February 29th, 2012
As we have been discussing the top 6 vehicle hazards for children, it was quite a coincidence when I came across a story pertaining to this topic in the news today. The news story indicated that Federal regulators will pass a ruling that all automakers will be required to install rear view cameras in their manufactured vehicles by the year 2014. The rule, which was first submitted in 2010 by the National Highway Traffic And Safety Administration, is expected to pass on Wednesday, February 28, 2012 in its final form.
Back over accidents, which is included in the top 6 vehicle hazards for children, is one of the vehicle incidents that back-up cameras can prevent. According to USA Today, The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration presented the following statistics when the initial proposal for the rule was made:
…annually some 292 fatalities and 18,000 injuries resulted from back-over incidents. It said 228 of the fatalities involve cars and lights trucks. And it said the most likely to be victims are kids and older folks, with 44% of the light-vehicle fatalities involving children under age 5 and 33% involve people age 70 or older.
With the addition of mandatory back-up cameras in vehicles, hopefully, these statistics will change. Some current vehicles on the market come with back-up cameras, or offer them as an option. If yours does not, there is always the option of an after market back up camera or back up sensor you can have installed until the back up camera is a standard feature in all vehicles. Either the back up camera or the back up sensor can help prevent back over accidents from happening.
For more information on this new ruling, visit USA Today to read the full article. And if you are in the market for a new vehicle New Jersey, stop by Sansone Jr’s 66 Automall, and we can help you find a Nissan, Suzuki or Kia model today; some of which have the back up camera option!
February 27th, 2012
A story I heard the other day reminded me of our third vehicle hazard for children New Jersey. Someone was telling me a story of his child who had a friend over to play. After a little while, their mothers went to check on them, but the children were not responding. They ended up finding them playing in one of the cars parked in the garage. Vehicle rollaway is our third vehicle hazard and playing in cars is one of the best ways to prevent this.
When keys are left in the ignition of a vehicle with an automatic transmission, the vehicle may become engaged even if the driver’s foot is on the brake and the engine is off. This can also happen if your vehicle is left in accessory mode. For this reason, a child should never be left alone inside a vehicle. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, all vehicles manufactured for sale after September 1, 2010, that have an automatic transmission, must be equipped with BTSI (Brake Transmission Shift Interlock). This is technology that requires the brake to be pressed in order to shift gears. Although your vehicle may be equipped with this, to prevent vehicle rollaway from happening, keep the following in mind the next time your child is in or near your vehicle.
1. Explain to your children that they should never play inside or around vehicles.
2. Keep a careful eye on your children when they are inside or around your vehicle.
3. Vehicles should always be locked when not in use even in the garage.
4. Keys should never be left in or around unengaged vehicles.
5. Set your emergency break whenever you park your vehicle.
6. Determine whether or not your vehicle is equipped with BTSI and refer to your owner’s manual.
The next time your child is in or around your vehicle, be sure to properly park and store your keys to prevent a vehicle rollaway. And if you need to find a vehicle that is BTSI equipped New Jersey, come see us at Sansone Jr’s 66 Automall and we can help find the right vehicle for you today!
February 23rd, 2012
The second item on our list of vehicle hazards for children in New Jersey is power windows. I’m sure we have all heard a story or known a child who has somehow gotten a finger or worse, caught in a vehicle door window. This is not so true for newer model vehicles, but the older the vehicle the more hazardous windows are.
The reason older vehicle windows pose a hazard to children is due to the manner in which they function. Older vehicle windows require you to push down on the window switch. If a child accidentally steps on the door handle where the window switch is located or bears weight on the switch, the window will close, regardless of whether anything or anyone is in the way. Due to accidents happening in this way, today’s vehicles have “pull to close” window switches. These types of switches require you to pull up on the switch in order to close the window. Some newer vehicle windows also have an automatic reverse function similar to that of your garage. If there is something in the way, say your child’s fingers, the window will automatically reverse.
There are some things you can do to prevent any accidents with your children and power windows.
