Auto News & Features, Car Information » Auto Safety

Car Safety: Dealing with Blind Spots

Jennifer — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 16:31:09 +0000

(ARA) – With SUVs, trucks and large cars growing in size, backing up can pose a serious problem for drivers. Even the most accomplished driver can’t see blind spots, which can lead to costly repairs or serious injury.

A back-up camera is a small investment to protect your car, and those around you. It is especially a good idea if you live in an area with many pets or children. Between 2001 and 2003 alone, over 7,400 children ages one to 14 were treated for injuries after being hit by a car backing up. Many of these accidents could have been avoided through enhanced vehicle safety features, such as a back-up camera.

Some new cars come standard with some kind of sensory device or camera to help drivers with rearward motion. A small camera system is mounted above the rear license plate and a color LCD monitor mounts to the inside front windshield with suction cups. The screen can be anywhere from 2.5 inches to seven inches, in size for easy viewing, and is wirelessly connected to the camera. The system provides greatly improved rearward visibility when backing up and helps drivers judge distances better when maneuvering backwards to park.

In addition to being a must-have safety device, a back-up camera also saves users a lot of money from repairs needed from avoidable accidents. While the average back-up camera costs $100, repairs to a mirror can be as much as $500, and back bumper replacements and repairs can run as high as $2,000.

A PEAK Back-Up Camera System assists with parking and general rearward motion. It is relatively inexpensive, easy to install and can bring much piece of mind. Back-up cameras aren’t just shiny new gadgets built for luxury. They can be cost effective and life saving. It’s a small investment to make your vehicle safer and provide great peace of mind.

In addition to, or as an alternative to cameras, drivers can also become more alert and take measures into their own hands with other tactics. Mirrors are often bumped in tight garages or even while a car is out on the street. Checking to be sure they’re properly aligned, even just once a week, can make a big difference in being able to see. Also, checking blind spots before getting into a vehicle, and again before making any sudden movements, is always good idea.

Regardless of how you do it, making sure your blind spots are addressed when driving a vehicle of any size can not only save you money and insurance headaches, it may just save a life.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

The Golden Rules of ATV Riding

Jennifer — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 21:16:49 +0000

The Golden Rules of ATV Riding: Keeping Kids Safe

Keeping Kids Safe

(ARA) – As a child grows, he or she goes through many stages of mobility. One day they’re crawling, the next they’re walking, and shortly thereafter comes the fascination with wheels sending parents rushing off to the sports store.

Most children start out with a tricycle, then a bike with training wheels which ultimately come off and most kids gravitate towards some sort of battery-powered ATV that replicates the real thing as a stepping stone for the future.

The reason for going through all these stages is so a youth can build up the skills and confidence needed to play with wheeled-vehicles safely. “We feel that similar stages — rights of passage if you will — are necessary for kids to stay safe on ATVs as well,” says Mike Adamek, all terrain vehicle (ATV) communications and safety coordinator for Minnesota-based OEM Arctic Cat.

Adamek points out that children who are too young to drive a car should not be operating an adult-sized ATV. “It simply isn’t safe,” he says. “We recommend families that are interested in riding visit their local dealer to find an appropriately sized ATV for their youth and take an ATV safety training course. It’s also a one-stop shop for all your safety gear too.”

That very recommendation is one of the Golden Rules of ATV riding according to the All Terrain Vehicle Institute (ASI), a not-for-profit division of the Specialty Institute of America (SVIA). Here are the others:

1. Always wear a helmet, gloves, eye protection and long sleeved shirts and pants when riding.
2. Never ride on public roads; another vehicle could hit you.
3. Never ride under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.
4. Never carry a passenger on a single-rider vehicle. Extra weight may upset the balance of the ATV causing it to go out of control.
5. Parental supervision is needed for riders younger than age 16. ATVs are not toys.
6. Ride only on designated trails and at a safe speed.
7. Take an ATV rider safety course.

