How Much Do You Know About Driving In Icy Conditions?

From the most adept motorist in Maryville, Illinois to the individual that just relocated to Maryville, Collinsville, Troy, Glen Carbon, or Highland, Illinois from down south, each and every motorist should become aware of the hazards associated with winter travel. Maryville, Illinois auto body shops such as Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center see automobiles roll into their garage each winter from drivers who felt that they didn't have to worry about icy road hazards. If you do not want to be one of those unhappy people, read through this article to find out exactly what you need to know.

Why should I look at this if I already have experience in winter driving?

You might believe that having experience would be helpful for winter driving, and to some extent you would be correct. But the difficulty that is included with that is the fact that motorists who have plenty of experience on icy roads frequently get into auto body accidents as a result of their overconfidence. If we were to be completely straightforward with ourselves, we would recognize that there isn't a single individual on the highway who's got the skill level needed to drive at highway speeds on roads whenever ice is present. Nobody has the reflexes and quick brain necessary to recuperate once you start fishtailing at high speeds. So, it is vital that every driver get ready for winter weather not just by practicing winter driving at slow speeds, but also by slowing down in general.

Aren’t good tires all you need to drive safely on winter roads?

Once again, this is one of those half truths that may land you in a Maryville, Illinois auto body shop quicker than you know it. Having good tires with a sufficient quantity of tread will help you out there. Nevertheless, you shouldn't be lulled into a false sense of security by good tires. While good tires can get you up and going in snowy conditions, your snow tires won't do you a lick of good once all that snow is solidified into ice. Again, good tires may do a lot to help you, but they are not the be-all, end-all of winter driving safety.

Won’t I have the ability to prepare for ice as I notice it coming?

This might be a good strategy, but the issue is that you often can't see ice coming. “Black ice” is a term used to describe ice which mixes into the asphalt so well that you can barely see it at all, no matter how close you are to it or how well you're being attentive. Most wintertime driving auto body accidents do not happen when there is a highly apparent layer of snow covering the whole road. The truly hazardous stuff is the ice that you can't see until you've already lost control of your car. Don't wait until it is too late to drive as if you are on dangerous winter roads. Take the necessary precautions with every push of the gas pedal.

So all I need to do is slow down and I am going to avoid a car accident on snow or ice?

That statement is not totally true either. Needless to say, one of the safety measures that we all ought to take on winter roads is to decelerate to a decent speed given the conditions that we are being faced with. However, that is only one precaution of many. Truth be told, anyone who is driving too quickly in snow or ice is at far more risk of crashing than those who are not. Most data really points to the fact that many drivers who get into car accidents were going at a relatively reasonable speed. What generally happens is that a motorist going at what they believe to be a good speed drops their guard, strikes a spot of black ice, and gets into an auto body collision before they even realize how it happened. The moral of this story is that you shouldn't presume that driving fairly slowly means that you will be immune from sliding on the ice.

What should change about my driving habits to get ready for wintertime driving?

Obviously, you'll want to slow down. Clearly, you need to have good tires. These are things that we've already covered. In addition, simply be careful out there. Do not make sudden lane changes or quick turns. Keep a significant amount of space between you and the vehicle ahead of you. Always be attentive and on the lookout for noticeable ice and snow on the road. Exercise a little good judgment and remember that no time saved will be worth the loss of your life or anybody else’s as a result of a winter auto body accident.

Exactly what speed will be safe for driving in winter driving conditions?

The speed that you ought to be traveling will depend on the particular conditions that you find yourself in. Various factors ought to influence your speed like the quantity of ice and snow, if there are any curves, the sharpness of said curves, the slope of any hills, the level of traffic, and your own personal level of comfort. If you are on the open interstate with no hills or other traffic, you might find forty miles per hour to be a reasonable speed. If you add any of the factors above into the mix, you probably should lower your speed even more.

Even with all of these precautions, you can't ever be completely safe on the road when you're dealing with something as dangerous as black ice. Really, the best possible thing you can do is to hold back until the weather clears up if you find any freezing rain in the forecast before heading out. Although, this isn't necessarily practical in every single situation. For anyone residing in Maryville, Collinsville, Troy, Glen Carbon, or Highland, Illinois, you'll need to drive in icy weather conditions at some point. The best thing that you could do is just be prepared. One way to be ready is to select an auto body shop beforehand so that you do not have to make a hasty decision if and when you get into a wreck. Consider Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville, Illinois. They've got a great deal of experience repairing cars that have been damaged by the harsh roads of winter.

Is Your Car Winter-Ready?

If you just moved into the Maryville, Illinois area from down south, or you are a younger driver, maybe you don't have a bunch of experience traveling in the snow. Winter driving is not something you should take on without the right knowledge, both about how to drive and the way to prepare. Nevertheless, even if you're a veteran motorist in Maryville, Collinsville, Troy, Glen Carbon, or Highland, Illinois, your vehicle needs to be prepared for the dangerous winter roadways annually. It’s inadequate to know that you have to brake sooner or pulse them, you need to make certain that your entire vehicle is winterized and all set to go. To do this, Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville, IL has assembled this checklist to make certain that your car is snow-ready!

Needless to say, your brakes are especially important when you are driving your motor vehicle on roads which may have snow, ice, or that slushy half-snow stuff. If you feel that your brakes might be malfunctioning for any reason, get them inspected by a dependable auto body repair mechanic right away. Make sure that you know whether your brakes are anti-lock or not. If they are anti-lock, use your braking system normally if you're feeling your vehicle starting to slide. If you don't have anti-lock, tap your brakes instead of holding them down. It goes contrary to what you will really want to do, but it's the ideal way to regain control of your vehicle.

Check your car tires to make sure that you'll get the traction that you need from them. To do this, you don't have to get a complicated gauge to let you know if your tires don’t have sufficient tread. You just need a penny. Merely stick the penny in the tread in several different places on the tire. Make sure that Lincoln’s head is going toward the tire. If Lincoln’s head touches the tire, your tires have sufficient tread. If the top of Lincoln’s head doesn't touch the tire, you need better tires.

Needless to say, you will want a functioning heater and defroster system. This is not simply for your own comfort and ease though. If the front and back defrosters aren't working, you will need to take your vehicle to an auto body shop so you can have the utmost visibility on winter roads.

Many folks neglect that batteries are an essential part of preparing the car for winter. The connection to the battery should be clean, tightly fixed to the battery, and totally free of corrosion. Make sure the mounting on the battery is tightly secured. The majority of batteries that are three years old or more ought to be tested to ascertain if you have to have it replaced.

