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Choosing the Best GPS for Your Car

Wednesday, December 21st, 2011
The portable GPS has become very popular in the last year, and now there are many brands with all kinds of features and options. To choose the GPS that will work best for you, it’s good to start by determining the reasons why you want one, how you are going to use it, and how much money you have to spend.
Here are some things to consider when picking out a GPS. Are you planning to use it for getting around town or for frequent long distance trips?  Will you need detailed maps, traffic warnings, construction alerts?  Do you want to be able to search for lodging or restaurants? How about visually; do you prefer a black and white screen or full color, and what size screen do you need?  Will you want voice prompts with turn-by-turn instructions as you go?  There are so many features to choose from that it’s wise to get one that fits your personal needs.
Here is a review of some of the options, which you probably will find in each of the major brands.
  • Points of interest. If you want a GPS to assist you on trips out of town to unfamiliar locations, this feature will serve you well.  The POI is a database of hotels, motels, restaurants, parks, gas stations, ATM’s, grocery stores, etc.  You just chose from the list and the GPS will display options.  Some systems offer POI updates that you can load to the GPS from an internet connection.  There may be a charge for updates.
  • Turn by turn voice instructions. This feature allows you to keep your hands on the wheel and eyes on the road at all times, reducing the possibility of a car accident.  The GPS voice prompts you through each turn, giving you the name of the street and the direction to turn as you approach it.  There also will be a visual display showing where you are and where you are going.
  • Lane assist. This is another feature which identifies the correct lane when you approach a turn, an exit, an intersection or a junction. It is very helpful when highways split, or there is a left hand exit.
  • Traffic updates. Some systems come with an option to receive road reports warning of traffic jams or heavy construction. There may be an additional cost for this service.
  • Mounting capability. Another consideration before purchase is the mounting capability.  If you want the GPS to sit on your dashboard, you need to make sure the model you prefer has a mount to fit your car.  Some other mounting methods are attachment to the side window, suction cup on the windshield, or clip on the air vents.  Be sure to check the laws in your area regarding mount types before you buy. Some states prohibit installation of any device on a windshield, which is the most common location to mount portable GPS guide units, or some have restrictions on placement.
Whether you just make short trips around town and need to ensure you can always find your way home, or your are planning long distance trips to unfamiliar places, a GPS can be helpful for navigating and keeping you safe.  It will help find points of interest, keep you out of construction zones, and assist with heavy traffic to help prevent an auto accident.  Choosing the one that is right for you just takes a little time and a clear idea of what you really need.  Review your options and enjoy your new freedom.

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Getting Your Car Ready for Winter

Friday, November 25th, 2011

Daylight hours are fewer each day, the leaves are almost off the trees, and the temperature is dropping quickly.  This means only one thing — winter is on the way. Northern winters can be invigorating and filled with fun activities, like ice skating, snowball fights, hockey, skiing, sledding, and more.

Enjoying winter safely does take a bit of planning.  To make sure that your car is ready to transport you and your family to all these fun events, now is the time to get it ready for winter.  One great way to prevent Michigan car accidents is to get your car winterized and ready to go by the first snow storm.

Follow this simple checklist:

  1. Put together an emergency kit.  Accidents happen, and you could get stuck in a snow storm, slide off the road, or one of so many other reasons why you may find yourself waiting for road service. No matter the reason, you will need to stay warm and be able to call for help.  Your winter emergency kit should include: a blanket, flashlight, jumper cables, ice scraper, extra gloves and hat, and a first aid kit.  You can add more things you think may be necessary, but these are the basics.
  2. Change your oil for winter.  Your dealer or mechanic will be able to recommend the best oil for your climate. If you are doing it yourself, check your owner’s manual.  Oil will thicken in the winter, so it a lighter weight oil is usually recommended.
  3. Snow tires and tire pressure.  There are many reasons put snow tires on your car for the winter.  Perhaps you live in a hilly area, you do a lot of driving, your area gets a lot of snow, or your community does not send road plow crews to your neighborhood on a regular basis. Snow tires will improve your traction and provide a safer ride in the winter.  Whether you use snow tires or a good all-season tire, the correct air pressure is essential for good traction any time of the year ,and critical during the winter months. Traction is limited in snowy, icy, and slippery conditions, so properly inflated tires ensure you have the best possible traction.
  4. Windshield washer fluid and wiper blades.  Visibility in snow and winter conditions is easily impaired.  Wiper blades are most effective for one to two years.  Check to see if your blades have any wear, and replace them if they do, or if they are more than 2 years old.  Wiper fluid should be suitable for below zero temperatures.  If you have water in the reservoir, it needs to be flushed and replaced with wiper fluid with an antifreeze, so the lines don’t freeze over the winter.  This is vital for a clean windshield and the best visibility.
  5. Radiator flush and engine coolant.  This is important for keeping your engine at the correct temperature and running smoothly.  Your mechanic will know the best mixture of antifreeze to water for your climate.  If you are doing this yourself, most engines in cold weather need a ratio of 60% antifreeze to 40% water.  Adjusting this ratio a critical step in winterizing your car correctly.  Also, make sure you properly dispose of the old coolant. It should NOT be poured into a drain or sewer.
  6. Battery, Belts and Hoses.  Batteries have a reduced capacity in the winter. Check the voltage and make sure it will make it through the winter.  Again, your owner’s manual will tell you the correct levels, or your car mechanic will know.  Inspect the cables and the terminals to make sure they are connected tightly and have a good connection.  At the same time, check the engine belts and hoses to ensure they are not cracked or loose.

