A little extra caution can go a long way while driving at night.
Summer has ended, and while fall and winter have their own pleasures — including high school football games and evening hayrides — longer nights mean increased danger on the roads.
You might think you drive just as well at night, but consider this: Even though nighttime driving accounts for just 23% of vehicle miles traveled, more than 50% of fatalities for vehicle occupants 16 and older occur between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m., according to the National Safety Commission (NSC).
Because we’re big advocates for safety at Mars Insurance, we thought it would be helpful to take a look at why night driving is more dangerous, and what you can do to decrease that danger.
What’s dangerous about night driving?
1. Decreased vision. We won’t go into all the biological details, but different parts of the eye (such as iris, pupil and retina) work differently at night. Your peripheral vision is actually slightly improved, but it’s more difficult to focus on objects ahead of you. And traveling between well-lit areas and darker roads creates issues as well.
2. Driving too fast for your headlights. Depending on vehicle speed and headlight setting, many people “over-drive” their headlights. That means, by the time they see something on the road, it’s too late to stop in time to avoid it.
3. Impaired judgment. Whether due to drowsiness or the use of alcohol or drugs, it appears that drivers at night often don’t use good judgment. According to the NSC, 66% of fatalities at night involve vehicle occupants who weren’t wearing seat belts.
So what do you do?
Sometimes, there’s no way around driving at night. So here are some tips to help you make a safe trip — whether you’re just running to the store, or you’re headed all the way to and from a Bears game.
1. Make sure your vehicle’s lights are in good working condition. And not just headlights, but turn signals, taillights, etc.
2. Avoid speeding. Leave a bigger cushion between you and other cars than you would during daylight hours. Leave yourself more time for the trip.
3. Be more aware of your surroundings. You shouldn’t be using your phone, messing around with the radio or trying to find something on the floor while you’re on the road anyway — and distractions are even more deadly at night.
Of course, if you’re not comfortable driving at night, the best thing is to avoid it altogether if possible. There’s nothing wrong with asking for a ride from a trusted safe driver or waiting for the sun to come out!
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When you’re driving around during the day, stop in to Mars Insurance for a review of your coverage. We won’t keep you after dark, we promise. Just give us a call at 815-459-0711. We’re here to help!
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Content provided by Safeco Insurance
Showing posts with label Auto Insurance. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Auto Insurance. Show all posts
Tuesday, October 7, 2014
Wednesday, February 5, 2014
Travelers Survey: Parents' Good Driving Behavior Decreases Likelihood of Teen Accidents
Travelers recently released the results of its Parent/Teen Safe Driving Survey, which reveals that teens who feel their parents are good role models as drivers are half as likely to have been in an accident.
The survey also found that the vast majority of teens (96 percent) have had conversations with their parents about safe driving. Key findings from the survey are as follows:
PARENTS AS ROLE MODELS
Parents play a critical role in influencing teen driving behavior.
1. Accidents - 24% of teens who report their parents are not good driving role models have been in more than 1 accident as a driver, compared to 10% of teens who report their parents are good role models as drivers.
2. Tickets - 15% of teens who report their parents are not good driving role models as drivers have been issued more than 1 ticket (speeding or other moving violation), compared to 6% of teens who report their parents are good role models as drivers.
DISCONNECT OVER TOP DRIVING CONCERNS
The survey found that parents and teens do not always see eye-to-eye when it comes to certain driving-related risks. Among the largest disconnects are:
1. Driving under the influence - 66%of teens are concerned about driving under the influence of alcohol, compared to 14% of parents.
2. Distracted driving (mobile/smartphone) - 56% of teens are concerned about distracted driving as a result of mobile/smartphones, versus 35% of parents.
3. Staying aware of other drivers on the road - 52% of teens are concerned about staying aware of other drivers on the road, compared to 31% of parents.
Make sure you are promoting and demonstrating safe driving habits for your teen driver. Parents can visit Travelers.com for additional tips and resources to help their teens be safe on the road.