The best thing that you can do to prepare your automobile for winter is to take it to a reliable Maryville, Illinois mechanic and have them have a look at things like the hoses, belts, anti-freeze, and exhaust system. If your hoses or belts are weakened, the cold temperatures might affect them and leave you stuck. Having insufficient anti-freeze will damage your cooling system after extensive usage. If your exhaust system has leaks inside, dangerous deadly carbon monoxide gas might get into the cab of your car. Particularly if you get marooned somewhere and you must run the heater to stay warm, this can be unbelievably hazardous. As a side note for if you're stuck, make sure a window is cracked and your tail pipe is free of snow and ice to give the carbon monoxide someplace to go.

Ensure that you have sufficient washer fluid too. Winter driving is characterized by a great deal of that slushy, muddy stuff. Washer fluid increases your visibility, which is definitely a very good thing.

You've probably seen how stores carry specialized rubber-coated windshield wiper blades that are particularly made for snowy weather conditions. No matter how good of shape your windshield wipers are in, consider purchasing these snow-blades. They're perfect for handling the extra weight of snow that they'll have to handle.

Last but not least, keep sufficient gas in your gas tank. The general rule is not to have under half of a tank at any time. Definitely, that will depend on your specific car or truck, but following this rule will allow you to make certain that your fuel lines do not freeze.

Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville, IL see loads of automobiles which were not ready for winter come through their auto body repair shop. I hope this information has given you an idea of how you can prepare your vehicle for the hazardous conditions of winter. However, it's a given that even the most seasoned seasonal driver with the most well-prepared vehicle can end up in an auto body accident in Maryville, IL. If that is how it is for you, I hope you will consider going to Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center.

Driving Tips You Should Hold Deer

You could be astonished at what number of automobiles end up in an auto body shop at this time of the year due to a deer prancing out in the middle of the street. Even in cities such as Maryville, Collinsville, Troy, Glen Carbon, and Highland, Illinois, deer can find their way to the front of your windshield. This is largely the result of the latest increase in the population of deer. A lot more deer have found their way into progressively more populated area as a result of the climb in population. The National Safety Council reported that in 2003 there were 530,000 animal-related crashes which resulted in one hundred deaths and ten thousand injuries. This is an important issue in the Maryville, Illinois area.

That is the reason Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville, IL has compiled this set of tips for you. There are ways to be safe throughout the especially dangerous autumn months. Take the time to read these guidelines and you will not be sorry you did later on.

Of course, one should always be attentive when you're on the road. Nevertheless, it is especially important to watch for deer from sunset to midnight and from two hours before sunrise to sunrise. Take care in deer crossing areas and anywhere that farmland meets wooded area.

As you have most likely observed, primetime for deer is when it's dark outside. Therefore, it is vital that you remember to use your high beam headlights whenever you don't have any oncoming traffic. But if there are cars oncoming, don't have your headlights on. Seriously, no one likes the guy who won’t switch his high beams off. Don’t be that guy.

If you see a deer on the road, brake firmly but never swerve. Think about it, the potential for hitting another car that's oncoming is significantly worse than the possibility of hitting a deer. If you are moving at 60 miles per hour and the other vehicle is traveling at 60 miles an hour, the auto accident would be the equivalent of a 120 mile per hour accident. That doesn’t even count for the increased danger to the other car’s driver and passengers.

Don’t forget to buckle your seatbelt. That is the best way to avoid injuring yourself with regards to deer collisions. Surprisingly, windshields can be quite painful when you hit them hard enough with your head. It might be an inconvenience, but it is definitely worth it for the extra measure of safety that it provides.

Deer are out there in droves at this time of year and it is your task as a motorist to keep away from them. Be watchful and count on the unexpected. Put the telephone away and keep your eyes on the road. With a bit of sound judgment you can immensely improve your chances of keeping your car’s auto body undamaged. However, if you do get into an auto body crash in Maryville, Illinois or the nearby communities, think about taking your vehicle to Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center. We have got the experience you'll need with dents and other auto body damage resulting from deer collisions.

Avoiding Dent Repair By Not Getting Dents

It does sound easy, doesn’t it? If you reside in Maryville, Collinsville, Troy, Glen Carbon, and Highland, Illinois and don’t want to have to go to Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center or any other auto body shop, the greatest thing that you can do is to not get the automobile dented to begin with. Of course, that is a lot easier said than done.

If you want to keep your car looking shiny and free of dents, pay attention to these essential guidelines on how to avoid denting your car. They're easy, they are simple, and they are able to save you a huge headache down the road.

The very first thing you can do to avoid denting your car or truck is to avoid taking it out. This might not sound really appealing or practical, and for a few people it genuinely isn’t. Nevertheless, don’t feel like you have to hop in your automobile every single time you go anywhere. Consider options like walking or biking if you are concerned with your health. Think about carpooling or using the bus if you're concerned about the environment. Again, these are not always practical for every situation, but we need to get out of the mindset that cars are the only way to get around.

This next tip is probably my personal favorite: do not park close to other people if you do not have to. It’s so simple. At Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center, so many of the Maryville, Illinois dent repair customers we see might have avoided all their problems with this one tip. The next time you go to Walmart, do not choose the absolutely closest spot to the door. Park just 5 or 6 spots down from all the others and most of your automobile dent issues will vanish. People just do not consider to do this because we are programmed to take the nearest spot possible. But if you think it over, isn’t it really worth those fifteen additional steps to avoid a possibly pricey auto body repair bill.

Remember how I said that the previous technique was my favorite? Well this one might be my least favorite. An excellent thing you can do in heavily urban areas such as the Metro East St. Louis area is to parallel park when you are able. It’s pretty funny to contemplate since the majority of people really associate parallel parking with dent damage. However, parallel parking eliminates any possibility of your vehicle being dented from an adjacent automobile. You still run the risk of being dented on the forward or rear bumper, but they can take a hit much easier than your driver’s side door can.

This next one will require a bit more focus on detail: pay attention to the kind of vehicle you are parking near to. Some may well be more dangerous for your car than others. For instance, it ought to come as no real surprise that motorcycles are the absolute best car to park adjacent to. They cannot swing open a door and scratch your automobile. In a similar fashion, minivans have sliding doors that won't be an issue for you. Do keep in mind that the front doors won't be sliding, so there'll still be some danger. Two-door cars means half the danger of a four-door automobile. Compacts have doors which are much lighter and smaller. You ought to have less to worry about from them compared to a huge truck or SUV.

Although it may appear like a good way to avoid auto body damage, you should never double-park. Seriously, do not be that guy. You will not only be a really disliked person, but additionally you open yourself up to getting your vehicle key-ed or otherwise defaced.

