Auto news and reviews from Car Buyer's Notebook.com: Safety Archives

August 13, 2008

Volvo for Life and the Weavers

The Weaver family should be on a survival TV show: their son went off the road and and down a steep slope - and survived. His wife's car flipped over - but she was unhurt. A tree fell on the front of his own car - but it was still drivable.

"We would like to thank Volvo for helping to protect our lives," says Richard Weaver of Kentucky.

Continue reading "Volvo for Life and the Weavers"

August 13, 2008

Mercedes-Benz to introduce Attention Assist

Stuttgart - Accident researchers at Mercedes-Benz are acutely aware of the danger in nodding off at the wheel (the "one-second nap"). In the view of these specialists, long holiday journeys without intermediate breaks involve a high risk of overtiredness, whose signs drivers often fail to notice in time.

For this reason Mercedes-Benz has developed the innovative driver support system Attention Assist. This is able to recognise driver fatigue at an early stage, and warn the driver that a break is called for soon. The system will enter series production in spring 2009.

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Audi Q7 earns IIHS Top Safety Pick award for 2008

HERNDON, Va. -- The Audi Q7, a luxury performance SUV, earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's (IIHS) Top Safety Pick award for 2008.

The 2008 Q7 received a "good" rating in all three crash tests: side impact, offset frontal and rear impact seat tests. In addition to the Q7, three Audi car models -- the A3, A4 and A6 -- have also been recognized as Top Safety Picks in 2008, earning Audi the most Top Safety Pick designations for 2008 models of any luxury automaker this year.

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August 10, 2008

Nissan previews collision-free technology

TOKYO -- Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. has unveiled an All-Around Collision Free prototype incorporating two all-new technologies - Side Collision Prevention (SCP) and Back-up Collision Prevention (BCP). Incorporating the available Distance Control Assist (DCA) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) systems, this latest prototype vehicle further extends Nissan's "Safety Shield" concept to help protect the vehicle and its occupants from potential risks coming from multiple directions.

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August 9, 2008

Auto Dealers Take Child Passenger Safety Message to Public Television

MCLEAN, Va. -- The National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) is promoting September as Child Passenger Safety Month. And to further amplify its child safety messages, NADA is teaming up with SeeMore's Playhouse(TM), a children's public television series that reaches an audience of 60 million homes.

Since NADA's national child passenger safety campaign was launched six years ago, auto dealers have inspected more than one million child safety seats and discovered that nine out of 10 seats are improperly installed or need repair.

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August 7, 2008

2009 Ford Edge sports industry-first Blind Spot Mirror

DEARBORN, Mich. -- Ford is moving quickly to address driver demands for increased visibility with an industry-first innovation, the Blind Spot Mirror, pulling ahead the feature's introduction by one year to launch this fall as standard equipment on the 2009 Ford Edge.

"Ford is committed to delivering innovative features that provide a better driving experience for the customer," said Derrick Kuzak, Ford group vice president, Global Product Development. "The Blind Spot Mirror is the latest example of our strategy to move fast and to be industry leaders in enhancing the ownership experience."

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August 6, 2008

Ford Flex earns top 5-star crash ratings

DEARBORN, Mich. -- The 2009 Ford Flex has earned five-star frontal- and side-impact crashworthiness ratings, the highest possible scores, in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests.

The results for Ford's newest full-size crossover are better than the Toyota Highlander's and include class-leading four-star rollover ratings for both the front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive versions.

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AAA Urges Motorists to Stay Alert as Kids Head Back to School

ORLANDO, Fla. -- Fifty-six million children across the country begin heading back to school this month, and AAA is urging motorists to slow down and stay alert in neighborhoods and school zones with its 75th annual School's Open - Drive Carefully campaign.

AAA's School's Open - Drive Carefully campaign hopes to curb a trend of unsafe driving behavior in school zones and neighborhoods that can result in children's injury and sometimes death.

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August 5, 2008

States Hands-Free Law Boosts Bluetooth Sales

SAN FRANCISCO -- Since July 1 when the California and Washington hands-free driving legislation became effective, Parrot has seen a three-fold increase in sales of its hands-free car kits.

Parrot, the world's largest manufacturer of Bluetooth car kits attributes the increase to an aggressive advertising and public relations campaign it launched two months prior to the law taking effect.

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August 1, 2008

One in Three Text Message While Behind Wheel

MINNEAPOLIS -- How many Twin Cities drivers are driving with one hand on the wheel and the other preoccupied with a cell phone, iPod, BlackBerry or hamburger?

According to a new "Twin Cities Driving Behavior" Survey commissioned by AAA Minneapolis, 77 percent of drivers ages 18-34 in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area snack while they drive, 70 percent talk on cell phones and one in three young adults actually text message while behind the wheel.

Continue reading "One in Three Text Message While Behind Wheel"

July 30, 2008

OnStar Opens "Crisis Assist" to Those Affected by Southern California Earthquake

DETROIT - OnStar reminds its subscribers in Southern California that a simple push of the OnStar button in GM vehicles will put them in contact with the help they need. OnStar's Crisis Assist capabilities include specially trained Crisis Advisors who will help with:

Continue reading "OnStar Opens "Crisis Assist" to Those Affected by Southern California Earthquake"

July 28, 2008

Honda Interactive Crash Test Demo Invites Viewers to "See What We See"

TORRANCE, Calif. -- American Honda Motor Co., Inc. has launched a unique online video experience of a vehicle crash test that invites viewers to witness the crash impact and explore it from different camera angles and at various motion speeds.

The crash test demo is part of Honda's "Power of Dreams" corporate ad campaign (http://www.dreams.honda.com) which invites consumers to view the world from inside Honda's vantage point.

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Effective Use of Your Vehicle's Antilock Brakes Delivers Maximum Safety

BROADVIEW, Ill. -- In 1978, it was an innovation. Today, within a short span of 30 years, the electronically controlled antilock braking system, or ABS, has become a standard safety item on most modern vehicles.

"These safety benefits are most apparent when ABS is used effectively to make an emergency stop," says Rob Backode, Group Product Manager for Bosch Braking Systems.

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Saving Lives by Banning Deadly Tires

WASHINGTON CROSSING, Pa. -- The following is by Bob Moore of the Moore Foundation:

Six years ago -- July 31st to be exact -- I received the phone call every parent dreads. My ex-wife was on the line, "A policeman came to the house tonight, and he told me Andy was in a car accident in Canada." Her voice cracking, she added, "He died!"

Continue reading "Saving Lives by Banning Deadly Tires"

July 25, 2008

OnStar Opens "Crisis Assist" Emergency Services to Those Affected by Dolly

DETROIT - OnStar reminds its subscribers in Southeast Texas that a simple push of the OnStar button in GM vehicles will put them in contact with specially-trained Crisis Advisors.

OnStar's Crisis Assist capabilities include specially trained Crisis Advisors, who will help with:

Continue reading "OnStar Opens "Crisis Assist" Emergency Services to Those Affected by Dolly"

July 24, 2008

Child Safety Seats: Choosing and Using Them Right

WASHINGTON -- Did you know that a seat belt alone is not enough to protect your young child in a car crash?

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says that child safety seats reduce the risk of being killed in a car crash by 71 percent for an infant and by 54 percent for a toddler. This is why all 50 states have laws that require the use of child safety restraints.

Continue reading "Child Safety Seats: Choosing and Using Them Right"

July 23, 2008

Nissan recalls Sentras due to brake problems

Nissan Motor Co. is recalling nearly 170,000 Sentra sedans in the United States to address a brake cylinder that could leak fluid.

The recall involves 2007-2008 Sentras, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported on its Web site. Nissan plans to notify owners beginning Wednesday.

Nissan said in a letter to NHTSA that an irregularity in some of the cylinders could lead to a gap that could allow fluid to leak into the brake booster assembly.

Red Light Camera Locations Have Nowhere to Hide

PORTLAND, Ore. -- Njection.com has added several new features allowing visitors to view where Red Light Cameras, Speed Detection Cameras and Speed Traps are located anywhere in the world.

Njection.com uses Microsoft Virtual Earth Map Controls to display the location of Speed Traps and Red Light Cameras worldwide. Users with an Internet connection can view, contribute and rate where these speed traps are located.

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July 19, 2008

Volvo aims for zero accidents

At the Volvo Car Corporation, the vision is to design cars that should not crash. In the shorter perspective the aim is that by 2020 no-one should be killed or injured in a Volvo.

"We don't accept that people lose their lives in airplane accidents, so why should we regard car accidents as inevitable?" says Jan Ivarsson, head of Safety Strategy at the Volvo Car Corporation.

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July 15, 2008

Hypermilers refute safety concern

CHICAGO -- Anticipating the present fuel crisis and troubled by the political and environmental consequences of the US' huge consumption of oil, a group formed three years ago to find ways to increase the fuel efficiency of existing vehicles in the US.

The founder, Wayne Gerdes, coined the term "hypermiling": exceeding the EPA's MPG standards. He established CleanMPG.com as a forum to discuss and improve fuel conservation methods, and to educate others about these methods.

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July 12, 2008

Ford speeds active safety research

DEARBORN, Mich. - Ford Motor Company is strengthening its commitment to active safety with plans to offer more new product features and technologies that consumers increasingly want as well as ramping up research and development into next-generation accident avoidance safety technologies.

In the next year, Ford will introduce three new active technologies including Adaptive Cruise Control, BLISTM (Blind Spot Information System) with Cross Traffic Alert and a third to be named later in 2008.

Continue reading "Ford speeds active safety research"

July 11, 2008

Ford's New Smart Intersection 'Talks' to Cars to Help Reduce Collisions

DEARBORN, Mich. -- Ford Motor Company researchers today unveiled one of the first privately funded "smart intersections" in North America, a key step toward leveraging GPS technology and wireless infrastructure-to-vehicle communications to reduce traffic accidents and ease congestion.

The smart intersection, established near Ford's Research & Innovation Center in Dearborn, communicates with specially equipped test vehicles to warn drivers of potentially dangerous traffic situations, such as when a vehicle is about to run through a red light.

Continue reading "Ford's New Smart Intersection 'Talks' to Cars to Help Reduce Collisions"

July 9, 2008

20% of DUIs happen after a night out

MAIDENHEAD, England -- Nearly 1 in 5 convicted drink-drivers are caught the morning after drinking.

If you drank 4 pints of beer or 3 large glasses of wine during a night out it could take as long as 12 hours for the alcohol to leave your system.

If you stopped drinking at midnight you could still be over the drink drive limit at 10 am.

Continue reading "20% of DUIs happen after a night out"

Ford launches driving skills program in Aisa

BANGKOK, Thailand -- Ford Motor Company is launching its successful "Driving Skills for Life" program this year in select Asia markets, including Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia and the Philippines.

In cooperation with the Asia Injury Prevention Foundation and government agencies in the four ASEAN countries, the program will teach practical skills and training for safe and fuel-efficient driving.

Continue reading "Ford launches driving skills program in Aisa"

Vehicle Theft Continuing to Decline

DES PLAINES, Ill. -- Hot Wheels 2008, the National Insurance Crime Bureau's (NICB) companion study to its annual Hot Spots auto theft report examines data reported to the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) and determines the vehicle make, model, and model year most reported stolen in 2007. See the full report at www.nicb.org.

For 2007, the most stolen vehicles* in the nation were:

Continue reading "Vehicle Theft Continuing to Decline"

Summer's Here, and So Are New Teen Drivers

BOSTON -- A new poll of teens by Liberty Mutual Insurance reveals that the summer months are more popular than any other season for young drivers ages 16-18 to obtain their learner's permit (35 percent) and take their driver's test (33 percent).

To help parents and new teen drivers develop safe and responsible driving habits, Liberty Mutual and SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions) today launched an interactive teen driving resource at http://www.libertymutualteendriving.com/ with extensive materials such as a defensive driving course, sample driver's licensing exam questions from every state, a parent/teen safe driving contract, and a crash safety kit.

Continue reading "Summer's Here, and So Are New Teen Drivers"

July 8, 2008

Car Thieves Tempted as Summer Months Begin

LIVONIA, Mich. -- H.E.A.T. (Help Eliminate Auto Thefts) warns Michigan residents to stay alert this summer as carelessness among car owners often increases as warm weather sets in, providing thieves with easy access to personal property and vehicles.

July is National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month and the Auto Theft Prevention Authority reports that August is the highest month for auto theft in Michigan.

Continue reading "Car Thieves Tempted as Summer Months Begin"

June 28, 2008

AAA Advises Hypermilers to Avoid Dangerous Techniques

ORLANDO, Fla. -- Some motorists have gone to extreme measures to conserve fuel while driving by 'hypermiling' -- trying to exceed the EPA estimated fuel efficiency of a vehicle by drastically modifying driving and maintenance habits.

As record-high fuel prices continue to stress household budgets, many motorists are looking for ways to improve their vehicle's fuel economy -- sometimes to the point of putting their lives in danger.

Continue reading "AAA Advises Hypermilers to Avoid Dangerous Techniques"

MADD's National President to Walk Like MADD to Eliminate Drunk Driving

TAMPA, Fla. -- Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) leadership will join approximately 500 local supporters on Saturday, June 28, at Tampa's Lowry Park Zoo to participate in Walk Like MADD, a 5K non-competitive walk that encourages the community to support MADD's Campaign to Eliminate Drunk Driving.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 959 people were killed in Florida in traffic crashes involving a driver or a motorcycle operator with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher in 2006.

Continue reading "MADD's National President to Walk Like MADD to Eliminate Drunk Driving"

June 22, 2008

MADD Applauds Alaska for Lifesaving DUI Bill

JUNEAU, Alaska -- Governor Sarah Palin (R) on Monday signed into law a measure that will save countless lives by requiring all convicted drunk drivers to install an alcohol ignition interlock device in their vehicles. H.B. 19, which passed both the Senate and the House unanimously, will make it more difficult for convicted drunk drivers to repeat this deadly crime.

When this law goes into effect on January 1, 2009, Alaska will join seven other states furthering MADD's Campaign to Eliminate Drunk Driving by requiring alcohol ignition interlock devices for all convicted drunk drivers, including New Mexico, Arizona, Illinois, Louisiana, Washington, Nebraska and Colorado.