(Taken from Travelers Insights for January 2014)
The survey also found that the vast majority of teens (96 percent) have had conversations with their parents about safe driving. Key findings from the survey are as follows:
PARENTS AS ROLE MODELS
Parents play a critical role in influencing teen driving behavior.
1. Accidents - 24% of teens who report their parents are not good driving role models have been in more than 1 accident as a driver, compared to 10% of teens who report their parents are good role models as drivers.
2. Tickets - 15% of teens who report their parents are not good driving role models as drivers have been issued more than 1 ticket (speeding or other moving violation), compared to 6% of teens who report their parents are good role models as drivers.
DISCONNECT OVER TOP DRIVING CONCERNS
The survey found that parents and teens do not always see eye-to-eye when it comes to certain driving-related risks. Among the largest disconnects are:
1. Driving under the influence - 66%of teens are concerned about driving under the influence of alcohol, compared to 14% of parents.
2. Distracted driving (mobile/smartphone) - 56% of teens are concerned about distracted driving as a result of mobile/smartphones, versus 35% of parents.
3. Staying aware of other drivers on the road - 52% of teens are concerned about staying aware of other drivers on the road, compared to 31% of parents.
Make sure you are promoting and demonstrating safe driving habits for your teen driver. Parents can visit Travelers.com for additional tips and resources to help their teens be safe on the road.
(Taken from Travelers Insights for January 2014)
Wednesday, January 8, 2014
Targeting Distracted Driving: Cell Phone Ban While Driving
On January 1, Illinois joined roughly a dozen other states with laws banning the use of cell phones while driving. Though the state already has a prohibition in place for texting and driving, once House Bill 1247 takes effect Illinois residents will no longer be allowed to talk on cell phones when driving, unless using hands-free technology.
A survey conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that at any given daylight moment across America, approximately 660,000 drivers are using cell phones or manipulating electronic devices while driving, a number that has held steady since 2010. Proponents say the new law will cut down on distracted driving, making Illinois’ roads safer.
Violators of the law will be fined $75 for a first offense. Fines of as much as $150 could be issued for repeat offenses as well as facing a moving violation on their driving record, though drivers are still legally allowed to make calls on hand-held phones in emergency situations.
Another law will increase penalties for motor vehicle accidents involving someone who was using a cell phone or other communication device while behind the wheel. House Bill 2585 increases penalties for drivers who were distracted by these types of devices, which led to a motor vehicle accident resulting in serious injury or permanent disability. These types of offenses were previously considered a petty offense; however, as of January 1, those convicted could be charged with a felony, carrying penalties of up to 3 years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000.
Information provided by Senator Pam Althoff’s office
A survey conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that at any given daylight moment across America, approximately 660,000 drivers are using cell phones or manipulating electronic devices while driving, a number that has held steady since 2010. Proponents say the new law will cut down on distracted driving, making Illinois’ roads safer.
Violators of the law will be fined $75 for a first offense. Fines of as much as $150 could be issued for repeat offenses as well as facing a moving violation on their driving record, though drivers are still legally allowed to make calls on hand-held phones in emergency situations.
Another law will increase penalties for motor vehicle accidents involving someone who was using a cell phone or other communication device while behind the wheel. House Bill 2585 increases penalties for drivers who were distracted by these types of devices, which led to a motor vehicle accident resulting in serious injury or permanent disability. These types of offenses were previously considered a petty offense; however, as of January 1, those convicted could be charged with a felony, carrying penalties of up to 3 years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000.
Information provided by Senator Pam Althoff’s office
Friday, May 10, 2013
Never Use Cruise Control on a Rainy Day
Cruise control is designed for normal road conditions. It doesn't know when the pavement is slippery. Under slick conditions, you need to be in complete control and monitoring road conditions. You’re more likely to notice hydroplaning if you are not relying on the cruise control. With some cars, it is possible that the wheels will actually spin faster when the cruise control is on/engaged and the care hits a slippery spot. When the tires make contact with firm road again, the car can skid or lose control.
On most cars, the cruise control is disengaged by tapping on the brake. In an emergency situation, this adds a fraction of a second to your response time as well as the risk of the braking action itself causing a loss of control on a slippery road.