Getting dents in your automobile aren't just an inescapable part of owning a car. Not every auto body accident and dent damage may be avoided, but every auto accident and dent will be able to reduce the value and appearance of your vehicle. If your car does have dent damage, get it fixed quickly to prevent difficulties in the future. Think about going to Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville, IL. They know how to get your vehicle in good working order and looking better than ever.

Choosing A Collision Center BEFORE Your Next Auto Accident

There are a lot of items to take into consideration prior to selecting an auto body shop that will meet your needs. We hope you had the forethought to decide that it’s time for you to pick out an auto body shop before a big dent showed up in your car body. In either case, Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville, Illinois wants you to know these key facts before you decide to weigh through the countless collision repair options in the Maryville, Collinsville, Troy, Glen Carbon, and Highland, Illinois area.

• You do not have to take your vehicle to an auto body shop just because your insurance company told you to. As the owner of the automobile, you may select which auto body shop will carry out the best work for your needs.
• After you're in a wreck, use sound judgment in determining whether or not it may be unsafe to drive. It is much better to call a tow truck then to put you and the ones you love at risk!
• It’s not uncommon for two different auto body shops to have two different estimates on the same work. Nevertheless, it’s essential that you don’t instantly go with whichever shop is the least expensive. In many cases, a lower estimate might not include all necessary work. If you are not sure why one auto body work estimator differs from another you have gotten, please consult one of us at Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center.
• Some insurance companies might want you to visit a claims center before getting your vehicle repaired. You may also leave your motor vehicle at our shop and ask the insurance company to examine the vehicle here.
• You cannot understate the necessity of picking an auto body shop which has some credentialed education for its staff. Pick an auto body shop which has I-Car certified technicians.
• If you feel you can do the repair by yourself, but you are not totally certain, do not make the error of simply diving into it. You could very well wind up doing more damage to it than good. After all, your vehicle is the second-largest investment you'll make. Have it repaired by experts to preserve its value.
• State law doesn't require the people of Maryville, Collinsville, Troy, Glen Carbon, or Highland, Illinois to get more than one appraisal or estimate. However, it is usually a good idea to shop around a little bit before you make a decision if you haven’t selected a collision center in advance. If you did select a shop before the collision took place, know that you do not have to look elsewhere for auto body repair if you do not want to.
• Ask if the auto body shop gives a written lifetime warranty.
• Make certain that your chosen auto body shop will work with the insurance claim prior to taking the car to them for repair.

It is easy to see that picking out an auto body shop is no laughing matter. Be smart and make your decision based on these tips and common sense. As you're looking, consider going to Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center. They will be happy to show you more about how they can get you back on the road after your next auto accident.

Ten Questions For An Auto Body Shop

After being involved in a car accident, one of the first things you will think of is having your car fixed as soon as possible. But taking your car to the first auto body shop you find would be a rash decision. To find a reliable and trustworthy auto body shop, take the time to do your research and ask questions so that you will receive high quality auto body repair work for your vehicle.

Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville, Illinois sees the significance of a good auto body repair every time somebody brings a vehicle to them that someone else didn’t do right. That’s why they've got these tips for you as you choose where to do your next repair in Collinsville, Troy, Glen Carbon, Highland, or Maryville, Illinois.

Here are some questions and things to consider before allowing an auto body repair shop to fix your vehicle:

1.    Learn more about the auto body repair shop. Reading an online review about an auto body repair shop could be a useful resource. You can get a feeling of the quality of the auto body repair shop based on customer feedback, ratings, and reviews. You may need to ask the following questions after reading an online review: how frequently will I receive text updates about your car’s repair status? Will you have the ability to look at photos of your car repair in progress?

2.    What type of warranty comes with their auto body repair work? If they provide a warranty, ask how long it lasts and what it'll cover.

3.    Does the auto body repair shop have rental cars on their lot or do they give you loaner vehicles? Being without a car is an inconvenience, so you will need to make sure that you have got a rental, loaner, or courtesy car while yours is in the auto body shop. Some auto body repair shops have a car rental facility situated in or near their auto body shop. Other auto body repair shops may provide loaner or courtesy cars which you can use while they're repairing your vehicle.

4.    How long will the auto body repair take? There are lots of related factors which will affect the length of time an auto body repair will take, including the extent of damage to your vehicle, how busy the auto body repair shop is at that specific time, or even holidays where the auto body shop may be closed.

5.    Is your car covered while it's in the shop? Ask the auto body repair shop if they possess fire and theft insurance. You want to make sure that you will be covered just in case your vehicle is damaged, destroyed, stolen, or burglarized while it is in the auto body shop.

6.    Will the paint match the rest of my car? In most cases, cars have a paint code on a plate situated either in a door jamb, under the hood, or within the trunk. This paint code will provide the precise color of the manufacturer’s paint. Ensure that the auto body repair shop will be using the same exact color of paint and not a comparable color.

7.    How quickly can you wash your car after an auto body repair? An auto body repair shop normally returns your car back to you clean. They might have already washed it or waited for the paint to dry so that you can drive your vehicle just after the repair. Still, you should know if it is safe to take your car to a car wash that utilizes friction brushing or a touch-free car wash with acid presoaks and super concentrated car wash soap shortly after a fresh paint job.

8.    Does the auto body repair shop have any certifications? Certifications, such as I-CAR and ASE, are a good sign of a reputable auto body repair shop. A certification usually means that the auto body repair shop has the skills and knowledge needed to perform complete, safe, and quality repairs.

9.    Will the auto body repair shop put everything in writing? When bringing your car into an auto body repair shop, ask if you're able to receive a written estimate. It's also wise to ask for an itemized bill after all work is completed. If the written estimate doesn’t match the itemized bill, do not be afraid to ask about any differences.

10.   What's the payment policy? Most reputable auto body repair shops post their policies and payment methods where consumers can quickly see them. The payment policies might include labor rates, materials, warranty information, guarantees, and acceptable forms of payment. If you don’t see payment policy information, ask before the auto body shop begins any auto body repair work on your automobile.

Bonus Questions:

• Does the auto body repair shop work on your make and model?
• Do they concentrate on the type of auto body repair work your vehicle needs?
• How do they price out auto body repairs and auto body painting services (i.e. an rate per hour or flat fee)?

Which place to go for auto body repair in Collinsville, Troy, Glen Carbon, Highland, or Maryville, Illinois is a vital decision. If you are searching for an auto body shop, give consideration to Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center. They have the experience you'll need with the customer care you want.