Continue reading "MADD Applauds Alaska for Lifesaving DUI Bill"

Texas Drivers Running on Empty

IRVING, Texas -- The number of Texans running out of gas on the highway skyrocketed 53 percent in the first five months of 2008 compared to the same time last year, according to the Allstate Motor Club.

From January through May of 2008, Texans called the Motor Club for fuel delivery 506 times. Allstate Motor Club set a Texas record in May with 140 out-of-gas calls across the state.

Continue reading "Texas Drivers Running on Empty"

Country Star Julie Roberts Joins Mothers Against Drunk Driving to Walk Like MADD

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) leadership will join Mercury Nashville recording artist, Julie Roberts and 800 local supporters on Saturday, June 21 at Centennial Park to participate in Walk Like MADD, a 5K non-competitive walk that encourages the community to support MADD's Campaign to Eliminate Drunk Driving.

The walk comes at a time when nearly a third of all fatal crashes on Tennessee's roadways involve a driver or motorcycle operator with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher.

Continue reading "Country Star Julie Roberts Joins Mothers Against Drunk Driving to Walk Like MADD"

June 19, 2008

Alarming Increase in Motorcycle Rider Deaths

WASHINGTON -- Friday marks the official start of summer, and millions of Americans will hit the roads to head to their summer vacations.

Unfortunately, for too many motorcyclists, this may also mark the beginning of another deadly summer. The Governors Highway Safety Association's (GHSA) new report, Survey of the States: Motorcycle Safety Programs, examines the dramatic increase in motorcycle rider deaths and looks at programs states have undertaken to keep motorcyclists safe.

Continue reading "Alarming Increase in Motorcycle Rider Deaths"

Nebraska DMV Approves DriversEd.Com

OAKLAND, Calif. -- As an approved DMV provider of online drivers ed in Nebraska, DriversEd.com is making their web-based drivers education instruction available through the DriversEd.com Drivers Safety Course.

"Partnering with DriversEd.com brings students the convenience of taking the classroom portion of their drivers education all online, at their own pace," says William Saxton, owner of Road Ready Driver Training based in Lincoln. "This affiliation combines their academic know-how with our hands-on, behind-the-wheel training."

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June 18, 2008

LoJack Helps Las Vegas Cops Break Up Motorcycle Theft Rings

WESTWOOD, Mass. -- In less than 48 hours, LoJack Corporation's LoJack For Motorcycles was instrumental in helping Las Vegas police and the Southern Nevada Auto Theft Task Force break up two theft rings June 14-16.

The operations led to the recovery of four Honda CBR motorcycles, a Yamaha ATV and the arrest of 10 suspects. The LoJack Stolen Vehicle Recovery System once again proved its effectiveness in recovering stolen assets and helped police apprehend the criminals behind these crimes.

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Portable Nav Systems Remove Stress, Adds Safety

CONCORD, Mass. -- TomTom Inc. today announces that recent findings from leading US research institute Virginia Tech Transportation Institute and Dutch research institute TNO prove the positive influence of portable navigation devices on driving and traffic safety. Key findings from the research showed that drivers using a portable navigation device experience less stress, pay more attention to the road and feel safer.

The key findings of the US research were as follows:

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June 17, 2008

19-Year-Old NASCAR Star Colin Braun Offers Safe Driving Tips for Teens

Colin Braun, a top-ranked rookie in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series at age 19, will give demonstrations in a specially-equipped Mustang skid car to promote safe driving among teenagers as part of Ford's Driving Skills for Life (DSFL) program.

In addition, the rising star for Ford and Roush Fenway Racing will be available for media interviews.

Continue reading "19-Year-Old NASCAR Star Colin Braun Offers Safe Driving Tips for Teens"

June 15, 2008

Safe Kids Program Hits Major Milestone

LOS ANGELES -- Safe Kids Buckle Up, the child passenger safety program of Safe Kids USA sponsored by General Motors and Chevrolet, has reached a milestone no other program can claim: one million child safety seats checked for proper installation.

"A Safe Kids child seat inspection provides hands-on training for parents and caregivers," said Mitch Stoller, president and CEO of Safe Kids Worldwide."

Continue reading "Safe Kids Program Hits Major Milestone"

June 14, 2008

Teen Drivers Ignore Bans on Using Cellphones and Texting

ARLINGTON, Va. -- Teenage drivers' cellphone use edged higher in North Carolina after the state enacted a cellphone ban for young drivers, a new Institute study finds.

This is the case even though young drivers and their parents said they strongly support the restrictions. Parents and teens alike believe the ban on hand-held and hands-free phone use isn't being enforced. Researchers concluded that North Carolina's law isn't reducing teen drivers' cellphone use.

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June 13, 2008

Senior Drivers to Increase 70% Over Next 20 Years

SAN MATEO, Calif. -- A new national survey of baby boomers shows a growing need for better communication about driving issues among adult children and their aging parents, calls for additional restrictions on their parents' driving -- whether voluntary or mandatory -- and points to an urgent need for expanded access to public transportation for seniors.

The survey, released today by Caring.com and the National Safety Council (NSC) during National Safety Month, is designed to raise awareness about a growing national concern about elderly drivers.

Continue reading "Senior Drivers to Increase 70% Over Next 20 Years"

Choosing the Right Vehicle for A Teen Driver

WASHINGTON -- Summer is the prime time for parents to purchase vehicles for their teens, with graduation, summer jobs and college looming. AAA encourages parents to factor safety, affordability and reliability into picking the best vehicle for their teen.

"Helping their teenager make a smart vehicle choice is an important way that parents need to be involved in their young driver's development," said AAA President and CEO Robert L. Darbelnet. "Making a wise choice can more than just save the teen some money and repair headaches -- it can save lives."

Continue reading "Choosing the Right Vehicle for A Teen Driver"

June 6, 2008

Mustang first convertible to win top safety rating

DEARBORN, Mich. -- When Ford Chief Engineer for Safety Systems Steve Kozak decided to give a new car to his teenage daughter as a graduation gift only one model would do: the 2008 Ford Mustang GT convertible, the No. 1-selling and top safety-rated drop-top in the U.S.

The 2008 Mustang GT is the only convertible to earn a five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for frontal crash, side impact and rollover tests.

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Ford continues voice-activated research

DEARBORN, Mich. -- As the National Safety Council turns the country's attention to distracted driving next week, the Ford Sync in-car communications and entertainment system continues gaining popularity as one of the most advanced answers yet to the distractions nearly 190 million Americans encounter as they talk on cell phones while driving.

A recent survey found that more than 80 percent of mobile phone owners said they talk on the phone while driving, and 40 percent of teen and 20-something American mobile phone owners admitted to composing and sending text messages while driving.

Continue reading "Ford continues voice-activated research"

Students Learn Driving Safety in Time for Prom

DETROIT -- Takata, a global automotive safety leader, took its Safe Driver program to University Preparatory Academy (UPA) in Detroit today to teach high school students how to minimize driver distractions and make good judgments while driving - just in time for UPA's prom tonight.

Driver distraction and dangerous driving behaviors are especially prevalent during prom and graduation season. Traffic crashes are the leading cause of death for high-school-age students, and 70 percent of teens killed driving at night are not wearing a safety belt.

Continue reading "Students Learn Driving Safety in Time for Prom"

AAA Michigan Urges Veto of Bill That Allows Motorcyclists to Go Without Helmets

DEARBORN, Mich. -- AAA Michigan today (June 4) urged Governor Jennifer Granholm to veto legislation that would enable motorcyclists to ride without their helmets on Michigan roads.

In their latest bid to rid riders of their helmets, special interest groups in Lansing have proposed a permit solution. For a $100 fee, motorcyclists who meet specific requirements can buy their way out of a helmet.

Continue reading "AAA Michigan Urges Veto of Bill That Allows Motorcyclists to Go Without Helmets"

Share the Road Highway Safety Program Visits Americade

LAKE GEORGE, N.Y. -- Life-saving highway driving tips were presented today as part of the American Trucking Associations' national Share the Road highway safety tour by top professional truck drivers.

The 2008 Americade motorcycle rally provided the perfect backdrop for the elite group of million mile accident-free drivers to share their message of road safety. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, motorcycles are the only major motor vehicle category in which death rates have risen during the last decade.

Continue reading "Share the Road Highway Safety Program Visits Americade"

June 5, 2008

AIAM Supports Enhanced Roof Strength Standards

ARLINGTON, Va. -- In a statement delivered this morning at a U.S. Senate oversight hearing, Michael J. Stanton, President and CEO of the Association of International Automobile Manufacturers (AIAM), conveyed AIAM's support for enhanced passenger vehicle roof strength standards as part of a larger comprehensive effort to help prevent rollover crashes and the fatalities and serious injuries caused by vehicle rollovers.

The hearing was held by Senator Mark Pryor (D-Arkansas), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Consumer Affairs, Insurance, and Automotive Safety.

Continue reading "AIAM Supports Enhanced Roof Strength Standards"

May 29, 2008

Teen Driver Crashes Cost $34 Billion Annually in U.S.

DEARBORN, Mich. -- A first-ever analysis from AAA finds that crashes involving teen drivers ages 15 to 17 cost American society more than $34 billion annually in medical expenses, lost work, property damage, quality of life loss and other related costs in 2006.

"The impact of a teen crash extends beyond the emotional tragedies and physical injury at the crash scene, with costs that can extend to employers, families, the government and society overall," said Jack Peet, community safety services manager for AAA Michigan.

Continue reading "Teen Driver Crashes Cost $34 Billion Annually in U.S."

May 28, 2008

Volvo offers eight tips for keeping summer road trips safe

IRVINE, Calif. -- ‘Tis the season for families to pack up their cars and hit the road on trips both short and long. Volvo Cars of North America, a leader in safety innovation, is offering parents tips to pass along to their most precious cargo: their kids.

While often overlooked in the safe driving world, kids can present parents with dangerous distractions while driving. Simple, preventative measures can keep both young passengers and adult drivers out of harm's way.

Continue reading "Volvo offers eight tips for keeping summer road trips safe"

May 25, 2008

It's Ticket Time!

When I worked as a newspaper reporter I had the chance to go on ride-alongs with police officers, and one guy had a habit of singing to himself. When he came back to the car after interviewing a motorist, he would warble, "it's ticket ti-ime!"

Besides the usual warnings about driving safe during the holidays and summer, blah, blah, there is a real reason everyone should make it a point to adhere to the rules of the road: money.

Not just that getting tickets is expensive, and can cost extra money on your insurance, and the general crummy feeling you get, but be aware that tickets are a revenue source.

And unless you haven't heard, many cities and states are in financial trouble -- and that means top cops are getting together in their secret lodges and deciding, all of a sudden, that they are going to be very concerned about the public's safety.

And send their blue hordes out looking for you.

We have in our possession an email warning us about a 30-day "speeding ticket frenzy" by local law enforcement, aimed at raising $9 million in revenue. There's a good chance this particular example might be a rumor, but there have been times in the past when law enforcement was asked to step up and contribute cash to the general fund via aggressive ticketing, and we just wanted to warn you. Because we think this is one of those times.

May 23, 2008

2008 Chrysler, Dodge Minivans Earn Top Safety Ratings

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- The all-new 2008 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan earned "good" ratings, the highest ratings available from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), in both frontal offset and side crashworthiness tests.

"Minivans are the one of the safest vehicles on the road and our all-new 2008 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan are built with more than 25 years of proven engineering innovations," said Larry Lyons, Vice President -- Car and Minivan Product Team, Chrysler LLC.

Continue reading "2008 Chrysler, Dodge Minivans Earn Top Safety Ratings"

MADD: Ignition Interlock Compliance Weak Across the Board

DALLAS -- Court monitors with Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) tracked 487 DUI/DWI cases filed over the 2007 Memorial Day weekend in Nebraska, Virginia, Missouri, Kentucky, Georgia, Louisiana, New Mexico and Texas.

This is the second year Operation Memorial Day monitors have followed cases. Each state has some form of interlock law, however, most of the states monitored showed poor interlock compliance, either through their chosen sanctions or because the case outcomes had not yet been determined.

Continue reading "MADD: Ignition Interlock Compliance Weak Across the Board"

Drowsy Driving as Dangerous as Drunk Driving

NEW YORK -- As people jam the roads and highways over the Memorial Day weekend, which marks the start of the peak summer driving season, there's greater risk of being -- or running into -- a drowsy driver, says the National Road Safety Foundation, Inc., a non-profit group that provides free driver safety films and programs including its newest, called "Recognizing the Drowsy Driver."

"A day in the sun can make you tired," says Adele Kristiansson, director of marketing and legislative affairs at the National Road Safety Foundation.

Continue reading "Drowsy Driving as Dangerous as Drunk Driving"

Verizon Wireless Offers Tips to Help Customers Drive Responsibly

BASKING RIDGE, N.J. -- With the busiest travel season nearly upon us, Verizon Wireless reminds customers who choose to talk on a wireless phone while driving to do so responsibly and safely when travelling over the next few months and all year long.

Drivers should use common sense and obey all vehicular laws if they choose to talk on a wireless phone while driving, whether across town or across the country. Verizon Wireless offers the following reminders for using a wireless phone or service responsibly while driving:

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May 22, 2008

Airbags Make the Difference in Side-Impact Crash Test Rating

LIVONIA, Mich. -- TRW Automotive Holdings Corp. (NYSE:TRW) is star struck. Thirty of the 2008 model year vehicles that have earned the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) five-star rating in side-impact crash tests feature TRW's side or curtain airbags. These 30 vehicles range in size from compact cars to full sized pick-up trucks and sport utility vehicles.

The NHTSA side-collision impact crash test measures the performance of the vehicle and restraint system in the event of a side-impact collision. Five stars is the highest rating a vehicle can achieve.

Continue reading "Airbags Make the Difference in Side-Impact Crash Test Rating"

33 Million Licensed Americans Couldn't Pass the Written Test

ST. LOUIS -- Results from the 2008 GMAC Insurance National Drivers Test released today found that 16.4 percent of drivers on the road - amounting to roughly 33 million licensed Americans - would not pass a written drivers test exam if taken today.