“One of the biggest challenges we face in this industry is making it clear to parents that they cannot put their children on an adult-sized machine. Until they reach a certain size and maturity level, kids just aren’t capable of handling the size and power,” says Adamek.

Arctic Cat’s recommendation is that riders ages 6 and up start out on a 50cc machine capable of reaching maximum speeds of 15 miles per hour. Once they reach the age of 12, children are ready to move up to a 90cc machine that can be speed governed up to 30 miles per hour.

New on the market this year is the Arctic Cat 150 4×2, a transitional model meant for riders 14 and older. It arrives from the factory with a governed top speed of 20 miles per hour, but as the young rider progresses in skill, so can the speed; upwards of 30 miles per hour, also governed by the parent.

“Just because a 14 year old is 6-feet tall doesn’t mean they are capable or responsible enough of handling an adult-sized ATV. The new 150, which weighs about 250 pounds, is manageable and fun for a Youth. It does a great job of bridging the size gap safely,” says Adamek.

For more information about Arctic Cat ATVs and safety equipment, log on to www.arcticcat.com or visit your local dealer.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Has Your Car’s Safety Net Been Compromised?

Jennifer — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 20:14:04 +0000

Are you driving around in a vehicle that’s an accident waiting to happen? If you have chips or cracks in your windshield, the answer may be “Yes.”

A lot of people ignore chips and cracks that are not in the driver’s line of sight because they figure they are no big deal, but that’s a big mistake. The windshield is a critical safety component in your vehicle and if it’s compromised in any way, it could fail you when you need it the most.

According to the National Glass Association, a trade group representing the glass industry, a vehicle’s windshield has three basic functions: to prevent passengers from being ejected from the vehicle in an accident, to absorb the impact when an airbag deploys and to support the roof. In fact, industry experts have estimated that windshields provide up to 70 percent of the structural integrity in a rollover accident, and if left unchecked, damage caused by rocks and flying debris could ultimately cause them to crumble rather than protect the passengers.

There’s also the issue of the approaching season change. Winter, and the cold weather that comes with it, is a compromised windshield’s worst enemy. If moisture gets into a crack, the constant cooling and heating of the glass can cause that crack to expand all the way across the windshield. And once a crack enters the driver’s line of sight, by law, the entire windshield needs to be replaced at a cost sometimes in excess of $500.

“It’s crazy to let that happen when there’s a simple solution that will only cost you a fraction of that amount,” says Brent Deines of DeltaKits, Inc., a leading manufacturer of professional windshield repair equipment and supplies, who estimates the average windshield repair job costs just $50 to $75. There’s also the convenience factor. Because the tools needed are so compact, repair services can be performed pretty much anywhere — at glass shops, oil and lube shops, automobile dealerships, and even in the driveway of your home or business.

Here’s how it works. The service tech injects an optically matched acrylic resin into the damaged area of the windshield. The resin replaces air trapped within the damaged area, and is then cured (hardened), creating a molecular bond that strengthens the glass and keeps the damage from spreading. Once cured, the resin is leveled to be flush with the glass surface, and polished to a glass-like finish. When executed properly, the repair will be nearly invisible and unable to detect by running your finger over it.

“One of the best things about repairing versus replacing the windshield is that you don’t have to compromise the factory-installed seal,” says Deines. In addition, windshield repair is a more environmentally friendly service. The waste produced fits in the palm of your hand and weighs less than an ounce versus the waste from a windshield replacement which in addition to the damaged glass includes adhesive containers, primers, moldings and other non bio-degradable materials — well over 25 pounds worth!

It is estimated that 1 in 100 windshields on the road today receives repairable damage in a given year, which has made auto glass repair a growing industry and has also created a growing demand for windshield repair technicians. Depending on the system and techniques used, just about anyone can complete professional quality repairs with just a few hours of practice, so business opportunities abound.

“I love to watch the expression on a person’s face when their first repair disappears before their eyes. They are always amazed at how simple the process is,” says Deines.

