Category Archives: Vehicle

4 Things To Do After an Automobile Accident

Leave a reply

When an accident happens, adrenaline and emotions can get in the way of making good decisions. By mentally preparing yourself beforehand you may be able to better handle the experience when it happens. 

Photo by C Joyful on Unsplash

Check for Injuries

Personal injuries of yourself, your passengers and the occupants of the other vehicle should be taken care of first. Calling emergency services will connect you with someone who can walk you through how to treat them. 

Even if no one is seriously injured, emergency services should be contacted so the scene can be documented by police as soon as possible.

Ensure Safety

You should never leave the scene of an accident until emergency responders tell you to, but for the safety of yourself and other drivers, you may have to move your vehicle. Remember to turn off the ignition and turn on the blinkers to reduce the risk of further damage. If your car isn’t driveable or you see flames, you should instead keep your distance. 

Don’t apologize, as that can be considered admitting fault. Don’t argue with the other driver, either. Just wait for the police to show up to conduct their investigation.

Document

Make sure you get a copy of the accident report, take pictures of the damage if possible and exchange insurance information with other drivers involved in the accident. Names and contact information of those involved, bystanders and officers responding to the scene should be written down.  

Follow Up

Your insurance may be enough to get you through this situation. But if there was substantial damage or personal injury, or if you do not agree with the police’s accident report, seeking out car accident lawyers in Columbia MD may be your next step.

Report resulting minor injuries to a doctor soon after the accident. A small neck ache might actually be a fracture that is best addressed as soon as possible.

Don’t be ashamed of keeping a list to remind you of these steps. It’s better to have more help than you need than too little.

Being Prepared for Auto Repairs

Leave a reply

If your car is running perfectly, you may not be thinking about auto repairs. However, it is a good idea to find a reputable mechanic before you need your car to be worked on. Maybe it’s your first car and you don’t have any idea what types of repairs you might need down the road. Here are some of the most common repairs that cars need.

Photo by Arseny Togulev on Unsplash

Body Work

If you have been in an accident, then your vehicle will likely need some cosmetic repairs. This may include plastic welding services or a paint job, depending on what was damaged. If your car or truck was damaged in an accident, be sure to check with your insurance to see what they’ll cover before having the work done.

Exhaust System

The exhaust system is one of those items that may have several things go wrong with it as your vehicle ages. You may need to have the oxygen sensor or the catalytic converter replaced. Be sure to follow your maintenance schedule to keep your system working properly and so that your mechanic can let you know when you need to replace components.

Fuel Cap

If your fuel cap fits loosely, it can cause your engine to underperform. If the cap gets so loose that it falls off, you could really be tanking on your gas mileage. Check this item regularly because it is an easy fix and is often signaled by a lit check engine light.

Spark Plugs

You want your car to have a good ignition system, so be sure to replace the spark plugs and the ignition coil at the first sign of a problem. If the engine misfires or idles quite roughly, it’s a good idea to have it looked at.

This is not a comprehensive list but gives you an idea of some things to watch out for. It is a good idea to do your regular maintenance so you can avoid issues and reduce the cost of car repairs.

4 Things Every Commercial Driver Should Know

Leave a reply

Truck drivers and other logistics workers fill vital roles in society. There is also a certain sense of freedom that comes with spending each day on the road. If you are considering entering the transportation field as a commercial driver, there are some things you should know to make your work safer and more productive. 

Photo by HiveBoxx on Unsplash

1. The Location of Rest Areas

You might as well face the fact that, when you are on the road for long hours, you will eventually need to stop. Whether that is for fuel or to get in required sleep, you want to stop at a place that is safe, clean and appropriate. Knowing the location of open rest areas will make any long-haul trip go easier and more smoothly. 

2. What To Do in the Case of An Accident or Traffic Violation

Being involved in a traffic accident or getting a ticket can be disastrous for a trucker. You should be prepared ahead of time by knowing where to find CDL traffic ticket lawyers who can help you fight any violations that might restrict your ability to gain employment. 

3. The Number for a 24-Hour Roadside Assitance Service

From blowouts to breakdowns, getting stuck on the side of a highway is more than an inconvenience for a truck driver. It can also mean a late delivery or missed pickup. Always keep contact information for a roadside assistance service that can help you get back on the road quickly and safely. 

4. Universal Laws Pertaining to CDL Drivers

There are some rules that pertain to commercial drivers regardless of where in the U.S. you are driving. These are largely regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and cover things like class restriction, hazmat endorsements and how many hours you can drive without stopping for a break. Take time to learn regulations and follow them to avoid fines or the possible revocation of your CDL. 

Earning your CDL can open employment opportunities. However, there are some things you should always keep in mind before you head out on the road.