Top Ten FAQ - Part Two

Last time we viewed some of Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center's most frequently asked questions as leaders in the automobile repair industry:

1.   What you can do in case there is an Accident
2.   Your Customer Rights
3.   Choosing a Auto Body Shop
4.   About the Repair Procedure
5.   All About Your Estimate

Now we shall carry on with these common questions in another installment to Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center's Top 10 FAQs:

6.   Information about Your Deductible
7.   What Constitutes a Quality Repair
8.   Warranty Information
9.   What to Do in Case of Storm Damage
10.   Car Care Tips

6. Information about Your Deductible

If your insured motor vehicle sustains bodily wear and tear by reason of a crash with a different vehicle or fixed object in the Maryville, IL area or your car sustains wear and tear pertaining to some form of insured comprehensive risk (fire, theft, malicious mischief, vandalism, windstorm, hail, etc) your auto policy declaration pages will indicate the appropriate deductible. It’s always crucial that you double check the consistency of the insurance policy information with your insurance company before and after a loss. Your insurance deductible is due as soon as you pick up the car after repairs are finished. Get a body shop that offers financing for insurance deductibles if you don’t want to pay this up front.

7. What Constitutes a Quality Repair

A top quality auto body collision repair starts off with a thorough inspection to fully assess the damage and repairs required to the motor vehicle. A structured repair procedure ought to be utilized to ensure the maintenance meets the vehicle manufacturer’s guidelines. An extensive repair should be carried out by experts with I-CAR and ASA certifications, and trained in the hottest vehicle materials and technology and employs the best quality parts and products must certainly be used to restore your motor vehicle to pre-accident condition. Before the vehicle is returned to you, a thorough interior and exterior inspection, a test drive and a thorough detail should always be done to be sure the repair meets your needs.

8. Warranty Information

See the fine print to understand if their warranty can be found nationwide and exactly how long your car will be covered. If your car or truck is yet underneath a manufacturer’s warranty, it doesn’t mean it must be fixed at a car dealership. A lot of dealerships do not possess their own individual collision repair facility and outsource their vehicles for repair work. Your vehicle's warranty is with your car's manufacturer, not with the dealership. When choosing a crash repair facility, locate a body shop which provides a countrywide warranty that'll be honored at any of their locations.

9. What to Do in Case of Storm Damage

In the event your vehicle has been in a violent storm, call your insurance broker first off to report the damage. Take photographs of the automobile where it had been battered, including any branches, water damage, mud or other elements. If your automobile has been submerged in water, do not drive it since mechanical and electrical elements may have been damaged. Trust your ride just to an established body shop business running in Maryville, Illinois before the storm. Beware of fly-by-night operators attempting to make a fast buck from the situation.

10. Car Care Tips

Once your ride has been fixed, there are numerous car care tips to observe to help keep your car looking its best outside as well as in. Follow this link to see CAR CARE TIPS from Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center for everyone living in Maryville, Edwardsville, Troy, Collinsville, Glen Carbon, and Highland, Illinois .

Keep Your Sleigh Safe This Holiday Season

CARSTAR Auto Body Repair Experts Offer Techniques For Safe Driving Throughout The Holidays

Regardless of whether you are on the way to grandma's home or merely going to the mall for some last minute shopping, it is clever to take certain safety measures to stop the holiday headache of a major accident.

Heavy traffic, motorists sidetracked with holiday plans and winter weather make the best storm for motorists in December.  In fact, it’s among the highest months for traffic accidents in Maryville, Edwardsville, Troy, Collinsville, Glen Carbon, and Highland, Illinois.

Although with proper preparation, some preventive driving measures and an eye on the weather report, drivers can safeguard themselves and their automobiles during the holidays.

The professionals on holiday driving car accidents, CARSTAR Auto Body Repair Experts, repairs a great deal of cars each year harmed in wintry, slippery car accidents.  Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville, Illinois offers car owners some tips to make holiday driving less hazardous.

Remember To Keep In Mind:

•   Look at your route: Look up road conditions beforehand to verify if there'll be any delays
•   Stay in touch: Bring a cell phone just in case of crisis situations
•   Lower the Jingle Bells: Reduce disruptions such as excessive music
•   Don’t ask for thievery: Presents inside the back seat are much more welcoming than cookies and milk for Santa Claus.  Lock them in the trunk to protect yourself from break-ins
•   Have a break: Should you be traveling a long distance, take breaks or even a quick nap at a rest stop to stay aware
•   Safeguard yourself: Always wear a seat belt
•   Do not Text and Drive: Sending texts and driving can not only possibly harm your family and you but other road users. Keep your phone secured for disasters. When it's important to send out a message, carefully pull to the side first

Examine Your Visibility:
 
•   Load up your liquids: Add de-icer to your windshield wiper fluid
•   Update your wipers: Make sure your windshield wipers are devoid of ice before venturing out on the road – and think about updating with newer flexible windshield wipers until the snow hits
•   Check your visibility: Be certain all the mirrors are clear and effectively adjusted
•   Take a look at your lights: Thoroughly Clean hazed car headlights and examine bulbs in all of your automobile lights – front and back

Slow up and Keep Back:

•   Keep away from holiday revelers: Some motorists may consume a few beverages before reaching the roadways. Stay alert and watch other motorists in case they begin to swerve
•   Ensure that it stays slow: When there is snow or ice on the land, lower your car's speed 10 to twenty miles-per-hour below the limit for that particular road
•   Facilitate some space: Set aside at a minimum two or three car lengths in between your car or truck and the vehicle ahead of you
•   Cruise with carefulness: Don't involve the use of cruise control on slippery roadways
•   Stay alert to the surface: Make use of extreme caution on bridges, overpasses, and very sporadically used streets given that these may be slippery from ice and use extra caution when driving on one-lane streets

Prepare for a Snow Day:

•   Weight it out: If the automobile has rear wheel drive, put in bags of sand, litter or bricks in order to keep your car or truck much better to control
•   Stock up on supplies: Pack a snow day kit in case you get trapped.  Essential items to include are a blanket, gloves, hat, water, granola bars, flashlight and spare batteries, extra cell phone battery, flares, compass, scissors, rope, wooden matches in waterproof container and first aid kit.
•   Take your tools: Create a toolbox for digging your motor vehicle out with foldable spade, 2x4 planks to put under tires, ice scraper and snow brush, reflective triangles, flares and exterior windshield cleaner

You'll never be too careful when driving a vehicle around holiday traffic and in cold weather. Catastrophes can happen so fast on slick, frozen roads, so decelerating and taking the additional precautions is exactly what Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center advocates to totally make the difference.  A car accident is never an easy task to deal with, but having any sort of accident during the holidays really can put a cramp in the holiday cheer.  An added measure of safety is always the right present throughout the Christmas season.