Getting ready for winter is important. When it comes to keeping your family safe and avoiding an accident, it’s essential to get your car ready for the cold months ahead.  Safe driving!

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Driving with Pets as Passengers

Saturday, November 19th, 2011

As we enjoy the last few days of fall weather, those frosty mornings remind us winter is soon to follow. It’s a good time to pack in as much outdoor time as possible with kids and dogs.  That means getting everyone in the car to go to the park, visit friends, or just run some errands together. On these family outings, it’s great to have the family pet join in the fun.

When you get in the car and buckle the kids in their safety seats and you in your seat belt, where is your dog?  Is the dog loose in the car?  Does this make sense?  If it’s not safe for children or adults to ride in a car unrestrained, why would it be safe for the family dog?  Well, it’s not.

So what are your options?  There are three simple ways to keep your pets safe while traveling, and prevent them from becoming a distraction and possibly causing an auto accident.

  1. The safest way to protect your dog is by using a pet harness designed for safe travel.  The harness should fit properly around the dog’s shoulders and behind the front leg.  It should have a strap that securely fastens to the car seat belt.  This will comfortably restrain the dog in much the same way as an adult seat belt.
  2. A second choice is putting the dog in a crate in the back seat.  Then secure crate with straps that buckle into the seat belts.
  3. If these two options are not available, putting a barrier between the front and rear seat will help keep your family safe, but may not protect the dog.  The barrier ensures that the dog will not distract the driver, and will keep it from injuring someone during a sudden stop.  However, it will not protect your dog from being tossed around in the case of an auto accident.

Pets live in over 71 million homes in the United States, and 82% of those pets travel on vacation with their families.  If your family enjoys traveling with your dog, take the time to keep them safe so you can be travel together for many years.

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School Drop Off and Pick Up Safety Rules

Saturday, October 29th, 2011

It’s back-to-school time, and one of the many things parents need to plan, is how to get kids to and from school safely. If you are planning to drive your children to school, it’s important to learn the safest way to do this and avoid an auto accident.

You know that morning and afternoon are extremely busy. School grounds are filled with cars, buses, and kids running around. At the same time,  neighborhood streets are bustling. So let’s review a few important ways to keep everyone safe.

  • Learn the procedure – If your school has specific procedures for drop off and pick up, learn the routine.  The guidelines are designed for moving kids and cars in and out of the school zone as efficiently and safely as possible. It’s your responsibility to know the rules and follow them.  Find out if there is a written procedure or a map showing safe drop off and pick up areas.
  • Be Courteous –  Be on your best behavior.  There are a lot of busy people and everyone needs to get in and out as quickly and safely as possible. Put away the cell phone, follow the procedure, and listen to the instructions of school staff. Stay in line, rather than skipping ahead or cutting anyone off.
  • Be Cautious –   The safety of our children always comes first. Leave a few minutes early, to give yourself extra time. Use ONLY the designated drop off and pick up sites.
  • Stay Out of the Bus Loading Zone – This area is for school buses only. Dropping off children in the bus loading zone is dangerous, and slows down the flow of all other incoming cars and buses.
  • Think Smart – If you can’t get into the school grounds, park on the same side of the street as the drop off locations, not across the street. This avoids the risk of kids crossing in the middle of the block.
  • Remember the Neighbors – You can keep the traffic flowing and reduce the parking impact on residents who live near the school by following all the procedures, and making sure never to park in front of a driveway.

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Be Safe While Driving at Night

Wednesday, October 26th, 2011

Now that summer is coming to a close we will be enjoying the cooler weather of fall, the beautiful changing leaves and all of the driving hazards that come with this season.  Most people think that winter is the most dangerous time of year for driving, but Safety Times reports that more drivers die from September through November than during the winter months of December through February.