How to Choose the Right Auto Body Shop

As a car owner, the chances of you needing the services of a collision repair and refinishing facility are higher than you think. Whether it's from storm damage, rust and corrosion, acid rain and harsh sunlight, or a car accident outright, the risks are real. It's wise, then, to know just how to pick an auto body shop.

Oftentimes when people are taking part in an accident they think "the insurance company will deal with it for me.'' In fact, it's your duty to choose who'll do the repairs for you. This is not a choice that should be taken lightly, because it can involve protecting a significant investment. That is why Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center has put together this list of tips for you as you determine which auto body shop can fulfill your needs. They have years of expertise handling all kinds of vehicles in Maryville, Collinsville, Highland, Glen Carbon, and Troy, Illinois.

Preliminaries

• Start looking for an auto body shop before you need one; you can make better decisions when you are not rushed or in a panic.
• Ask your friends and associates for their recommendations. Even in this modern era, old-fashioned word-of-mouth reputation continues to be valuable.
• Check with the local consumer organization regarding the reputation of the facility in question. Ask about how many complaints were lodged against them, if any, and determine how the complaints were resolved.
• Always try to go to the auto body shop before making the decision on who'll repair your automobile.

At the Shop

• Ask if the auto body shop generally handles your vehicle make and model. Ask just how long the auto body shop has been in business.
• Choose a neat, well-organized facility with modern equipment. Many vehicle manufacturers suggest specific auto body repair procedures and equipment for the repair of their vehicles. Guarantee that the facility you choose is competent in these techniques and has the proper equipment.
• Professionally run facilities will have a courteous, helpful staff prepared to answer all your questions.
• Try to find signs of professionalism in the customer service area: civic and community service awards, membership in the Better Business Bureau, customer service awards.
• More often than not you can easily see the cars being fixed by the auto body shop. Are you impressed by the kind of automobiles the company is fixing and how the vehicles are being taken care of?
• Also look for indications that the staff is technically competent, like trade school diplomas, certification of advanced course work training from I-CAR.
• All policies, guarantees, and methods of payment should be posted or discussed to your satisfaction.

Being watchful and observant when you go to an auto body shop can tell you a lot about what to expect from your auto body repair. If you would like an estimate or have questions regarding auto body repair, please contact Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville, Illinois.

Five Maintenance Procedures Your Car Cannot Do Without

People tend to hop into their cars without thinking about all of the things that could be going wrong under the hood. However, you can’t understate the importance of keeping your car in tip-top shape. Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville, Illinois, as high quality auto repair professionals, want you to know about these five auto service items you should not skip.

Oil Changes

Oil is the lifeblood of a healthy car. Most people know that they have to change the oil every 3,000 miles, but don’t forget that you should also examine your oil level every 1,000 miles just to make sure that everything is as it should be.

Keep your oil changed. It's the easiest thing to overlook and ignore but the most crucial thing you can do. We at Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center see a lot of worn engine parts because of the lack of oil changes.

Tire Maintenance

Properly maintained tires improve your vehicle's steering, stopping, and traction. Tire pressure should be set to the manufacturer’s specifications, which can usually be found in the owners' manual, on a sticker inside fuel filler door, or on the door well of the driver's side door.

It’s vital that you keep your tires inflated to the pressure that is suggested by the manufacturer of the automobile. Proper inflation keeps your tires wearing correctly. Over- or under-inflated wears tires out faster, can adversely affect fuel consumption, and present a safety hazard. Get your tires rotated and balanced every 6,000-8,000 miles and get the alignment checked at least once a year to make sure there aren't suspension problems.

Fluids

Checking the other fluids in your vehicle is also very important. Of course, we have already covered how you need to have the oil changed regularly. When you do that, also check all of the fluids including the transmission fluid, brake fluid, and coolant. Flush the transmission fluid around every 50,000 miles.

Brake Check

A brake inspection ought to be part of your vehicle’s ongoing regular maintenance to guarantee safety and reliability. Have your brakes checked out at least once per year or more often if you experience grinding, vibrations, or shaking when you brake. Regardless of the vehicle, brakes usually have to be replaced every 20,000-30,000 miles.

Scheduled Maintenance

Failing to adhere to the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule could lead to loss of warranty coverage, breakdowns, poor fuel economy, and an increased cost of ownership in the long run. Having an authorized professional examine your vehicle according to these schedules is an opportunity to catch issues before they get you stuck or turn into bigger repairs.

Build a connection with an auto body shop. Jumping from shop to shop might save a few dollars on particular jobs, but in the end the only one who will have any responsibility for the state of your car will be you. Having a reliable auto body shop you trust means you having somebody looking under the hood for any possible problems on a regular basis. A good mechanic, who is familiar with your needs, your expectations, and your vehicle, will help you make the most of your car.

If you reside in Maryville, Collinsville, Troy, Glen Carbon, or Highland, Illinois and don't already have a regular auto body mechanic, think about taking the car to Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center. They help countless drivers like you keep their vehicles in top performance shape.

Avoiding Staged Auto Body Claims

Staged auto body accidents are increasing, endangering the lives and boosting the car insurance rates of innocent motorists who may unwittingly think they're at fault. Questionable claims from staged accidents increased 46.3 percent from the year 2007 through 2009, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, or NICB, a nonprofit agency in Des Plaines, IL, funded by 1,100 property and casualty insurance companies nationwide to fight auto insurance fraud and automobile theft. Here are some ideas from Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville, Illinois based on facts from the NICB. If you've got an auto body accident in Maryville, Edwardsville, Troy, Collinsville, Glen Carbon, or Highland, Illinois, you will be glad that you were prepared with this important auto body repair information.

Auto insurance fraud added $4.8 billion to $6.8 billion to auto injury claim payments in 2007, according to the Insurance Research Council's November 2008 study "Fraud and Buildup in Auto Injury Insurance Claims: 2008 Edition." NICB investigations in Florida, New York, and California revealed sophisticated, multistate rings that included the staged accident participants as well as doctors, chiropractors, lawyers, and even auto body shop owners that benefited from the car insurance scam.

Multiple claims for one accident

One common element runs though the majority of staged accidents. The "victim" vehicle will contain 3 or 4 passengers who will file medical claims against the victim's auto insurance company along with a car damage claim. Stagers often target young women and older adult drivers as they enter or exit a shopping mall or parking garage. If you are talking on a cell phone or appear otherwise distracted while driving, you are a perfect mark.

There'll be someone sitting there at the curb and you pull up and they'll wave you on by. The next thing you know, you're getting blocked and then getting clobbered. Do not always assume that it was an accident; it may very well have been intentional.