In the event that the unfortunate holiday collision does arise, we highly recommend having a crash plan in place so you aren’t stuck on the roadside waiting around for help.  Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center gives top-quality, reliable repair service in the Maryville, Illinois area. Just call 1-800-CARSTAR when you have an accident and they are going to send the tow truck, contact your insurer, arrange for a rental motor vehicle and repair your automobile.

Be In The Know When Driving On Ice And Snow

Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center Gives You Secrets For Safe Travel in the Winter Months

Winter can produce some of the harshest driving conditions of the year. And, months between October and February lead the list for mishaps, car damages and injuries in the Maryville, Illinois area.

When the temperature range plunges and the snow increases, it is necessary for drivers to increase their attention to safety on the streets.  With the right preparation, some protective driving procedures and an eye on the weather report, vehicle operators can safeguard themselves and their cars during the long winter time.

The professionals on wintry driving incidents at Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville, IL fix thousands of vehicles each year damaged in wintry, icy calamities.  They offer drivers some helpful tips to help make cold weather driving more safe.

Take A Look At Your Field Of Vision:

•   Add de-icer to your windshield wiper liquid
•   Make fully sure your windshield wipers are devoid of ice before heading out on the road – and start thinking about upgrading with new flexible windshield wipers before the snow strikes
•   Check that all the mirrors are clear and appropriately tweaked for visibility
•   Wash your car headlights and check the bulbs in all your motor vehicle lights – front and rear

Slow Down and Stay Back:

•   When there is snow or ice on the surface in Maryville, Edwardsville, Troy, Collinsville, Glen Carbon, or Highland, Illinois, lower the speed of your vehicle to a safe limit
•   Have a lot more distance between your ride and the car or truck ahead of you for additional safety
•   Stay away from cruise control on icy streets
•   Use careful attention on bridgework, overpasses, and hardly ever traveled freeways because these could possibly be slippery as a result of ice
•   Use extra caution when you are driving on one-lane freeways

Skidding Smartly

In a situation where your back wheels slip...

•   Bring your foot off of the gas
•   Steer in the direction you want the forward wheels to go. If the rear wheels are moving left, steer left. If they're slipping right, steer right
•   If your back tires begin moving the other way when you recuperate, ease the steering wheel to that side. You might have to steer left and right once or twice to truly get your car or truck really under control
•   For standard brakes, pump them carefully
•   If you have got anti-lock brakes (ABS), do not pump the brakes. Apply regular force to the brakes. You might feel the brakes pulse — that is routine

Should your front tires skid...

•   Bring your foot off the gas and go to neutral, but don't try to steer right away.
•   As the tires skid sideways, they'll slow the car or truck and traction will return. As it does, steer in the direction you wish to go. Then put the transmission in "drive" or release the clutch, and speed up slowly

Prepare for a Snow Day:

•   If your motor vehicle has rear wheel drive, put bags of sand or kitty litter to keep your car or truck simpler to control on Maryville, Illinois streets
•   Pack a snow day kit in case you get stuck.  Valuable items to include are a blanket, gloves, hat, water, granola bars, flashlight and spare batteries, extra cellular phone battery, flares, wooden matches in water-resistant carrier, compass, a pair of scissors, rope and first-aid gear.
•   Make a tool kit for digging your vehicle out with foldable spade, 2x4 planks to put under tires, ice scraper and snow brush, reflective triangles, flares and exterior windshield cleaner

You can't ever be too careful when getting behind the wheel in winter weather. Accidents can take place rapidly on slick, icy streets, so going slower and making the extra safety measures can seriously make the difference.

If the adverse winter accident does take place, we encourage having a wreck strategy in position so you aren’t stuck on the wayside waiting for assistance.  Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville, Illinois features good, dependable repair service.  Simply call 1-800-CARSTAR once you have an accident and they will send the tow truck, speak to your insurance company, arrange for a rental car and fix your car.

Top Ten FAQ - Part One

Maybe you have a query about your car or truck and the repair process? Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center of Maryville, IL has stated the common enquiries just below. If you ever don’t see the answer below, give us a call and we will provide you with the info you will need.

1.   What to Do in Case of an Accident

2.   Your Consumer Rights

3.   How to Choose a Body Shop

4.   About the Repair Process

5.   Understanding Your Estimate

1. What to Do in Case of an Accident

First, remain relaxed. If there is personal injuries, call 911 as soon as possible. Never move your motor vehicle, unless you're in immediate risk and it would be advisable to get your vehicle in a separate location. You need to get the name of the individual (s) driving the other vehicle (s) involved with their telephone number, driver's license, vehicle license and insurance details. Be sure to obtain any witness' name and number (s). Keep in mind the place, time and day. Make use of a camera cell phone to take photos of the incident, motor vehicle damage and witnesses.

2. Your Consumer Rights

After you have a major accident, you will have the right to decide where you want your car brought and the place you opt to have your vehicle fixed. A high-quality accident repair center will coordinate towing for you, do top-quality repairs and deal with your insurance corporation. Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center promises a limited five-year nationwide warranty as an extra benefit.

3. How to Choose a Body Shop

You will want to select an automobile body shop in Maryville, Edwardsville, Troy, Collinsville, Glen Carbon, or Highland, Illinois that offers a full written estimate, practices a well designed repair process for each automobile and includes skilled, certified repair professionals. A national affiliation usually demonstrates top quality repair standards, along with a nationwide guarantee. Locate a body shop that uses the highest-quality components and products to revive your vehicle, who will help you be well-informed through the entire repair process, supplies extremely good customer service, can deliver your ride punctually, and conducts an extensive check up of all repairs before putting you straight back on the highway.

4. About the Repair Process

The repair process starts with you taking your motor vehicle in for a quote with a experienced estimator. If you select that shop, they're going to deal with your insurance agent to process the repair claim. A very good auto body shop like Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center will conduct a complete disassembly of all harmed parts of the automobile to check out any structural or mechanical harm. They will order the necessary parts for your vehicle and then finish the task. Once the repair is finished, they will make an in-depth overview of the inside and exterior of the automobile to make certain of a high quality repair.

5. Understanding Your Estimate

Your estimate ought to include a thorough examination of the procedure to be done on your ride, a description of the repair parts to get used, what things your insurance policies will and will not encapsulate and the expected amount of the repair. One reason estimates in Maryville, Illinois could differ from a different shop is thoroughness of the appraisal process. Some quotes could leave imperative repairs out of the initial estimate, inducing the amount to not be the same from another facility. At Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center we will be exhaustive to determine the steps necessary for a high-quality and safe repair for your car or truck.