The fourth annual survey, which polled 5,524 licensed Americans from all 50 states and the District of Columbia, is designed to gauge driver knowledge by administering 20 actual questions taken from state Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) exams.

Continue reading "33 Million Licensed Americans Couldn't Pass the Written Test"

2009 Subaru Forester Earns Highest Ratings in Crash Tests

CHERRY HILL, N.J. -- Subaru of America, Inc. today announced that the 2009 Subaru Forester earned the highest rating in the U.S. Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) crash tests.

The Subaru Forester received five stars in both the frontal and side-impact crash tests for all seating positions.

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Washington State Governor Proclaims May 22 Drive Nice Day

SEATTLE -- Governor Gregoire has pronounced May 22 Drive Nice Day throughout Washington state, challenging drivers to make a conscious effort to drive nice and help make it a collision-free day in the state.

Drive Nice Day, founded by SWERVE Driver Training, kicked off in 2007 to encourage drivers to drive with greater responsibility and more consideration for those with whom they share the road.

Continue reading "Washington State Governor Proclaims May 22 Drive Nice Day"

Bosch: Long-Range Radar and Video Technologies Will Improve Vehicle Safety

NOVI, Mich. -- Two of the most promising safety technologies -- forward-collision warning and lane-departure warning -- referenced by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) as key to reducing vehicle-related accidents and deaths will be the topic of discussion this week at the Telematics Detroit 2008 conference.

Frontal crashes account for nearly 2.3 million crashes a year in the United States, resulting in approximately 7,100 deaths. Drivers swerving out of their lanes cause 483,000 collisions and sideswipes each year, leading to 10,300 fatalities.

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Grieving Father Prompts Senate Hearing on Automobile Rollovers

WASHINGTON -- Kevin Moody, a grieving father who lost his son Tyler on January 16, 2003 due to injuries from 'roof crush' has that day forever etched in his memory: "Five and a half years ago, my son, Tyler, was killed in a single vehicle rollover accident in his 1995 Ford Explorer which slid off the road and rolled over at a speed of only 40 miles an hour, into a flat grassy field. The weak roof in his Ford Explorer collapsed and crushed him to death."

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Volvo invented the seat belt so you'd wear it

Irvine, CA -- "There's a little bit of 'Volvo' in every vehicle on the American road," says Doug Speck, president and CEO, Volvo Cars of North America. Such a bold assertion is based on Nils Bohlin's development of the three-point safety belt.

No single safety devise has saved more lives than the 3-point safety belt. So, as the heavy-driving Memorial Day holiday weekend approaches and the national "Click it or Ticket" campaign to increase seat belt awareness continues it's appropriate to take a look at the origins of this life-saving device.

Continue reading "Volvo invented the seat belt so you'd wear it"

Despite Gas Prices, Memorial Day Gridlock Still Expected

WASHINGTON -- The following is a statement by Janet Kavinoky, Executive Director of Americans for Transportation Mobility Coalition:

"Travel experts predict economic uncertainties and higher gasoline prices will translate into fewer motorists hitting the road this Memorial Day weekend. Unfortunately, a small reduction in holiday travelers won't translate into a significant drop in congestion. The 2008 forecast echoes those of previous years: Expect gridlock.

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May 21, 2008

Consumer Advocates Fight to Keep 'Rebuilt Wrecks' Off Nation's Roadways

WASHINGTON -- The National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) has joined a diverse coalition of consumer protection, law enforcement, and auto industry representatives to urge the U.S. Department of Justice to finalize a critical rulemaking to help prevent rebuilt, wrecked, flooded, or stolen vehicles from unknowingly ending up on a consumer's driveway.

Each year, millions of vehicles are totaled, and many of them are refurbished and return to the road with no record of the vehicle's severe damage.

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Detroit Auto Dealers Announce Courageous Persuaders Scholarship Winners

TROY, Mich. -- The Detroit Auto Dealers Association (DADA) yesterday announced the winners of the annual Courageous Persuaders scholarship competition.

The winners were recognized yesterday at an Oscar-style gala awards banquet at the San Marino Club in Troy. The Courageous Persuaders scholarship competition harnesses the creativity of high school students in creating 30-second television commercials warning of the dangers of underage drinking.

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May 20, 2008

Volvo Summer Safety Reminder

Safety is one of Volvo's core values. And we know it's very important to our owners as well. So we thought it would be a good idea to remind you that the start of the summer season means "Click It or Ticket."

This is a natural subject for us to address as Volvo invented the 3-point seat belt and then shared it with the world.

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May 19, 2008

Road Kill, for the record

A Wisconsin man has started a website devoted to roadkill.

Specifically, Richard Sanders' site Road Kill Record Book Club, has been set up to give motorists with unerring aim or poor night vision, a chance to make claims for trophies after accidentally ending the lives of all manners of game normally brought down by those who at least leave their car and walk fifty feet into the woods to jacklight a deer.

The site doesn't advocate using motorized vehicles as a new weapon of choice, but to illustrate the variety and size of game killed by cars and trucks. We have to admit we don't get it, but it's out there.

GM Statement Regarding Michigan Safety Belt Campaign

Attributable to Beth Lowery, Vice President, Environment, Energy and Safety Policy

GM commends the work of the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning (OHSP) and law enforcement agencies throughout the state as they embark on another campaign to increase safety belt use and save lives.

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Survey: Drive as I say, not as I drive

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Nationwide Insurance today released its second annual DWD (Driving While Distracted) study, which found that, while 98 percent of Americans claim to be safe drivers, a vast majority also admit to DWD.

More than four out of five cell-phone owners are guilty of talking on their phones while driving, and nearly three-quarters (72 percent) of all drivers admit to partaking in some form of distracting behavior while driving, from cell phone use to eating.

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May 17, 2008

Kate Voegele promotes safe teen driving for Ford

CHIGAGO, IL -- Kate Voegele, a recording artist and guest star of TV's "One Tree Hill," has joined forces with Ford to encourage teens to drive safely during prom season.

The goal is to continue the safety improvements that resulted in a dramatic 61 percent drop in teen auto fatalities in Illinois from 57 in Jan. 1 - April 15, 2007 to 22 during the same period this year.

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May 16, 2008

America's Aging Adults Make Transportation Key Issue

BOSTON -- By 2012, approximately 10,000 Americans will turn 65 every day and by 2030 our overall senior population will reach nearly 71 million (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and The Merck Company Foundation).

As America ages, seniors and their families are identifying transportation and driving safety as among their top growing concerns.

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May 14, 2008

Video: 2008 smart car crash test

The Smart car is getting a lot of attention for its small size and style, and now it's earning impressive crash test ratings. In recent Insurance Institute for Highway Safety tests, the 2008 Smart Fortwo, the smallest car for sale in the US market, earned the top rating of good for front and side crash protection. Its seat/head restraints earned the second highest rating of acceptable for protection against whiplash in rear impacts.

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Volvo's City Safety technology wins UK Award

Volvo Cars' new City Safety system which helps avoid or reduce the severity of low-speed collisions has won the Technology category at the Fleet World Honours1 Awards 2008 in London on 13 May, its first UK award. City Safety is a world-first standard feature in the new Volvo XC60.

At speeds of under 19mph (30 km/h), City Safety uses laser sensor technology to detect vehicles up to 10 metres in front of the car's front bumper and reacts to vehicles in front that are either at a standstill or are moving slowly in the same direction as the car itself.

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Grim anniversary spurs MADD to step up efforts

DALLAS, and FRANKFORT, Ky. -- Today marks the 20th anniversary of the worst drunk driving crash in U.S. history -- the Kentucky Bus Crash. In honor of the victims/survivors of the crash, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) is calling for the nation to hold a moment of silence at 11 a.m. CT, on Wednesday, May 14, as well as support the Campaign to Eliminate Drunk Driving by signing the pledge to help ensure that there are no future drunk driving victims/survivors.

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May 13, 2008

Miami tops nation in road rage

A new survey puts Miami at the top of the city list for discourteous, enraged drivers in the U.S., with Boston and New York following. It's the third consecutive year that Miami takes the crown as road rage capital of America. The other two cities in the bottom five were Baltimore and Washington, D.C.

The mellowest city is Pittsburgh, followed closely by Portland, Seattle, Minneapolis and Cleveland.

Common causes for road rage include drivers talking on cell phones, eating, drinking, texting and e-mailing. Drivers surveyed road rage could be reduced by mandating hands-free cell phone use and using automatic cameras to catch bad drivers.

The top ten road rage cities include:

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Cali Cops Gear Up for 'Click It or Ticket'

SACRAMENTO, Calif. -- As motorists prepare to hit the roads for the upcoming Memorial Day weekend, more than 280 local police departments, along with regional task forces and the California Highway Patrol, will be hitting the streets as part of the statewide "Click It or Ticket" seat belt enforcement campaign taking place today, May 12 through June 1.

The campaign is supported by $1.8 million in traffic safety grants awarded by the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

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May 12, 2008

Twin Cities Teen Honored With National Award for Safe Teen Driving Efforts

MINNEAPOLIS -- Natalie Hayford, 16, of Andover, Minn., has been selected to receive The Allstate Foundation's inaugural "Teen Activist of the Year Award" for her leadership role in encouraging teens to drive safely.

"I take activism very seriously, and it's a big part of my life," Hayford said. "I love helping others and encouraging positive choices in my peers, and I feel very lucky to be rewarded for something I love.

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Allstate Foundation Announces National Teen Safe Driving Activists

NORTHBROOK, Ill. -- Natalie Hayford, 16, of Andover, Minn., and Laura Marchetti of Valrico, Fla., have been selected to receive The Allstate Foundation's inaugural Teen Activist of the Year Award and Parent Activist of the Year Award, respectively, for their work to reduce the number one killer of teens -- car crashes.

These honors are part of The Allstate Foundation's celebration of National Youth Traffic Safety Month in May.

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May 10, 2008

GM's Provides Web-Based Training for Drivers of Large Vans

DETROIT -- General Motors continues to make training available for its large van consumers. For several years, Coaching Systems LLC, which designed a unique course for GM large van consumers, has teamed up with GM to offer training at a 40 percent discount to GM’s large van consumers. This training is designed to reinforce information that may be helpful for drivers of large vans.

Coaching Systems developed this course for GM’s large van consumers, building on van driver training that started in 1991 in conjunction with the National Safety Council.

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Ford previews safety programs in Arizona

Chandler, Arizona -- Ford Motor Company and the Governors Highway Safety Association have teamed up to help keep teens and families safe on Arizona roads and highways.

The number one killer of teens across America is driving fatalities. A top priority for Ford is automotive-related safety, and the company is honing in on Arizona as a locale to tackle auto safety issues.

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MADD Encourages Ohio Legislature to Make Interlocks Part of Lifesaving DUI Bill

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) testified yesterday morning before Ohio's House Committee for Criminal Justice in support of lifesaving alcohol ignition interlocks.

The Committee was considering Senate Bill 17, introduced by Senator Timothy Grendell (R-Chesterland) in 2007. This bill passed the Senate and, if signed into law, would strengthen Ohio's DUI laws.

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Pennsylvania Governor Rendell Proclaims 'Buckle Up Pennsylvania Day'

HARRISBURG, Pa. -- Governor Edward G. Rendell has proclaimed May 12 as Buckle Up Pennsylvania Day, reminding all motorists to buckle up each time they get behind the wheel.

"I encourage everyone to always wear their seatbelt in a vehicle," PennDOT Secretary Allen D. Biehler, P.E., said. "Not only is it the law, but buckling your seatbelt could save your life or the life of a loved one."

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MADD Calls on Wisconsin Lawmakers to Pursue Tougher Drunk Driving Laws

MILWAUKEE -- Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) urges Wisconsin lawmakers to comprehensively address the state's drunk driving problem as they consider law reforms following the outcry from people demanding change.

The outrage stems from the April 25, 2008 crash in Oconomowoc that killed a pregnant woman and her daughter by a repeat drunk driver.

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Get Ready to Walk Like MADD to Eliminate Drunk Driving

HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif. -- Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) leadership will join 500 local supporters on Saturday, May 10 at Huntington City Beach to participate in Walk Like MADD, a 5K non-competitive walk that encourages the community to support MADD's Campaign to Eliminate Drunk Driving.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 1,276 people were killed in California in traffic crashes involving a driver or a motorcycle operator with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher in 2006.

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TJ Power Sports Recalls Dune Buggies Due to Ejection Hazard

WASHINGTON -- The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product.

Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed. (To access color photos of the following recalled products, see CPSC's Web site at www.cpsc.gov.)

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May 9, 2008

Texas Cops to Step Up Writing Seat Belt Tickets

HOUSTON -- The Texas Department of Transportation kicked off its 7th annual statewide Click It or Ticket campaign today with a stern reminder to Texas motorists: if you haven’t gotten into the habit of buckling up, it can cost you a fine of up to $200.

Thousands of state troopers, police officers and sheriff’s deputies will be on Texas streets and highways between May 19 and June 1, including the Memorial Day holiday weekend, issuing citations to drivers who aren’t buckled up and whose children aren’t properly restrained.

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Dallas teens and parents urged to drive safely

DALLAS -- Auto accidents are the number one killer of teenagers age 16 to 19 according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. GEICO associates in Dallas are working hard to change that by talking to teens through GEICO’s national teen safe driving speakers bureau.

Associates in Dallas are ready to take this show on the road to meet with high school classes to help teens get a realistic picture of how they drive when they first hit the roadways--not so well. Schools, driver’s education classes and parents can sign up for a presentation by contacting John Balfour at r5_dallas_events@geico.com for more information.

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Study Highlights Metro Areas With Highest Deadly Teen Crashes

NORTHBROOK, Ill. -- -Metro areas in the southern United States scored lowest in a study released today by Allstate Insurance Company that identifies “hotspots” where fatal teen driving crash rates are highest.

The release of the study, which includes data for metropolitan areas around the country, kicks off the company’s national “Action Against Distraction” safe teen driving campaign.

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May 7, 2008

MADD Sponsors Charity Walk to Eliminate Drunk Driving

HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif.-- Walk Like MADD (formerly known as Strides for Change), the signature walk of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), is a fun, community-driven 5K event that raises funds and saves lives.