Allow plenty of distance between vehicles, avoid cruise control and reduce your speed to allow for slippery roads, especially during the spring and fall when there is debris from the trees also on the roadway making for more slippery pavement.
Check back for more safety information. We’ll keep you up to date on Illinois Auto Insurance, home insurance in Illinois and all your other coverage too.
Tuesday, March 5, 2013
Safe Driving on Ice and Snow
Driving safely on icy roads
Decrease your speed and leave yourself plenty of room to stop. You should allow at least three times more space than usual between you and the car in front of you.
Brake gently to avoid skidding. If your wheels start to lock up, ease off the brake.
Turn on your lights to increase your visibility to other motorists.
Keep your lights and windshield clean.
Use low gears to keep traction, especially on hills.
Don't use cruise control or overdrive on icy roads.
Be especially careful on bridges, overpasses and infrequently traveled roads, which will freeze first. Even at temperatures above freezing, if the conditions are wet, you might encounter ice in shady areas or on exposed roadways like bridges.
Don't pass snow plows and sanding trucks. The drivers have limited visibility, and you're likely to find the road in front of them worse than the road behind.
Don't assume your vehicle can handle all conditions. Even four-wheel and front-wheel drive vehicles can encounter trouble on winter roads.
If your rear wheels skid:
Take your foot off the accelerator.
Steer in the direction you want the front wheels to go. If your rear wheels are sliding left, steer left. If they're sliding right, steer right.
If your rear wheels start sliding the other way as you recover, ease the steering wheel toward that side. You might have to steer left and right a few times to get your vehicle completely under control.
If you have standard brakes, pump them gently.
If you have anti-lock brakes (ABS), do not pump the brakes. Apply steady pressure to the brakes. You will feel the brakes pulse — this is normal.
If your front wheels skid:
Take your foot off the gas and shift to neutral, but don't try to steer immediately.
As the wheels skid sideways, they will slow the vehicle and traction will return. As it does, steer in the direction you want to go. Then put the transmission in "drive" or release the clutch, and accelerate gently.
If you get stuck:
Do not spin your wheels. This will only dig you in deeper.
Turn your wheels from side to side a few times to push snow out of the way.
Use a light touch on the gas, to ease your car out.
Use a shovel to clear snow away from the wheels and the underside of the car.
Pour sand, kitty litter, gravel or salt in the path of the wheels, to help get traction.
Try rocking your vehicle. (Check your owner's manual first — it can damage the transmission on some vehicles.) Shift from forward to reverse, and back again. Each time you're in gear, give a light touch on the gas until the vehicle gets going.
Most importantly, if you don't have to drive, stay off the road and stay safe.
Information provided by the Weather Channel.
Tuesday, January 15, 2013
Why Do You Need an Umbrella Policy?
Parents of youthful or inexperienced operators may want to consider purchasing an Umbrella policy. Have an inexperienced driver in your household can substantially increase your liability exposure. As a parent and policyholder you can be held liable for injuries or property damages caused by your teenage driver. It's important to have adequate coverage for a serious accident.
An Umbrella policy can be an inexpensive way to cover your assets. The cost of an Umbrella policy can vary per risk, however someone who owns one home and two cars might pay an average of $150 for a $1,000,000 Umbrella policy. Additional limits of $2,000,000 and up are available with most carriers for an additional premium of approximately another $100 per million. If you break the annual premium down $12.50 per month seems like a small price to pay for an additional $1,000,000 worth of liability coverage.
Thursday, January 3, 2013
How Are Your Winter Driving Skills????
Driving during the winter takes specialized skills in order to stay safe. While the seasoned driver may feel as if driving in the winter months is common sense and second nature, a newer driver may not be aware of what to do to avoid an accident.
Test your knowledge for winter safety........................
WINTER DRIVING SAFETY QUIZ (answers at end)
1. Hydro-planing is caused by:
A. Water spray from other vehicles
B. Lack of windshield wiper fluid
C. Driving too fast on wet roads
D. Icy roads
2. While water turns to ice at 32 degrees Fahrenheit, ice can form on roadways when the air temperature is above 32 degrees.