Ten Tips for Dealing with an Auto Accident

One time every 7 years, the ordinary driver from Maryville, Illinois is tangled up in an vechicle accident.  When that happens, it is smart to know what you should do to safeguard yourself and your car, and get yourself on the road to a quick, top-notch repair.  Here's a few guidelines to be mindful of and show to the drivers in your family from your friends at Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville, Illinois:

1.   Power down your vehicle’s engine and let it sit where it is provided that you feel it is safe. If you are endangered or your motor vehicle is in peril of being run into by yet another automobile, carefully travel to a safer place, like the side of the road or a well lit parking lot.

2.   Remain relaxed.  Be tactful and respectful, even if you are upset.

3.   Measure the degree of impact and decide whether you are actually wounded. If you believe you’re seriously injured in any way, stay in your vehicle and make an attempt to calm down. Be honest if somebody asks how you are. Ask somebody to call for assistance, and let a trained specialist evaluate your condition.

4.   Extend medical advice to individuals on condition that you are educated to do so.

5.   Study the damages to your motor vehicle. When looking at the crash scene, never ever travel right between the 2 automobiles. If one is slammed yet again, you could potentially turn out to be confined amidst the 2 vehicles.

6.   Call up police officers of Maryville, Edwardsville, Troy, Collinsville, Glen Carbon, or Highland, Illinois to document the car accident. Dial 911 first, if that does not do the job, dial zero and request for the cops.

7.   Never say the collision was your responsibility, although you may believe that it was.

8.   Call 1-800-CARSTAR to have someone from Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center ask for a tow, arrange for a rental car, contact a relative and contact your insurance professional .

9.   Obtain the names, addresses and telephone numbers of any witnesses.  If you can’t get their names, at minimum obtain their license plate numbers.

10.   Swap names, addresses, driver's license numbers and insurance plan facts with any other drivers mixed up in the automobile accident.

It’s smart to get an accident plan in position before an vehicle accident takes place.  Find a highly regarded auto body shop to take your car in advance so you’re not really required to have a unanticipated decision at the accident scene.  To discover the number one collision repair facility in the neighborhood, search for the CARSTAR logo.  All CARSTAR auto body repair shops like Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center are locally owned and operated, and are serious about offering you the highest-quality repair and getting you straight back on the road quickly.

For more Maryville car care tips, visit www.auto-body-maryville-il.com.

Bucks Cost Bucks, Does Cost Dough

North America’s Collision Repair Experts Weigh in on the Hefty Costs of Hitting a Deer 

It’s the yearly battle of the bumpers versus the bucks, the does up against the doors.  All sides lose whenever car and deer collide, but a measure of defensive driving can reduce the risks.

CARSTAR Auto Body Repair Experts in the St. Louis area say the regularity and extent of deer-related accidents are increasing as quickly as the deer population in some markets. And, with the cold-weather months providing peak season for deer-vehicle crashes, this risk is rising.

Believe it or not, over forty percent of CARSTAR store owners record a twenty-five percent boost in deer-related accidents, while some nearly 12 percent report a 50 percent increase and five percent have noticed a fantastic seventy-five percent increase in their areas. That deer-related automobile accident might be pricy -- close to seventy percent of CARSTAR store owners assess that the average cost of a deer-related crash repair is anywhere between $2,500 and $4,999, while some 5% of repairs are anywhere between $5,000 and $10,000.

A recent survey by State Farm verifies the trend.  U.S. drivers are 3 % more prone to hit a deer in the next 12 months as opposed to last year, specifically in October, November and December. The cost is on the rise, at the same time, and is anticipated to be about 14 percent greater than this past year.

A brand new trend is emerging, and one that does not bode well for person or deer – the serial deer crash driver.  As soon as a driver has been around a deer-related crash, his or her chances of suffering from another one are going up.  A number of these car owners reside in deer-filled areas, drive in the early morning or early evening when deer are out, or just really are unlucky with bucks.

Greg Walter, a suburban Atlanta resident, is simply one example.  He’s experienced seventeen deer-related accidents during the last decade!

“I’m uncertain of why they concentrate on my car, but they sure do,” mentioned Walter.  “I’ve totaled multiple company cars, and it’s gotten so bad that a few of my co-workers put deer heads on my car door much like a WWII fighter pilot.  I’ve used different headlights, deer whistles, anything.  I think I just have to have a retainer at my local CARSTAR shop.”

Drive Defensively to Prevent Deer Dangers

This current year, some 1.5 million vehicle operators will hit deer, and November is the peak month for deer-related collisions in Maryville, Edwardsville, Troy, Collinsville, Glen Carbon, and Highland, Illinois.  But drivers can stay away from a crash with a deer by sticking to some smart driving guidelines this fall and winter.

Early morning and dusk are the worst times for deer accidents, as visibility is restricted and deer are frequently on the move. You will need to drive defensively and anticipate the possibility of deer in the roadway.

The auto masters at Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center, who repair a huge number of automobiles every year from deer-related accidents, provide the tips below to slow up the deer danger:

1.    Use extra caution at daybreak and dusk and near golf courses, fields and wooded areas.

2.    Understand that deer go in packs – if you find one, there is probably more behind it.

3.    Don't swerve to prevent yourself from hammering a deer, since that boosts the likelihood of hitting another motor vehicle or losing command over the vehicle.

4.    If you experience no opposing traffic, utilize high beams during the night to better illuminate deer.

5.    Try not to rely on devices such as deer whistles, that are coupled to the exterior of a automobile, to try and scare off deer with an supersonic or high frequency sound. They have not demonstrated to shorten deer-vehicle collisions.

6.    If a deer remains on the road once you strike it, record the occurrence to the game commission or a community law enforcement department, because deer poses a hazard to other people. If the deer continues to be living, do not get in the vicinity of it since a wild animal with sharp hooves is able to cause injuries.

7.    If a mishap with a deer does indeed take place, it is advantageous to be safe. Many vehicle operators never recognize that holding just collision coverage wouldn't cover harm from a deer accident, leaving them with a busted vehicle and a considerable repair bill.  To totally include any possible damage, vehicle operators should certainly carry detailed insurance that covers such collisions. For all driving an older vehicle who believe their motor vehicles are not worth the cost of the insurance, it’s intelligent to maintain an “accident fund” for if something does take place.

If a vehicle driver eventually ends up marooned with a busted car or truck after a deer collision, they may always call 1-800-CARSTAR. Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center will send the tow truck, call their insurance provider and help the car or truck owner get back on the road.

Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville, Illinois gives excellent, trusted repair service at more than 430 locations in 30 states and ten Canadian provinces. Just call 1-800-CARSTAR when you require a automobile repair, and they will dispatch the tow truck, speak to your insurer, plan for a car rental and fix your vehicle. To acquire more information and store locations, visit www.auto-body-maryville-il.com.