Avoiding a staged accident

Here are six tips from Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center on how to avoid becoming a victim of a staged accident:

• Avoid tailgating. Recognize the "swoop and squat" situation in which a motorist suddenly swoops in front of you then slams on their brakes, and leave plenty of distance between you and the car in front of you in case the driver slams on his brakes.
• Call the cops even if damage is minimal. A Maryville, IL police report will make it more difficult for a stager to intentionally damage their car later to collect a bigger claim against your car insurance company.
• Grab a camera or use your cell phone to photograph everything and everybody at the scene. Pay extra attention to the number of people in the other car and the harm to both cars.
• Be wary of passers-by who just happen to arrive on the scene, especially if they offer to point you to a physician, lawyer, or tow-truck company. They may be part of the scheme.
• Avoid tow-truck drivers that you didn't summon. They are often part of this auto insurance con.
• Be wary of doctors who insist that you file a personal injury claim following an accident, particularly if you aren't hurt.

Although auto body fraud is a very real concern, lots of auto body accidents are nothing more than accidents. In either case, consider taking your car to Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center, which serves the people of Maryville, Edwardsville, Troy, Collinsville, Glen Carbon, and Highland, Illinois.

Finding The Best Place For Auto Body Repair

If you have been in a car accident, it’s crucial that you know that auto body shops only sometimes have your interests in mind. Sadly, some auto body shops will routinely downplay claims, minimize auto repair costs, use cheap parts, or even neglect to fully repair problems. These practices can devalue your vehicle and give you even worse problems down the line.

Here are a few basic principles from Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville, Illinois on things to look for when selecting an auto body shop, and tips on how to be an active participant in your car’s auto body repair to make sure that it comes out looking fantastic and costing you only what is necessary.

Research Before You Repair

Angieslist.com, Yelp.com, and Google reviews are useful sources to get a feeling of an auto body shop’s quality according to customer reviews, but take the online reviews with a grain of salt. You will want to pay attention to well written, thought out reviews – not nasty one-liners, since even the best businesses can end up with an unsatisfied customer from time to time. You might also be able to find discussion forums specific to your vehicle’s make and model where forum members can suggest good auto body shops near your home.

Choose an Auto Body Shop with a Warranty

Some auto body shops offer their own independent warranties on their repairs for fit, finish, functionality, and overall quality. Request to see their warranty and ask some questions relating to it prior to agreeing to do business with a given auto body shop and make sure it doesn’t have a time frame. A good auto body shop will provide a lifetime warranty. Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center offers such a warranty for the people of Maryville, Collinsville, Troy, Glen Carbon, and Highland, Illinois.

Keep Your Existing Manufacturer Warranties Intact

Ask your chosen auto body shop if any mechanical repairs will nullify or alter any existing warranties you might have on your new or recently purchased car. Factory warranties on engines and accessories may be compromised if your car needs mechanical repairs following a collision, so be sure your car’s factory warranty isn’t being compromised with aftermarket parts, or repairs that otherwise are not manufacturer-approved.

If your insurance provider is trying to “mandate” aftermarket or used parts that will void your factory warranty, demand that the insurer provide you with a written warranty identical to your factory warranty. Nine times out of ten they’ll just pay for original parts, rather than giving you the runaround.

Get More Than One Estimate

It is best to get estimates from a number of different auto body shops. After your first estimate, show their estimate to the second shop and the third shop, and ask how they match up against the first auto body shop’s quote. You could find that one or the other is skipping over some important items. Do not simply compare the final estimated cost, since one auto body shop might be quoting for an entirely different method of repair than the other. You’ll want an auto body shop that's both thorough and friendly.

Do Not Be Willing To Settle

Do not settle for anything less than totally new factory-original parts for your vehicle, and be sure to let the auto body shop know it. Of course, there are some jurisdictions where auto body shops can opt to utilize aftermarket or used parts, but those are generally not the way to go. Look at the work closely to make sure that your vehicle was restored to original condition by the parts used, or you have the right to ask for new parts. The shop managers should have no doubt that you are not willing to settle and that you want nothing but top-quality work. If you do not tell them that you won’t settle, there might be shoddy work done on your vehicle. That is why you need to look for qualities like thoroughness and friendliness in every auto body shop you consider.

Make Sure Everything Is Written Down

It used to be that you could trust people to live up to their word. Sadly, that’s just not the case anymore. There are key phrases that insurance adjusters and auto body shop people like to throw around like “totally cover the rental car,” “restore your vehicle to pre-accident condition,” and even “pay for everything.” Those words sound really great, but you will want to make sure that those kinds of things are all in writing. If you are talking to an insurance adjuster over the phone, follow up with an email so that you have a written record of what was promised by all parties involved. That will also make sure that everything is clear for everyone so all parties are on the same page. If you end up having to appeal a decision or call someone out for a broken promise, you will be glad that you got it all in writing.

These are just a few of the precautions that you should take whenever it comes to your next car repair. After all, your car is the second-largest investment you will make after your home, why not ensure that it’s fixed right? If you have any more questions regarding auto body repair or would like an estimate, contact Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville, Illinois to get the answers you need.

Auto Body Repair Basics For Your Next Collision

Car accidents are a regrettable fact of life for most people in Maryville, Collinsville, Troy, Glen Carbon, and Highland, Illinois. With scores of drivers on the road daily, a lot of them distracted by phone calls, messy burritos, bad weather, or lack of sleep, crashes are inevitable. Fortunately, a lot of these accidents are comparatively minor and no one gets injured.

But a minor accident can severely damage the exterior of your car. Areas such as the fenders and doors are particularly susceptible to damage.

While it is typically the insurance company's job to get the automobile patched up and back on the highway when this happens, there are a few things you should know in order to ensure that your vehicle is correctly fixed. Here’s some of the top auto body repair tips from the collision experts, Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville, Illinois.

1. You can choose the auto body shop

It is true that your insurance provider could refer you to an auto body shop that they like. However, do not forget that you have the right to ultimately decide on where your vehicle is taken for its repair. You can’t really demonize auto body shops that the insurance provider recommends because most are really fine shops. There are a couple of bad ones out there that might do shoddy work. Those kinds of shops will reach out to the insurance people by promising to cut costs, but unfortunately they cut corners as well when it comes to the repair. Do not simply trust an auto body shop because it is the one that the insurance company told you to go to.

2. Avoid aftermarket parts

When you take your car in for auto body repair after a collision, you need to inquire about the replacement parts which are used by the auto body shop. Auto body shops may use new original parts, used parts, or aftermarket parts. While used parts were made by your vehicle manufacturer and perform as well as new original parts, aftermarket parts are often cheap imitations with inferior quality. These parts can corrode, rattle, and ultimately diminish your vehicle's value.