True
False
3. The first winter storm of the season is considered by many to be the most dangerous because:
A. Many motorists are not prepared for winter weather.
B. Emergency crews may not be prepared.
C. You may not be accustomed to driving during winter weather conditions yet.
D. All of the above.
4. It is beginning to snow and the roadway is almost snow covered. Any delay could cause you to miss your appointment. What should you do?
A. Move to the left lane to pass slower traffic.
B. Find somewhere safe to park and call ahead to let others know you will be late. Continue driving
cautiously if it is safe to do so, or stay put until conditions improve.
C. Convoy with four-wheel drive trucks that drive fast.
D. Take an alternate rout with less traffic to slow you down.
6. You are at a four-way stop. The roadway is snow covered and icy. You have the right of way and proceed into the intersection as a vehicle approaches from the right. The other driver is unable to stop and hits your vehicle in the intersection. This accident is:
A. Preventable because you failed to anticipate that the other driver may have difficulty stopping.
B. Non-preventable because the other driver failed to stop.
C. Non-preventable because the other driver did not anticipate ice at the intersection.
7. Steps to reducing weather-related accidents include:
A. Reducing speed
B. Increasing following distance
C. Turning and braking carefully on slippery roads
D. All of the above
8. Ice forms more readily in the following areas:
A. On bridges and overpasses
B. Shaded areas
C. At intersections
D. All of the above
9. During severe, adverse weather, such as heavy snow, glaring ice, torrential rain. or very strong winds, you should:
A. Follow the vehicle in front of you.
B. Find a safe place to park and wait for conditions to improve.
C. Wait for a police escort.
D. Block the roadway to stop traffic.
10. To increase visibility during adverse weather conditions, you should:
A. Flash your headlights.
B. Turn your four-way flashers on.
C. Turn your headlights on.
D. All of the above.
Answers: 1 = C, 2 = B, 3 = T, 4 = D, 5 = B, 6 = A, 7 = D, 8 = D, 9 = B, 10 = C.
Drive cautiously and defensively!!!
Let us know you you did at https://www.facebook.com/MarsInsurance
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
The Little Christmas Cabin - Julie Shoffner
The Little Christmas Cabin
I have always considered myself a creative soul so it’s not surprising that most of my favorite holiday memories revolve around the act of making something either with someone or for someone. Whether I’m preparing a meal, baking cookies or making ornaments I have always enjoyed creating something unique and special for the people I love. Now that I am a parent I especially enjoy making things with my seven year old son. Aside from the usual cookies and candies we make, we have a special project that we work on every year for my husband. Many years ago my husband’s grandfather crafted a small log cabin that he placed under the family Christmas tree. When my husband was a little boy his mother started adding some additional details to the little Christmas cabin. A light was added on the inside as well as some little chairs and a tiny table. She even added a tiny flower painting on the wall. My mother-in-law has since passed on and my husband has inherited the little Christmas cabin. Now every year my son and I add a little something to it to make it more like a cozy little home. One year we added a Christmas tree inside. Last year we added a reindeer and some bears outside. This year my son added six little Christmas carolers. If you look close enough at the photo below you can see two tiny carolers singing by the tree. Maybe next year there will be a turkey dinner on the table too.
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Another project my son and I do each year once the weather is below freezing is to make Ice Lanterns. A easy way to make your home look warm and cozy on a cold winter night. This is espcially pretty when there is snow on the ground or when you are hosting a holiday party.
How to Make An Ice Lantern:
You will need a large bucket, a plastic container smaller than the bucket (a coffee can works well), duct tape and a tea light or flamless candle.
1-fill the bucket 3/4 full of water. (if you want to get fancy you can add a bit of food coloring to the water)
2-place the smaller container inside the bucker of water but don't let it fill up with water.
3-place some rocks inside the smaller container to weigh it down so it sits about half way down into the water in the bucket but not all the way to the bottom.
4-place a strip of duct tape across the top of the large bucket so it holds down the smaller container in the water. Set aside until frozen solid.
