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Entries by Davis Body Shop

September 19, 2017 in , , , , , , , by

Traveling with Children

As every parent knows, traveling with children is challenging at best and tear your hair out, jump out of the vehicle, downright difficult, at others. It does not seem to matter if they are toddlers or teenagers, each age group causes its own set of parental anxieties.
The most important aspects are to keep them  safe and relatively happy with as few “Are we there yets?” as possible. When planning a trip it is important to involve them as much as feasible in the planning:

Share maps
Daily schedules
Places you will be staying
Kinds of places you will be stopping for sight-seeing
Where they would like to eat
Getting their input on what games or videos should be included for the trip.

Keeping them safe is critical! According to AAA, motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death and injury for children.  Make sure you get a good night’s sleep prior to traveling. This will keep you from falling asleep behind the wheel as 17% of drivers involved in fatal crashes admit to doing.  Ways of keeping your family safe are:

Drive during the day
Do not follow other vehicles too close
Drive at the appropriate speed for the conditions
Make sure your children have seat belts and car seats set correctly
Do not be distracted by what is going on in the back seat(s)

Children do get lost at times when traveling. Ford is taking another factor of child safety very seriously and will provide you with a child safety kit that includes inkless fingerprinting kits.  “Safety is the No. 1 priority at Ford and it is also our responsibility to look out for the safety of our employees’ families, as well as our neighbors,” said Marty Mulloy, Ford vice president for labor affairs. “The ultimate goal of the National Child Identification Program is to provide an ID kit for every child in the United States, and we’re proud to partner with the UAW to help them achieve that goal.”
We at Davis Body Shop are concerned about your family’s safety and hope this information helps keep you informed. If you have questions or subjects you would like covered in future blogs, drop by or simply call us…. our numbers are: Atascadero (805) 466-2446 or Paso Robles (805) 239-8752. Davis Body Shop wants to keep your family safe on the road. Stay in touch with us on Facebook or Twitter and stay connected!
 

September 12, 2017 in , , , , , , , , , , by

Who’s Driving That Car?

In the not too distant future, there will be self-driving cars on our highways. Nissan has joined GM, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Volvo, and others including Google to put self-driving cars on the road soon, perhaps by 2020.That goal will be difficult to meet. The technology is basically ready, according to Karl Brauer, a senior analyst at Kelly Blue Book. But there are challenges to overcome.  
The Big Hurdles

The issues that need to be addressed are primarily legal and insurance-related ones.   Nissan executive vice president Andy Palmer said “what we need now is regulatory changes.”
Self-driving cars are already legal in California, Florida and Nevada. Self driving or autonomous cars present “a lot of legal issues” Brauer says.
If an autonomous car gets into an accident with one driven by a human, who is to blame? How will insurance companies handle self-driving cars?
Who is legally responsible for a self-driving car? Can minors now travel in self-driving cars without an adult?

Part of the solution, Brauer said, is getting the government to devise a standardized safety test for autonomous vehicles. That means lobbying legislators and the administration to change the rules while making sure there’s a system in place for handling problems that arise.
Technical Challenges 
Challenging these cars are areas such  as:

The ability to navigate through tricky real-world situations, like detours or icy roads.
When snow is on the road, the cars often have difficulty “seeing” the lane markers they use to stay correctly positioned on the roadway.
The vehicles can become confused by quick changes in road conditions, such as accidents, detours, traffic cops with hand signals or construction zones.

Convincing Drivers to Give Up Control
Auto makers will have to convince humans to give up control.

According to a recent KBB poll, 53% of Americans would never consider purchasing a car that drives itself around.
Before Google revealed its robotic test car in 2010, self-driving cars seemed like a vintage type of science fiction.
Premium vehicle owners were more embracing of self-driving cars and technology. These drivers are already accustomed to several “assisted driving” features like automatic braking and adaptive cruise control.
Costs will need to come down significantly before these cars are widely purchased. Added sensors, software and computing requirements currently total more than $100,000 per vehicle.

We hope our blogs keep you informed.  Davis Body Shop is committed to keeping you and your family safe on the road. We invite you to join our community and stay connected on Facebook, Instagram and  Twitter!