Every step taken and every dollar raised supports MADD's Campaign to Eliminate Drunk Driving, which calls for ignition interlocks for all drunk drivers and increased enforcement in the form of sobriety checkpoints and/or saturation patrols.

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May 6, 2008

Progressive and LoJack Combat Motorcycle Theft

MAYFIELD VILLAGE, Ohio -- It’s now even more affordable for motorcycle riders to protect their bikes. Now, all riders can get a $50 rebate from LoJack on the purchase of their LoJack for Motorcycles Stolen Vehicle Recovery System.

Simply visit Progressive’s Web site—www.motorcycle.progressive.com—and download the online rebate form. And, Progressive customers who have LoJack installed on their bikes will also receive a 20 percent discount on their Comprehensive Coverage.

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May 4, 2008

Toyota recalls 90,000 Highlander SUVs

Toyota Motor Corp. plans to recall about 90,000 Highlander sport utility vehicles in the United States.

The Japanese automaker wants to fix a problem that could prevent the seat belt in a third-row seat from securing a rear-facing child seat.

Toyota spokesman Bill Kwong said Friday the company had issued a stop sale of the 2008 Highlander SUV and hybrid version with third-row seats to retrofit changes to the seat belt.

May 2, 2008

Volvo's load-achoring system wins award

Volvo Cars came out top in Britain's Power of Aluminium Awards for the company's new load-anchoring system installed in the new XC70 and V70. "The system with its embedded eyelets is unique. It means a lot to Volvo Cars that we have won this award," says Karin Lejonbäck, group manager at the Interior & Climate department.

Set into the floor of the luggage compartment of the new XC70 and V70 are load rails made of aluminium. Running in the rails are four sliding hooks or eyelets that are used to secure cargo.

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May 1, 2008

I'll Drive More Safely...as Soon as I Send This Text

GAINESVILLE, Va. -- Teens want to speak out on behalf of safe driving to prevent car crashes -- the No. 1 killer of teens -- yet they don't perceive the deadliest driving choices to be unsafe, a recent survey suggests.

A survey of drivers ages 16 and 17, conducted on behalf of National Organizations for Youth Safety (NOYS) and The Allstate Foundation, indicates alarming attitudes among newly licensed drivers.

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April 30, 2008

'It's Not Me Driving Dangerously - It's Them'

ERIE, Pa., April 30 /PRNewswire/ -- Despite the fact that auto crashes are the top killer of U.S. teens, a recent survey by Erie Insurance and Lookin' Out, the company's teen driving awareness program, reveals that most teens consider themselves to be good drivers.

But while most respondents (91 percent) believe they're driving safely, their other answers told a different story.

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AAA Celebrates 80 Years of Keeping Motorists, Pedestrians Safe

ORLANDO, Fla. -- This week marks the 80th anniversary of the establishment of AAA's national traffic safety programs, which have helped teach generations of children and adults how to be safer drivers and protect them from crashes.

Well known as the nation's largest organization for motorists, AAA has been a pioneer in national traffic safety initiatives beginning with the establishment of its national traffic safety department in 1928.

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National Share the Road Safety Program Visits Fontana

FONTANA, Calif. -- Life-saving highway driving tips were presented today as part of the American Trucking Associations' national Share the Road highway safety tour by top professional truck drivers.

The Share the Road event served as the kick-off to GE's Trailer Sales Showroom Grand Opening in Fontana, which provided the perfect backdrop for the elite million mile accident-free drivers to share their message of road safety.

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AAA to Honor Students For Lifesaving Heroics

AAA will honor three AAA School Safety Patrol members with the Lifesaving Medal for their heroic actions that saved the lives of fellow elementary school students.

Nicole Epstein, of North Chevy Chase Elementary School (Chevy Chase, Md.), pulled an eight-year-old student out of a crosswalk preventing a vehicle from hitting him as it made a right hand turn.

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April 29, 2008

Motorists Practice “Do As I Say, Not As I Do” on America’s Roads

WASHINGTON -- American motorists blame other motorists for unsafe driving, despite the fact many admit to doing the same dangerous practices themselves, according to a new report out today by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety.

For example, Americans rated drinking drivers as the most serious traffic safety issue, yet in the previous month alone, almost 10 percent of motorists admitted to driving when they thought their blood alcohol content was above the legal limit.

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April 28, 2008

Rookie Driver Gets Federal Trademark Registration

SPRING LAKE, Michigan -- RookieDriver.Net, a leading online provider of teen driving safety products, announced today the official award of two registered trademarks from the United States Patent and Trademark Office.

Trademarks were granted for the company's 'Rookie Driver' and 'Rookie Driver In Training' auto magnets, "for use as nationally recognized symbols to alert drivers that inexperienced new teen drivers are behind the wheel of a car," says company President, Corinne Fortenbacher.

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April 25, 2008

Twenty-Five States Declare Support for National Tire Safety Week

WASHINGTON -- Twenty-five states issued proclamations or statements supporting the tire industry's motorist education efforts for National Tire Safety Week, April 20-26.

Across the nation, more than 19,000 tire retail, auto dealer and automotive repair facilities distributed tire care brochures produced by the Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA). A number of participating retailers also promoted free tire care service to motorists to raise awareness of proper tire maintenance.

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East Paulding High School Event Urges Teen Motorists to 'Play Their Part'

DALLAS, Ga. -- In recognition of National Tire Safety Week, the Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA) has teamed with Firestone Complete Auto Care to host a free tire pressure clinic at East Paulding High School in Dallas, Ga. today.

Under inflated tires increase driving risks, waste fuel and cause tires to wear out faster, but according to a national survey by the tire industry, 94 percent of teen drivers do not properly check tire inflation pressure.

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April 24, 2008

Tires Still Require Good Old Fashioned Testing

COSTA MESA, Calif. -- There are an estimated 21 million drivers today who own a vehicle with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (or TPMS) -- a technological device designed to notify drivers of dangerously low tire pressure -- according to a recent study by NADAguides.com.

The company, a vehicle pricing and buying guide website, says that while these systems might provide drivers with added peace of mind, they don't provide enough information to let drivers achieve optimum handling or fuel efficiency, making checking tire pressure the good old fashioned way still important for car safety.

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AARP Efforts for Safer Roads Hits a Bump in Illinois

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. -- Safer roads in Illinois has come down to a battle over discounts and access. AARP is pressing for state legislation that would take its Driver Safety Program (DSP) on-line in the state and allow participants the same discount on insurance premiums as those who take the course in the classroom.

But there's a roadblock, the legislation is being opposed by the insurance industry.

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April 23, 2008

Mercedes-Benz CL550 Leads Industry Trend with AWD for 2009

MONTVALE, NJ – The luxurious 2009 CL550 coupe (382 hp, 391 lb.-ft) will receive the latest version of the Mercedes-Benz 4MATIC all-wheel drive system as standard equipment.

As modern all-wheel-drive systems become even more refined, they are increasingly popular, especially in the luxury car market. With negligible weight and fuel-efficiency tradeoffs, full-time all-wheel-drive systems provide year-round traction and stability benefits on both wet and dry roads.

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April 22, 2008

Survey: Drivers Hate Bikers, Who Return the Favor

FARMINGTON, Conn. -- Having overcome another Connecticut winter, Nutmeg State residents are looking forward to hitting the road for all kinds of outdoor activities this spring and summer. But, if half the fun is in getting there, the state's car drivers won't be having too much of it.

A new poll reveals that car drivers wish they didn't have to share the road with motorcycle riders. And most bikers, in turn, want car drivers to be more careful on the road.

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April 21, 2008

Survey: Most Drivers Don't Properly Check Tire Pressure

NEW YORK -- It is imperative to keep up tire maintenance because it can reduce highway crashes, save gasoline and even keep tires rolling longer.

Properly inflated tires can improve vehicle fuel economy by 3.3 percent or about $0.10 a gallon at current prices. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, under inflated tires contribute to crashes, which result in 660 fatalities and 33,000 injuries each year.

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Audi uses supercomputer to advance safety research

PARIS -- ESI Group, a pioneer and world-leading supplier of digital simulation software for prototyping and manufacturing processes, announced today that AUDI AG has implemented the auto industry’s fastest supercomputer to advance safety standards.

Crucial in optimizing car safety, the new system is based on ESI Group’s PAM-CRASH 2G simulation software and an HP Cluster Platform 3000BL system, providing 15.36 teraflop/s of computing performance for crash simulation models of Audi.

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Checking Your Tire Pressure is as Easy as Pumping Gas

SAN FRANCISCO -- Today the California Integrated Waste Management Board (CIWMB) and the Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA) launched National Tire Safety Week to remind drivers of the importance of simple tire maintenance.

"Maximizing tire performance and safety depends on regular maintenance," said Daniel Zielinski, RMA Senior Vice President, Public Affairs. "By checking tire pressure monthly during a stop for gas -- or other routine maintenance -- drivers can greatly impact tire life, gas mileage, and passenger safety."

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April 18, 2008

Proper Tire Care Highlighted During National Tire Safety Week

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- Discount Tire, America largest independent tire retailer, and the Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA) have partnered for the 7th Annual National Tire Safety Week being conducted April 20-26. The nationwide effort is designed to educate motorists about the four essential areas of tire maintenance including Pressure, Alignment, Rotation and Tread.

Improper tire care results in 33,000 injuries and 660 fatalities each year on U.S. roads. Regular tire maintenance can lead to longer lasting tires, better fuel economy and safer roads.

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Discount Tire's Top 10 Tire Care Tips

1. Don't wait until it's too late -- Make it a habit to check your tire pressure at least once per month and before every long trip. Under inflated tires cause excess heat build-up that can damage tires and ead to a failure.

2. Know your pressure point -- The correct tire pressure is found on a sticker on the driver-side doorpost or in the owner's manual, not on the tire sidewall -- that's the maximum pressure for the tire.

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Michelin Taps American Le Mans Driver for National Tire Safety Week

GREENVILLE, S.C. -- Michelin and American Le Mans Series (ALMS) driver, Stefan Johansson, will promote tire safety and maintenance tips for National Tire Safety Week, April 20-26, 2008, focusing on proper tire inflation as the number one priority for drivers when it comes to tire safety and performance.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), under inflated tires are the leading cause of tire failure, which accounts for 660 fatalities and 33,000 injuries each year.

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Mercedes C 63 AMG takes role in race track safety

The new C 63 AMG will be at the start as the official Safety Car for the second DTM race of the season in Oschersleben (April 19/20, 2008).

The top-of-the-range C-Class model with its 336 kW/ 457 hp AMG 6.3-litre V8-engine and modifications to the brakes, suspension, cooling and exhaust system is in perfect shape for its demanding task. The development and production of the C 63 AMG Safety Car was in the hands of specialists from the AMG development team and the AMG PERFORMANCE STUDIO.

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2009 Subaru Forester Earns IIHS '2008 Top Safety Pick'

CHERRY HILL, N.J. -- The all-new 2009 Subaru Forester has earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's, "2008 Top Safety Pick" award.

To win this award, a vehicle must offer superior overall crash protection among the vehicles in their class. To qualify, a vehicle must earn the highest rating of good in the Institute's front, side, and rear tests and be equipped with electronic stability control.

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Teen Drivers Learn To 'Be Tire Smart'

Drivers behind the wheel of the one in four cars with at least one significantly under inflated tire face increased risks on the road, wasted fuel and an accelerated deterioration of their tires.

Despite the implications of improper tire care, a nationwide industry survey indicates that only 6 percent of teen drivers properly check their tire inflation pressure.

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Subaru Forester is Top Safety Pick

ARLINGTON, Va. -- The redesigned 2009 Subaru Forester, a small SUV, earns the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's TOP SAFETY PICK award. Winners afford superior overall crash protection among the vehicles in their class.

To qualify, a vehicle must earn the highest rating of good in the Institute's front, side, and rear tests and be equipped with electronic stability control.

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April 17, 2008

Ford pours research into active safety, blind spot tech

DEARBORN, Mich., April 17 – Researchers at Ford’s advanced driving simulator, Virtual Test Track Experiment (VIRTTEX), are devoting much of 2008 to study how active safety technologies in vehicles should alert drivers of potentially dangerous driving incidents.

Ford also conducted customer driving clinics to test warning systems for its new backup system, the Cross Traffic Alert with Blind Spot Monitoring warning system, which alerts drivers backing out of a parking space when traffic is approaching from the sides.

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April 16, 2008

Vehicle Safety is the Next Frontier for Automotive Electronics

FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich. -- According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), vehicle-related fatalities have remained constant for nearly a decade at approximately 40,000 deaths per year. Advancements in vehicle safety, designed to help reduce that alarming statistic, hinge on the research and development of advanced electronic technologies.

"Our premise is simple - vehicle safety is the next frontier for automotive electronics," said Jason Forcier, president North America, automotive electronics, Robert Bosch LLC.

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Court Approves Ford Explorer Class Action Settlement

SACRAMENTO, Calif. -- Judge David De Alba of the Superior Court of California, Sacramento County, ended seven years of litigation yesterday when he approved the Ford Explorer class action settlement and found that it was fair, reasonable, and adequate.

This approval means that California, Illinois, Connecticut, and Texas consumers who bought, owned or leased 1991-2001 model year Ford Explorers can get benefits from the settlement.

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April 15, 2008

Digital Lifestyle and Safety Trends Will Drive Interior Electronics

DETROIT -- This week at the 2008 SAE World Congress, the President of Continental's Interior Division will discuss, during a panel titled: "Electronics: Expectations and Opportunities,"* how digital lifestyle and vehicle safety trends are driving Interior Electronics forward and helping automakers differentiate their vehicle brands.

"Digital and portable content has dramatically altered our lifestyles and consumer expectations," said Helmut Matschi, Head of Continental's Interior Division.

Continue reading "Digital Lifestyle and Safety Trends Will Drive Interior Electronics"

Share the Road Makes Stop at Scout Fair 2008

ARLINGTON, Va. -- Share the Road is heading to the Boy Scouts of America San Diego - Imperial Council Scout Fair 2008 April 19 at Qualcomm Stadium to show scouts and their families how to safely share the road with tractor-trailers and, in the process, help them earn their Truck Transportation merit badge.