One major cause is that the falling leaves and rain make the roads wet and very slippery, making driving conditions similar to driving on ice. As the temperatures drop, the wet leaves can freeze and create icy patches on the road.  These conditions increase the possibility of drivers losing control as they struggle with poor traction and skidding.

There are many other hazards unique to autumn driving.  Here are just a few to watch for to help avoid car accident injuries:

  • School buses. As the kids go back to school, defensive driving is essential.  Watch for kids and buses, particularly in the early morning and late afternoon.
  • Fog. Diminished sight distance can be dangerous.  Remember to slow down, use your low beams and keep your headlights clean.
  • Halloween. Yep, it’s a fun time for the kids, but it’s easy for them to be excited and run into the street. Be careful of the trick-or-treaters, particularly the ones in dark costumes!
  • Deer. Fall is the time of year that deer often move around. Be extra careful at dusk and early evening.  Slow down if you see deer by the road and stop if you see one crossing the road. They rarely travel alone so it’s best to stop and wait for the others to safely cross.  Remember to use your hazard lights to alert other drivers to the situation.  During November, also be on the look out for deer hunters.
  • Daylight savings time. When you adjust your clock, it can effect your body and make you drowsy.  It also may force you to drive your evening commute in the dark.  Both of these things will diminish your vision and make driving more difficult.
  • Sunsets. Fall sunsets can be some of the most spectacular, but the lower angle of the sun can make driving into it very dangerous.  Always have sunglasses on hand to help cut the glare.

Follow these safety tips and your own common sense, so that the beautiful autumn season will also be a safe one.

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Teen Driving Tips

Friday, September 30th, 2011

Every teenager dreams of the day he or she finally gets a driver’s license. However, many do not comprehend the amount of responsibility involved with getting behind the wheel. Teenagers are ten times more likely to get in a car accident their during first year driving than any other driver. It’s important for teens to take precautions as new drivers. Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind before they take the car keys and fulfilling that teenage dream.

  1. Always wear a seat belt
    Everyone has probably been told this at some point. It is well known that wearing a seat belt saves lives. Morever, the law requires it. However, teens may forget or not see the need to use it. Parents should keep stressing the importance of this safety device.
  2. Get a lot of supervised driving experience
    To be a better driver not only takes skill, but lots of experience too. New drivers should practice in a lot of different situations, including city streets and highways.
  3. Never use your cell phone while driving
    That means no texting and no talking on your cell phone. Drivers not only risk hurting themselves by using a cell phone, but also passengers, pedestrians and occupants of other vehicles. Teens should put away their cell phones and, if a call must be answered, always find a safe place to stop and park.
  4. Limit the number of passengers
    After getting your license, it is normal to want to drive around with your friends, but try to avoid this for the first couple of months. Passengers can be a distraction and new drivers may be particularly susceptible to this.
  5. Get rid of further distractions like loud music
    Blasting the Billboard’s Top 100 Songs may seem cool, but it is likely to hurt your driving performance. Teens must understand that concentrating on the lyrics of a song could increase the chances  of missing a stop sign or the honk of a nearby vehicle. If you want to listen to music, keep the volume down and focus on the road, not on Lady Gaga.
  6. Never drink or take drugs and drive
    This includes never getting in a car with a driver who has had a drink or taken drugs. This may seem obvious, but still some teenagers are guilty of this. Alcohol and drugs impair your mental and physical abilities, and make you much more at risk of an accident. It is much wiser to call a trusted person who is sober, than to risk driving impaired.
  7. Make sure your car has gas in it
    It is easy to overlook your gas tank, but no one wants to be stranded. So always check before and during your drive.
  8. Be careful driving your car into the garage and always enter straight
    Always adjust the position of the car before entering the garage, to enter it straight and never at an angle. Parents should practice this with teens before letting them do this by themselves.
  9. Make sure the intersection is clear before crossing
    Never forget to check both directions before entering the intersection; another car could be coming from any direction.
  10. Use turn signals
    Turn signals must be used to show that you are about to turn onto a street or to change lanes. They also allow drivers to react appropriately before you turn, so use the turn signal well ahead of time, and don’t forget to turn them back off!

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Distracted Driving

Monday, September 26th, 2011

We’ve all done it. During our busy days when we are on the run we grab lunch and eat it in the car, while driving. Or, we take an important phone call, while we are driving. Or maybe you help your child in the back seat, you read a map, or even just enjoy a good conversation with your passenger. As common as these activities are, they are all forms of distracted driving.

