting in hydroplaning.
Lastly, check your air conditioning. Rain can cause the temperature outside to decrease, which increases the likelihood that your windows will fog up. Your A/C should be capable of keeping the temperature inside your car at the same level as the outside to prevent fogging.
Tip 02: Drive slow and stay below speed limits.
Although it may seem apparent, this point has to be made again. Driving too fast in heavy rain is a recipe for disaster. Not only will you have a hard time seeing, but you’re also more likely to lose control of your car. Avoid driving completely in severe weather if you can. However, if you must go outside, make careful to move slowly.
Tip 03: Keep hazard lights turned off and headlights on.
When your automobile is stopped on the side of the road, your hazard lights should be on. They convey to other drivers the need for caution. However, they may also be a distraction, so it’s better to leave them off when driving in a lot of rain. As for headlights, make sure they’re on so you can see and be seen by other drivers.
Tip 04: Avoid standing water.
Standing water is one of the biggest dangers of driving in heavy rain. Finding another route is best if you can’t see the ground through the water. Failure to remain safe on wet roads can result in hydroplaning.
It happens when your car’s tires begin to contact standing water rather than the road’s surface. Drivers start to hydroplane, which causes them to lose control of their cars. The driver may experience significant stress from feeling out of control.
Be sure to keep your calm at all times if you find yourself hydroplaning. Put your foot off the gas slowly and turn your automobile in the desired direction. Finally, avoid making any sharp bends or braking your car.
Tip 05: Don’t drive if you’re not comfortable.
If you don’t feel comfortable driving in certain weather conditions, don’t do it. Driving in heavy rain at night can be dangerous and stressful, not to mention the risk of hydroplaning, so only attempt it if you’re confident in your abilities. If not, wait until the weather clears up or find another way to get to your destination.
Always keep road safety as your first concern when driving in heavy rain at night. Following these safe driving tips can help ensure a safe and smooth journey.
What Is an Ignition Coil?
An ignition coil, as its name suggests, plays a vital role in igniting the engine. This small yet potent device delivers up to 60,000 volts of power to the spark plugs to ensure your vehicle’s smooth operation. You can find the ignition coil nestled within the engine compartment. The heart of your vehicle’s performance lies in its ignition system, with the ignition coil playing a starring role. Keeping it maintained will help to have a smooth, efficient drive.
What does an ignition coil do?
The ignition coil functions as a power transformer. It takes the 12-volt charge from your car battery and transforms it into something much more potent. This converted voltage, which can reach up to 60,000 volts, is what your spark plugs need to ignite the fuel-and-air mixture within the engine’s combustion chambers. Without a functioning ignition coil, the spark plug would not receive the necessary voltage to create the spark needed to ignite the fuel-air mix.
Where is it? The location of your ignition coil depends on the make and model of your vehicle. One common location is attached to the spark plugs on top of the engine block.
Types of ignition coils
Understanding the different types of ignition coils can be incredibly helpful, especially when it comes to maintaining your vehicle or diagnosing potential problems.
Canister-style coils
Conventional ignition coils, often referred to as canister-style coils, were very common in older vehicles. The design of these coils is quite simple: A metal canister houses the primary and secondary windings. They typically sit outside the engine and are wired to a distributor, which then takes on the responsibility of distributing the high voltage from the coil to the spark plugs. Despite their simplicity, conventional ignition coils are known for their durability and reliability.
Distributor less ignition system (DIS) coils
As technology advanced, so did ignition coils. Enter the distributor less ignition system (DIS) coils. These coils represent a significant step forward in ignition technology. Instead of relying on a distributor, DIS coils are usually mounted directly on or near the spark plugs. Each coil is tasked with supplying high voltage to a specific spark plug. This design allows for more precise timing of spark production for each cylinder, thanks to the use of sensors. The result is improved ignition performance and efficiency over conventional coils.
Coil-on-plug (COP) ignition coils
Taking the concept of DIS coils a notch higher, we have the coil-on-plug (COP) ignition coils. In a COP system, each cylinder gets its own personal ignition coil, which is mounted directly on the spark plug. This setup eliminates the need for spark plug wires, allowing for even more precise and efficient ignition. COP ignition coils provide enhanced spark energy and better control over combustion. The outcomes are improved engine performance and reduced emissions.
Signs of a bad ignition coil
How can you tell if your ignition coil is failing and needs attention? Here are some common signs:
- The check engine light is on: If it illuminates, it could be indicating a problem with your ignition coil.
- The engine misfires: Should your ignition coil begin to fail, it might fail to supply adequate voltage to the spark plugs, resulting in misfires.
- Starts are difficult: When spark plugs aren’t receiving enough power to ignite the fuel-air mixture in the engine, your vehicle will have a hard time starting.