Professional drivers Manny Franco (UPS Freight) and Mack McAdory (FedEx Ground) will have a tractor-trailer set up for the scouts to climb into and see the road from a 'truck driver's eye-view.'

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April 12, 2008

BMW Adds Google Maps to Nav Systems

Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey -- Navigation systems have become even easier, faster and more convenient to use with the introduction of "MyInfo".

This latest addition to the BMW Assist Safety Plan allows subscribers to send business locations and street addresses and their associated phone numbers found in Google Maps, an innovative online mapping service, from the comfort of their home or office directly to their BMW.

Effective as of April 8 production of 2008 X6 Sports Activity Coupes equipped with the BMW Assist and Bluetooth Hands-free calling System, customers will be able to call the phone numbers received with their Bluetooth connected mobile phone or, if their BMW is equipped with a navigation system, immediately start route guidance by a simple push of a button.

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April 11, 2008

Oklahoma Students Awarded $10,000 to Combat Vehicle Crashes

MINNEAPOLIS -- Ada High School of Ada, Okla., won the "Best of the Best" award for its 2007-08 Project Ignition safe driving campaign at the 19th annual National Service-Learning Conference this week in Minneapolis.

State Farm and the National Youth Leadership Council (NYLC) selected Ada High School's program from a pool of 25 school programs nationwide because of its statewide teen driver education outreach to schools, government and district courts.

Continue reading "Oklahoma Students Awarded $10,000 to Combat Vehicle Crashes"

April 10, 2008

Ford driving simulator helps shape teen safety program

DEARBORN, Mich. – The Ford Motor Company Fund is hosting 300 teens at its state-of-the-art test track facility in Dearborn this week for a safe-driving seminar with one goal – help younger drivers improve key driving skills that Ford research shows can dramatically reduce motor vehicle accidents.

Ford translated extensive research from its advanced driving simulator into the Ford Fund’s Driving Skills for Life (DSFL) program that teaches teens the necessary skills that could help prevent up to 60 percent of teen accidents.

Continue reading "Ford driving simulator helps shape teen safety program"

Toyota Announces Safety Recall on Select '03 and '04 Corolla and Matrix

Torrance, CA -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., will launch a safety recall with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) involving approximately 539,500 Corolla and Matrix vehicles sold in the U.S.

On certain 2003 and 2004 model year Corolla and Matrix vehicles equipped with power windows, the driver and front passenger door glass bolts may loosen and come off, causing the door glass to separate from the window regulator. Vehicles that are equipped with manual windows are not involved in this campaign.

Continue reading "Toyota Announces Safety Recall on Select '03 and '04 Corolla and Matrix"

Share the Road is in Denver to Educate Students

ARLINGTON, Va. -- The American Trucking Associations' Share the Road program is in Denver, Colo. today to help educate students at the Colorado Academy on how to drive safely around tractor-trailers.

Kent Durant, a professional driver for Roadway, brought his tractor-trailer to the school to demonstrate the blind spots found around a large commercial vehicle and invited students to climb into the cab of his truck to see what a driver can and cannot see. Durant, who has one million accident-free miles, also gave safe driving tips and talked about his experience on the road.

Continue reading "Share the Road is in Denver to Educate Students"

U.S. Reps. Towns and Stearns Introduce Pedestrian Safety Enhancement Act

WASHINGTON -- Representatives Edolphus "Ed" Towns (D-NY) and Cliff Stearns (R-FL) today introduced H.R. 5734, a bill intended to protect the blind and other pedestrians from injury or death as a result of silent vehicle technology.

The Pedestrian Safety Enhancement Act of 2008 requires the Secretary of Transportation to conduct a study on how to protect the blind and others from being injured or killed by vehicles using hybrid, electric, and other silent engine technologies.

Continue reading "U.S. Reps. Towns and Stearns Introduce Pedestrian Safety Enhancement Act"

America's Road Team Safety Message: 'Work Zone Awareness Week'

ARLINGTON, Va. -- America's Road Team Captains are reminding drivers during Work Zone Awareness Week (April 7 -- April 11) that while work zones are necessary for improved roadways, they also require added caution on the part of motorists.

"At a time when overall traffic safety is improving, work zones are actually seeing a rise in accidents and fatalities," said ATA President and CEO Bill Graves. "This is an issue the trucking industry wants to correct, and one we hope to make the general public aware of."

Continue reading "America's Road Team Safety Message: 'Work Zone Awareness Week'"

April 9, 2008

Ford Mirror, Radar Systems Minimize Blind Spot Risk

DEARBORN, Mich. -- Ford is actively addressing drivers' demands for increased visibility with the introduction of two new features, the Blind Spot Mirror and the Cross Traffic Alert with Blind-Spot Monitoring System, arriving in 2009.

"Ford is delivering innovative features aiding in a better drive experience for the customer," said Derrick Kuzak, Ford Group Vice President, Global Product Development. "The Blind Spot Mirror and Cross Traffic Alert with Blind Spot Monitoring System are enhancing the customer ownership experience and bringing more value to their purchase."

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Road Crashes Can Be Prevented

SAN DIEGO -- Every day we put our lives, and those of the people we love, at risk. How? By driving or riding as passengers in motor vehicles.

The death rate for vehicle crashes has reached nearly 43,000 each year in the United States alone. That is 117 deaths per day, and nearly 5 every hour, as reported in AAA’s Crashes vs. Congestion Report (2008). The Report also states that the per person cost of a fatality is $3,246,192 and the cost of an injury is $68,170.

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Teen Crashes Cost Society More Than $34 Billion Annually

WASHINGTON -- A first-ever analysis from AAA finds that crashes involving teen drivers ages 15 to 17 cost American society more than $34 billion annually in medical expenses, lost work, property damage, quality of life loss and other related costs in 2006.

Continue reading "Teen Crashes Cost Society More Than $34 Billion Annually"

April 8, 2008

Parent-Teen Driving Contract Can Help Family Members Stick to the Rules

WASHINGTON -- Even after a teen has his or her driver’s license, a parent’s job isn’t over. In fact during the first six months it’s even more important for parents to protect their young drivers who will be on the road alone for the first time.

It takes time and practice to become a good driver, and parents need to be on hand to help teens build their driving confidence and to continue to supervise their driving.

Continue reading "Parent-Teen Driving Contract Can Help Family Members Stick to the Rules"

April 7, 2008

Speed Trap Alert System for Cell Phones Launches

SAN DIEGO -- Trapster today launched the world's first speed trap sharing social network for mobile phones. This new information sharing community gives control back to individual drivers allowing them to work together to be more aware of local speed limits and avoid hefty fines and penalties.

Users alert other members to police speed traps in real time, using a simple button push on their mobile phone.

Continue reading "Speed Trap Alert System for Cell Phones Launches"

2009 Dodge Journey Earns Top Safety Ratings

Auburn Hills, Mich. -- The all-new 2009 Dodge Journey earned 5-star ratings for driver- and front-passenger protection in a frontal crash along with 5-star driver and rear passenger ratings for side impact protection, the highest ratings in the U.S. government’s safety crash test program. The all-new 2009 Dodge Journey is now available at local Dodge dealers.

“The all-new 2009 Dodge Journey features the latest in safety and security features providing our customers the peace of mind they want and expect”, said Larry Lyons, Vice President – Car and Minivan Product Team.

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Crash test raises smart concerns

WASHINGTON - A government crash test of the 2008 Smart Fortwo micro car, the fuel-sipping vehicle that made its debut in the United States this year, has found a safety concern in side-impact testing, officials said Thursday.

During the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration side test on the Smart two-door, the driver door unlatched and opened. The government said that could lead to a driver or passenger being ejected from the 8-foot, 8-inch vehicle.

NHTSA, however, still gave the car its top score of five stars in side testing because of the ability of the car to protect the driver and passenger from injuries in a crash.

April 3, 2008

Jerry Seinfeld Drumrolls His Fiat

Comedian Jerry Seinfeld has walked away after rolling his 1967 Fiat on Saturday, according to the Associated Press.

Citing brake failure when he was driving on Skimhampton Road in East Hampton, police did not issue a citation, but Seinfeld urged those without clown training not to attempt a similar maneuver.

Houston Area Teens Can Now Take Their Driver Ed Course Online

OAKLAND, Calif. -- The Texas Virtual School (TVS) at Region 4 Education Service Center (Region 4) has selected industry leader DriversEd.com as the exclusive provider of their online driver education course.

The DriversEd.com course allows teens seeking their first license to receive a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) approved certificate-of-completion of driver education.

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NASCAR Drivers Encourage Teens to Stop Texting While Driving

SOUTHLAKE, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Today, Nationwide Insurance teamed up with NASCAR drivers Kenny Wallace and Brad Coleman to raise awareness among Texas teens about DWD – Driving While Distracted.

“When our three daughters started driving my wife and I took it very seriously. Each went through driver’s education programs, but we also taught them safe driving on our own,” said Wallace, driver of the No. 28 U.S. Border Patrol Chevy in the NASCAR Nationwide Series.

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April 2, 2008

Feds Bust Ring Selling Maine Driver's Licenses to Illegal Aliens

WASHINGTON -- Maine remains the last holdout resisting implementation of the federal REAL ID Act, which requires all states to comply with uniform standards for issuing and securing driver's licenses. Failure to comply will result in Mainers being unable to use their licenses as a valid form of ID to board airplanes or enter federal buildings beginning next month.

Maine is one of just seven states that continue to prevent illegal aliens from receiving licenses and state-issued ID cards. Even as state officials resist REAL ID requirements to verify that license applicants are legal U.S. residents, the U.S. Department of Justice announced that it had busted a criminal operation that was bringing in illegal aliens from other states to obtain Maine licenses.

Continue reading "Feds Bust Ring Selling Maine Driver's Licenses to Illegal Aliens"

Nationwide Launches Driving While Distracted Campaign

COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Today, Nationwide Insurance officially launched its 2008 DWD - Driving While Distracted - national campaign in conjunction with its sponsorship of the NASCAR Nationwide Series.

Nationwide will bring NASCAR drivers to local high schools throughout the country to drive home the message that multitasking behind the wheel puts drivers and their fellow motorists at risk.

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April 1, 2008

Allstate enhances its RV Roadhelp Plan

NORTHBROOK, Ill. -- RV owners now can get help finding everything from doctors to restaurants, and maybe even save a little money once they get there, thanks to new features of Allstate Motor Club’s RV Roadhelp Plan.

Effective immediately, members of the club’s RV Roadhelp Plan now are able to take advantage of three unique benefits:

Continue reading "Allstate enhances its RV Roadhelp Plan"

March 31, 2008

Safety Awareness: Slow for the Cone Zone

WASHINGTON -- National Work Zone Awareness Week, which draws attention to the hazards roadway construction crews face from motorists not heeding safety warnings, is April 7-11.

The ninth Annual National Media Event will be observed on Tuesday, April 8, in Sacramento, California, at the California State Capitol. The event will be hosted by the California Department of Transportation.

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New GPS System Alerts Drivers to Red-Light Cameras and Speed-Traps

HARRISBURG, Penn. -- PhantomAlert, Inc. the leading provider of passive, anti-radar and red-light camera products, today announced a limited, free distribution of a breakthrough GPS-based database that locates and warns drivers about stationary red-light and speed cameras as well as traditional speed trap locations.

Designed to work with PhantomPlate’s new PhantomAlert device, the proprietary database “…is the biggest breakthrough motorists have seen since radar detectors,” said Joe Scott, PhantomPlate, Inc.’s director of marketing.

Continue reading "New GPS System Alerts Drivers to Red-Light Cameras and Speed-Traps"

March 28, 2008

Volvo invented the three point seat belt -- and didn't stop there

The Volvo name is synonymous with “safety.” But there’s a long history that has led up to this coveted reputation.

Starting back in 1957, the anchorages for seat belts were already standard in the front seats, to be joined by the anchorages in the back seat the following year.

Rather than resting on our laurels, Volvo was the first car maker to make the three-point seat belts standard in select Volvos in 1958.

Continue reading "Volvo invented the three point seat belt -- and didn't stop there"

Volvo's Extended Warranty Offers Increased Protection

Quality and safety have been hallmarks of Volvo since the very beginning. Now, Volvo Increased Protection takes those standards to an entirely new level.

With it, you can drive your Volvo for years and years without ever worrying about repair bills. Leave it to Volvo to come up with great coverage that’s a real value.

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Share the Road Safety Program Visits Denver Auto Show

DENVER -- Life-saving highway driving tips were presented today as part of the American Trucking Associations' national Share the Road highway safety tour by top professional truck drivers.

The Denver Auto Show provided the perfect backdrop for the elite group of million mile accident-free drivers to share their message of road safety. According to the Colorado State Patrol, 534 lives were lost as a result of traffic crashes in Colorado during 2006.

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Volvo wins international prize for City Safety

New York, NY. -- Volvo Cars' in-house developed technology for avoiding low-speed collisions - is receiving the American "Traffic Safety Achievement Award" at this year's World Traffic Safety Symposium in New York.

"City Safety is yet another example of Volvo's aim to utilise real world traffic situations to develop solutions to prevent accidents. It is extremely gratifying that we are now being acknowledged with this prestigious award," says Jonas Ekmark, head of preventive safety at the Volvo Cars Safety Centre.

Continue reading "Volvo wins international prize for City Safety"

Honda Begins Testing of Advanced Safety Vehicles on Public Roadways

TOKYO, Japan -- Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced that it will conduct testing on public roadways of its Driving Safety Support Systems*1 (DSSS) using inter-vehicle and road-to-vehicle communications.

The tests, which will be conducted using the “Honda ASV-4” Advanced Safety Vehicle*2 and other vehicles equipped with advanced safety technology, will be carried out between Monday, March 24, and Friday, March 28, on public roadways in Utsunomiya City, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan.

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March 27, 2008

AAA Michigan applauds governor for new mandatory booster seat law

DEARBORN, Mich. -- AAA Michigan applauds Gov. Jennifer Granholm for signing the state's new mandatory booster seat law today (March 27). The legislation requires booster seats for children aged 4-8 who are less than 4 feet 9 inches tall. The law is effective July 1 and carries a $65 fine for those who don't comply.