September 5, 2017 in , , , , , , , , , , , , by

How Crash Ratings Affect Insurance Rates

Buying a safe car can not only help save your life in the event of an accident, but it can also lead to savings on your car insurance premium. Insurers value safe vehicles because they keep occupants safer and keep claim costs low.
Also, drivers of safe vehicles are thought to be more likely to drive responsibly. For these reasons, driving a safe car will translate into a lower car insurance premium. From your insurer’s perspective, the rationale’s pretty clear: the better your car performs in crash tests and the more safety features it has, the safer you’ll be on the road. For crash ratings on your vehicle click here: Crash Safety Ratings

New Cars

Because there’s not as much data on the real-world safety of new cars, crash tests tend to carry more weight on the latest and greatest models. So if you’re in the market for a new car and you choose one that scores well in crash-test safety instead of a rollover-prone model, your insurer may reward you with lower rates.
Insurers can tell what car brands are trending on the safe side based on official lists like the Top Safety Picks from the IIHS. This type of list, based entirely on crash test results, allows car shoppers and insurers to see which companies excel at producing safe cars and trucks.

Model

The specific model of a car can be a useful safety barometer, too. For instance, different models may affect your car insurance premium differently based on their crash test results, despite being made by the same company.

Year

The year of your car is also a key aspect in determining its safety: a top safety pick of a 2016 may score a lower car insurance rate than the driver of a 2012 version, all else being equal.
If you have questions, drop by or simply call us…. our numbers are: Atascadero (805) 466-2446 or Paso Robles (805) 239-8752. Davis Body Shop wants to keep your family safe on the road. Stay in touch with us on Facebook or Twitter and stay connected!

August 29, 2017 in , , , by

Science of Speed

The roar of the engines … the squeal of the tires … and the race to victory lane. It all says, NASCAR!
A race car is much more than steel, gas, rubber and speed. A race car is a science experiment on wheels. Scientists working with NASCAR learn a great deal that can assist in making our own cars more efficient and safe.
The National Science Foundation (NSF) sponsored The Science of Speed, an online video series that uses professional car racing to teach basic principles of science and engineering. This series teaches how science and engineering make cars powerful, agile, fast and safe, and how these same principles affect their own cars. NSF is an independent federal agency that supports fundamental research and education across all fields of science and engineering.
The Science of Speed  written and hosted by Diandra Leslie-Pelecky explains the scientific principles that are so essential to the NASCAR experience.  You can’t win NASCAR races without getting the science right.
“The Science of Speed does a great job in capturing NASCAR racing as an unfolding science experiment and making real scientific concepts come alive in an accessible way,” said Steve Phelps, chief marketing officer for NASCAR.  The work done in pursuing The Science of Speed has also emphasized the importance of the following to those of us not driving race cars:

Car Safety:  Michael McDowell walked away from a scary crash at Texas Motor Speedway in 2008. This Science of Speed video tells it all:

Grip: There’s one thing every driver always want more of: Grip. Grip is the frictional force that holds the tires on the road. Whether mechanical or aerodynamic, more is always better.

Turning: Anyone can go fast and straight: The challenge is turning. It takes more than ten thousand pounds of force to get a race car around Turn 3 at Texas Motor Speedway at 180 mph.

Momentum & Time: Increasing the time of a collision from a tenth of a second to two tenths of a second can make a huge difference in the number of G’s a driver experiences. The car, the track, seat belts, and seat construction spread out the force of impact and saves lives.

The staff at Davis Body Shop both in Atascadero (805.466.2446) and Paso Robles (805.239.8752) are interested in safe driving  and are always available to answer your questions. Stay in touch with us on Facebook or Twitter and stay connected!
 

August 22, 2017 0 Commentsin , by

Fixing a Chipped Windshield

Too often, fixing a small window chip is viewed as a job for the professionals. Watch this video to learn how you can a fix small window chip at home without the help of a auto professional.

How to Fix a Chipped Windshield — powered by ehow
At Davis Body Shop, we’re interested in seeing our customers get a great deal and get back on the road quickly and safely. Be sure to contact us when and if you need auto body repair in beautiful San Luis Obispo County!

August 15, 2017 in , , , , , , by

Fire Season and Your Car: Fire Prevention Tips

With an unusually long and dry summer, there have been countless fires across California – many of which are still burning today! It’s important to know how to keep your vehicle safe from catching on fire, and also how to prevent your car from being the cause of another wildfire.
Preventing your car from catching fire
The most common cause of a vehicle fire are mechanic and electrical issues. A car accident can also cause a car to catch fire. It is important to stay alert; if you ever smell burning rubber or plastic, or notice smoke or flames, take action immediately.
If your car catches fire, you should:

Pull over as quickly as it is safe to do so, be sure to use your signal as you make your way to a safe location off the road such as the breakdown lane or rest stop.
Once you have stopped, turn off the engine.
Get everyone out of the car. Never return to a burning car for anything.
Move everyone at least 100 feet from the burning car and well away from traffic.
Call 9-1-1.