5-run warm water over the outside of the large bucket to remove the ice from the bucket. Run some warm water inside the small container to loosen and remove it. This leaves an indentation in the lantern into which you can place the candle.
You can make several of these to line your front stairs, sidewalk or driveway!
Have a wonderful Holiday.
Julie Shoffner
I have always considered myself a creative soul so it’s not surprising that most of my favorite holiday memories revolve around the act of making something either with someone or for someone. Whether I’m preparing a meal, baking cookies or making ornaments I have always enjoyed creating something unique and special for the people I love. Now that I am a parent I especially enjoy making things with my seven year old son. Aside from the usual cookies and candies we make, we have a special project that we work on every year for my husband. Many years ago my husband’s grandfather crafted a small log cabin that he placed under the family Christmas tree. When my husband was a little boy his mother started adding some additional details to the little Christmas cabin. A light was added on the inside as well as some little chairs and a tiny table. She even added a tiny flower painting on the wall. My mother-in-law has since passed on and my husband has inherited the little Christmas cabin. Now every year my son and I add a little something to it to make it more like a cozy little home. One year we added a Christmas tree inside. Last year we added a reindeer and some bears outside. This year my son added six little Christmas carolers. If you look close enough at the photo below you can see two tiny carolers singing by the tree. Maybe next year there will be a turkey dinner on the table too.
.JPG)
Another project my son and I do each year once the weather is below freezing is to make Ice Lanterns. A easy way to make your home look warm and cozy on a cold winter night. This is espcially pretty when there is snow on the ground or when you are hosting a holiday party.
How to Make An Ice Lantern:
You will need a large bucket, a plastic container smaller than the bucket (a coffee can works well), duct tape and a tea light or flamless candle.
1-fill the bucket 3/4 full of water. (if you want to get fancy you can add a bit of food coloring to the water)
2-place the smaller container inside the bucker of water but don't let it fill up with water.
3-place some rocks inside the smaller container to weigh it down so it sits about half way down into the water in the bucket but not all the way to the bottom.
4-place a strip of duct tape across the top of the large bucket so it holds down the smaller container in the water. Set aside until frozen solid.
5-run warm water over the outside of the large bucket to remove the ice from the bucket. Run some warm water inside the small container to loosen and remove it. This leaves an indentation in the lantern into which you can place the candle.
You can make several of these to line your front stairs, sidewalk or driveway!
Have a wonderful Holiday.
Julie Shoffner
Friday, December 7, 2012
A Mary Marsh Christmas
Every Christmas Eve my extended family gets together and celebrates. There is close to 100 of us now and it is growing every year. That being said it is very hard to see everyone who is there. My favorite Christmas tradition is a Polish tradition, sharing of Oplatek.
Every family member gets a piece of this flat bread and we go around breaking it and sharing it with every family member.
We have family that comes from all over the country and I love it because even though we may not get to sit and talk with everyone we do at least get to say hello. The other fun tradition is that we have Santa come visit every year for the little ones….and some of the adults too! We have been doing this tradition for a long time. Here is a picture from 1986. It has now grown to many times the size of this.
The next generation is still enjoying Santa.
My favorite holiday recipe for fast and easy cookies is 1 cup peanut butter, 1 cup sugar, 1 egg and 1 teaspoon baking soda. Roll the dough into 1 inch balls and press a fork down on it and then press the fork on it going the opposite way. Bake at 325 degrees for 6-8 minutes!
Mary K. Marsh
Every family member gets a piece of this flat bread and we go around breaking it and sharing it with every family member.
We have family that comes from all over the country and I love it because even though we may not get to sit and talk with everyone we do at least get to say hello. The other fun tradition is that we have Santa come visit every year for the little ones….and some of the adults too! We have been doing this tradition for a long time. Here is a picture from 1986. It has now grown to many times the size of this.
My favorite holiday recipe for fast and easy cookies is 1 cup peanut butter, 1 cup sugar, 1 egg and 1 teaspoon baking soda. Roll the dough into 1 inch balls and press a fork down on it and then press the fork on it going the opposite way. Bake at 325 degrees for 6-8 minutes!