According to Jack Peet, manager of Community Safety Services for AAA Michigan, beginning April 21, AAA branch locations statewide will offer a free "booster seat kit" that will contain kid- and parent-friendly materials explaining the ins and outs of booster seat use.

Continue reading "AAA Michigan applauds governor for new mandatory booster seat law"

March 26, 2008

Honda Outlines Safety for Everyone Leadership

Torrance, Calif. -- Honda has a long history of leadership in the development and application of advanced safety technologies and designs.

This commitment to safety is based on the company’s goal of being a company that “society wants to exist” and complements the company’s leadership in reducing vehicle emissions and improving vehicle fuel efficiency.

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March 23, 2008

Operation Safe Driver Targets 14 Southeastern States

WASHINGTON -- Speeding and aggressive driving behaviors significantly contribute to approximately 43,000 people that die on U.S. highways each year - 5,000 of which involve large trucks.

To curb the number of deadly crashes on our most dangerous highways, the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA), 14 Southeastern states, and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) conducted a 24-hour enforcement blitz on February 28, 2008.

Continue reading "Operation Safe Driver Targets 14 Southeastern States"

March 20, 2008

Hitch Mounted Bicycle Rack Campaign

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Nissan and Infiniti are conducting a voluntary recall campaign on 480 Hitch Mounted Bicycle Racks (Nissan / Infiniti part number 999R5-AR000) manufactured by Thule and sold at both Nissan and Infiniti dealerships before December 21, 2007.

Thule determined a pinch point exists on the bicycle rack that could cause a serious hand injury.

Continue reading "Hitch Mounted Bicycle Rack Campaign"

March 19, 2008

GEICO Names Winners in Safety Belt Poster Competition

WASHINGTON -- More than 2,400 students from across the country showed their dedication to seat belt safety by entering GEICO’s 21st annual Safety Belt Poster Contest, and five recently were selected as national grand-prize winners:

-- Jan Takamatsu, Hawaii, won the computer-generated poster category. His close up view of a young boy safely buckled up dominated a scene of a car on the highway whose journey ended at a safety belt buckle.

-- Christine Lee, California, earned the national title in the 16-18 age group by drawing a world surrounded by a swirling safety belt and children whimsically riding the belt to safety.

Continue reading "GEICO Names Winners in Safety Belt Poster Competition"

When Navigation Systems Steer You the Wrong Way

So we're in NYC and the driver follows the nav system directions to make a left onto 42nd Street from Fifth Avenue, to get us to a luncheon.

And there is Officer Friendly pointing right at us and instructing us to pull to the curb. Kindly.

And he walks right up and as the driver says, "Did I do something wrong," Officer Friendly says, "there are three arrows and two signs telling you not to make a left."

Then he leans into the window and says, "I don't care what the screen tells you to do, read the signs."

Ah ha. Something tells me Officer Friendly has already heard the "my nav system told me to make a left turn here," excuse.

So it seems nav systems are not programmed with full awareness of local traffic regulations.

You've been warned. By Officer Friendly. Via the Internet.

Oh yeah, the driver got a ticket.

Ford Taurus Show Safety Leadership in Crumpled Display

NEW YORK – Most cars at auto shows are highly polished and gleaming, except one – a Ford Taurus that crashed into a 1 million pound wall at 35 mph en route to the Jacob Javits Convention Center. Deliberately.

Ford wants New York International Auto Show visitors to see how the Taurus – rated ‘Top Safety Pick’ by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) – fared in the 35 mph crash test. Positioned in the same place occupied by the seated crash-test dummy, showgoers view video of the actual crash test.

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2009 Ford Explorer adds standard Trailer Sway Control

DEARBORN, Mich. – Ford will bolster the 2009 Explorer by including Trailer Sway Control. Trailer Sway Control joins an already impressive list of standard safety features, including industry-exclusive AdvanceTrac with RSC (Roll Stability Control).

“When we first introduced AdvanceTrac with RSC on the Explorer in 2004, we offered customers enhanced safety by including roll sensing,” said Steve Kozak, Ford’s chief safety engineer.

Continue reading "2009 Ford Explorer adds standard Trailer Sway Control"

March 18, 2008

Carl Edwards On Drowsy Driving

KENILWORTH, NJ -- Drowsy driving can put anyone at risk for an accident, and NASCAR Sprint Cup driver Carl Edwards wants to help make sure motorists know how to stay alert while driving.

Edwards, who suffers from allergies, has teamed up with the makers of the non-drowsy allergy medication, CLARITIN, for the "Clear to Drive" campaign. The campaign aims to raise awareness of drowsy driving and offers tips for preventing this growing problem, such as making sure people know how important it is to check medicine labels for warnings about drowsiness before they get behind the wheel.

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Drivewear Sunglasses Change Tint Behind the Windshield

TORRANCE, Calif. -- Drivewear, a lens technology developed by Younger Optics specifically for driving, provides a precise balance between protection against glare and the amount of light which reaches the eye with the necessary visual information to maximize the driving task, even behind the windshield of a car.

"The average American spends more than 15 hours or 300 miles driving each week," said David Rips, president and CEO, Younger Optics. "Drivewear was created for them -- to make a long commute safer and more enjoyable due to less eye strain and fatigue."

Continue reading "Drivewear Sunglasses Change Tint Behind the Windshield"

Potholes Can Chew Up Your Wallet

BLOOMINGTON, Ill. -- Winter brings a number of driving hazards, but one of the most hated is the pothole. An encounter with one can leave damaged tires, wheels and suspension components in its wake.

Potholes can occur in any region or climate but, at this time of year, they're especially prominent in areas known for ice, snow and below-freezing temperatures. The freezing and thawing cycles allow moisture to seep into the road surface which causes the road to crumble.

Continue reading "Potholes Can Chew Up Your Wallet"

March 17, 2008

Ford Gives Grants to States for Safe Teen Driving Programs

WASHINGTON -- The Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) announced today that Ford Motor Company Fund will provide over $200,000 in grants to nine states and two U.S. territories as part of the Driving Skills for Life (DSFL) program.

DSFL is the national, award-winning, teen driving program developed in partnership between GHSA and Ford Motor Company Fund. This marks the first time a private sector company has given state highway safety agencies grants for teen driver safety programs.

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March 14, 2008

Graco Warns Parents About Incorrect Hotline Number

EXTON, Pa. -- Graco Children's Products Inc. today announced a Safety Notice regarding a labeling non-compliance issue for a limited number of its CarGo(TM) Booster Car Seats manufactured from January 9, 2007 through March 3, 2008.

The labeling non-compliance issue notice is the result of an incorrect NHTSA vehicle safety hotline number that appears on models of the following CarGo Booster Car Seats: 8487BELI, 8487SMP, 8487WBR, 8686ROS, 8689FAR, 8D01ZPH, 8D02SYC, 8D03WIK, 8D04SDN, 8D05NWY, and 8D10CCE.

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March 13, 2008

Aftermarket Tire Pressure Monitoring System Introduced

Peachtree City, GA -- Hella has just introduced a permanent, fully active, radio-controlled system for monitoring vehicle tire pressure and temperature. The new Hella TC-400 system is FMVSS 138 compliant and meets or exceeds the same specifications as all OE-installed systems.

Hella’s TPMS is extremely flexible and can be installed in any vehicle that is not originally equipped with an OE system or has been fitted with upgraded or custom wheels.

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March 12, 2008

New crash tests of SUVs: Nissan Murano is Top Safety Pick

ARLINGTON, VA — The best overall performer in front, side, and rear tests of nine 4-door midsize SUV models is the redesigned 2009 Nissan Murano, which earns the Top Safety Pick award. The tests were recently conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

The Jeep Liberty, Jeep Wrangler 4-door, and Kia Sorento, all 2008 models, are the worst performers in the side test. The Liberty, also sold as the Dodge Nitro, and Wrangler earn the second lowest rating of marginal for protection in side crashes. The Sorento earns the lowest rating of poor.

Continue reading "New crash tests of SUVs: Nissan Murano is Top Safety Pick"

Chief BMW safety specialist Josef Haberl receives award

Munich -- Josef Haberl, head of BMW Group vehicle safety and internationally recognised specialist in this field, has been honoured with a very exceptional award shortly before his retirement.

Haberl was the first person to be presented with the so-called Top Safety Pick award by the American Insurance Institute For Highway Safety (IIHS) - an institute comparable with the European EuroNCAP organisation.

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AAA Michigan Celebrates 15 Years of 'Jaws of Life' Grant Awards

DEARBORN, Mich. -- For the past 15 years, AAA Michigan has been quietly donating funds for 'Jaws of Life' hydraulic lifesaving equipment to the communities that need it most. To date, 55 grants totaling $835,000 have been provided throughout Michigan.

The grants - which average $15,800 each - are traditionally awarded to small communities that do not have the funds to purchase 'Jaws of Life' equipment on their own.

Continue reading "AAA Michigan Celebrates 15 Years of 'Jaws of Life' Grant Awards"

March 11, 2008

Tow Truck Drivers Get Their Own TV Show

CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- SPEED, the definitive network for motor sports and automotive lifestyle programming, will focus its cameras on one of the most dangerous professions in the nation, when the summer-scheduled Wrecked shadows Chicago O’Hare Towing & Recovery as it services one of the busiest transportation hubs in the United States.

“It’s probably safe to say that just about anyone who’s ever driven a car has come in contact with a tow truck driver at least once or twice, and most likely not under happy circumstances,” said SPEED VP of Programming Robert Ecker.

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Motorcycle Foundation’s Learn-to-Ride Course Launched in Hawaii

IRVINE, Calif. -- The Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s Basic RiderCourseSM is now available to the citizens of Hawaii.

First classes were held January 4 - 6, 2008, at Leeward Community College. Although classes for the new course are already filled through March on Oahu, prospective students can obtain upcoming class and scheduling information for Oahu and the neighbor islands by calling (808) 455-0479, or visiting http://www.lcc.hawaii.edu/ocewd/Programs/HMSEP/HMSEP.htm

Continue reading "Motorcycle Foundation’s Learn-to-Ride Course Launched in Hawaii"

March 8, 2008

Toyota Launches Unusual Warranty Extension for 1995-2000 Tacoma Pickups

Torrance, CA -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS) U.S.A., Inc. will launch a Customer Support Program to extend warranty coverage on certain 1995 through 2000 model year Tacoma truck frames.

Toyota has received reports regarding a small number of Tacoma vehicles exhibiting excessive corrosion of the frame, causing perforation of the metal. The frames of some vehicles may not have adequate corrosion protection.

Continue reading "Toyota Launches Unusual Warranty Extension for 1995-2000 Tacoma Pickups"

California reinstates no-fee Driver's Ed

SACRAMENTO, Calif. -- It has been years since California High Schools dropped Driver Education due to state budget cuts.

This forced parents and teens to find private driving schools on their own so teens could get their learner's permit or what we used to call "Pink Slip." MyCaliforniaPermit.com is now offering a DMV-approved, Driver Education course that allows teens, parents and high school teachers to learn from this valuable curriculum.

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March 7, 2008

Volkswagen to make Electronic Stability Control standard across 2009 model line

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. — Volkswagen of America, Inc. announced today that its Electronic Stabilization Program (ESP) will be standard equipment on every 2009 model year Volkswagen vehicle – passenger cars, sport utility vehicles, and minivans.

By offering ESP as a standard feature, Volkswagen is the first non-luxury manufacturer to include an electronic stabilization system at no additional cost on every vehicle it sells – well ahead of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) deadline requiring all 2012 model year vehicles to have such systems.

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TPMS Will Tell You if Your Tires are Under Pressure

BETHESDA, Md. -- You've just purchased a new vehicle and already a dashboard warning light is on, but this is one you might not have seen before.

There's a good chance it's the new warning light tied to the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), which as of 2008, is standard on all new cars and light trucks, according to the Car Care Council.

Continue reading "TPMS Will Tell You if Your Tires are Under Pressure"

March 6, 2008

City Safety system standard in the new Volvo XC60

The new Volvo XC60 is being launched with City Safety - Volvo's in-house developed unique technology for avoiding low-speed collisions in city traffic.

Surveys indicate that 75 percent of all reported collisions take place at speeds of up to 19 mph. In half of these cases the driver has not braked at all before the collision, mainly due to distraction.

Continue reading "City Safety system standard in the new Volvo XC60"

Daylight Savings Time Increases Risk of Drowsy Driving

NEW YORK -- As clocks spring ahead for the start of daylight savings time this weekend, roads and highways throughout the nation become a bit more dangerous, according to the National Road Safety Foundation, Inc., a non-profit group that provides free driver safety programs including it's newest, called "Recognizing the drowsy driver."

"The change throws off our internal clock, and it can take as long as two weeks for our bodies to adjust," says Adele Kristiansson, director of marketing and legislative affairs at the National Road Safety Foundation.

Continue reading "Daylight Savings Time Increases Risk of Drowsy Driving"

March 5, 2008

Toyota Driving Program Battles Teen Crash Fatalities

NEW YORK -- Teenage drivers are involved in fatal traffic accidents at more than twice the rate of the rest of the U.S. population, and motor vehicle crashes still remain the leading cause of death among teens.

Committed to battling these statistics, Toyota is continuing its hands-on, national teen and parent advanced driving skills program, "Toyota Driving Expectations," in 2008.

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March 4, 2008

Crashes vs. Congestion - What's the Cost To Society?

AAA will announce the findings of a landmark, new study comparing the costs associated with traffic crashes with the costs of congestion to determine which problem has the greatest economic impact on our society.

For the first time, motor vehicle crash costs (medical-related costs, emergency medical services, property damage, lost productivity and quality of life) will be compared to congestion costs (lost productivity and wasted fuel), as measured by the Texas Transportation Institute's Urban Mobility Report.

Continue reading "Crashes vs. Congestion - What's the Cost To Society?"

Kids more likely to die in crashes with teen drivers

PHILADELPHIA -- Child passengers, ages 12 to 16, are more likely to die in a car crash than younger children, according to a study released today in the Archives of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine.

This risk increases with each teenage year. Conducted as part of an on-going research collaboration between The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) and State Farm Insurance Companies, the study offers evidence-based guidelines for parents and policymakers to help protect this vulnerable age group.