5 Tips for Choosing the Right Auto Body Shop

With rocks, shopping carts along with other common hazards, it’s not extremely uncommon to find a scratch in your automobile, either in the paint or the windshield. Left untreated, any scratch can cause significant issues, from rust and corrosion caused by a paint scratch exposing the metal to a little windshield scratch that spreads out until a complete windshield replacement is needed. To prevent this kind of damage, it is essential that whenever your get a scratch to fix it straight away at a shop like Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville Illinois.

When you do find a paint scratch or windshield scratch in Edwardsville, Troy, Collinsville, Glen Carbon, and Highland, Illinois , the best thing to do generally is use a professional repair company.
To fix a deep paint scratch that goes all the way through the paint to the metal, a paint and body repair center such as Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center will do the best job in entirely repairing the abrasion. To fix this sort of scratch, the technician will have to strip the afflicted panel, prime it and paint it. Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville Illinois has the ability to precisely match the color of your car. Depending on your insurance plan, you may get your glass scratch repaired without paying anything out of pocket. No matter if you get a paint scratch or a glass scratch, fix it quickly.

The damage your car could sustain from not having a scratch fixed can be both severe and expensive.
But how do you know what auto body shop to choose? It's not unheard of for estimates from different body shops to deviate significantly. One shop might give you an estimate for $500 while another wants $2,000 for the work. What's the difference? And when is it OK to choose the cheaper shop?
Below are great tips from Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville Illinois for choosing the best shop in Edwardsville, Troy, Collinsville, Glen Carbon, and Highland, Illinois  to work on your automobile — especially when you're the one paying the bills.

1) Pay Attention to Word-of-Mouth
Any business can advertise, but you'll do better with a shop that friends, family or acquaintances advise. It's a business that has proved it can satisfy customers. And it might not be the largest or best-known shop in your city. In some instances, you may get a referral for a little shop where the owner works on the cars and trucks himself.

2) Consider the Operation's Location and Overhead
Labor hours is the deal-breaker for how much a repair will set you back. Many shops charge $40 per hour for labor. However in ritzy parts of West L. A., the per-hour labor charge is $60-$65. In wealthy Newport Beach, California, we have seen up to $90-per-hour labor charges.

3) Get Several Estimates
Taking your automobile to several auto body shops in the Maryville Illinois area for repair quotes is the easiest way to avoid overcharges. And while it's important to protect against being overcharged, you should never simply take the lowest quote. You may get some type of midnight guy who will say he is able to do it really cheap. Stay away from those guys, since there is something they aren't doing. You could have major problems later on.

4) Ask the Right Questions
When picking a body shop, don't go in with your pocketbook open. Ask some essential questions. Does the shop give a written warranty? And if that's the case, for how long? What exactly does the warranty cover?

Another key question is whether the shop carries fire and theft insurance. You want to make sure you're covered if your car is destroyed, stolen or burglarized. Remember to ask how long the shop has been doing business. Be sure it possesses a business license.

You'll want to know about the materials the shop wants to use. Are new, used or aftermarket body parts likely to be used? New parts are obviously the best and used parts are okay, though they will not provide the savings people think. Depending on the damage to your motor vehicle, aftermarket parts can avoid wasting money and can be every bit as good as those that come from the original manufacturer. If paint work is involved, ask what number of coats of paint and clear coat the shop expects to use.

5) Follow Your Intuition
Lastly, it's vital to trust your intuition about the shop you're considering. If a shop isn't busy, maybe that's because customers in the Maryville Illinois area are staying away from it as a result of shoddy repairs. If the place is really dirty, cluttered or disorganized, this might reflect the kind of work you could expect the shop to do with your car. Is the shop owner or manager a grouch that seems to resent giving answers to the questions you have? You will be happier with a shop where the owner communicates well and is straightforward with clients.

As you are out searching for an estimate, why not check in with Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center ? They would love to offer you a fair estimate backed by a lifetime warranty.

Auto Collision Tips

Staying calm and on task after an auto collision can save lives and get you back on the road fast
An auto collision is an emotional and strenuous experience. Many motorists drive defensively, take driver education classes and get ready for stressful driving situations, unfortunately vehicle collisions still take place in Maryville Illinois.

A driver is responsible for knowing what to do if they're involved in a wreck. Even the most prepared and competent drivers sometimes find themselves in the middle of a collision. No matter who's guilty, the most important thing to do first is ensure everyone is OK, then seek medical and law enforcement help and know what to do to guard yourself from legal or financial difficulties down the road.

The best defense to avoid any challenges after an accident is to prepare yourself. As stated by AAA, "Keeping a pen and paper, disposable camera or cell phone camera, and copy of your insurance card readily accessible all of the time will help keep you organized and decrease stress moments following a collision."

After stopping your automobile, Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center recommends all motorists involved in a car crash stick to these steps:

1. Assist the wounded. Quickly talk to those involved in the wreck to find out if there are any injuries. If medical attention is necessary, call 9-1-1. If medical assistance is not required, be certain that you're not in imminent danger at the roadside.

2. Control the Scene. Before taking time to exchange information, get to a safe place.  If there are no injuries and your car is drivable, safely move to the right or left emergency lane.  Some state laws require drivable cars to be removed from the roadway to avoid traffic congestion. Turn on your hazard lights and set out warning flares or reflective triangles. Don't leave the scene of the accident, but find a safe place to remain until emergency services come.

3. Notify the Police and send in a Report. The law requires you notify the authorities. Regardless of what either party claims, call law enforcement and file a report. If the cops don't come to the scene to start an investigation, you can file a report by visiting a local police department or car insurance agency in the days after a wreck. Having a report on file might help later if a liability claim is submitted.

4. Document the Scene and Exchange Information. One must always share and gather information with all parties mixed up in the accident, including witnesses. Having this on file will help complete any future paperwork or deal with possible problems. Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center suggests that you document:
•   Names
•   Addresses/email address
•   Vehicle Information including makes, models and years for all vehicles involved
•   Vehicle identification/license plate numbers
•   Driver’s license numbers
•   Insurance carriers and policy numbers
•   Take photographs of the area, people involved and damaged cars

5. Inform Your Insurance Carrier. Your insurance company must be notified after having a crash to start the right claim filing. Many insurance companies have staff available 24/7 and can help directly. Having proof of insurance in your motor vehicle is required by law and makes processing a claim easier if not at home.

6. Get Your Ride Fixed. You've got the right to have your vehicle fixed at the auto body shop of your choosing. Consider taking it to Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville Illinois, which also serves Edwardsville, Troy, Collinsville, Glen Carbon, and Highland, Illinois .