A vehicle fire can be scary, however there are preventative measures you can take to help avoid this dangerous situation:

Have your car serviced regularly by a professionally trained mechanic. If you spot leaks, your car is not running properly, get it checked. A well-maintained car is less likely to have a fire.
If you must transport gasoline, transport only a small amount in a certified gas can that is sealed. Keep a window open for ventilation.
Gas cans and propane cylinders should never be transported in the passenger compartment.
Never park a car where flammables, such as grass, are touching the catalytic converter.
Drive safely to avoid an accident.

Most importantly, know your car and be able to recognize the following warning signs:

Cracked or loose wiring or electrical problems, including a fuse that blows more than once
Oil or fluid leaks
Oil cap not on securely
Rapid changes in fuel or fluid level, or engine temperature

Preventing you car from causing a forest fire
This helpful infographic, courtesy of Prevent Wildfires CA, explains proper vehicle safety to help prevent forest fires.

Information in this article courtesy of the National Fire Protection Association.

August 8, 2017 in , , , , , , , by

Back to School Safe Driving Tips – Share the Road

It’s that time of year again- students and teachers are heading back to school! Whether you’re a parent dropping your children off, driving to school yourself or simply sharing the road on your morning commute, here are some helpful reminders when you’re on the road during this busy time.
Sharing the Road with Pedestrians

Take extra caution in school zones, near playgrounds and parks, and in all residential areas
Don’t block the crosswalk when stopped at a red light or waiting to make a turn, forcing pedestrians to go around you; this could put them in the path of moving traffic
In a school zone when flashers are blinking, stop and yield to pedestrians crossing the crosswalk or intersection
Always stop for a school patrol officer or crossing guard holding up a stop sign
Don’t honk or rev your engine to scare a pedestrian, even if you have the right of way
Never pass a vehicle stopped for pedestrians
Always use extreme caution to avoid striking pedestrians wherever they may be, no matter who has the right of way

 
Sharing the Road with Bicyclists

When passing a bicyclist, proceed in the same direction slowly, and leave 3 feet between your car and the cyclist
When turning left and a bicyclist is approaching in the opposite direction, wait for the rider to pass
Watch for bike riders turning in front of you without looking or signaling; children especially have a tendency to do this
Be extra vigilant in school zones and residential neighborhoods
Check side mirrors before opening your door

Sharing the Road with Busses

Never pass a bus from behind – or from either direction if you’re on an undivided road – if it is stopped to load or unload children
If the yellow or red lights are flashing and the stop arm is extended, traffic must stop
The area 10 feet around a school bus is the most dangerous for children; stop far enough back to allow them space to safely enter and exit the bus
Be alert; children often are unpredictable, and they tend to ignore hazards and take risks

The most important thing to remember is to be patient when sharing the road during this busy time. Sacrificing safe driving to get to your destination faster is never worth it.
 Safe driving tips courtesy of the National Safety Council.

August 1, 2017 in , , , , , , , , by

High Tech Car Safety Features

According to Safercar.gov, “Auto safety has evolved from basic seatbelts and lighting to high-tech safety features that can help drivers avoid accidents altogether. Thanks to high tech car safety features and innovations, today’s vehicles are the safest in history and have contributed to year-over-year decreases in crash-related fatalities and injuries nationwide.”

Lane departure warning systems. These systems are designed to help prevent head-on collisions and other catastrophes. If you wander from your lane, a light flashes and a high-pitched beep sounds. Some cars have a vibrating steering wheel to alert you. 
Enhanced visibility. Some vehicles offer infrared night vision that can alert you to obstacles beyond the reach of your headlights. Others shift as you’re turning, helping  you see around curves. 
Rearview camera. A tiny camera mounted on the back of the vehicle transmits an image to your dashboard or rear-view mirror, making it easier to see people or objects behind you.  
Reverse backup sensors. This equipment helps alert you if you’re about to collide with something as you reverse. 
Automatic braking. This system brakes the car to prevent a collision or lessen the impact from whatever is in front of you. 
Pre-crash warning system.  It’s often combined with automatic braking. The system warns drivers, with visual or auditory clues, if they’re about to run into something and applies partial or full brakes. 
Side view assist. When a car is in your blind spot, sensors on the rear bumper can alert you with a light in your side mirror.
Parking assist. A feature that detects the size of the parking space, guides you into the starting position, and then allows you to completely take your hands off the wheel while the computer backs the vehicle into place. 
Electronic stability control. This technology helps correct a swerving vehicle by applying brakes on individual wheels, giving drivers a chance to regain control. 
Air bag systems. Since 2006, all passenger vehicles have been made with airbag systems, which automatically detect the size and position of the passenger, the severity of the crash and use that information to vary the force with which the air bags inflate. Some cars now come with side-impact air bags. 