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March 3, 2008

MADD Urges Virginia Senate to Approve Alcohol Ignition Interlocks

RICHMOND, Va. -- The following is an advisory released by Mothers Against Drunk Driving:

Chris Konschak, Executive Director of MADD Virginia, is available for media inquiries TODAY regarding legislation that would require the installation of alcohol ignition interlocks for all convicted drunk drivers, including first-time offenders.

Continue reading "MADD Urges Virginia Senate to Approve Alcohol Ignition Interlocks"

March 1, 2008

Volvo's new auto-brake function garners praise

In mid-February, the English organisation Thatcham arranged a demonstration for the media, insurance companies and government agencies of three new technical innovations that can mitigate or prevent low-speed accidents.

The one that made the greatest impression on the organisers as well as on observers from the press, insurance companies and government agencies was Volvo City Safety, which will be a standard feature on the new Volvo XC60.

Continue reading "Volvo's new auto-brake function garners praise"

MINI Cooper Gets High Scores in Crash Tests

Woodcliff Lake, NJ -- The second generation MINI Cooper hardtop earned impressive scores for front and side impact and roll-over testing in the latest National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) testing.

In the NCAP side impact testing, the 2008 MINI Cooper received a 5-Star rating for front seat occupant side-impact protection - the highest rating issued by NHTSA. In the same test the MINI Cooper received a 4-Star rating for rear seat occupants.

Continue reading "MINI Cooper Gets High Scores in Crash Tests"

February 29, 2008

AAA Michigan Celebrates 15 Years of 'Jaws of Life' Grant Awards

During the annual Michigan State Traffic Safety Summit Luncheon, AAA Michigan will celebrate the 15th anniversary of its 'Jaws of Life' grant program. Two new grants will be awarded during the luncheon.

Continue reading "AAA Michigan Celebrates 15 Years of 'Jaws of Life' Grant Awards"

February 28, 2008

SmartAlert makes Lincoln, Mercury Vehicles more secure

Ford and Lincoln Mercury dealerships have begun offering security-conscious customers a new onboard, intelligent communication service that connects them with their car or truck.

This optional system, SmartAlert, provides vehicle tracking and other security and peace-of-mind features vehicle owners say they want. It is available for most new and some previously owned vehicles.

Continue reading "SmartAlert makes Lincoln, Mercury Vehicles more secure"

February 26, 2008

Bassman Kevin Vandam: The Toyota Tundra Saved My Life

"This is how we roll around the country right here," said Kevin Vandam at the side of his Toyota Tundra pickup, a day after placing third in the 2008 Bassmaster Classic.

Vandam, already a two-winner Classic winner, is on his second Tundra in two years, after putting 45,000 miles on a 2007 model.

It was in that '07 model that Vandam learned about the real-world value of all the effort Toyota put into engineering their new-generation Tundra.

"The power is impressive, but probably the thing that impresses me the most is the way it stops. I might not be here if I was in something else," he said.

"Last year I was driving through Chattanooga and I saw a dump truck cut a car in two, right in front of me. I had to brake -- we were running 65 -- and then steer around the debris in the road," Vandam said. "That's the closest call I've ever had on the road. "

Vandam is a member of the Toyota Fishing team, which you learn more about by clicking here.

Rebuilt Wrecks for Sale! Study Reveals Emerging Threat to Used Car Buyers

CENTREVILLE, Va. -- Anyone shopping for a used car right now needs to be on high alert for rebuilt wrecks being sold in their area.

A new study by Carfax shows that millions of cars severely damaged in major accidents have been rebuilt and are up for sale.

Continue reading "Rebuilt Wrecks for Sale! Study Reveals Emerging Threat to Used Car Buyers"

February 23, 2008

South Carolina Bikers Go Topless

"You mean South Carolina doesn't have a helmet law," I asked the hotel van driver.

"Nope, I'd say about eighty percent of the riders don't wear one," he said.

"And the rest wear brain buckets -- you know why they call them that -- cause the EMS guys use them to scoop up their brains after they crash," I said.

This biker going without a helmet struck me as so unsafe I had to take a pic. No offense to him and we hope he rides safe, but South Carolina should catch up to the statistics and implement a mandatory helmet law. Sure, you look like a mushroom with legs, but they keep you alive, more often than not.

February 20, 2008

First Student Reminds Motorists to Drive Safely Around School Buses

CINCINNATI -- First Student, the nation's leader in student transportation, would like to remind motorists to take extra care when driving in the early morning or afternoon hours when school buses are on the road and children may be walking to and from bus stops or school.

Obeying all traffic signals and coming to a complete stop at all stops signs is the law. When motorists don't do this, not only is it illegal, it puts themselves and everyone around them at risk -- and that includes buses full of school children.

Continue reading "First Student Reminds Motorists to Drive Safely Around School Buses"

February 19, 2008

Volvo Unveils Sixth Annual Hometown Hero Award Winners

IRVINE, Calif. -- Volvo today announced the top three winning heroes in the 6th Annual Volvo for life Awards: Marilyn Adams from Iowa for Safety, Oregon's Lorraine Kerwood for environmental care and Minnesota's Matthew Sanford for the Quality of Life category.

Each of these heroic individuals displayed courage, innovation and unyielding commitment to their causes and they have touched the lives of thousands of people throughout the United States.

Continue reading "Volvo Unveils Sixth Annual Hometown Hero Award Winners"

February 16, 2008

Share the Road Highway Safety Program Visits Jacksonville Auto Show

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- Life-saving highway driving tips were presented today as part of the American Trucking Associations' national Share the Road highway safety tour by top professional truck drivers.

The Jacksonville International Car and Truck Show provided the perfect backdrop for the elite group of million mile accident-free drivers to share their message of road safety. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, 3,365 lives were lost as a result of traffic crashes in Florida during 2006.

Continue reading "Share the Road Highway Safety Program Visits Jacksonville Auto Show"

February 14, 2008

Using Volvo's Alcoguard

Volvo has developed a factory-installed breathalyzer for their vehicles, known as Alcoguard, which we recently tested on a Volvo S80 sedan. Generically known as an 'ignition interlock' device, the Alcoguard requires a five second breath test from the driver, to ensure you are not about to get behind the wheel and drive drunk.

Many states in the U.S. currently require aftermarket interlock devices be installed for those convicted of drunk driving. What we admire about the Volvo initiative is that, ideally, it will be used as a true prevention measure -- after all, a good many people find out they are too drunk to drive the hard way -- after they've had a crash or gotten pulled over and arrested.

The value of Alcoguard for social drinkers is that if you register a little too tipsy for the car to start, you will either wait until the alcohol has been metabolized out of your system, get a cab or another ride home. Of course, we here are among those fuddy-duddies that believe impairment begins with the first drink and you should never drink and drive, but that is probably another article.

Continue reading "Using Volvo's Alcoguard"

Video: Volvo's Alcoguard Prevents Drunk Driving

This video demonstrates how Volvo's Alcoguard breathalyzer device prevents drunk driving -- by requiring a breath test before the vehicle can be started.

For more on Volvo's Alcoguard, click here. To read our review of the Alcoguard, click here.

Chrysler Goes Holistic to Revolutionize Back Pain Care in the Workplace

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- Armed with the knowledge that low back pain is a prevalent affliction with a hefty price tag, a major automotive company has taken a unique approach to alleviate back pain among its employees.

The program is 10 times more effective and less costly than conventional physical therapy at eliminating back pain and is expected to translate into significant healthcare expense savings.

Continue reading "Chrysler Goes Holistic to Revolutionize Back Pain Care in the Workplace"

Top Ten Teen-Inspired Safety Campaigns Announced

BLOOMINGTON, Ill. -- With motor vehicle crashes the leading cause of death for teenagers in the United States, students representing 25 schools have been competing to create the most compelling safe driving communication campaigns aimed at convincing their peers of the dangers of risky behavior behind the wheel.

Today, Project Ignition (http://www.sfprojectignition.com/), sponsored by State Farm and coordinated by the National Youth Leadership Council, announced this year's ten finalist schools:

Continue reading "Top Ten Teen-Inspired Safety Campaigns Announced"

Miley Cyrus Forgets to Buckle Up, Gets Spanked

Miley Cyrus, who daylights as tween phenom Hannah Montana, got in a spot of trouble with Consumer Reports for not wearing a seat belt in her new movie.

In one scene Miley and her dad, Billy Ray are shown in the back seat of a Range Rover, unbelted.

CR posted a story about the error, which got enough attention to prompt an apology from Billy Ray:

"We got caught up in the moment of filming, and we made a mistake and forgot to buckle our seatbelts," Billy Ray Cyrus tells PEOPLE about a gaffe in the hit 3-D movie Hannah Montana/Miley Cyrus: Best of Both Worlds Concert Tour – one that's caused a head-on collision with controversy.

Drunk Driver Rear Ends Police Chief

A Long Island woman has been arrested for drunk driving after rear-ending a Nassau County police chief, according to Newsday. Now is this bad luck, or the result of bad judgment, compounded by hitting the wrong guy?

The report does not state whether the injured chief was also the arresting officer.

February 13, 2008

MADD urges passage of Virginia interlock bill for first-time drunk drivers

RICHMOND, Va. -- National leaders from Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), Virginia Del. Sal Iaquinto, R-Virginia Beach, and others affected by drunk drivers today urged the state Senate to pass H.B. 1442, a bill that would require alcohol ignition interlocks to be installed on the vehicles of all first-time drunk driving offenders in Virginia.

The measure overwhelmingly was approved by the House of Delegates on Tuesday by an 80 - 18 vote.

Continue reading "MADD urges passage of Virginia interlock bill for first-time drunk drivers"

Top Five Worst Cities for Road Rage

You may want to steer clear of driving in Miami, Fla. For two consecutive years it has won the dubious distinction of having the least courteous drivers in the United States.

Next in line for the rudest drivers... New York and Boston. Such are the results of the second annual "In The Driver’s Seat Road Rage Survey," commissioned by AutoVantage, a leading national auto discount club. Other cities in the worst category were Los Angeles and Washington, D.C.

The Top five worst cities for road rage:

Continue reading "Top Five Worst Cities for Road Rage"

Mothers Against Drunk Driving Asks Communities to Walk Like MADD

DALLAS -- In an effort to more closely align its signature fundraiser walk with its mission and its Campaign to Eliminate Drunk Driving, Mothers Against Drunk Driving today announced a new name for its 5K non-competitive walk -- Walk Like MADD -- with the call to action, "Let's Eliminate Drunk Driving."

The walks, held each year in more than 30 cities nationwide, were formerly called Strides for Change.

Continue reading "Mothers Against Drunk Driving Asks Communities to Walk Like MADD"

Pup Hut: Shade, Safety for Pickup Riding Dogs

SANDPOINT, Idaho -- PupHut, the innovative truck- bed shade and safety product for dogs, is now protecting dogs across the country even better!

Many states now require by law that your dog be restrained properly within the truck-bed. M4 Products, manufacturer of PupHut, has always warned of the potential dangers of not properly restraining your dog while riding in the truck-bed and has decided to include their popular 3-Point Truck Restraint in every PupHut sold.

"We believe the 3-point restraint is the best system to keep your dog away from the sides of the truck-bed where they could fall or be thrown over the side," said Wendy Moen, co-inventor of the PupHut. "It made perfect sense to provide the Truck Restraint in every PupHut; now we know more dogs will be properly restrained in trucks."

Continue reading "Pup Hut: Shade, Safety for Pickup Riding Dogs"

February 11, 2008

Chicago Area Road Service Call Volume Doubles Due to Cold Snap

AURORA, Ill. -- Preparing now for frigid weather conditions will help keep your vehicle on the road, advises AAA Chicago.

Today AAA Chicago has averaged 250 calls per hour for emergency road service, well above normal levels for this time of year, which is about 100 calls per hour. AAA is giving priority to callers stranded on freeways or in traffic, where they are facing hazards.

Continue reading "Chicago Area Road Service Call Volume Doubles Due to Cold Snap"

Four Truck Drivers in Running for 25th Goodyear Highway Hero

AKRON, Ohio -- As finalists for Goodyear's 25th annual North America Highway Hero Award, two professional truck drivers dove into chilly, murky waters to pull victims to safety in separate incidents; a Canadian driver made a lightning-quick decision and paid the ultimate price to save others; and a New Mexico driver rescued a pregnant woman from a brutal attack after she was run over by her boyfriend's truck.

Rick Tower, of Yreka, Calif.; Richard Filiczkowski, of Bountiful, Utah; the late David Glenn Virgoe, of Innisfil, Ontario; and Ronnie D. Greene, of Regina, N.M., were named finalists today for trucking's most prestigious award for heroism.

Continue reading "Four Truck Drivers in Running for 25th Goodyear Highway Hero"

Tips on How to Cope with Cold

DEARBORN, Mich. -- Preparing now for frigid weather conditions will help keep your vehicle on the road, advises AAA Michigan. Since midnight, the Auto Club has received 2,624 calls for emergency road service, well above normal levels for this time of year. AAA is giving priority to callers stranded on freeways or in traffic, where they are facing hazards.

Motorists can help keep their vehicles on the road by doing the following:

Continue reading "Tips on How to Cope with Cold"

Allstate Teams Up with Cast of TV's Girlfriends for Safety Message

NORTHBROOK, Ill. -- Motor vehicle crashes are the number one killer of teens, taking the lives of nearly 6,000 teens every year and injuring 300,000 more.

Allstate Insurance Company is committed to helping stop this epidemic and recently joined forces with the popular CW network show "Girlfriends" to integrate an important message about teen safe driving into an upcoming episode.

Continue reading "Allstate Teams Up with Cast of TV's Girlfriends for Safety Message"

February 4, 2008

Increased Auto Theft Activity in Metro-Detroit & Michigan Reported

LIVONIA, Mich. -- H.E.A.T. (Help Eliminate Auto Thefts) responded today to 2006 statistics released by the Auto Theft Prevention Authority (ATPA) that indicate a slight increase in the number of vehicles stolen in Michigan.