To learn more about the benefits of windshield repair or what’s involved in setting up a business, log on to www.deltakits.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Winter Driving Tips for Safe Moves

Jennifer — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 20:10:42 +0000

Moving during the winter brings extra challenges when driving a rental truck.

Penske Truck Rental offers these tips to help make your winter journey smooth and easy:

* Get oriented. Familiarize yourself with the vehicle. Be sure to adjust the mirrors and know how the heater, defroster and wipers work. Pick up your truck a day early and practice maneuvering it.

* Wait out bad weather. The most difficult time to operate any vehicle is in snow and icy road conditions. If possible, wait out the bad weather until the roads are clear.

* Stopping takes longer. A 16-foot rental truck requires up to three times more distance to stop on a slick road. Larger trucks take even more. Always leave extra stopping space between the vehicles around yours on slick or dry roads.

* Clear snow and ice. Be sure your vehicle is clear of snow and ice before you take to the road. Clear mirrors, windows, headlights, tail lights, and remove any excess snow on the vehicle’s hood and roof.

* Blind spots. Trucks have oversized blind spots, known as the “No Zone” according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. Know these spots by visiting www.sharetheroadsafely.org especially when changing lanes or coming to a stop.

* Antilock brakes. The key is to let antilock brakes do its work, and that’s accomplished by applying to the pedal constant and firm pressure. That should prevent brake lockup and loss of steering. There is no need to pump antilock brakes multiple times, as is the case with older cars.

* Speed. Slow down on slick roads. The recommended maximum speed for a loaded rental truck is 45 miles per hour in favorable road conditions and much slower in slick winter road conditions. So, slow down and give yourself plenty of time to safely reach your new home.

* Pack essential items. Be sure to bring along extra drinks and snacks, and especially a cell phone, in the event you are sidelined during prolonged weather delays.

* Rest up. Get a good night’s sleep before you take to the highway to maximize your reaction time.

Get more moving tips from Penske online at www.GoPenske.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Tips for Getting Around Safely in the Winter

Jennifer — Mon, 26 Nov 2007 01:05:50 +0000

(ARA) – Looked at a calendar lately? Time sure is flying! It seems like just yesterday you were enjoying those long, sunny days out by the lake. Now you’re counting down the days till Thanksgiving and Christmas; but the holidays aren’t all you should be thinking about. The most wonderful time of the year is also the most dangerous time of year to be on the roads.

According to the AAA, loss of visibility, slick roads and poorly maintained brakes lead to thousands of accidents every year, and the highest number of weather-related injuries and fatalities occur during the wet and snowy months of winter. But there are precautions you can take to help prevent accidents, and to be prepared, just in case.

Now — before the flakes start flying — is the time to winterize your vehicle! Start by making sure it is well maintained and in good working order. Here’s a checklist of things to inspect:

* Check all fluids and replenish if necessary.

* Have your vehicle’s battery checked to make sure it is strong enough to make it through the winter.

* Check tire tread depth and tire pressure; consider special tires if snow or ice are a problem in your area.

* Check to see that all lights work and headlights are properly aimed.

* Be certain the heater and defroster are working properly.

* Change your windshield wiper blades if your current ones are worn or UV damaged to ensure good visibility during the season’s rain or snow storms.

It’s always good to be a defensive driver, but it’s especially important in inclement weather. Good winter driving depends on using common sense and adjusting your driving to weather conditions.

* Keep your gas tank full to minimize condensation, and provide an extra margin of comfort and safety in case of delays.

* Don’t use your cruise control or overdrive when it’s freezing (or colder).

* Trucks take longer to stop, so don’t cut in front of them.

* Don’t get overconfident with four-wheel drive. It helps you get going quicker but won’t help you stop any faster.