3. Carefully examine paint match

All too often, you see cars on the road with body panels that don't match in color. Matching a freshly painted body panel to the rest of your automobile is a difficult challenge, and quite often there can be a big, obvious difference in shade. Whenever you pick up your automobile from the auto body shop, ask which panels are original and which ones were painted. Step back ten feet from the car and see if there's a difference in color. If there's, there may be additional paint work required to get a better match.

4. Check warning lights

After an accident, there are some warning lights that may turn on in your dashboard. These can include the airbag light, the low coolant light, the check engine light, and others. When you pick up your finished automobile, make sure all of the issues have been corrected and none of the lights are lightened. Illuminated lights can indicate that your automobile's on-board computer may have to be reprogrammed, or that certain electrical components need replacement.

Auto body repair is something that everybody in a collision should know about. If you want to learn more about this worthwhile subject, or if you need auto body repair in Maryville, Illinois, visit Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center.

Hail Damage Repair: Can You Really Do It Yourself?

A lot of people think that you can just take care of hail damage by yourself with no knowledge, tools, or experience. The internet is fraught with videos lauding the virtue of all kinds of home remedies, including hair dryers and dry ice. It should come as no surprise that so many people want to find the easy way out when it comes to hail damage dent repair. After all, even little dents in your new car can be detrimental for its value.

Sadly, the reality is that they simply don’t work. The men and women at Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center have broken these DIY methods down one by one for you. Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center would like the people in Maryville, Collinsville, Troy, Glen Carbon, and Highland, Illinois to know that there is not always an easy DIY solution for hail damage.

Sun Exposure

Some sources will tell you just parking your automobile in sunny areas will cause the heat of the sun to eliminate the dents. Common sense most likely tells you that this will not solve your hail damage problem, and it won’t. Nevertheless, wikihow asserts that seven days of parking in warm sunlight will resolve 90% of hail damage. Of course if this were the case there would be far less call for dry ice, hair dryers, and obviously, professional dent repair.

Hair Dryers

This brings us to the hair dryer technique. The idea is to apply additional heat the simple sun exposure can't offer. Realize that as you apply heat you have to watch to make sure you do not damage your car’s paint any further; if you notice any discoloration, stop right away.

Dry Ice

Everybody likes to talk about how all it takes is a little dry ice can get rid of those pesky hail dents. They say that it is as easy as making the temperature cool rapidly by warming the dent via a hair dryer before applying the dry ice. This method probably will not work. Even if it does, the hail damage will only be partially removed.


Dent Removal Kit

If all of those other homegrown techniques fail you, you can always fall back on the highly lauded dent repair kits. These kits generally come with something to knock the metal and a glue gun. Even so, these kits can’t give you the skills and experience needed to actually take out the dent. If you do choose to try these out, do not take the risk on any larger dents. Many people do not take into account that you can actually make the issue even worse when you do not do it right.

Leave It To The Pros

So, if nothing else really works and you are stuck, must you pay a visit to an auto body shop? Maybe; in the end it is your call, but at the very least you know the damage will be repaired correctly if you go to a professional. Will it cost you an arm and a leg? Not always. A lot will depend on the methods used. So how do auto body shops fix dents in the St. Louis, Missouri area then? There are numerous methods.

Remove and Replace

If the damage is serious and the parts that have been damaged are bolted on and can easily be removed, the remove and replace method may be the most effective way to go. In this case the parts in question are simply replaced.

Paintless Dent Repair

Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) is often utilized to repair hail damage. In this process the technician goes behind the dent with tools to rub out the dent leaving the paint surface intact. This technique demands a lot of practice and specific tools, so it is not suggested for the do-it-yourselfer. It is especially effective for parts not easily replaced, like roofs and quarter panels. Of all the professional methods, it's the most cost effective. In fact, in locales where damaging hail is an ordinary occurrence, it's the repair technique most popular with insurance companies.

Finish Glazing

This strategy is good for small hail damage and is an alternative to PDR. Some individuals try this at home, outside the professional auto body shop; make sure you know what you’re doing before you do.

The main advantage of this technique is that you do not need to sand the paint all the way down to the metal; rather, you simply sand it coarsely so that the glaze putty adheres correctly. A related advantage is that the protective anti-corrosion coat from the factory isn't removed during the repair because the paint is not sanded all the way down to the metal. Although of course this method is used to make repairs, other than the hail damage in question your paint surface ought to be in good shape for this technique to work well.

Here’s how this process works. First, whoever is repairing the damage will have to clean the damaged areas well to locate all of the hail damage. The next phase is to sand the damaged areas, usually utilizing a hundred and eighty grit paper on a dual-action sander. This step ensures that the glaze sticks well to the car’s surface. After the sanding, it is best to use compressed air to blow all debris from the repair areas. Next, the surface should be cleaned again, this time with degreaser and wax. At this point it is time to apply a thin coat of the finish glaze to repair the small points of damage. Next comes another sanding session, with 150 or 180 grit paper on the dual-action sander. Lastly, the repair is done, and it is time to prime, block, and paint the freshly-repaired areas. Clearly, this is not an easy fix, but it looks good.

Traditional Repair with Body Filler

This technique is very much like the finish glazing technique with a few exceptions. The primary difference is that you do need to remove the paint to the metal, and that your grind should be very coarse. Obviously anti-corrosion coating is a concern under these conditions. Very large dents cannot be fixed this way.

Traditional Heat Repair

For automobiles with bigger dents and older automobiles made of thicker metal this is the method your auto body shop will have to go with. This technique utilizes heat, generally an oxyacetylene torch, to raise the metal. The technician heats up the metal surrounding the dent in a spiral motion working from the outside moving inwards; this will raise the metal. Then, to relax the metal, the technician taps with a hammer. Finally, he or she tests the metal to find out if it's level to determine if the dent is gone. After the metal cools, it is time to feather edge the paint, prime, block, and paint the metal again.

The primary advantages here are that this method is the only one that works for thicker metals and larger dents, and that for skilled technicians it is quick and fast. It also eliminates the filler and sanding filler steps. However, as most auto body shops will warn you, newer vehicles aren't always able to take this technique because they are made of thin metals that can warp.

The Bottom Line

Unless you actually know what you’re doing, fixing hail damage isn't an easy feat. The good news is that hail damage repair is most likely covered by your insurance. Since average hail damage repairs range between $2,500 and $3,500, and can often go much higher, it's well worth making a claim for the repair. If you'd like a professional opinion on your hail dented vehicle, go to Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville, Illinois. They've got plenty of experience using all of the latest dent repair techniques.