7. Unattended Vehicle or Property. If you're involved in a crash that involves an unattended car or property, take action to inform the owner. If you're unable to locate the owner, attach a written notice of the accident to the automobile or property, making sure to include your contact information and information in the above list.

Drivers and owners of automobiles must certainly be ready to assume legal and financial responsibility if involved in an accident, don't let your emotions and feelings get in the way of determining who's responsible. Never let yourself be pushed into admitting fault or giving an opinion in regards to the cause of an accident. If you wish, you can consult with a lawyer before providing a statement.

For additional tips about proper auto body repair or what to do in the event of an accident, contact Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville Illinois today!

Kids And Hot Cars Are No Mix In Summer Heat

With the summer heat upon us, it is the best time to remember just how hazardous a vehicle can be whenever kids and pets are left unattended.  Heat is among the foremost weather-related killers in the US.

At Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville, Illinois, North America’s most dependable brand for auto body repair, the focus is not exclusively on repairing vehicles, it’s on protecting the safety of the drivers and passengers in those automobiles any time they are on the highway.

We would like to do everything we can to educate people about the safety of their vehicles in the summer sun.  Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center encourages motorists to plan their trips so you do not have to leave anybody – or any pet – in a vehicle that isn’t operating with the air condition fired up.  And, it’s important to bear in mind that even a couple of minutes in a hot vehicle can have huge effects.  You always need to take those extra safety measures to ensure the safety of your sons or daughters.

According to the National Weather Service, a lot of youngsters and untold numbers of pets left in parked vehicles die from hyperthermia every year.  Hyperthermia is an acute condition that develops whenever the body absorbs more heat than it can manage.  Hyperthermia can occur even on a mild day.  The effects can be much more serious on children simply because their bodies warm at a faster rate than grownups.

Research has shown that the temperature inside a parked vehicle can swiftly rise to a hazardous level for little ones, pets and even adults.  Leaving the windows slightly open isn't going to considerably decrease the heating rate.  On an 85-degree day, the temperature inside a vehicle with the windows opened slightly can reach 102 degrees within ten minutes.  After thirty minutes, the temperature will reach one hundred twenty degrees.

The non-profit safety group, KidsandCars.org declares that many heat-related vehicular tragedies occur because a driver sometimes forgets a boy or girl is there.  Youngsters can also get into unlocked cars without any adult knowing it just happened.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Association has some pointers to help keep young people and pets safe throughout the heat of summer:

•   Never leave young ones, disabled adults or pets alone in a hot car, even temporarily

•   Always check the front and back seats of the car or truck before you lock it and leave

•   See a little one alone in a warm car? Call 911 instantly. Get them out as soon as possible if they're in distress

•   Put your purse, briefcase, or something else you need by the car seat so you don’t forget to check

•   Always lock your car when it’s empty so kids can’t get in without you knowing

The men and women at Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville, Illinois also supporting the people in Edwardsville, Troy, Collinsville, Glen Carbon, and Highland, Illinois are so happy that you are taking the time to read about the importance of summer automobile safety. If you would like more sound advice, call us up at 618-345-4519

IS YOUR CAR’S BODY READY FOR SUMMER?

Summer is here, and although people are planning on a vacation getaway and some time outdoors, you should begin making plans to maintain your truck and reduce damage from summer weather and often challenging driving conditions that you can find in Edwardsville, Troy, Collinsville, Glen Carbon, and Highland, Illinois

We all know that too much sun may be detrimental to your skin.  It can also be bad for your vehicles, causing oxidation and premature fading.  Salt air is tough on paint surfaces, too. Inside the car, plastic trim and the interior can also take a beating from heat and sun.  However with a proper maintenance routine and some T.L.C., you can keep your car looking fresh and new.

This is where your local Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville, Illinois can help.  Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center 's automotive professionals can take care of any damage you currently have, and  they can also put you on the road to prevention to reduce any future costs.

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE DETAILS

The first starting place is with CARSTAR’s expert detailing services. Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center can return your vehicle to like-new condition for a minimal investment.

•   A fresh cleaning can eliminate the road grime, tar, and other debris that you might have picked up on the way

•   A proper waxing will help protect your car or truck from the next thunderstorm, restore faded paint, and bring back that showroom shine

•   Eliminating minor scratches and blemishes in the clear coat and paint now can keep rust from taking over later

•   A thorough interior cleaning can remove any detrimental elements including sand or dirt that you might have brought into your automobile

•   A proper conditioning of leather, vinyl, and interior plastics may help safeguard against fading and cracking

•   Mending torn upholstery now and replacing worn floor mats will help keep a little problem from becoming a larger, more pricey one later

•   Setting up window film can prevent fading in the future, and also reduce heat in the passenger area
While you take advantage of the summer sun and outdoor activities, your car does not.  A good detailing and wax is just like sunblock for your vehicle. With good car care and some smart driving, you and your vehicle can sail through summer! Just give Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville, Illinois a call at 618-315-4519 today or visit www.auto-body-maryville-il.com

Save Money In 2014 - Find Every Discount For Your Insurance Policy

A lot of people in Maryville, Illinois start out each and every New Year with a variety of important changes or plans to make “this year” better than the previous one. Many of these plans might involve better diets, lifestyle changes, read more, exercise more, journal more, spend more time with our family, and more focus on how to be more fiscally responsible.

It’s hard to argue with being more responsible with where you spend your hard earned dollars. Insurance costs to protect our automobiles can be a large expenditure for many individuals.  It makes sense to complete a yearly review where and how these controllable dollars are spent.

Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville, Illinois, also serving the folks of Edwardsville, Troy, Collinsville, Glen Carbon, and Highland, Illinois, offers a few tips to help ensure your auto insurance premium dollars are spent in the most effective manner possible.

1.   Assuming you have a clean driving record with no crashes and no violations in the last three years you should qualify for a major “safe driver” discount. If you do not see a discount of this type on your declarations page that comes with your renewal, ask your agent or insurance provider.

2.   If you've got good or very good credit you might qualify for additional discounts.  Consult with your agent or insurance provider.

3.   If you've got your auto and homeowner policies with the same insurance company you most likely qualify for an additional type of discount. Check with your agent or insurance provider.

4.   If you have young drivers on your policy who are good students, usually a B average or higher, you may qualify for more discounts.  Additionally, there are discounts available for getting involved in safe driving programs. Talk with our agent or insurance provider for availability.

5.   If your current cars or trucks have specialized accident avoidance systems you might be eligible for additional discounts.

6.   If you have vehicle(s) whose combination of age, miles and current physical condition has deteriorated to a point of lower value it might be time to think about self-insuring these vehicles. This means removing collision and comprehensive coverage. This action necessitates careful consideration and should definitely include consultation with your agent or insurance provider.