"Auto theft statistics are often related to economic conditions," said Terri Miller, director of H.E.A.T. "As the economy worsens, actual thefts increase, as well as insurance frauds disguised as theft as a way to dispose of vehicles that people can no longer afford.

Continue reading "Increased Auto Theft Activity in Metro-Detroit & Michigan Reported"

February 1, 2008

Speed Cameras Help Drivers Ease Off the Pedal

Editor's note -- As we wrote back in August, we believe in the efficacy of Universal Speed Cameras as a means to curtail speeding and increase safety.

ARLINGTON, Va. -- The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety is releasing two new evaluations of the effectiveness of speed camera enforcement in Scottsdale, Arizona, and Montgomery County, Maryland.

Before the City of Scottsdale kicked off a pilot speed-camera enforcement program, 15 percent of drivers were traveling faster than 75 mph on sections of a busy urban freeway with a 65 mph posted limit. Once the cameras were in place on Loop 101, the number of violators plunged to 1-2 percent.

Continue reading "Speed Cameras Help Drivers Ease Off the Pedal"

AAA Offers Advice on How to Go in Ice and Snow

DEARBORN, Mich. -- Winter weather conditions can affect your car's handling and braking ability. Slow down, keep your distance and increase the chances you'll arrive at your destination safely.

AAA suggests the following winter-driving suggestions:

Continue reading "AAA Offers Advice on How to Go in Ice and Snow"

SEACO's Road De-Icer Earns EPA Designation

ROME, N.Y. -- Rome, NY-based Sears Ecological Applications Company (SEACO) recently received the coveted Design for the Environment (DfE) recognition from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for its Ice B'Gone line of high-performance liquid de-icing products.

Now recognized as an EPA partner for safer chemistry, SEACO is the only roadway de-icer manufacturer and supplier in the U.S. to receive this designation.

Continue reading "SEACO's Road De-Icer Earns EPA Designation"

January 31, 2008

LoJack Can Find Your Stolen Motorcycle

WESTWOOD, Mass. -- LoJack Corporation today unveiled its annual wrap-up of the year's top recoveries for 2007 involving the LoJack For Motorcycles recovery system.

These stories underscore that organized crime rings continue to fuel the growing problem of motorcycle theft. The most recent figures from the National Insurance Crime Bureau indicate that motorcycle theft has jumped a full 137 percent since the year 2000.

Continue reading "LoJack Can Find Your Stolen Motorcycle"

January 29, 2008

Windhsield Wipers Can Save Your Life

HOUSTON -- With 90 percent of driving decisions based solely on vision, it is vital to have a clear, unobstructed view of the roadway.

A recent survey conducted by Rain-X found that 78 percent of motorists only change their wiper blades after the blades themselves begin to impair their visibility and become a potential safety hazard.

To raise awareness of the importance of driving visibility, Rain-X and automotive expert Barbara Terry have teamed up to kick-off the annual Seemore Safety Campaign.

The Campaign, a safe driving initiative now in its third year, is designed to remind motorists to use Groundhog Day as a yearly reminder to change their wiper blades.

Continue reading "Windhsield Wipers Can Save Your Life"

Potholes Can Put a Dent in your Day

BETHESDA, Md. -- They're back and they're bad. Potholes have returned and hitting one with your car can do a number on tires, wheels, steering and suspension, and alignment.

To help determine if hitting a pothole has damaged your vehicle, watch for the following warning signs provided by the Car Care Council.

Continue reading "Potholes Can Put a Dent in your Day"

January 28, 2008

The Right Way to Abandon Your Car in a Snow Storm

SEATTLE, Jan. 28 -- As Western Washington braces for another possible snowstorm tonight and tomorrow morning, some drivers will again prove they're a little bit different from their Eastern Washington counterparts: they'll take the risky step of abandoning their vehicles, unable to maneuver through the ice and snow.

Continue reading "The Right Way to Abandon Your Car in a Snow Storm"

January 24, 2008

Texas Auto Theft Numbers: Spike in Un-Recovered Trucks and SUVs

IRVING, Texas -- The number of Allstate insured vehicles in Texas that were stolen and never found, jumped 11 percent from 2006 to 2007.

Texas' second largest auto insurer says a large portion of these un-recovered vehicles were SUVs and trucks -- sending a message to drivers of these popular Texas vehicles that where and how you park your car can be as important as remembering to lock the doors.

Continue reading "Texas Auto Theft Numbers: Spike in Un-Recovered Trucks and SUVs"

January 22, 2008

Volvo's Home Frozen Testing Lab

Volvo's Scandinavian heritage and industry-leading test framework create the foundations for the world's safest winter properties.

Customers should be able to rely on Volvo everywhere. Irrespective of climate and road conditions. That is why Volvo's cars are tested under the most extreme conditions found on this planet. In Arizona's blisteringly hot desert and in the biting cold of the Arctic north.

Continue reading "Volvo's Home Frozen Testing Lab"

January 17, 2008

Survey Finds Many Child Safety Seat Laws Inadequate

DEARBORN, Mich. -- Thirty years after the enactment of the nation's first child safety seat law, a new survey shows parents strongly support child safety seats and child seat laws.

Yet nearly 100 children under age 5 die every year in crashes they could have survived had they been using child safety seats, said AAA in calling for states to close gaps in their child passenger safety laws.

Continue reading "Survey Finds Many Child Safety Seat Laws Inadequate"

January 16, 2008

Finalists Named in 6th Annual Volvo for life Awards

IRVINE, Calif. -- For the past nine weeks hundreds of thousands of members of the American public have been casting their votes online to decide the country's favorite hometown heroes in the 6th Annual Volvo for life Awards.

The polls are officially closed and the top three heroes in the categories of Safety, Quality of Life, Environment and the Butterfly Award, Volvo's youth category, can be revealed.

Continue reading "Finalists Named in 6th Annual Volvo for life Awards"

Rewarding Safe Driving Leads to Fewer Accidents and Lower Insurance Costs

NEW YORK -- Accidents happen. One wrong turn, one momentary distraction, one poor decision that another driver makes on the road -- could lead to potentially dangerous and expensive consequences.

New York-based Valera Global, the premier provider of executive transportation solutions, has adopted a unique approach to protecting the safety of its passengers and chauffeurs.

Continue reading "Rewarding Safe Driving Leads to Fewer Accidents and Lower Insurance Costs"

January 15, 2008

Changing Wiper Blades Can Help Drivers 'See More'

HOUSTON -- Vision is a critical factor of driving safety, with 90 percent of driving decisions based solely on vision.

According to a recent report from Aftermarket Business, it is estimated that more than 46 million individuals are driving with impaired vision during stormy weather. In fact, according to a recent survey released by Rain-X, 78 percent of motorists only change their wiper blades after the blades themselves begin to impair their visibility and have become a potential safety hazard.

Continue reading "Changing Wiper Blades Can Help Drivers 'See More'"

January 11, 2008

Volvo Announces Collision Avoidance Package for 2008 V70, XC70 and S80

Click here to get a free price quote on the 2008 Volvo S80!

Irvine, CA -- Building on a heritage of innovation in safety, Volvo has introduced a Collision Avoidance Package for the 2008 V70, XC70 and S80.

Volvo's latest preventative safety technologies focus on preventing driver distractions that studies show cause up to 90 percent of all traffic accidents.

Based on this statistic, Volvo has developed efficient technologies to help drivers avoid or reduce the severity of accidents caused by distraction and driver fatigue.

Continue reading "Volvo Announces Collision Avoidance Package for 2008 V70, XC70 and S80"

January 9, 2008

2008 Cadillac CTS Earns Top Safety Award

Click here to get a free price quote on the 2008 Cadillac CTS!

ARLINGTON, Va. -- The redesigned Cadillac CTS earns the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's Top Safety Pick award for 2008. The CTS is one of only three large luxury cars to earn the designation this year (the others are the Audi A6 and Volvo S80).

Winners of Top Safety Pick afford superior overall crash protection among the vehicles in their class. To qualify a vehicle must earn the highest rating of good in the Institute's front, side, and rear tests and be equipped with electronic stability control.

Continue reading "2008 Cadillac CTS Earns Top Safety Award"

January 8, 2008

Navigation Systems Undermine Road Safety

THE HAGUE, The Netherlands -- Using a new research method, the Navigation Systems Research Foundation has discovered why navigation systems cannot find ring roads in cities. Software errors are the cause.

The Foundation predicts a catastrophic development if the authorities do not intervene: more traffic accidents and casualties, and side roads becoming jammed with volumes of traffic for which they were not designed.

Continue reading "Navigation Systems Undermine Road Safety"

December 28, 2007

How does the Tire Pressure Monitoring System [TPMS] Work?

Q: How does the new Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) work?

A: Tire pressure monitoring systems continuously monitor the pressure in the tires through sensors located in the tires (direct system) or the use of wheel speed and other vehicle sensors (indirect system). The information collected by the sensors is transmitted to an on-board processor that interprets the sensor signals and warns the driver when tire pressure is below the minimum acceptable level by illuminating a warning lamp.

Continue reading "How does the Tire Pressure Monitoring System [TPMS] Work?"

Only a Fruitcake Would Drink and Drive this Holiday

This poster/print ad shows the often-mocked holiday fruit cake and tells the reader that if a fruit cake starts to look appetizing, you’re probably too buzzed to drive.

New federal traffic safety data shows that the daily death toll from drunk driving crashes during the Christmas and New Year’s holiday periods is significantly more than for the rest of the year, announced U.S. Transportation Secretary Mary E. Peters.

“If you’ve had too much holiday spirit you’d better find a safe and sober ride. Driving while drunk is not worth the risk,” said Secretary Peters, noting that driving with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 or higher is illegal in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

Continue reading "Only a Fruitcake Would Drink and Drive this Holiday"

December 27, 2007

Survey: Nine of Ten Teens Want Friends To Be Safer on the Road

75 Percent Admit Breaking the Law within First Two Years of Driving

NORTHBROOK, Ill. -- With motor vehicle accidents claiming between 5,000 and 6,000 teen lives each year, a new survey commissioned by Allstate Insurance reveals that many teens do not take personal responsibility for safe driving and continue to engage in dangerous driving behaviors.

While nearly 90 percent of teens surveyed said they hope their friends will be safer on the road in 2008, just 11 percent included “driving more safely” among their personal New Year’s resolutions. One-third (34 percent) of teens surveyed reported being frightened as a passenger because the driver was being careless, but did not say anything to the driver.

Continue reading "Survey: Nine of Ten Teens Want Friends To Be Safer on the Road"

Scania Praised for Showcasing Truck Drivers

STOCKHOLM, Sweden -- Scania has won the European Excellence Award 2007 in the Automotive and Transport Category for drawing attention to the truck driving profession through its Young European Truck Driver (YETD) competition.

The awards are given to companies that have carried out especially successful projects, campaigns and other fruitful work in the communications field in Europe.

Continue reading "Scania Praised for Showcasing Truck Drivers"

Posted by Frank at 10:21 AM | Email to a friend |

Car Buyer's Notebook

Recent Stories

Topics

August 13, 2008

Volvo for Life and the Weavers

August 13, 2008

Mercedes-Benz to introduce Attention Assist

Audi Q7 earns IIHS Top Safety Pick award for 2008

August 10, 2008

Nissan previews collision-free technology

August 9, 2008

Auto Dealers Take Child Passenger Safety Message to Public Television

August 7, 2008

2009 Ford Edge sports industry-first Blind Spot Mirror

August 6, 2008

Ford Flex earns top 5-star crash ratings

AAA Urges Motorists to Stay Alert as Kids Head Back to School

August 5, 2008

States Hands-Free Law Boosts Bluetooth Sales

August 1, 2008

One in Three Text Message While Behind Wheel

July 30, 2008

OnStar Opens "Crisis Assist" to Those Affected by Southern California Earthquake

July 28, 2008

Honda Interactive Crash Test Demo Invites Viewers to "See What We See"

Effective Use of Your Vehicle's Antilock Brakes Delivers Maximum Safety

Saving Lives by Banning Deadly Tires

July 25, 2008

OnStar Opens "Crisis Assist" Emergency Services to Those Affected by Dolly

July 24, 2008

Child Safety Seats: Choosing and Using Them Right

July 23, 2008

Nissan recalls Sentras due to brake problems

Red Light Camera Locations Have Nowhere to Hide

July 19, 2008

Volvo aims for zero accidents

July 15, 2008

Hypermilers refute safety concern

July 12, 2008

Ford speeds active safety research

July 11, 2008

Ford's New Smart Intersection 'Talks' to Cars to Help Reduce Collisions

July 9, 2008

20% of DUIs happen after a night out

Ford launches driving skills program in Aisa

Vehicle Theft Continuing to Decline

Summer's Here, and So Are New Teen Drivers

July 8, 2008

Car Thieves Tempted as Summer Months Begin

June 28, 2008

AAA Advises Hypermilers to Avoid Dangerous Techniques

MADD's National President to Walk Like MADD to Eliminate Drunk Driving

June 22, 2008

MADD Applauds Alaska for Lifesaving DUI Bill

Texas Drivers Running on Empty

Country Star Julie Roberts Joins Mothers Against Drunk Driving to Walk Like MADD

June 19, 2008

Alarming Increase in Motorcycle Rider Deaths

Nebraska DMV Approves DriversEd.Com

June 18, 2008

LoJack Helps Las Vegas Cops Break Up Motorcycle Theft Rings

Portable Nav Systems Remove Stress, Adds Safety

June 17, 2008

19-Year-Old NASCAR Star Colin Braun Offers Safe Driving Tips for Teens

June 15, 2008

Safe Kids Program Hits Major Milestone

June 14, 2008

Teen Drivers Ignore Bans on Using Cellphones and Texting

June 13, 2008

Senior Drivers to Increase 70% Over Next 20 Years

Choosing the Right Vehicle for A Teen Driver

June 6, 2008

Mustang first convertible to win top safety rating

Ford continues voice-activated research

Students Learn Driving Safety in Time for Prom

AAA Michigan Urges Veto of Bill That Allows Motorcyclists to Go Without Helmets

Share the Road Highway Safety Program Visits Americade

June 5, 2008

AIAM Supports Enhanced Roof Strength Standards

May 29, 2008