A Step-By-Step Look At Paintless Dent Removal

Paintless Dent Removal, or PDR, has been becoming more and more popular because more people are finding it to be an effective and affordable alternative to getting minor repairs done with more traditional methods. PDR offers a much better value than traditional dent repair methods and is an excellent way to look after the condition of your vehicle’s exterior affordably. Here’s a look at how Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center uses PDR to repair vehicles in Maryville, Collinsville, Troy, Glen Carbon, and Highland, Illinois.

What's Paintless Dent Removal?

Conventional dent repair fills auto body dents in with paint or auto body filler, which is then matched to the rest of the vehicle’s exterior. While this process can make a vehicle look as good as new, it does not address the actual dent in a way that's a sustainable, long-term solution. It’s also time-consuming, expensive, and may affect the re-sale value of your car.

With paintless dent removal, there are not any fillers and there is no sanding. PDR is an eco-friendly repair method that restores your vehicle’s body to factory-like condition in a fraction of the time at a fraction of the price. PDR can help eliminate dings and dents from vehicles in Maryville, Collinsville, Troy, Glen Carbon, and Highland, Illinois, plus auto body creases and hail damage. Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center technicians utilize PDR to safely restore vehicles to their initial factory condition without compromising a vehicle’s original painted finish, or a consumer’s wallet.

The PDR Process

Assess the Damage

Step one to any repair process is to assess the damage. Where is the dent? How large is the dent? How will we get to the dent? After assessing the damage, and determining how it can be effectively removed via PDR (as 80-90% of all dents are), we prepare the area around the dent for the repair. Especially with hail damage, special equipment must be used to find all of the dents that may not be visible to the naked eye.

Gain Access to the Dent

Generally, PDR requires you to gain access to the back side of the dent, which means cautiously removing body panels, tail lights, or in some instances, interior panels. To perform PDR, you'll need a pathway to the dent.

Once we've got access to a dent, it is time to carry out the PDR repair. This is where the accuracy and expertise of our trained technicians comes into play.

Get A Better Look at the Dent

Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center works with a special light board to give our technician a better look at the offending dent from their point-of-view. The special lights let us get a clear look at all of the dent or dents so that absolutely nothing is overlooked.

Apply Slow Pressure to Work out the Dent

Special tools are then utilized to carefully massage the surface back to its initial position.

Paintless dent removal is quicker, cheaper, and more effective than traditional methods more often than not. That is why you should head to Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville, Illinois to deal with hail damage or other dents that may appear on your vehicle.

Be A Summer-Ready Driver

Summer's heat, dust, and stop-and-go traffic will take their toll on your vehicle. Add the effects of this past winter, and you could be poised for a breakdown. You can minimize the odds of auto mechanical problems with regular maintenance. By taking the advice of Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville, Illinois, your vehicle will last longer and command a higher resale price, too!
Many of the following tips are simple to do; others call for a competent auto technician.

Air Conditioning

A marginally operating system will fail in warm weather. Have the system checked out by a qualified technician in the St. Louis, MO area. Newer models include cabin air filters that clean the air entering the heating and air conditioning system. Check your owner's manual for location and replacement interval.

Cooling System

The greatest cause of summer breakdowns is overheating. The engine cooling system ought to be totally flushed and refilled about every two years. The level, condition, and concentration of the coolant should be checked regularly. A 50-50 blend of antifreeze and water is usually suggested. DIYers, do not take off the radiator cap until the engine has thoroughly cooled off! The tightness and condition of drive belts, clamps, and hoses should be checked by a professional like those at Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center.

Oil

Many factors affect how often you need to switch out your oil and oil filter. The standard rule of thumb is every 3,000 miles, but some of the factors that might make you need to switch out your oil include making lots of short trips, making big trips with a lot of weight, or hauling a heavy trailer.


Engine Performance

This may sound like a daunting task, but it is actually very easy to take some simple steps to keep your engine working properly. The biggest thing that you can do besides oil changes is replace the filters. PCV, fuel, and air filters all have to be switched out every once in a while, particularly in dusty environments. Also do not forget to have an auto body shop immediately take care of funny noises and feelings, like hard starts, reduced power, stalling, and turbulent idling.

Windshield Wipers

It’s a bad idea have a dirty windshield. That could lead to eye fatigue after long trips on the road and ultimately it’s a safety hazard. Get rid of your blades when they get worn out and do not forget to keep plenty of windshield washer solvent on hand.

Lights

You’re going to want to keep your lenses clean of dirt and insects by cleaning them regularly. Don’t use a dry rag because that could actually scratch the lens. And do not forget to check all of the bulbs regularly to make sure that they are not burnt out.

Tires

Getting your tires rotated every five thousand miles to assure even rotation on them. Be sure to check your tire pressure every month. Also, when the weather gets colder, check them before you drive too far. Also, regularly inspect your spare tire and jack. Look for uneven wear on your tires, cupping, and tread life. Look for lacerations in the sidewalls. You should get your tires realigned if you discover uneven tread wearing or whenever your car pulls over to the side.

Brakes

Brakes ought to be inspected as recommended in your manual, or sooner if you see pulsations, grabbing, noises, or longer stopping distance. Even minor brake issues ought to be corrected quickly.

Battery

Batteries can fail at any time of year. The only accurate way to identify a weak battery is with professional equipment. Routine care: Scrape away corrosion from posts and cable connections; clean all surfaces; re-tighten all connections. If battery caps are removable, look at the fluid level monthly. Avoid contact with corrosive deposits and battery acid. Wear eye protection and rubber gloves.

Emergencies


Carry some basic tools -- ask a professional for suggestions. Also include a first aid kit, flares, and a flashlight.

Travel Cheaper With These Gas-Saving Tips

While it is always wise to conserve natural resources, the cost of gas over the past couple of years has made even the most wasteful people think twice. No matter what your motivation, here are some gas saving techniques from the professionals at Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville, Illinois.