Mary K. Marsh
Tuesday, December 4, 2012
A Frank Zimmerman Christmas
This year will be bittersweet as grandpa passed away this past September. Both girls will be home for Christmas eve and Christmas day, so we will continue the tradition with Grandma Love - but it will not be quite the same without Grandpa. Maybe we will break out one of the videos or listen to a lasting treasure we have - a CD that our daughter recorded a few years ago of Grandpa singing many of his favorite songs, including "Silent Night." But life goes on, and we will start new traditions as we anxiously await the birth of our first grandchild - a baby girl due in late April!
In closing, below is our favorite holiday recipe from my mother (deceased 10 yrs ago) for a Scotch Short Bread (recipe handed down through her descendants from Scotland.)
1 1/4 lb flour (4 cups)
1 lb butter
8 oz sugar (1 cup)
Cream the sugar & butter together. Gradually add the flour. Press lightly into pan. Prick with fork as for pie crust. Bake in low oven = 300 for about 1 1/2 hours. Cut into pieces while hot. Cool and remove from pan.
Happy Holidays!
Frank Zimmerman, Agent
Friday, February 3, 2012
OH DEER! BEWARE!!!
The annual cost of deer-vehicle collisions in the United States is almost $4 billion. A 2010 study by State Farm Insurance and Fortune magazine predicted there would be 1.1 million such crashes before 2010 ended.
Though the mating season from October to December brings the most crashed, Bambi and his pals are crossing the roads throughout the year.
Pennsylvania had the highest number of crashes last year at 102,165, followed by Michigan with 101,174. Among the 35 states where at least 7,000 deer-vehicle collisions occur per year, New Jersey and Nebraska posted the largest increase, 54 percent. In all the states, crashes increased by more than a third from the previous year.Some drivers avoid roads through forests and areas of heavy brush where deer can appear suddenly. Others drive at a reduced speed to give them more time to stop and the deer more time to cross.
At night, using high-beam headlights allows the driver more time to spot a deer.
Be aware of deer crossing signs and believe them. Deer generally use the same routes each day to find water, food and their resting places. They are most active from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Deer travel in groups so when you see one deer, there could be several others coming behind it.
Brake, don’t swerve. Swerving to avoid a deer can cause a more serious crash, such as into an oncoming car in another lane, or swerving off the roadway and into a tree or a utility pole. The goal is to maintain control of the vehicle
Information provided by our friends at Standard Mutual
For more information visit http://www.marsinsurance.com/
Friday, December 23, 2011
Go Slow While Shoveling Snow
Our friends at Standard Mutual Insurance have given us some good information on snow shoveling that we thought would be beneficial to share with all of you.
Snowstorms can be deadly in many ways, shoveling the white stuff is one of them. Hundreds of people die each year from heart attacks suffered while shoveling snow.
The American Heart Association says those most at risk are middle-aged or older and sedentary. Cold requires the body to work harder to keep warm. Combine that with the exertion of shoveling and it strains the heart. Wet, heavy snow is the most dangerous.
The association gives this advice:
The American Heart Association says those most at risk are middle-aged or older and sedentary. Cold requires the body to work harder to keep warm. Combine that with the exertion of shoveling and it strains the heart. Wet, heavy snow is the most dangerous.
The association gives this advice:
- Wear layered clothing. Take the outer layer off if you get hot. Less clothing will also help you move better.
- Push it, don’t lift it. Use a shovel with a curved plade. Push snow to the side of a walkway, even if it leaves a narrower path to walk on. For a driveway, push only enough snow to the side for one car to get out. If you must lift, use a smaller shovel on walkways that doesn’t allow you to pick up as much snow. It may take a little longer to clear a path but it will be easier on you in the long run.
- Use a leaf blower instead. When several inches of snow are predicted, power up your leaf blower and blow off the walkway and drive way two or three times before the snow gets deep.
- Take breaks. Don’t feel that you have to do the whole shoveling job at once. If you feel tired, stop and rest or go inside for a time to recover. Don’t push yourself.
- Shovel before dinner. Eating a heavy meal before you shovel your driveway puts additional strain on the heart.