7.   Changing the amount of your collision or comprehensive deductibles may also be a method to control your premium costs. Selecting a higher deductible for either coverage will decrease your premium. But it’s vital that you understand this move will raise your financial exposure should a major accident take place.

8.   A number of insurance companies are offering installed driving performance monitors that offer you a deep discount on your insurance for safe driving.  Check with your insurance agent on availability.

9.   If you've relocated, taken a new job or married or divorced in the past year, it may impact your car insurance.  Make sure you update your policies appropriately.

10.   A final tip to each and every insurance consumer would be to make sure you have a “what if I have an accident" pack inside your glove box. This pack should have a pencil, a pad of paper to jot down accident details and witness contact info, your agent’s info, your current insurance card, a disposable camera, and emergency contact information with names and numbers of people identified as the people to call whenever you’re injured.

Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center would like to make certain that everyone traveling in Edwardsville, Troy, Collinsville, Glen Carbon, and Highland, Illinois are ready for the road in every way possible. If you reside in Maryville, Illinois or the surrounding area and want to have your questions about auto body repair answered, call Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center at 618-345-4519 or visit our website: www.auto-body-maryville-il.com

Why Should You Go With CARSTAR?

When your automobile has to be repaired, you'll need a repair facility that you can trust to keep you informed throughout the complete process, provide excellent customer service, deliver your motor vehicle on time and get you back on the road with the best quality repair

That’s why a lot more people Select Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville, Illinois for their car or truck repair needs than any other body shop. Across Edwardsville, Troy, Collinsville, Glen Carbon, and Highland, and Maryville, Illinois, we offer national scale, consistently high-quality motor vehicle repairs and the industry’s finest customer satisfaction ratings, and most repairs are backed by a limited five-year nationwide warranty and service guarantee.

When you Select  Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center for your car repair, you’re choosing to be a part of North America’s largest network of auto body shop owners.  That means you get the national training, quality standards and resources of the network, along with the personal service and community involvement of our local Maryville, Illinois area.  We think this unique combination provides you the highest quality vehicle repair possible and supports a vibrant locally owned and operated small business in your community.

Certified technicians are trained to work on all makes and models and engage in ongoing education programs on the hottest vehicle technologies and materials. Working with Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center allows you the peace of mind in knowing your vehicle will be repaired right and with the highest attention to your needs. It's just one of the countless ways we help minimize the disruption to your life.

We use high-quality parts and products to restore your vehicle to pre-accident condition. And, we do a fifty point quality interior and exterior inspection, a whole test-drive and a complete detail, to make sure our workmanship meets your high standards before we give your vehicle back to you.

Whenever you need auto body repair, Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville, Illinois is here to help. We offer helpful assistance 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and will walk you through each step of the process.   We can call your insurance company, have your car or truck towed for repairs and get in touch with a friend or family member for you. Call us today at 618-345-4519 or visit www.auto-body-maryville-il.com.

Prevent Pandemonium For Perfect Performance

Drivers have a lot more distractions today than they did just a decade ago, and those attention-stealers are to blame for crashes that are costly in terms of both money and lives. Thankfully, the people who see the damage caused by in-car diversions have thrown together this list of tips for managing and avoiding them.

Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville, Illinois is in the business of trying to reverse the mistakes that some people make on the road. At one point, a driver only had an AM radio to distract himself with. Now, any number of vehicles has enough high-tech electronic gadgetry to pilot a space shuttle, and they can all diminish the concentration of a driver.

Following the following tips can reduce the chance of a crash by a large margin and make a trip less stressful for everybody in the vehicle.

•   Do Not Text And Drive – Figures from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) show that the risk of a crash is twenty-three times higher for people who are sending and receiving text messages while they drive. That isn't very hard to imagine, since a car going fifty-five miles per hour will go the length of a football field in the four and a half seconds it takes to type or receive a message. Driving while you text is even compared to driving while drunk. The good thing about a text message is that it will be sitting there in your inbox for when there is time to pull over and read it.

•   Limit or eliminate cell phone use while you are driving – A study by Australia’s Monash University Accident Research Centre found that handheld devices like a cell phone raises crash and injury potential by four times what it would be otherwise. If a passenger in the car, let that person do the conversing while you do the driving.

•   Go ahead and use a hands-free device, but only for necessary calls – Carnegie Mellon used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to keep track of the brain activity of people answering a series of true/false questions while simulating driving on a computer screen. They uncovered a 37 percent decrease in the brain’s ability to figure out spatial relationships (such as between the car at speed and other objects) when the “driver” focused on answering the questions. This information suggests that a conversation with a person not in the passenger compartment will diminish the driver’s reflexes behind the wheel.

•   Program your global positioning system before setting out on a trip or errand – Portable and in-dash GPS devices are immensely helpful for getting us where we would like to go, especially if they call out the step-by-step directions. However, don't forget that they are only useful if the driver does not attempt to input information while the vehicle is moving. Most GPS devices even display a legal warning against this sort of action before they can be used.

•   Learn a vehicle’s instruments and adjustment knobs before you even leave the garage – The cars of today have dozens of little control keys, switches and handles that you might need to activate or deactivate while you're on the road, and a driver has to be familiar with them if they really want to avoid distraction. Adjusting the windshield wipers, headlights, radio settings, climate controls, seat height, steering wheel angle, emergency flashers, or any number of other gizmos could be the distraction that causes your car accident.

•   Save eating and drinking for the rest stop – Americans, it seems, have perfected the art of eating and driving, which is why cars made for the U.S. market frequently have more cup holders built in than seats. In fact, NHTSA points out that a driver’s morning cup of coffee and muffin are about as distracting as a cell phone conversation may be.

•   Keep children and pets in the approved seats or areas for them – Crash-test engineers have determined the safest placement for children of various sizes and ages in automobiles. Following applicable federal and state laws also decreases a parent’s chance of diversion while driving because the child will not be as likely to get injured or into trouble in a moving car if restricted. Letting animals roam free within a moving vehicle is not only a terrible idea; but it is illegal in some states as legislators try to crack down on distracted driving.

Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville, Illinois, also fixing cars in Edwardsville, Troy, Collinsville, Glen Carbon, and Highland, want you to know that there are a large number of ways to reduce the amount of dangerous distractions within a vehicle. These tips address just a couple of the easiest ones for people to fix. Anything a driver does to concentrate on the road will improve their chance of a safe arrival.

For more tips on driving and collision repair, visit www.auto-body-maryville-il.com. CARSTAR Auto Body Repair Experts gives high-quality, reliable repair service in 32 states and 10 Canadian provinces. Just call 618-345-4519 when you need a vehicle repair, and they'll quickly send a tow truck, contact your insurance agency, arrange for a rental car and repair your vehicle.