• Keep an eye on your tires. Under-inflated tires or inadequately aligned wheels waste fuel by pushing the engine to work harder. (Let the tires cool down prior to checking the air pressure.) Out-of-line wheels, as demonstrated by irregular tread wear, should always be aligned professionally.
• Eliminate unwanted weight. Remove unnecessary items from the vehicle. Keep only essentials in the trunk area. Less weight means improved mileage.
• Combine trips and errands in the Maryville, Collinsville, Troy, Collinsville, Glen Carbon, and Highland, Illinois area. Some trips may be unnecessary. Also, try to travel whenever traffic is light so you're able to steer clear of stop-and-go conditions.
• Avoid excessive idling. Turn off the motor while waiting for family and friends.
• Follow speed limits. Exceeding the speed limit reduces your gas mileage.
• Drive gently. Sudden accelerations guzzle gas. Foretell traffic patterns in advance and adjust your speed gradually.
• Use windows and air conditioning carefully. Your mileage ought to improve if you keep the windows closed at highway speeds, because air drag is reduced. This is true even with the air conditioning on - assuming that the system is in good working order. But turn the air conditioning off in stop-and-go traffic to conserve fuel.
• Keep the engine of your car in top working order. A well maintained engine operates at maximum efficiency, making the most of fuel consumption. Follow the service schedules listed in the owner's manual. Replace filters and fluids as suggested; have engine performance problems (rough idling, poor acceleration, etc.) fixed at an auto body repair facility. Given today's high-tech engines, it is best to have this sort of work done by auto technicians who're ASE certified in engine performance. Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville, Illinois always uses ASE certified technicians.

These conservation tips won't only save gasoline, they will help extend the lifetime of the vehicle. If you have any further auto body questions, visit Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center for the answers you need.

Spring Auto Body Rust Repair Tips

Auto body rust repair is a very common problem with older vehicles in the St. Louis, Missouri area. Dents or scratches can wear away paint and expose metal to the weather. Living in a snowy environment like what there is in Maryville, Collinsville, Troy, Glen Carbon, and Highland, Illinois may also increase the possibility for rust damage, as road salt and other ice removal accelerants can result in rust damage in the long run. However the rust formed, keep these rust repair tips from Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in mind to restore your automobile body to like-new condition:

Inspect Your Vehicle’s Surface Carefully

The initial step in properly dealing with auto body rust is figuring out the extent of the damage. If you have a vintage car, you might think about going over all surfaces of your vehicle with a fine tooth comb. The reason being that rust won't always manifest as dark-red discoloration. Rather, what you ought to be looking for are small bubbles in the painted surface of the car. If such bubbles are present, it is likely that rust is hiding underneath.

Removing Rust

Auto body rust repair is nearly always best handled by the auto body professionals, like those at Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville, Illinois. However, if you have some auto repair experience and the patch of corrosion is no greater than four inches in diameter, then it could be feasible to get rid of the rust yourself. To do this, you will want to use a sanding disc with 100-grit sandpaper on the affected region. Working gradually, sand away the rust, in addition to the immediate area encompassing the corrosion. This will produce an even plane for paint adhesion.

Additional Sanding

Once the rust has been eliminated, make sure you sand the region with sequentially finer grit sizes. For example, another pass may incorporate 120-grit sandpaper and a third pass might benefit from a 150-grit sandpaper. Once sanded carefully, tack cloth is suggested for getting rid of any metal or dirt debris.

Priming and Painting

Three or four light coats of self-etching primer are recommended for auto body rust repair jobs. Prior to priming, block off the surrounding body paint by using newspaper and masking tape. Wait about 5 to 10 minutes before you apply every successive coat. Then, hold off until the day after to put on the paint. Apply the paint in a similar, light-coated manner. After five or six coats, leave the paint to dry overnight, then come back and take away the newspaper and masking tape. A wash and wax might be helpful whenever the repair is finished.

Safe Driving On Dangerous Winter Roads

Frigid weather can cause a lot of the harshest travel conditions of the entire year. And, months between October and February top the list for mishaps, vehicle damage and injuries in the Maryville, Illinois area.

When the temperature dips and the snow goes up, it's necessary for vehicle operators to maximize their attention to safety on the streets.  With adequate preparation, some protective driving measures and an eye on the weather report, drivers can protect themselves and their motor vehicles during the long cold winter months.

The authorities on wintertime driving accidents at Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville, Illinois fix many automobiles each year harmed in wintry, arctic car accidents.  They offer drivers some helpful pointers to help with making cold weather traveling less risky.

Look At Your Field Of Vision:

•   Make sure that all mirrors are clear and completely fine-tuned for visibility
•   Clean your headlights and check the light bulbs in your automobile lights – back and front
•   Add de-icer to your windshield wiper liquid
•   Ensure your windshield wipers are without ice before heading out on the road – and consider upgrading with new flexible windshield wipers before the precipitate hits

Slow Down and Stay Back:

•   Try to leave much more distance between your motor vehicle and the car before you for more protection
•   Do not use cruise control on icy highways
•   When you find snow or ice on the surface in Maryville, Collinsville, Troy, Collinsville, Glen Carbon, or Highland Illinois, reduce the speed of your vehicle to a safe limit
•   Use extreme caution on bridges, overpasses, and very sporadically traveled freeways as these can be slippery due to ice
•   Use extreme care when you're driving any vehicle on one-lane freeways

Skidding Safely

When your back wheels slip...

•   Bring your foot off of the accelerator
•   If you've got standard brakes, pump them lightly
•   If you have anti-lock brakes (ABS), do not pump the braking system. Apply continuous pressure to the braking system. You are going to feel the brake system pulse — this is typical
•   Steer in the direction you need the forward wheels to move. If for example the rear tires are moving left, steer left. When they're sliding right, steer right
•   If your back tires start moving the other way when you recover, ease the steering wheel towards that side. You might have to steer left and right a few times to truly get your motor vehicle entirely under control

If your forward tires skid...

•   Take your foot off the gas and switch to neutral, but don't try to steer immediately.
•   As the wheels slip laterally, they will slow the ride and traction will come back. As it does, steer in the direction you wish to go. Then put the transmission in "drive" or release the clutch, and accelerate gently

Prepare for Snow:

•   If your motor vehicle has rear wheel drive, put bags of sand or kitty litter in order to keep your car or truck easier to control on Maryville, Illinois roads
•   Pack up a snow day kit in the event you get stuck.  Essential items to include are a blanket, gloves, hat, water, granola bars, flashlight and spare battery packs, additional cell phone battery, flares, wooden matches in waterproof carrier, compass, a pair of scissors, rope and first-aid equipment.
•   Prepare a toolbox for digging your vehicle out with foldable spade, 2x4 planks to place under wheels, ice scraper and snow brush, reflective triangles, flares and outside windshield cleaner

You can't ever be too cautious when driving a vehicle in winter weather. Auto accidents can occur swiftly on slippery, icy roads, so driving slow and taking the extra precautions can seriously make the difference.

If the adverse winter accident does take place, we recommend having a collision plan set up so you are not stranded on the roadside hoping for aid.  Kurt's CARSTAR Collision Center in Maryville, Illinois gives top-quality, trusted repair service.  Simply call 1-800-CARSTAR after you have an incident and they're going to send the tow truck, contact your insurance company, arrange for a car rental and fix your automobile.