So what’s the problem with a little distraction?

Federal government statistics state that in the U.S. there is a motor vehicle accident every 5 seconds. While the (NHTSA) National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that a minimum of 25% of police reported crashes involve some form of distracted driving.

If you take your eyes off the road, your hands off the wheel, or your mind off what you are doing, you are a distracted driver and increasing your risks of an auto accident.

Many states are enacting laws to try to lower the incidents of distracted driving auto accidents. In Michigan and 33 other states it is illegal to read, type or send a text while driving. Michigan law also prohibits teenage drivers with probationary licenses who are involved in an accident to use a cell phone while driving.

Cell phone usage is only one of many forms of driver inattention. There are many other distractions, and a few simple tips to keep in mind next time you get in the driver seat.

Reduce driving distractions:

Cognitive Distraction

  • Day dreaming, spacing out, mind not focused. This is cognitive distraction and can be caused by fatigue, worry, stress, hunger, medication, etc. When your attention is drifting from driving it’s best to stop the car for a stretch, a walk, a meal. Do what it takes to get your focus back to driving. If possible, let someone else drive for awhile.

Manual Distraction

  • Hands off the wheel, is manual distraction. It could be a simple as adjusting the radio, the temperature control, or the mirrors. Make sure you adjust your seat, head rest, mirrors, and steering wheel before you start driving. Use the automated systems in your car if you have them; programmable radio buttons, seats and any other personal settings.

Visual Distraction

  • Watching things other than the road. Visual distractions are everywhere, both inside and out of your vehicle. Outside joggers, rainbows, other cars, billboards, accidents can all grab your attention. Don’t gawk, try to keep your focus on driving. You have more control over inside distractions. Don’t read a map, look at your passenger during conversation, flip through the cds, or coo at the baby in the car seat.

Audio Distraction

  • Listening to that captivating story on the news, laughing to a great comedy routine, or belting out your favorite tunes on the radio make your drive more pleasurable but can also be a dangerous distraction. Keep the radio in the background and your focus on the road for safe driving.

It’s up to you to make it a priority to keep your focus and control your distractions, to reduce your chances of being in an auto accident.

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National Transportation Safety Board’s New Recommendations for Child Safety Seats

Thursday, December 2nd, 2010

According to the National Transportation Safety Board, motor vehicle crashes account for 1 in every 3 injury deaths among children younger than 13, while it is the leading cause of death for those between 2-12 years of age.

On average, 1,800 children ages 14 and under are killed as occupants in motor vehicles, and more than 280,000 are injured per year. Most of these deaths occur among children traveling as passenger vehicle occupants, and proper restraint use can reduce these fatalities.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recently changed their recommendation for keeping toddler car seats rear facing. The previous recommendation was for infants 12 months old and at least 20 pounds before riding forward facing in a car seat.

New research proves toddlers are 5 times safer when riding rear facing until the age of 2 – the new recommended age. Placing children in rear seats instead of front seats reduces fatal injury risk by about a third among those 12 and younger.

The National Transportation Safety Board recommends that parents use the correct child restraint system for their child’s age and size. The following can help prevent an injury or death in the case of a motor vehicle accident:

  1. Keep your child in a rear-facing seat until your child is at least 1 year old and at least 20 pounds. New recommendations suggest that children are much safer when rear-facing up until the age of 2.
  2. Use a harnessed forward-facing seat after your child has outgrown their rear-facing seat. The NTSB recommends your child should stay in this seat until they reach a weight of 40 pounds, or their ears reach the top of the seat.
  3. Use a booster seat when your child has outgrown the forward-facing seat. Since seat models vary, be sure to check the height and weight limits for the seat you own. Your child needs to use a booster seat from about 4 to 8 years old or until your child reaches about 4 feet, 9 inches.
  4. Keep your child in a booster seat until the adult lap-and-shoulder belt fits properly. The seat belt should lie across the chest between the neck and arm and the lap belt must be across the upper thighs, not the soft stomach.
  5. An adult lap-and-shoulder belt can be used when your child is tall enough (usually about 4 feet, 9 inches) to sit against the back of the car’s seat with their legs bent at the knees with their feet hanging down.

“Preventing an injury or death in the case of a motor vehicle accident starts with the parent,” said Mark Bernstein of the Sam Bernstein Law Firm. “The first step is knowing the proper ages, weights and heights for different child safety seats.”

If your child or someone you love was seriously injured in a Michigan auto accident, talk with an experienced Michigan car accident lawyer to learn more about your rights.