There Isn't A Magic Wand For Everything...

On the surface, a scratch repair pen might seem like an absolutely wonderful idea. What’s not to like about making easy repairs to your car’s finish by just drawing a line along the damage? It turns out, the outcomes aren’t always like what you might see on TV. Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville, Illinois, also serving folks in Edwardsville, Troy, Collinsville, Glen Carbon, and Highland, are happy to offer these very interesting test results.

For one thing, we found that they absolutely will not work on anything but minor surface scratches. And, all things considered, they may make the damage look worse.

Marketed as a lightning fast way to avoid expensive auto body shop expenses, manufacturers say that anyone can get results from the pens that look entirely professionally done, which cost ten dollars or even less. We sampled three to see if the claims were in fact true.

What we tested

The Simoniz Fix it Pro ($10), DuPont Pro Fusion Color ($8), and Turtle Wax Scratch Repair Pen ($10) are commonly available on the internet or in just about any auto parts stores. Claimed to work with any color of paint that your vehicle may be, they contain a totally permanent clear coat sort of like the protective outer layer used on vehicles that are rolling out of the factory. However, what their packaging doesn’t make entirely clear is that these pens are only for surface scratches within the clear coat. If the damage goes into the paint beneath, you’re simply out of luck.

We also found that the pens may be pretty difficult to use, and that it’s not easy to get the thin, even line that you will want to neatly fill up the scratches without overfilling it. With applicator tips that're about as wide or wider than a typical scratch, our sampled products make it hard to stop yourself from applying too much filler, and leaving a visible residue that’s a lot more overt than the problems you’re trying to repair. And getting rid of that gunk might require sanding and buffing it out, and maybe even some touch-up paint.

As a general rule, these products won’t help with any scratches that are deep enough to feel with a fingernail, or if you can see primer or bare metal. For damage of that nature, you’ll need more than clear filler and an incredibly steady hand. The way to repair damaged paint can only be with more paint.

How we tested

For our testing, we used exactly the same lab-grade black test panels that you buy for car wax testing. These panels are painted and clear coated with automotive finishes to perfectly simulate the exterior of a car. We also tried them on two different types of vehicles that had pre-existing light scratches: a silver Toyota Sienna minivan and a dark blue Honda CR-V.


We put scratches in the test panels with both keys and bolts, and then used the products as outlined by the instructions of the manufacturer on the panels and vehicles. To do this, we washed and dried the damaged area, shook the pen to mix the contents, dabbed the end on a piece of paper towel so that the product would start flowing, and carefully drew the pen along the exterior area of the scratch. After applying the products, we moved the samples onto the roof of our building where they weathered for four weeks.

The results

All three of the products did in fact fill up the scratches, and we saw no distinguishing feature worth mentioning between them in ease of use or effectiveness.

From some angles, the repairs looked exactly as advertised in the TV ads. However, other angles were significantly less flattering; they revealed a ridge of noticeably excessive clear coat. The results looked like a very unprofessional job at the very best, and often the repair was even more noticeable than the original scratch was. The Simoniz and DuPont products suggest that you wipe off any excess of the substance that you may see with a paper towel, but we found this made things look even worse by smearing the paint over the undamaged surface.

We advise that you save your money and skip these 'easy' fixes for small scratching or try a cleaning polish instead.

For deeper scratches, a visit to Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville may be your best bet.

The Sky Is Falling: How To Handle The Danger Of Spring Hailstorms

Warmer weather is finally here, and because of this hail storms are working their way around the country, leaving dented, dinged and damaged vehicles in their path.

Is your car or truck ready to face nature this year?  Do you have the proper insurance to recover from any damage?  And how can you get your car fixed up to pre-storm condition without putting a huge dent in your wallet?

Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center sees and repairs countless vehicles that have aquired damage in hail storms.  Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville, Illinois, also serving the folks in Edwardsville, Troy, Collinsville, Glen Carbon, and Highland, provides the following guidance to help motorists deal with spring hail storms:

After getting hail damage, the very first thing to do is call your insurance agency before contacting a repair shop. Often times, if there is a very big storm, the insurance companies call in what is referred to as a Catastrophe Team.  If you're driving around town and you are getting a lot of estimates, unfortunately, it’s going to be nothing more than a lot of squandered time for you.  The insurance companies will want you to get their Catastrophe Team to look at it, start the claim process, and then you can bring it to Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center or any other body shop, and they are going to be able to work with your insurance company from there to be sure that all the dents on your car get fixed.

Even though you may not think that your car was damaged enough to be worth the effort of filing a claim, it’s vital that you have it looked at as soon as possible regardless. There can be a considerable amount of damage that you can’t see when you’re just aesthetically looking at it.  Once you get it beneath some lights, and you really look at it, there are a lot of dents that you will not see until you go in to trade your vehicle, and then you’re going to be caught with a ton of hail damage.  Your best chance is to get a claim processed, and take it into a certified shop, and have them really look over the car carefully.  Once you get it inside and under the lights, what you thought was only ten or fifteen dents may wind up being as much as one hundred dents.

Check Your Coverage

The time to review your car insurance isn't when you hear the crack of hail hammering your car.  Read your policy now to figure out what is and isn’t covered, what the deductibles are, if you have rental coverage and what to do when the storm strikes.

Comprehensive coverage shields against the majority of damage from natural disasters.  Two other options to take into consideration are gap coverage – which pays the difference between what you owe for your loan and what your car is really worth -- and rental reimbursement.

One warning – if you submitted a previous damage claim and got a check from your insurance company, but didn’t actually go and get the vehicle repaired – the insurance company will deduct this amount from your estimate for the storm damage, and charge you a second deductible, too.

Protect Your Vehicle

When you know that a dangerous hail storm is impending, get your vehicle up to higher ground or under cover. If you don't have a home garage, find a covered public parking lot to protect your car.  If you have to park your car outdoors, park it on the highest ground possible well clear of trees and phone poles.

For hail storms, cover your vehicle in an old blanket and a car cover from your nearby automotive dealer – before the storm hits.  This will give you some of the protection that you need for your hood, roof and rear deck-lid. If a storm comes out of nowhere, try to find an awning at a gas station, the drive-through at the bank or self-serve car wash to get beneath for quick protection. On the highway, look for cover beneath a bridge or viaduct.

Get Your Car Repaired

Dealing with the consequences of a large hail storm can be traumatic, especially if you have had significant damage to your home as well.  Getting your car back up and running doesn't need to add to your stress, if you are ready for the repairs.  To help with this, Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville offers the following tips:

•   Make duplicates of your vehicle registration, title, insurance card and driver’s license and secure in a safe, dry place.
•   After the storm clears, record the damage inflicted with photos and video.
•   Have a repair plan set up ahead of time.  Know where you'll want to have your car repaired beforehand so you don’t find yourself making a sudden and rash decision.