* Add weight to the rear of your car or truck for better traction. If you drive a car, add weight to the trunk by using sandbags. If you drive one of the more than 38 million registered trucks on the roads, you should add weight to the truck bed. This can be done with a Line-X Spray-On Truck Bedliner. The liner adds about 50 pounds of weight to deter rear wheel skids. It also provides lifetime protection against the rust and corrosion that can form quickly in winter weather.

Finally, keep emergency supplies in your vehicle. Here’s a list of some items that will come in handy if you’re stranded:

* Basic safety equipment such as emergency cash, scraper and brush, small shovel, jumper cables, tow chain, and bag of sand or cat litter for tire traction.

* A breakdown kit that includes road flares, blanket, gloves, boots, warm clothing, flashlight, extra batteries, food, water, and first-aid kit.

* A CB radio or cellular phone can be a lifesaver for you or another stranded motorist in the event of an emergency or collision.

These tips and a little common sense will keep you and your family safe on the road this winter.

For more information on Line-X Spray-On Truck Bedliners, or to find the dealer nearest you, visit www.linex.com or call (800) 831-3232. Line-X has close to 500 locations across the United States.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Under Pressure? Check Your Tires!

Jennifer — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 15:33:01 +0000

Work and home responsibilities take an enormous amount of time each day. While being “under pressure” is not healthy for people, it’s also very bad for your tires.

Tires can lose 1 to 2 pounds per square inch (PSI) of pressure each month. When tires are “under pressure” they become more stressed and can get hot under the collar. Well, under the rim, anyway.

Excess stress on people can cause health problems. Excess stress on tires due to low inflation pressure can decrease fuel economy, make tires wear out faster and can affect vehicle safety. Under inflated tires generate heat that over time can cause tire failure.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that under inflated tires contribute to 660 fatalities and 33,000 injuries each year.

Unfortunately, 85 percent of American drivers fail to properly check tire pressure, according to a motorist survey by the Rubber Manufacturers Association. On the bright side, promoting healthy tires is simple and only takes five minutes each month. The key prescription: check the air pressure with a tire gauge.

Make sure that you check tires when they are cold — before driving even a mile. This will ensure an accurate reading since tire temperature increases while driving and that causes tire pressure to rise.

Next, use the correct tire pressure for your vehicle. Nearly 45 percent of drivers do not know where to find the correct tire pressure for their car. Hint: don’t look on the tire! The pressure listed on the tire sidewall is the maximum pressure for the tire. Find a label on the driver’s door or check the owner’s manual. Vehicle manufacturers establish the recommended inflation pressure.

Finally, don’t forget to check the spare. Seventy percent of drivers never check the inflation pressure in the spare tire. Getting a flat tire is bad enough. A flat spare tire when you need it most just adds insult to injury.

To learn more about proper tire care and how to Be Tire Smart, visit www.betiresmart.org.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Simple, Quick Solutions to Car Repairs

Jennifer — Fri, 06 Jul 2007 19:17:04 +0000

(ARA) – Approximately 50 percent of people say a lack of time is a bigger problem in their lives than a lack of money, according to the 2006 Yankelovich MONITOR “Finding Time Perspective” report. Seventy percent of consumers 16 years and older say they don’t have enough time to do all the things they need to do.

With such a lack of time, things like servicing a vehicle tend to take a back seat. Because of hectic schedules, drivers seek simple, quick solutions to car repairs so they can focus on daily commitments. Searching through an owner’s manual is time consuming and confusing for many people. And when time becomes more valuable than money, technology can help.

Yankelovich also reports that the use of technological tools is one of the top strategies time-starved consumers rely on most to buy back time in their lives. There are a number of automotive technologies that make it easier for vehicle owners to maintain and service their vehicles.They help save time by preventing unnecessary maintenance, make it easy to travel safely, as well as preserve gas and oil.

“GM has the right equation of automotive technology to simplify service and maintenance,” says Peter Lord, executive director, GM Service Operations. “Each of the industry leading technologies GM has implemented is intended to make life easier for the consumer.”