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Tips to Prepare Your Vehicle for the Michigan Winter Season and Avoid Car Accidents

Monday, November 29th, 2010

Michigan winters can be unpredictable, but they usually present major challenges to Michigan drivers as the ice and snow fall and colder temperatures set in. The Sam Bernstein Law Firm recommends the following tips to winterize your vehicle for the upcoming season. Keeping your car maintained can prevent car failure and a Michigan car accident.

Check tire pressure. Due to winter’s low temperatures, the air pressure in a cold tire can easily drop. Make sure your tires are inflated to the proper pressure points. According to Edmunds.com, tire pressure can change by about 1 psi for every 10-degree Fahrenheit change in temperature.

Snow tires can increase traction. A good set of winter tires can increase traction, because they are optimized for snow and ice. Their tread patterns are designed for winter conditions, and they are made from softer rubber compounds that retain flexibility in the winter.

Check your vehicle’s four-wheel drive system. As temperatures get colder, engine oil gets thicker and does not circulate as well as a thinner oil. Without circulating oil, the engine won’t get proper lubrication. Read your owner’s manual to find out the type of engine oil your vehicle takes, and replace the oil, or have a mechanic change it.

Check belts and hoses. Cold temperatures can speed up wear and tear on belts and hoses – have them inspected by a certified mechanic before winter.

Check the battery. Extremely cold temperatures can reduce battery power by up to 50 percent. Clean any corrosion that may have built up on the posts and connections, and test your battery if it is older than three years old at a vehicle repair shop.

Check the antifreeze mixture. If you have a mixture of more water than antifreeze in your radiator, the water can freeze at 32 degrees Fahrenheit. Use an antifreeze tester from an auto parts store to check if the ratio is 50:50.

Replace windshield wipers. Worn or torn wipers will not clear your windshield, and provide enough visibility fro driving through a snow, sleet, or ice storm. Check your washer fluid and add a de-icing solvent.

Check your gas tank frequently. Keep your gas tank at least half full at all times in order to keep your gas lines from freezing. You also may need extra gas, in case you get stranded or lost during bad weather.

Keep an emergency kit in your trunk while you travel, especially before embarking on a road trip. The kit should include: a blanket, extra boots and gloves, extra set of warm clothes, non-perishable food, paper towels, water, an ice scraper, a shovel and a first-aid kit.

To maintain your car, also keep the following items in your trunk: windshield wiper fluid, windshield wipers, flares, jumper cables, a tool kit, tire chains, a tire gauge, a spare tire, tire-changing equipment and sand to provide additional tire traction when needed.

No matter how well you prepare, or how carefully you drive, auto accidents may happen. If you or someone you love was hurt in an auto accident, talk with an experienced Michigan car accident lawyer to protect your legal rights.

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Holiday Safe Traveling Tips To Avoid Auto Accidents From The Sam Bernstein Law Firm

Wednesday, November 24th, 2010

As the holidays approach, the Sam Bernstein Law Firm would like to advise safety tips for travelers making long trips to visit family and friends. Traveling in the snow and other icy conditions can present driving challenges.

According to the National Safety Commission, 90 percent of traveling during the Thanksgiving holiday will be by car. Follow a few tips for safe driving to avoid a car accident this holiday season:

  • Slow down more than usual, and leave room between your car and the car in front of you. Your car may need more time to stop completely when suddenly breaking.
  • Don’t drink and drive – even buzzed driving can impair your judgment and cause a car accident.
  • Fatigued driving is also unsafe. The National Highway Safety Administration says fatigue is a factor in 12.5% of crashes that result in hospitalization. The NSC recommends stopping every 2 hours, or 100 miles.
  • Give yourself more time when scheduling trips to avoid speeding – or travel on off-days, such as the Tuesday before Thanksgiving instead of Wednesday. Often traffic may add another hour to the trip. Check road conditions and the traffic report to find the best possible route.

Being prepared in case of an emergency is also key to preventing injuries and death. Pack an emergency snow kit in your car trunk with a snow scraper/brush, flashlight, blankets, booster cables, a shovel, a bag of sand for tire grip, flares and a first aid kit. Remember to bring a cell phone and car charger, but be sure to pull over before using it to avoid distracted driving.

Bring your automobile to a mechanic and have it winterized before traveling. Have a certified mechanic check your oil level, tire pressure, windshield wipers, heater, defroster, antifreeze, and brakes.

Unfortunately, preventive measures may not always prevent a motor vehicle accident. If you or a loved one was seriously injured in a Michigan auto accident, talk with an experienced Michigan car accident lawyer.

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