When you choose an auto body shop for repairs, keep in mind that:

•   You should be sure to do your homework and check out the shop, their reputation, business or trade associations they are a part of and if their techs are I-CAR trained.
•   All trustworthy repair facilities will offer a warranty of some kind for the work that they do… be sure that they put it in writing and explain it to you completely.
•   Only give your vehicle to an auto body shop that was operating before the storm. Be careful of fly-by-night operators trying to make a quick buck off of the storm.  If they are set up in a tent or other temporary location, do not trust them with your vehicle.

Once your car gets to the body shop for repairs, there are some things that you should be aware of to ensure that you get a quality repair:

•   Review the estimate in great detail, but remember that it's only for the visible damage and what it will take to fix the vehicle to pre-accident condition. If the estimate does not cover the full extent of damage, a Supplement will be created, submitted to your insurance company for approval.
•   Get a detailed description of the parts that are going to be replaced and whether they are OEM, new or refurbished, and in what condition the car will be returned to you.  Most insurance policies indicate pre-accident condition, so your eight-year old minivan might not come back looking like it just rolled off of the lot.
•   Get a specific timeline of when the work will be done and when the job will be finished.
•    Detail the payment terms and methods, with the down-payment, the final payment and costs for follow-up work.
•   Ask the store manager for frequent updates on the job, and necessitate that you give them approval for any work done outside of the initial estimate.
•   Do not be compelled to simply accept the completed repair if you do not think it is repaired properly.  Get in contact with your insurance agent for assistance.

While your car is stuck in the body shop, it is a good time to have other dents repaired.  It is often more cost-effective and your vehicle will benefit in the end.

For more information on how to deal with an accident or have your car repaired after a collision, visit www.auto-body-maryville-il.com. CARSTAR Auto Body Repair Experts offers high-quality, reliable repair service in over thirty states and ten Canadian provinces.  Just call 618-345-4516 when you need a vehicle to be repaired and they'll do everything; like sending the tow truck, call your insurance company, set up for a rental car and fix your car.

Make Sure That Your Child's Safety Seat Is Installed Properly

If you are bringing a new baby home soon, purchasing a child safety seat for a child that has outgrown a previous car seat, or if you're replacing a child safety seat because it's been damaged in a car accident, deciding on the best seat for your youngster is just half the process.  The most challenging obstacle's still ahead – installing it correctly.

NHTSA, the National Safety Council and Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville, Illinois offer these tips to help parents make sure that the child safety seat that their child uses is installed safely.

•   Always make sure to keep the baby rear facing. The view might seem a bit boring to you, but it will ensure that the baby will be the best position possible if an accident occurs. The rear facing position greatly decreases the risk of neck and spine trauma for a baby facing forward.  Though there are some experts who advocate that you keep the child rear facing until they're six months and or twenty-two pounds, there’s is most certainly nothing wrong with waiting even longer.
•   Use the best seat to suit your child's age, weight and height. If your vehicle has leather seats, ensure that you have non-slip rubber shelf liner or a "seat saver" to put underneath the car seat. It'll keep the car seat clean and prevent the car seat from slipping and sliding around. However, depending on your child safety seat, a seat saver may hinder proper installation, so be sure that you hold on to the receipt.
•Don't forget to read the car and child seat manuals thoroughly, and always follow the car seat manufacturer's advice. If you find yourself having questions, contact the car seat or vehicle manufacturer. Do not go to your local dealer, as they may or may not be up to speed on your installation questions.
•   Rear-Facing, Infant-Only Seat — LATCH Install -- Quite a large number of parents like the type of car seat that has a separate base. For these, the base stays in the car while the baby carrier itself can be taken out and snapped back in at any time.  Infant seat bases frequently have flexible LATCH connectors — basically belts with hooks at the ends.  Locate the lower anchors in the second-row window seats. Make sure the child safety seat lays flat against the car seat's bottom and back, between the two lower anchors.  Hook the LATCH attachment that's furthest away from you onto the anchor. Then, if you can feasibly do so, climb on top of the seat, placing your knee on top. By using your weight to totally compact the vehicle seat, hook on the other attachment to the anchor and pull out all of the slack. If you aren't able to get on top of the seat, use your strength to push down on the seat while you hook on the second attachment.
•   Rear-Facing, Infant-Only Seat — Standard Shoulder and Lap Belt Install
Of course, there is always the possibility that your car or car seat is an older model that doesn't feature LATCH. Or maybe your car's seat cushions or anchor placements make LATCH installation unworkable? There's always the option of doing the standard shoulder and lap belt installation. It is perfectly safe. First, thread the lap and shoulder belt of the vehicle through the correct slots, referred to as the "belt path." If you have one of those convertible car seat that goes from forward-facing to rear-facing and back again, be careful to choose the right path; it will be clearly marked.

Plug in the latch plate (male end of the seatbelt) to the buckle (female end), and, using your weight as outlined above, tighten up the belt. All of the slack needs to be taken out of both the lap and the shoulder for the most safe installation possible. As a general rule, using a locking clip will give you the most secure installation. A locking clip is an H-shaped piece of metal that comes with new car seats or may be ordered directly from the car seat manufacturer. In order to use one, plug the seatbelt in, making it as tight as possible, then unplug it again while you hold the belt very tightly. Wind the locking clip around the belt as close as you possibly can to the latch plate, then plug it back in again. You might have to bounce down on the seat a time or two to get it to close. This certainly will not be easy, but it will give you a rock-solid installation.

A rear-facing infant car seat has to sit at a 45-degree angle to prevent the possibility of the baby slumping and to make sure that their airway remains open. Check the car seat instructions to figure out if your seat has an angle adjuster; if that is the case, use it. If it isn't, you can utilize a small piece of swimming pool "noodle" by wedging it under the seat. This is the most secure way to get the same angle. If you're wondering why a noodle, you should know that you can also use a tightly rolled towel, but towels do have that annoying tendency to compress over time, while the material in pool noodles doesn't. If you use a towel, check it every once in a while to see that the angle has been maintained.

The experts at Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville, Illinois, who also serve the people of Edwardsville, Troy, Glen Carbon, and Highland, make every effort to provide a top-notch, reliable repair for each customer and also want to extend that dedication to the youngest passengers in our customers’ cars. Anyone who's ever put their own bundle of joy in a car seat know exactly how much trust you put in that seat.  They would like to empower you to protect the children in your life, both during everyday driving and after a car accident.

For additional info on the CARSTAR Child Safety Seat program, visit www.auto-body-maryville-il.com.