Simplified Maintenance
GM’s Oil Life System informs the driver when an oil change is due based on driving conditions and not on a predetermined time or mileage basis (three months or 3,000 miles as was recommended in the past). The system monitors engine speed and temperature, and the computer continuously examines engine conditions to determine when it’s time to change the oil.

This system can double or even triple the time between oil changes. If used properly, it can help to save time and money connected with unnecessary oil changes. “A driver whose fuel tank is still two thirds full wouldn’t empty the tank and refill it, or a driver whose tires are half worn wouldn’t replace them,” says Lord. “It is the same idea with prematurely changing oil that still has life.” Simplified maintenance based on the system is a convenience to drivers because it takes the guesswork out of when to change oil and it eliminates decision making for other routine maintenance.

OnStar Vehicle Diagnostics
OnStar provides free monthly diagnostic reports via e-mail, including crucial information on tire pressure, remaining engine oil life, emissions, engine, transmission and braking systems, as well as air bag system checks. Subscribers can enroll at the Web site (www.onstar.com) or press the vehicle’s blue OnStar button and sign up through an advisor.

Save Fuel with Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS)
Nearly 1.2 billion gallons of gas are wasted each year due to under-inflated tires, according to a recent U.S. Department of Energy statistic cited in a study by the U.S. Government Accountability Office. They also estimate drivers can improve fuel economy by up to 3.3 percent just by making sure tires are properly inflated.

Checking tire pressure is something drivers often forget or don’t make time to test. The TPMS helps alleviate this issue by tracking tire wear and pressure and helping motorists avoid tire failure and potentially dangerous, costly breakdowns. The system uses sensors mounted in each wheel to monitor tire pressure. Drivers are alerted to tire pressure changes so the issues can be checked and remedied quickly.

Goodwrench.com is a great online resource to learn more about these technologies and get helpful vehicle safety and maintenance tips.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Top Towing Tips for Trouble-free Travel

Jennifer — Thu, 21 Jun 2007 19:17:04 +0000

(ARA) – Every year millions of Americans take to the roads with their trailers in tow. Whether you’re towing a boat, a horse or a houseful of furniture, driving with a trailer presents challenges to both the driver and the tow vehicle. Here are the top tips from hauling experts on how to keep your travel trouble free.

Be Cool
Towing season is usually during the summer months with temperatures regularly between 80 to 120 degrees. Keeping your tow vehicle’s fluids cool is critical to keep the engine from overheating or worse. You may want to upgrade to a larger radiator to keep those fluids cool.

Engine temperatures can more easily and inexpensively be reduced by adding a coolant additive to your radiator. These products decrease the surface temperature of water in the radiator to improve heat transfer and therefore lower temperatures. One of the more popular coolant additives, Purple Ice, has been proven to reduce engine temperatures as much as 30 degrees.

Another easy way to keep things cool is by upgrading motor oil. Premium synthetic motor oils typically have a lower coefficient of friction and better heat transfer than conventional motor oils. For instance, in independent tests using Royal Purple’s high performance motor oil reduced engine temperatures as much as 12 percent.

Remain Level-Headed
Trailers have a tendency to load down the rear of a tow vehicle. As the vehicle rocks further back, the dynamics of the vehicle change. This means that the tow vehicle will not stop, steer, and handle as well as it does when it’s not towing something. Investing in overload springs, air bags and/or a weight distributing hitch will help the tow vehicle ride level; which will translate into a safer and better ride.

Breathe Deep
During the life of your engine, thousands of cubic feet of air will pass through the cylinders. Dust and other material in the engine can cause excessive wear and operating problems. It’s imperative that you keep air filters clean by regularly replacing them. To further enhance performance, you may want to consider upgrading to a high performance air filter or complete intake system. The relatively low cost of a high performance filter and ease of installation (about 5 minutes) makes upgrading a no-brainer.