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Dealing With Snow Plows
- Washington State DOT cautions you never to crowd a snowplow. The front of the plow extends several feet and may cross the center line or shoulder.
- Give plows plenty of room. They turn and exit frequently. Stay back about 15 car lengths.
- Snowplows throw up a cloud of snow. Never drive into a snow cloud. There could be a plow inside.
- If you are behind a plow, stay there or use extreme caution when passing.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Never Use Cruise Control on a Rainy Day
Cruise control is designed for normal road conditions. It doesn't know when the pavement is slippery. Under slick conditions, you need to be in complete control and monitoring the road conditions. You're more likely to notice hydroplaning if you're not relying on the cruise control. In some cars, it is possible that the wheels may actually spin faster when in or engaged in cruise control and the car hits a slippery spot. When the tires make contact with the firm road again, the car can skid or lose control.
On most cars, the cruise control is disengaged by tapping the brake. In an emergency situation, this adds a fraction of a second to your response time as well as the risk of the braking action itself causing a loss of control on a slippery road.
For all your insurance needs contact Mars Insurance Agency or visit our website at www.marsinsurance.com
On most cars, the cruise control is disengaged by tapping the brake. In an emergency situation, this adds a fraction of a second to your response time as well as the risk of the braking action itself causing a loss of control on a slippery road.
For all your insurance needs contact Mars Insurance Agency or visit our website at www.marsinsurance.com
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Beat the Heat!!
As the hazy, lazy days of summer approach, we all do what we can to stay cool. To help your house conserve energy and stay cooler, consider the following:
•Make certain airflow to your outdoor air conditioning unit is not blocked by shrubbery or other obstructions.
•Keep draperies, blinds and shades closed during the hottest part of the day.
•Keep windows and doors tightly closed when operating air conditioning equipment.
•Close closet doors in air-conditioned rooms.
•Close all openings into the attic from air-conditioned areas.
•Turn off unnecessary lights.
•Check your air conditioning or furnace filter regularly and clean or replace it as needed.
•Plan cook-free meals of cold cuts, fresh vegetables, fruits and salads.
•Do your cooking, showering, washing clothes, drying and ironing in the morning or evening when temperatures are cooler.
For all your insurance needs contact Mars Insurance Agency or visit our website at http://www.marsinsurance.com/.
Source: American Electric Power Co.
•Make certain airflow to your outdoor air conditioning unit is not blocked by shrubbery or other obstructions.
•Keep draperies, blinds and shades closed during the hottest part of the day.
•Keep windows and doors tightly closed when operating air conditioning equipment.
•Close closet doors in air-conditioned rooms.
•Close all openings into the attic from air-conditioned areas.
•Turn off unnecessary lights.
•Check your air conditioning or furnace filter regularly and clean or replace it as needed.
•Plan cook-free meals of cold cuts, fresh vegetables, fruits and salads.
•Do your cooking, showering, washing clothes, drying and ironing in the morning or evening when temperatures are cooler.
For all your insurance needs contact Mars Insurance Agency or visit our website at http://www.marsinsurance.com/.
Source: American Electric Power Co.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Dealing With Ice Dams
Ice dams occur when ice builds up along the eaves of your roof. Ice dams form when snow and ice melt off the main part of your roof and re-freeze when they reach the eaves. This happens because the eaves (the overhangs at the edge of your roof) tend to be colder than the rest of the roof. If the ice dam grows large enough, it may prevent water from draining off the roof. The water can then back up underneath the roof shingles and make its way inside your home.
You can take immediate steps to help prevent damage from ice dams:
Clearing snow and ice off the roof before it melts is the best way to keep ice dams from forming. If your roof is accessible from the ground, a roof rake can be a safe and effective way to remove snow from the edges of the roof where ice dams occur.
If your roof is not accessible from the ground, a contractor may be able to help.
If you cannot safely access your roof from the ground, it is best not to try. Never attempt to climb on a snowy or icy roof, and never place a ladder on snowy or icy ground. Also, keep in mind that chipping the ice with a mechanical device can be dangerous and may result in damage to the roof.
