Beware the Dangers of Distracted Drivers

Distracted DriversSchool is out and summer is here! That means more people are out on the road, making plans, and driving while distracted. Not only do we all need to be on the alert for distracted drivers, we need to make sure we avoid becoming one. As people depend on their smart phones for looking up information and connecting with friends, the temptation to use the phone and drive is overwhelming. Unfortunately, no matter how adept someone thinks they are at using their cell phone, driving requires 100 PERCENT of a driver’s attention. Driving while distracted can be fatal!

On average, it takes about five seconds to send or read a text message. That might not seem very long, but did you know that at 55 miles per hour a car travels the length of a football field during that five second interval? A lot can happen during the five seconds of that distracted driver’s journey, including a life-changing accident.

Here are some practical ideas to help you avoid becoming a distracted driver:

Mute it. Take a moment before pulling out of your parking spot to silence your phone. Once you are on the road, it will be easier to keep your mind off of your phone if it is not humming, vibrating, or otherwise beckoning you.

Stash it. Putting your phone in your purse, glovebox, or storage console is another way to help reduce the odds that you will be distracted by it.

No peaking. A lot of drivers like to sneak a quick look at their phones while stopped at a red light. The problem with this is that if you are not looking at the light, you will not know when it changes.

Tell people. Let everyone you call or text with know that you have a strict “no phone” policy while you are driving. That way you will not have to worry about someone thinking you are ignoring them.

Pull over. If it cannot wait make sure to pull over before using your phone. There are usually plenty of parking lots around that provide a great place to stop and do what you need to do.

Plan ahead. Before you press the ignition button or turn the key, do what you need to do. Let mom know you are leaving. Type your destination into your GPS app. Whatever you feel you need to do, do not do it as you are pulling out onto the street.

While everyone likes to save time by multi-tasking, it is important to understand that multi-tasking on the road too often means becoming a distracted driver. The time saved could turn into a life lost – in just an instant. Stay off the phone and stay safe!

Tire Shopping: Understanding Your Options

Tire Code Part 3: Load Index, Speed Rating, and M+S Designation

When shopping for tires, you can learn a lot about a particular tire by looking at the uniform tire code imprinted on the tire. This code not only identifies the tire, it also provides useful information about the tire. Previously we looked at type of tire and section width, next we discussed at aspect ratio, tire construction and wheel diameter. With this post, we complete our series with a look at last three parts of the uniform tire code: load index, speed rating, and M + S designation.

Performance Index
The tire performance index is displayed after the wheel diameter, and represents the tire’s load and speed ratings.

Common Speed Ratings

Letter L M N P Q R S T U H V
Max. MPH 75 81 87 93 99 106 112 118 124 130 149

All-Season Tires with Mud and Snow Designation
When a tire has M+S on it, that means that it meets the Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA) guidelines for a mud and snow tire. Similar markings for this include MS, M&S, and M/S. In order for a tire to receive the Mud and Snow designation, it must meet specific RMA geometric requirements.

A tire with the correct tire load index for your vehicle means you that your tires are made to handle the weight of your vehicle. The speed rating shows the maximum speed your tires can handle, which tends to be more important in countries with roadways that are not subject to speed limitations. Whether or not the mud and snow designation is important will depend on the climate in which you live and drive.

Once you’ve purchased your new tires, it is important to follow your vehicle manufacturer’s recommended specifications to assure safety and best vehicle performance. Selecting a dependable, quality tire is just the beginning. Maintaining the proper tire pressure will help you extend the life of your tires .