- Fuel economy decreases: A failing ignition coil can disrupt the balance of fuel consumption and power generation, leading to less-than-optimal fuel economy.
- Power begins to lag: A bad ignition coil might not supply enough power to the spark plugs, resulting in reduced engine performance.
- The engine backfires: This might indicate a faulty ignition coil failing to ignite the fuel in the combustion chamber adequately.
How long do ignition coils last?
On average, a well-maintained ignition coil should last around 100,000 miles. However, this can vary depending on factors like your driving habits, vehicle make and model, and even the climate you live in. It’s important to remember that preventive maintenance is always better than reactive repairs. Regular check-ups can assist in identifying potential issues before they develop into more severe (and expensive) complications. So, if your check engine light has been flickering or your engine is misfiring, it’s best to schedule a visit to your mechanic sooner rather than later.
Understanding your vehicle, including the vital role of the ignition coil, ensures smooth and efficient driving. However, even with impeccable maintenance, unforeseen issues can arise. Having the right auto insurance is key to protecting your car from unexpected repair costs and other road-related incidents. It not only gives you peace of mind but also helps to ensure that you get back on the road without worrying about financial implications.
What Are The Best Car Colors To Buy?
The color of a car isn’t always an essential deciding factor when you’re making a purchase decision. Nevertheless, it is still quite important to most buyers.
Factors That Can Influence Your Car Color Choice
Choosing the right color can be challenging, though. Aside from aesthetics, other factors like maintenance, resale value, and cost all influence what car color you choose.
Let’s examine some of these factors to find out the best car colors
Personal Taste
When selecting a car color, the buyer’s personal choice is likely the single most important factor.
Color preferences often reflect a person’s personality. Individuals who wish to stand out tend to prefer bright, bold colors that attract attention, such as yellow, red, or green. Colors such as white, silver, gray, and black may appeal to those seeking simplicity.
Choosing a color that you admire will improve your ownership experience and the satisfaction you derive from your car. You’ll feel more satisfied with your car if it comes in a shade that suits you well.
Maintenance
Maintaining the color of your car might be difficult. Aside from pearl hues, other colors, such as black and red, need cautious maintenance since scratches, grime, and dirt are easy to spot.
White, gray, and silver are the most straightforward colors to keep clean. Lighter hues, in contrast to most dark colors, barely show dirt. Darker colors need more effort to look attractive. The deeper the color, the more scratches you’ll notice and the longer you’ll have to spend polishing body panels.
Dark metallic hues are also more prone to wear and require more care. However, these hues are the most eye-catching when they are properly maintained.
Heat Absorption
Metal is a great conductor of heat. A car coated in a dark hue will have higher heat-absorbing tendencies. Studies have shown that darker colors absorb more heat than lighter ones. Dark-colored cars absorb more heat, making the car hotter. On the other hand, lighter colors reflect heat well.
Cost
Some car manufacturers offer models in specific colors at an additional cost. For instance, Toyota’s Pearl White color is frequently more expensive than other regular colors. Mazda’s flagship Soul Red Crystal and Machine Gray hues are likewise more costly. Getting such branded car colors costs extra money.
Resale Value
The color of a car can have an effect on its resale value. Many buyers choose to buy white, black, gray, or silver cars because they retain their value better. If your car is a flashier color, you may have difficulty selling it.
There is a common misconception that brighter hues like red increase insurance premiums. This is, however, not the case. The color of a car has no impact on its insurance. The only thing insurance companies care about is the make and model of your vehicle and how much it costs to repair and replace it, among other things.
5 SIGNS OF A DIRTY AIR FILTER
It’s easy to forget about important technical aspects such as engine filters during regular day-to-day driving. Engine filters work to keep the engine free from debris and pollutants. Over time a car’s filter will always get dirty. Dirty air filters restrict airflow into the engine, eventually hurting a vehicle’s performance. As a responsible owner, it’s important to be aware of signs that indicate an air filter is faulty. Maintain optimal engine performance by keeping your engine free from pollutants. Below is a list of common symptoms the engine air filter should be replaced.
A Decrease in Engine Power
Each drive sucks in contaminated air, and engine filters prevent debris, dust, dirt, and bugs from entering the engine. If the air filter isn’t regularly changed, the filter will become clogged. A clogged prevents an adequate amount of air from getting into the engine. This will lead to the engine running less efficiently than it should. Poor acceleration is a telltale sign of a dirty air filter. A clogged air filter can be prevented by changing your air filter every 12,000 miles or so, depending on driving habits.
The Engine Misfires
A dirty air filter decreases the amount of air supplied to the engine. This can lead to an increase in unburned fuel that turns into soot residue. Soot can mound up on the spark plug tips making them unable to deliver a proper spark. In return, the car can jerk, idle, and in some circumstances, the engine can misfire.