Make sure to shovel around downspouts so that your gutters can drain freely. This will help prevent ice buildups in gutters.
Properly insulating and ventilating your attic will help reduce the chances of snow melting on the roof and refreezing at the eaves.
If you have already contacted a licensed and insured contractor to help with emergency repairs, be sure to document any expenses so they can be considered for reimbursement.
© 2011 The Travelers Indemnity Company. All rights reserved. CE-10223 New 1-11
For all your insurance needs contact Mars Insurance or visit our website at www.marsinsurance.com
You can take immediate steps to help prevent damage from ice dams:
Clearing snow and ice off the roof before it melts is the best way to keep ice dams from forming. If your roof is accessible from the ground, a roof rake can be a safe and effective way to remove snow from the edges of the roof where ice dams occur.
If your roof is not accessible from the ground, a contractor may be able to help.
If you cannot safely access your roof from the ground, it is best not to try. Never attempt to climb on a snowy or icy roof, and never place a ladder on snowy or icy ground. Also, keep in mind that chipping the ice with a mechanical device can be dangerous and may result in damage to the roof.
Make sure to shovel around downspouts so that your gutters can drain freely. This will help prevent ice buildups in gutters.
Properly insulating and ventilating your attic will help reduce the chances of snow melting on the roof and refreezing at the eaves.
If you have already contacted a licensed and insured contractor to help with emergency repairs, be sure to document any expenses so they can be considered for reimbursement.
© 2011 The Travelers Indemnity Company. All rights reserved. CE-10223 New 1-11
For all your insurance needs contact Mars Insurance or visit our website at www.marsinsurance.com
Monday, January 24, 2011
Winter Driving Tips
Preparing your vehicle for the winter season now will help ensure your vehicle is in good working order when you need it most.
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Have a mechanic check the following items on your vehicle: battery; wipers and windshield washer fluid; antifreeze; ignition system; thermostat; lights; exhaust system; flashing hazard lights; heater; brakes; defroster; oil level.
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Install good winter tires. Make sure the tires have adequate tread. All-weather radials are usually adequate for most winter conditions. You may also want to carry a set of tire chains in your vehicle for heavy snow conditions. This depends on the laws of your state. Check your state and county laws to see what is allowed on the roadway.
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Keep a windshield scraper and small broom for ice and snow removal and maintain at least a half tank of gas throughout the winter season. It may also be beneficial to carry a bag of salt or sand in your vehicle. Not only does this give a little extra weight in the vehicle but can be used to give extra traction if the vehicle gets stuck in the snow or on ice.
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Finally, plan long trips carefully. Listen to the local media report or call law enforcement agencies for the latest road conditions.
Source: New York State Emergency Management Office website
For more information contact Mars Insurance or visit our website at http://www.marsinsurance.com/
Thursday, January 20, 2011
The difference between Comp and Collision
Do you know the difference between Collision coverage and Comprehensive coverage for your vehicle? First up -- these are the two main coverages that protect your car:
Collision: With Collision coverage, the insurer will pay to repair damage to your car when you hit, or are hit by, another vehicle or object, regardless of who is at fault. When you buy Collision, you choose a deductible, typically $250 or $500 but can go higher. This is the portion you pay if you have an accident. Remember, the higher the deductible, the lower the premium. The insurance company then pays for the remaining costs to bring your vehicle back to pre-accident condition.
Comprehensive: With Comprehensive coverage, the insurer will pay to repair damage to your car that's caused by something other than a collision, such as fire, theft, vandalism, hail, or flood. They also pay for damage caused by hitting an animal, and they pay for a rental vehicle if your car is stolen when you have rental coverage listed on your policy as an additional coverage. Like Collision, when you buy Comprehensive, you choose a deductible.
For more information contact Mars Insurance or visit our website at http://www.marsinsurance.com/
Learn how we can cover your car, your house, your pet, your health, your valuables and anything that is important in your life. Do you have a wedding in your future? Learn about wedding insurance at http://www.marsinsurance.com/personal-insurance/wedding/ .
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