The crew at Davis Body Shop both in Atascadero (805.466.2446) and Paso Robles (805.239.8752) are interested in your driving safety and always available to answer your questions. Stay in touch with us on Facebook or Twitter and stay connected!

July 25, 2017 0 Commentsin , , , , , , , , by

Crash Test Ratings

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) crash test ratings are designed to highlight the vehicle’s structural integrity, as well as restraint performance.
Frontal Impact 
One test simulates two cars of the same weight and type crashed head-on, partially overlapping  the portion straight ahead of the driver . The other test engages  like a head-on crash. Both the front-crash scenarios use an impact speed of 40 mph. One effect of the small-overlap test is that the vehicle tends to rotate around the point of impact as the crash proceeds. Occupants then move to the side as well as forwards, posing new challenges to some safety-belt and air-bag systems. Even though this is a frontal crash, the side-impact air bags may need to deploy as well.
Both the frontal tests are stringent because the speed is high and the crash energy is concentrated on a smaller area. In both, an instrument-equipped crash dummy in the driver’s seat records forces to the head and neck, chest, legs, and feet. Vehicles are rated as Good, Acceptable, Marginal, or Poor based on what happens to vehicle structure, as well as forces on the dummies.
Side Impact 
The side-impact test uses a heavy striking barrier at 3,300 pounds. The barrier strikes high up on the vehicle to simulate a car being hit on the side at 90 degrees by a typical-height SUV or truck. The test bases its scores on head, neck, chest, abdomen, pelvis, and leg injury.
The two dummies in the side-crash test represent a small adult female or a 12-year-old adolescent. One is the driver, the other a left-rear passenger. Other crash tests use a dummy that simulates an average-sized adult male.  See videos of how cars perform in front and side crash tests.
Rear Impact 
Not many rear-impact crashes are fatal. But they do cause many injuries, especially whiplash trauma to the neck. The IIHS evaluates rear impacts with physical inspections and crash testing. The crash test simulates a rear-end crash about equivalent to a stationary vehicle being struck at 20 mph by a vehicle of the same weight.
Rear-impact protection is head-restraint design. Restraints need to be high enough and positioned close enough to the back of the head to cradle an occupant’s head in a rear collision. Those restraints that are clearly too low or ill-designed automatically receive a Poor rating from IIHS, while those with a chance of providing decent protection are crash-tested.
To see how your car rates click here: Crash Test Ratings.
We hope that this information from Davis Body Shop assists you!!  Drop by or simply ring us…. our numbers are: Atascadero (805) 466-2446 or Paso Robles (805) 239-8752. Stay in touch with us on Facebook or Twitter and stay connected!

July 18, 2017 in , , , , , by

Automobile Theft ~ Facts & Tips to Prevent!

Did you know that a motor vehicle is stolen every 44 seconds in the U.S.?  Only about 50% of vehicles stolen are recovered. The two top months for vehicle thefts are July and August. It is not only high price vehicles being stolen, in fact Chevrolets, Dodges and Mitsubishis are some of the most common automobiles stolen.
If you do the following you can increase the possibility by 40 to 50% that your vehicle will NOT be stolen:

Never leave valuables in your vehicle, and especially in sight.
Use common sense when parking and exiting your vehicle.
Take your key; don’t leave it in or on your vehicle.
Close and lock all windows and doors when you park.
Park in well-lit areas – in a garage, if possible.

Radios and wheel covers aren’t the only popular stolen vehicle parts thieves take. They want whatever sells, from labeled parts to those that aren’t. Among some of the most popular parts or items are: engine, transmission, air bags, radios, GPS units, iPods, laptops, and purses.
Since the 1980’s vehicle theft has been reduced by 56%. Some of the things insurance companies have done to reduce the number of vehicles stolen.

Educating and rewarding owners for protecting their vehicles. Nearly 15 million vehicle owners received a discount for taking steps to prevent theft
Collecting and sharing data on stolen vehicles with law enforcement
Investigating suspicious claims
Providing free VIN etching on vehicle parts
Providing “bait” vehicles to local law enforcement

The automakers are adding many types of anti-theft devices such as:

Immobilizers (e.g. starter cut-off switch,
Fuel cut-off system)
Alarm
Steering column shield
Window ID system
Vehicle recovery system
Brake locks
Transmission lock
Anti-hot-wiring circuit

The partnership of vehicle owners, law enforcement, automakers and insurance companies is necessary to reduce the cost of vehicle theft to our economy.  Are you doing your part?
We hope that these tips from Davis Body Shop assist you!!  Drop by or simply ring us…. our numbers are: Atascadero (805) 466-2446 or Paso Robles (805) 239-8752.  Stay in touch with us on Facebook or Twitter and stay connected!

Atascadero
Paso Robles