1. Never leave your child unattended while in or around a vehicle.
2. Explain to your children that vehicle windows are not to be played with.
3. Explain to your children not to lean on the door handle where the window switch is generally located.
4. Make sure that your children are buckled and seated properly so they do not accidentally move the window up or down.
5. Check that the window is free of any obstructions before you proceed to close it.
6. Never leave your keys in the ignition or in your car and be sure to lock your vehicle when it is not in use.
7. Using your power window lock can also keep your children from playing with the windows.
Avoid vehicle window accidents New Jersey by remembering these pointers. If you have any questions regarding your vehicle’s windows, come see us at Sansone Jr’s 66 Automall. And while you are visiting us don’t forget to check out our selection of Nissan, Kia and Suzuki automobiles.
February 20th, 2012
There are several dangerous situations that can occur when it comes to children and vehicles New Jersey. We are going to discuss a few of the more common hazards in a 6 part series. Even if you are aware of them, I hope that when we are through you will have been reminded of some preventative measures or perhaps, even learned something new.
The first hazard we are going to discuss is that of children becoming trapped in a vehicle’s trunk. Hide and Seek is a popular game among children and wouldn’t a trunk be the perfect hiding spot? Yes, a trunk would be a good hiding spot, but a very dangerous one that can lead to heatstroke, asphyxiation and even death.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the inside temperature of a vehicle can rise almost 20 degrees Fahrenheit within the first ten minutes. Even if the temperature outside is low, your vehicle can heat up very quickly. Younger children are also more heat sensitive and at a greater risk for heatstroke.
Due to children getting trapped in trunks, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration as of September 1, 2001, all vehicle manufacturers were required to install a glow in the dark trunk release inside the vehicles trunk compartment. If your vehicle is older than 2001 stop by Sansone Jr’s 66 Automall and we can help get a trunk release installed.
To prevent a child from ever becoming locked in your trunk, remember the following advice.
• Teach your child that the trunk is not something to play in and is only for storage.
• Keep an eye on your child any time they are in or around a vehicle.
• If you cannot find your child check your trunk immediately.
• When not in use, your vehicle should be locked even if stored in the garage. Any keys or remotes should be kept out of the reach of children.
• If you have rear-folding seats that lead to the trunk, be sure that they are closed and locked.
Protect your children New Jersey and be sure to keep them away from your vehicle’s trunk. Keep in mind the above information and keep your children safe. And don’t forget to stop by Sansone Jr’s 66 Automall for all your Nissan, Kia and Suzuki needs.
February 17th, 2012
Every time I get in my vehicle and get behind the wheel, my first motion is to put on my seat belt. Although many drivers and passengers wear seat belts when out on the roads of New Jersey, there are still many that do not.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the use of seat belts saves over 13,000 lives every year. The best way to protect yourself in a crash is to wear your seat belt. A seat belt serves the purpose of keeping you safe and secure while inside your vehicle, in the unfortunate event that you are involved in an accident. Do you know if you are buckling up correctly New Jersey?
When placing your seat belt on, the lap belt and shoulder belt should secure your pelvis and rib cage accordingly. These parts of your body are able to withstand forces from a crash better than other parts. The shoulder belt should lie across the middle of your chest and away from your neck. Your lap belt should lie across your hips and below your stomach. Your shoulder belt should always lie across your chest and never be placed behind your back or under your arm.
The way that your seat belt fits you is also important. When you are buying a car at Sansone Jr’s 66 Automall, make sure that the seat belts fit you well. If the seat belt needs some adjusting, ask us about seat belt adjusters. These can improve the fit of your seat belt. If you need more room, we can contact our Nissan, Kia or Suzuki manufacturers and provide you with seat belt extenders. If your current car is a classic or older model, you can also contact the manufacturer about re-fitting the old seat belt with something that meets the current safety guidelines.
For more information on seat belt safety, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration at www.nhtsa.gov or visit us at Sansone Jr’s 66 Automall. And the next time you get behind the wheel, don’t forget to buckle up New Jersey!