Don’t Go Bald or Flat
Whether towing or not, checking the condition of your tires and tire pressure is vital. Tires that are under-inflated or over-inflated may wear out prematurely or potentially blow out and cause an accident. Ideally, tire pressure should be checked every time you fill up your gas tank. By keeping your tires properly inflated, you’ll also help reduce fuel consumption and increase your safety while towing. The U.S. Energy Department reports that under-inflated tires can actually increase fuel consumption by up to 6 percent.

Don’t Strip (a gear)
Two components that take the most abuse and are most neglected in tow vehicles are the transmission and differential. In most cases, neither is adequately cooled and both undergo extreme pressure in towing conditions. Keeping the fluids cool is vital for a healthy transmission. The cheapest and easiest solution is upgrading fluids to high quality synthetics, For instance, Max ATF and Max Gear from Royal Purple have been proven in independent tests to reduce operating temperatures for increased transmission life. Additionally, both use Royal Purple’s proprietary additive technology that provides maximum wear protection particularly in extreme situation like towing.

Consider Hardware and Software Upgrades
Aftermarket manufacturers produce a wide variety of parts from brakes to computer chips that can dramatically improve the performance of your tow vehicle and make towing easier. Upgrading brakes with a larger rotor or better caliper will help slow or stop everything quicker. Premium brake pads that dissipate heat also improve stopping. Aftermarket exhaust systems increase exhaust flow and reduce backpressure for increased torque. Finally, engine management software that optimizes engine performance is available from a variety of manufacturers.

Don’t Forget to Brush
Following good maintenance procedure is a lot like brushing your teeth. Failure to do so r can cause a lot of pain and unnecessary expense. Checking all of the fluid levels, the air filter and regularly replace the fuel filter will keep the vital components clean and clear of debris. Cleaning windows and mirrors will reduce glare and make the trip a safer and easier for you and your eyes. It’s also a good time to consider adding trailer mirrors which dramatically improve rear-view visibility. And don’t forget to check your trailer’s brake fluid, electrical wiring and tires. Make sure the lights work properly and everything is in working order.

Each of these seven tips will improve your towing experience and help ensure a trouble- free ride. For more information visit www.royalpurple.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Spring Ahead with Driving Safety Tips

Jennifer — Tue, 29 May 2007 19:09:52 +0000

(ARA) – When cold weather begins to warm, motorists may think their driving cares have melted away with the winter ice and snow. Not so.

“Spring brings its own set of challenges for safety conscious drivers,” says Jim Sinclair, vice president of service for Subaru of America, Inc. “Many drivers underestimate the need for control that all-wheel drive provides in slick rainy conditions – after the snow and ice have melted.”

Just as you winterized your car with an eye to safety last fall, it’s time to begin work on your spring automotive safety check list. Here are some hints for ensuring your car is in top condition for safe spring motoring:

* Rain is a common spring driving hazard. While most people think of ice or snow when cautioned about slippery roads, the truth is wet roads can be just as slick. Tires can hydroplane on a layer of water, losing contact with the road and causing the vehicle to skid. Rain lifts oil and other slippery fluids, dripped by passing autos, creating a slick layer on the blacktop. Flooded roads can flood out engines. Slow down on wet roads. Consider buying a vehicle with features like all wheel drive and electronic stability control.

* Start out with a safe car. Studies show that all wheel drive and electronic stability control significantly reduce the risk of being involved in a crash. Automakers are beginning to offer the technologies on more models. Subaru offers both as standard equipment on models like its B9 Tribeca that has earned the top safety ratings from industry watchdogs such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (www.safecar.gov) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (www.iihs.org).

* Replace worn tires. Your tires are what keep the car on the road. Worn out treads provide less traction and greater chance to slide. Likewise, make sure tires are inflated properly according to your vehicle’s owner’s manual.

* Spring showers bring May flowers, but let this be a reminder to also check and replace worn wiper blades. Poorly maintained windshield wipers can hamper visibility in poor weather. After a long winter of salt and other road residue on the windows, wiper effectiveness is greatly enhanced by cleaning the glass with a strong glass cleaner that can remove the oily film. And don’t forget the inside of the glass. Removing the film on the inside can help the defroster clear faster and reduce moisture build-up.