Weird Engine Noises
If a car is idling, the engine should give a typical hum. A clogged air filter limits air supplied to the combustion chamber. The combustion chamber, in turn, can sputter, pop, or give cough-like sounds. Odd sounds may also be accompanied by vibrating or shaking.
Reduced Fuel Efficiency
Gasoline and air work together to power the engine. Contaminated air filters provide insufficient air, so the engine ends up using more fuel to overcompensate. A noticeable decrease in gas mileage can indicate a bad air filter.
The Engine Filter Looks Dirty.
You can determine an air filter state by popping the hood and giving it a visual inspection. Most Air filters are white. If they’re clean and you illuminate them with a flashlight, you should be able to see through it. Faulty air filters will visibly look caked, clogged, and contaminated
5 Ways to Be a Defensive Driver
You can’t control what other drivers do. But you can do things to lower your chances of being in a crash. This is what it means to be a defensive driver.
How Do I Drive Defensively?
Before you get behind the wheel, get into the right mindset — be alert and, focused, and watch out for other drivers. Then:
- Pay attention to your surroundings. Check your mirrors often and scan to see what’s happening 20 to 30 seconds ahead of you. Keep your eyes moving. If you see an aggressive driver, slow down or pull over. Always keep an eye out for walkers, runners, bikers, and pets along the road.
- Keep your speed down. The best way to stay in control of your vehicle is to observe the speed limit. The faster you go, the harder it is to respond if someone pulls out in front of you or runs into the road. And lower your speed when the weather is bad.
- Follow the 3-second rule to set a safe following distance. As you drive, look ahead and find a “marker,” like a sign, on the side of the road. When the car in front of you passes it, start counting from 0 to 3. If you reach the marker at the count of 3, you’re keeping a safe 3-second following distance. If not, slow down. When weather or road conditions are poor, increase the distance to 6 seconds.
- Cut out distractions. Any activity that takes your attention away — even for a second— is a distraction. It’s dangerous and can lead to a ticket in many states. Stay focused until you reach your destination. You can put your phone away or turn on automatic replies that will tell others you’re busy driving.
- Don’t rely on other drivers. Always be considerate of other drivers but look out for yourself. You can’t be sure that another driver will move out of your way or allow you to merge. Instead, assume other drivers might be distracted or don’t see you. Think about what you would do if another car pulls out in front of you. Being prepared is key. Some drivers will run red lights or stop signs, so you need to be ready.
Don’t Leave These Items in a Hot Car!
As the summertime and hot temperatures become more frequent, the most common reminders for drivers are to be aware of how warm a vehicle can get while parked in the sun and to never leave a child or pet inside that car or truck.
In addition, however, there are many other common items left or stored in a vehicle that hot weather can severely damage, destroy, or even cause to explode.
- Sunglasses—Plastic frames can soften and warp, changing the fit to your face. Plastic lenses can also warp, making them unusable. Sunglasses with metal frames can get so hot that they can’t be worn until they cool down.
- Sunscreen—When sunscreen is left in a car, the heat can change its active ingredients, making it less effective or not effective at all.
- Medicines – Any prescription or non-prescription medicine should be kept at no more than 77 degrees unless it is a medication that needs to be refrigerated, like some insulins, heart and thyroid drugs. Heat can cause the medication to lose its effectiveness.
- Cosmetics – Make-up can melt and separate, making it unusable.
- Aerosol Cans – Hairspray, sunscreen, paint, or any material in a pressurized can may explode when temperatures exceed 120 degrees. Personal protection devices such as pepper sprays also fall into this category.
- Electronics – Mobile phones, laptops, tablets, cameras, and other electronic devices do not deal well with high temperatures. Batteries and other components inside the device can leak and fail, turning the device into a paperweight. Heat-related damage may not be covered under warranties.
- Batteries – Face the same issues as electronics. Batteries can deform, leak, and even explode when exposed to high heat for long periods of time.
- Pens, markers, and crayons – Heat will deform plastic pens and markers. Ink will either evaporate or leak. Crayons will melt into a gooey mess and then harden once temperatures drop.
- Food—Groceries or leftovers should be considered UNSAFE if left in a hot car for more than an hour. Snacks and candy, especially chocolate, will melt into a gooey mess.
- DVDs and CDs – These can warp and become unplayable.
- Beer and Wine—Both of these beverages change composition above 78 degrees. Wine quickly turns into a sour vinegar-like liquid, and beer also turns sour. Cans and bottles may explode if kept at high temperatures for long periods of time, and other alcoholic spirits can change under high heat.
- Canned and Bottled Soda—High heat can affect the taste and consistency of carbonated drinks. Heat can also affect some soda ingredients, changing the flavor of the drink. In extreme heat, cans and bottles can explode due to heat creating extreme pressure inside the container.