February 13th, 2012
Tire Tread
The tread of your cars tires is important to check and keep at an appropriate level New Jersey. When the tread of your tires gets too low, driving on those worn tires can become very dangerous, especially in rain and snow.
Tire tread is measured in 1/32-inch increments. A brand new tire will have a tire tread measuring at 10/32 of an inch. When one or more of the tires treads measures at 2/32 of an inch, your tire is considered bald and should be replaced. According to Goodyear Tires, you should inspect and check your tire tread every 3,000 miles. There are two tests you can perform to check the tread of your cars tires.
The Penny Test
Place a penny in between a groove on your tire. If all of Abraham Lincoln’s head is showing, then it is time to replace your tires. As long as the grooves cover part or all of his head, your tire tread is still good.
Tire Indicator Bar
Tires are now made with built in indicator bars at the base of the tread. When these bars are visible you know your tire tread has reached its 2/32-inch mark, and is considered bald.
If you live in an area with rain and snow as we do New Jersey, both Consumer Reports and Tirerack.com recommend replacing your tires at the 4/32-inch mark. This will reduce your risk for hydroplaning in rain and slipping and sliding in the snow.
To keep your tires performing at their best and to reduce your risk when driving in inclement weather New Jersey, remember to check your tire tread. If you need any assistance please come on by Sansone Jr’s 66 Automall. We will be happy to check your tread, or set you up with a new set of tires, whatever your need may be.
February 9th, 2012
As I was driving to work the other morning in my New Jersey neighborhood, I noticed a woman putting on makeup as she was driving down the road. I was shocked that she had the coordination to do this. And then I wondered, what other distracting habits do we as drivers do when we are driving?
1.Talking on the Phone
The most distracting thing you can do in the car when you are driving is to talk on the phone, hands free or otherwise. According to the AAA Foundation,
Using a cell phone while driving quadruples your risk of crashing.
2. Daydreaming
Although it’s hard, keeping your thoughts strictly on the road will reduce your risk of an accident.
3. Texting and using social media
We see commercials about this all the time; texting is deadly. Wait until you are stopped to deliver your message.
4. Watching roadside diversions
Accidents, billboards, people and scenery are all distractions we watch, but keeping your eyes on the road will be safer.
5. Tinkering with Electronics
Whether it’s the radio, CD player, IPod or GPS, our vehicles are filled with electronics. Many electronics in vehicles today are being made so they can only be used when the vehicle is parked. If this is not the case for you, pull over and fix your electronics.
6. Driving while drowsy
According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety 41% of drivers report falling asleep at the wheel. If you are too tired to drive, pull over and sleep or call someone to pick you up. Wherever you need to be, the most important thing is that you get there safely!
7. Tending to children
Children can be a very big distraction in the backseat of your vehicle. According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety,
Passengers are one of the most frequently reported causes of distraction, with young children being four times more distracting than adults and infants being eight times more distracting.
Whatever the screaming is about, it can wait until you are safely stopped or on the side of the road.
8. Tending to pets
This is similar to having children in you vehicle. The best remedy for this distraction is to restrain your pet within the vehicle, either in a crate or animal safety belt. This will keep them out of the way so you can focus on the road.
9. Grooming yourself
Applying makeup, brushing your hair, or whatever it is you didn’t have time for during your morning routine, often becomes part of your morning commute. Wait until you reach your destination to finish grooming. You’ll be safer for it.
10. Eating and drinking
Eating and drinking while driving can create many dangerous distractions. Be safe and eat before or after you drive down the road.
The next time you get behind the wheel, try to limit your distractions and focus on the road. And don’t forget to stop by Sansone Jr’s 66 Automall for your new or used car today!
January 16th, 2012
As many of us have, I helped a friend of mine move this past weekend. For any one who owns a truck you’ve probably been asked to help someone with a move, or you have used your truck for hauling your own load. Well, as we were going back for a second load with some empty boxes in the bed of the truck, one happened to fly out onto the street. It occurred to me at this time, what is the correct way to load a truck?