As part of its National Car Care month in April, the Car Care Council recommends checking tire treads and windshield wiper quality in preparation for spring driving conditions.

“In our research of vehicles brought in for their April check-up, close to one-fifth of vehicles (17 percent) had front windshield wiper failures and 12 percent of vehicles needed service on their rear wipers and/or washers,” says Rich White, executive director of the Car Care Council.

* Spring rain can also dampen visibility so it is important to check all vehicle lighting including headlights, taillights, back-up lights, turn signals, parking lights and break lights. These lights are important not only because they help you to see, but also serve as a way to help you communicate clearly with other motorists.

* Take advantage of safety resources. Throughout National Car Care month, many dealerships offer free safety screenings to motorists who drive the brand of car sold at the dealership. For example, starting in April and continuing through spring, participating Subaru dealers will conduct free professional diagnostics on all Subaru models. The inspection includes a check up of all major operating systems and drivers receive a written report of the vehicle’s condition. Visit www.subaru.com to find a dealer in your area.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Spring Tips for School Bus Safety

Jennifer — Sun, 06 May 2007 19:11:29 +0000

(ARA) – As clocks spring ahead and the seasons change, roads and highways throughout the nation become a bit more dangerous, according to the National Road Safety Foundation, Inc. (NRSF), a non-profit group that provides free driver safety programs for schools and other organizations.

In the spring and early summer, tired motorists have to deal with shadows, glaring sunlight and busier highways and neighborhood streets. Children will increase their outdoor playtime due to nicer weather and many more school buses are traveling to accommodate competitions, field trips and other activities.

The best way for students to travel to school is by school bus. Fatal crashes involving school bus occupants are extremely rare, even though school buses serve a remarkable 25 million children every school day. In fact, approximately 475,000 yellow school buses drive 4.3 billion miles each school year while maintaining a safety record unequalled in the transportation industry.

Modern school buses are equipped with a variety of safety equipment to provide an extra margin of safety. The size of the bus alone is an important advantage, but today’s buses also have flashing lights, reflective devices and swing out stop arms to indicate when the bus is loading and unloading passengers. Most buses have several emergency exits, as well.

“Parents can rest easy knowing children who travel on school buses are utilizing the safest means of transportation available,” says John O’Leary, president and CEO of Thomas Built Buses, the leading manufacturer of school buses in North America. “School buses today are built with safety as a top priority but it’s always a good idea to review safety precautions with children who ride the bus.”

O’Leary offers these safety tips for both automobile drivers and bus riders.

Motorists should:
* Be aware it is illegal to pass a school bus stopped to load or unload students.
* Know and understand laws governing motorist driving behavior near a school or school bus.
* Learn the “flashing signal light system” that school bus drivers use to alert motorists if they are going to stop.

Students riding a bus should always:
* Stand at least five giant steps (10 feet) away from the edge of the road so the bus driver and others can see them.
* Wait until the bus stops, the door opens and the driver says it’s okay before stepping onto the bus.
* Be alert to traffic. When getting on or off the bus, look left, right, and then left again before entering or crossing the street.

Crossing students should:
* Walk in front of the bus, never behind it.
* Walk on the sidewalk or along the side of the road to a point at least ten giant steps ahead of the bus before crossing the street.
* Be sure the bus driver can see them, and they can see the bus driver.
* Wait for the driver’s signal to cross.

“There is no safer way for a child to get to and from school than in a school bus,” says Derek Graham, president of the National Association of State Directors of Pupil Transportation. “By using the school bus and helping to reinforce the safety rules, parents can be assured their children are well protected.”

Parents and teachers who want to review safety rules and guidelines with their children may visit the Safety and Value page of the Inside Thomas Built Buses section of www.thomasbus.com to download a school bus safety activity book for elementary age students.

Courtesy of ARAcontent