- Plastic Water Bottles – Avoid using plastic water bottles that have been exposed to sunlight and/or heat. Some bottles can release small amounts of the substance BPA, which has been linked to health risks in high amounts. Avoid this by purchasing BPA-free water bottles or a glass container.
- Cigarette/Cigar Lighters – Disposable or refillable, the pressurized flammable material will expand under high heat conditions. These can burst and even explode.
- Credit/debit cards – High heat can cause these to warp or deform and become unusable – even if they’re the new “chip” style card.
- Latex gloves or other latex items—Latex rubber has a relatively low melting point, so gloves and other latex items can lose their ability to protect or provide a barrier.
One suggestion is to keep an insulated ice chest or cooler in the trunk or back seat of the vehicle. This can offer some short-term protection for items that are exposed to the heat.
And never, never, ever leave children, pets, or the elderly in a car parked in the sun. Not even for a minute.
Fourth of July Travel Safety Tips
The Fourth of July is a time for celebrating and honoring our country, with many gathering with friends and family, and some travelling to summer destinations. As the holiday approaches, it is important to be aware of the hazards that accompany major holidays, and of the risks of being on the road in the summer heat. Take a moment to review these travel safety tips to ensure the Fourth of July holiday period is as safe and carefree as possible. Remember to call 511 or 911 if you need assistance.
Sometimes with holiday celebrations comes alcohol consumption. Tragically, from 2018 to 2022, there were 2,228 people killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes over the Fourth of July holiday period. To avoid substance-related incidents:
- Arrange a sober driver if you plan to consume alcohol.
- Intervene if you see someone attempting to operate a vehicle while intoxicated.
- Safely pull over and call 9-1-1 if you suspect a driver on the road to be driving under the influence.
The Fourth of July also brings summer heat that drivers must account for in their travel plans, so keep the following summer driving tips in mind:
- Always check that the AC is in working order before leaving for a trip.
- Never leave children or animals in the car, even for a few minutes.
- High temperatures can affect tire pressure, increasing the likelihood of a blowout, so keep an eye on your tire pressure throughout your trip.
- Check the cooling system, fluid levels, batteries, lights, and wiper blades.
- Plan the route ahead to avoid major road congestion and have stopping points planned.
- Stock the car with plenty of water and snacks, especially when travelling with children.
Holiday weekends should be a time to relax and enjoy quality time with friends and family, and planning for safety helps to ensure smooth sailing on all fronts. Keep these tips in mind as we enter the Fourth of July holiday period to ensure roadway safety.
5 Tips to Take Care of Your Windshield Wipers
Windshield wipers are vital necessities that help keep you safe on the road. When neglected, dull wiper blades can cause problems during a sudden downpour, which is why keeping them properly maintained is so important. Here are a few of our top windshield wiper care tips to help ensure your wipers are always ready to go.
Defrost and Scrape Before Using the Wipers
Windshield wipers tend to stick when there’s been heavy snow or ice, causing them to snap if you turn them on before defrosting the windshield. In freezing temperatures, run the defroster first and scrape away any snow or ice, if necessary. It’s helpful if you warm up the car ahead of time with the defroster on high, especially if you have an early morning commute.
Replace the Blades at Least Twice a Year
Wiper blades are only designed to last about six months. After that, you’ll start to notice a decline in your driving visibility. To help combat this problem, buy replacements every six months and change them on time. You’ll also need to keep an eye on the blades for signs of early wear, such as smearing, skipping, or squeaking across the glass. The process is so easy, in fact, that you can do it yourself with a little practice.
Keep the Windshield Clean
Your car’s wiper blades are going to wear more quickly if they’re wiping across filthy glass. To help prolong their longevity, clean your windshield every time you stop to fill up at a gas station. Most stations provide a squeegee specifically for this use, so take advantage of it. Just be sure to inspect the sponge before use and wipe it with a paper towel when needed, as communal squeegees can harbor small rocks and other debris that can scratch your windshield.
Never Run the Wipers on a Dry Windshield
Windshield wipers are designed to be used when the windshield is wet. Operating them on a dry surface can cause the wipers to wear out much more quickly than they would normally, which only causes extras headaches. When you do need to clean a dry windshield, such as when there’s pollen buildup on the glass, press the washer button first. This will require you to keep your car topped up on windshield washer fluid, which is another thing to remember as part of your wipers’ routine maintenance.
Reposition the Blades During the Winter Months
Dealing with frozen windshield wipers is the last thing you want to be doing before work on a cold winter morning. To prevent this problem, pull the wiper blades away from the windshield the night before a freeze. This keeps the rubber squeegee part of the blades from freezing to the glass, and it makes it easier to scrape away any ice and snow.
Taking care of your car requires paying attention to the little things. When it comes to your windshield wipers, getting into a routine and being vigilant can ensure they’re always ready to go when you need them.