Depending on the type of load you are hauling, you can use either cargo netting or a tarp to cover your load. Cargo netting should be used for light loads, such as cardboard boxes or lawn trash. Heavier loads should be secured down with a tarp. Both types of covers can be sized to fit your truck bed. You will need to attach both covers with hooks, anchors or bungee cords and fasten them securely to the sides. It is also important to tie your load down from at least two sides of the truck. You can make an X across your load, and if possible secure your straps or ropes to the load itself.
When loading the bed of the truck be sure to place the heaviest items at the back of the bed and the lightest towards the tailgate. This will stabilize the truck and prevent the front from being too light. This can cause you to have trouble steering. Be sure to travel the smoothest path to your destination by avoiding bumps, swerves and turns.
Most importantly, check the load capacity of your truck and do not exceed this. This is for your safety, as the trucks tires and suspension can only handle the stated amount.
So, the next time you need to help a friend move or haul a load in your truck, remember these steps. If you need any accessories for your truck, or want to check out our great selection of cars and trucks, stop on by Sansone Jr’s 66 Automall. Happy moving New Jersey!
January 6th, 2012
We all drive through New Jersey everyday; whether it’s back and forth from work and home, driving kids around to all their activities or taking a family road trip. We hop in our car and go, not thinking about or worrying if we end up in an accident. It’s not something any of use likes to think about, but it is a risk we take every time we sit in that drivers seat. I hope that no one is ever involved in a car accident but, if it unfortunately happens, try to remain calm and remember to follow these tips.
Stop Your Vehicle
After an accident occurs when you are in your New Jersey vehicle, stop your vehicle and assess the situation. In the case of a minor accident with no injuries, try to move the cars out of the way of traffic and off to the side, until further assistance arrives. If the cars are too damaged to move, put on your hazard lights to warn oncoming traffic. In the case of injury call for an ambulance and let the injured person remain where they are unless they are in danger of getting hit or further injured.
Get Help
Notify the police to report your accident and call paramedics if there are injuries.
Exchange Information
Each driver needs to provide their name, driver’s license number, license plate number, phone number and insurance information.
Report the Accident
File a report with the New Jersey state police department and with your insurance company. If there is a police officer present and they are filing a report, be sure and get a copy for your insurance company and insurance report. This will help your insurance company with its claims process and hopefully, help make the whole process a little faster.
If an accident happens to you, try to remember the tips above to help the process go a bit more smoothly. We wish you safe driving from your New Jersey car dealer, Sansone Jr’s 66 Automall. Stop by anytime to view our newest Nissans, Suzukis and Kias.
January 6th, 2012
Old man winter is definitely upon us! As the weather temperature drops for us outside New Jersey, it’s time to take out the winter coats, gloves and hats. Just as the cold weather is shocking to our system and requires us to keep warm, the same is true of your favorite Sansone Jr’s 66 Automall car’s battery.
The optimum temperature for your car’s battery is 80° F; at this temperature your battery is operating at 100 percent capacity. By the time it reaches 0° F your battery is only operating at about 50 percent capacity. The winter weather certainly affects your batteries power, and you wouldn’t want to end up with a dead battery in the middle of winter. Thankfully, there are some things you can do to prevent this.
The best prevention for keeping your car battery operating as effectively as it can during the winter months is your garage. Keeping your car out of the elements is always the most effective way of stopping damage to your car. If however, this is not a possibility, you can invest in a battery heater to take you and your New Jersey car battery through the winter months.
The purpose of a battery heater is as it sounds: to keep your car’s battery warm and cozy throughout the long winter nights. A battery heater can keep your car operating better during the winter, prolong the life of your car battery and make it easier to start your engine come morning. There are several choices available when it comes to purchasing one, so check them out and see which one suits you and your automobile best.
Remember also, to have your battery checked by a professional to prevent and correct any wear and tear that may occur. Stop by and see your friendly parts and service departments at Sansone Jr’s 66 Automall. We can check out your battery and assist you with anything you may need. We will be happy to help you and your battery stay warm this winter!
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