04 Dec 10 Get The Best Winter Tires For Safe Winter Driving

Nov 25, 2010 – 7:04:44 PM
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Get The Best Winter Tires For Safe Winter Driving

Find the best winter tires so you can be ready for safe winter driving. I think the Goodyear Nordic tires are the best and you might think that too…read this article to find out what makes these winter tires the best…better than all the rest.

Photo Caption: Interesting Fact: When equipped with a set of Goodyear Nordic winter tires, you are able to stop shorter on average up to a distance of 60′ while traveling at 60km/h.

(NC)—As winter approaches, Canadians begin to prepare not only for winter, but for safe winter driving. For all drivers this should include changing all-season tires over to winter tires.

Winter tires are designed for winter driving conditions – colder temperatures, snow and ice – and are therefore safer for winter driving than all-season tires. At temperatures below 7 C, all season tires begin to lose elasticity and traction. Winter tires are made with a compound that retains elasticity and gives better control and traction not only in ice and snow, but also on cold, dry pavement. The Goodyear Nordic, for example, stops on average up to 60 feet sooner than a best-selling all season tire travelling at 60 km/hr.

A few tips to remember when installing your winter tires this year:

Winter tires should always be installed in sets of four. Failing to do so may cause loss of vehicle control.

Don’t think you’re safe if you drive an SUV or truck – all passenger vehicles should be equipped with winter tires.

When purchasing winter tires look for the mountain/snowflake logo on the tire sidewall which indicates the tire has met or exceeded the Rubber Association of Canada’s standards for acceptable winter tire performance.

Purchase winter tires as a package with wheels to save time and cost mounting tires onto your existing wheels and reduce stress on your tires, leading to longer tire life.

Look for affordable opportunities to be ready for winter driving. For example, this fall Canadian Tire offers deferred payment on a set of winter tires purchased using their Canadian Tire Options® MasterCard® with no interest, no payment and no fees for 12 months.

Check out your local Goodyear dealer to find the best deals on the best winter tires out there. You know what Canadian winters are like, so if these Goodyears work up in Canada, they will work anywhere there is cold and snowy weather. Be safe this winter, get the best winter tires for your vehicle.

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03 Dec 10 Make Your Winter Driving Safe Driving With These Car Care Tips

Nov 25, 2010 – 7:15:31 PM
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Make Your Winter Driving Safe Driving With These Car Care Tips

Be ready for winter driving and make it synonymous with safe driving. Learn some car care tips from Canadian Tire. The weather in Canada makes for some hazardous winter road conditions every year, so when they talk about winter driving and car care, we should listen.

(NC)—Don’t let winter road conditions surprise you this year – prepare for winter driving ahead of time to ensure the safety of everyone on the road.

“The key to safe winter driving is to get a seasonal tune-up and winterize your car before the temperature drops,” says Michelle Massicotte, associate vice president of car care and accessories at Canadian Tire. “A certified technician can identify and fix any repair needs to make sure your car is ready to avoid mishaps on the road.”

In addition to a seasonal tune-up, take these steps to get your car winter-ready:

Get Winter Tires

Most people don’t know it, but all-season tires start losing traction at 7( C), so replace them with winter tires with larger grooves and tread blocks that grip the road better to avoid sliding in cold, snowy, icy or slushy conditions.

Test Your Car Battery

Get your car battery tested if it is more than three years old. The average life of a battery in Canada is less than five years, with most battery failures occurring during the cold winter months.

Restore Headlights

Improve the clarity of cloudy or dull headlights. Products like the 3M Headlight Lens Restoration System not only brighten headlights to improve route visibility, but make your car more visible to other drivers, too.

Check Wiper Blades

Visibility is crucial to safe winter driving. Choose wiper blades like Canadian Tire’s new Reflex Hybrid wiper blades that are designed to resist ice and snow build up.

Use Synthetic Oil

Use synthetic oil formulated for cold conditions to protect your car’s engine, ensure good engine start-up and circulation and help minimize winter wear and tear on your engine.

Prepare a Winter Road Kit

Keep emergency items in your trunk including a snow brush, snow shovel, emergency kit, booster cables, flashlight, windshield washer fluid, blanket and extra clothing.

More information on winter automotive must-haves and buying guides can be found online at www.canadiantire.ca.

The folks at Canadian Tire have in depth knowledge of winter driving and winter road conditions. Listen to these simple car care tips and make safe driving a priority this winter. Learn about which are the best winter tires you can buy for your vehicle today.

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01 Dec 10 Winter Tires and Four Easy Tips To Prepare For Canadian Winter Driving

Nov 25, 2010 – 7:40:26 PM
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Winter Tires and Four Easy Tips To Prepare For Canadian Winter Driving

Winter Tires are one way to prepare for Canadian winter driving and so will these four helpful driving tips from the experts in harsh weather driving at Hankook Tire Canada.

Winter tires, like the Hankook I*Pike are designed to handle ice and snow thanks to aggressive tread patterns and special softer rubber compounds that provide more traction on slippery surfaces.

(NC)—Unless you plan to hibernate this winter, you will inevitably be faced with some challenging road conditions in the coming months.

“Knowing how to handle the road in harsh weather is one of the most important steps in keeping you and your family safe,” says Bill Hume Vice-President of Hankook Tire Canada. Hume notes that simple preparations and preventative measures can enhance safety and reduce stress associated with slippery road conditions.

These four important winter driving tips may help get you through any slippery situation:

1. Keep Your Distance:

Always leave plenty of space between you and the vehicle in front of you. Doing so will give you enough time to brake in a controlled manner and time to react in case of an emergency. Stay vigilant of road conditions, and increase the space if you detect or suspect black ice. A good rule of thumb is that if there are icicles on your windshield wipers or frost on your side view mirrors, there is a good chance that there is black ice on the road.

2. Use Your Brakes:

If your car is equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS), hit the brakes and let the system work for you: your ABS will pump the brakes at timed intervals without locking your wheels, enabling you to stop safely. It’s normal to feel pulsation in the brake pedal, that’s the ABS working. A lot of people have a tendency to release the brakes as the ABS kicks in; do not lift your foot until you come to a stop. If your vehicle is not equipped with ABS, pump your brakes to avoid locking which will help you remain in control of the vehicle.

3. Importance of Winter Tires:

Studies have shown that at -14 C all-season tires lose up to 60 per cent of their grip compared to winter tires. Unlike all season tires, winter tires are made with special rubber compounds that stay soft even at very low temperatures. A softer tire will stick to the road better, and give your vehicle more traction for optimal control. Some winter tires like the Hankook Winter I*Pike feature aggressive v-shaped tread patterns which are great on snowy roads. If you plan on doing a lot of driving in the winter months having the right winter tire will make a big difference. For more information on how winter tires function, speak to your local tire dealer.

4. Stay Calm and Control a Skid:

In the event that you do find yourself skidding out, remain calm and do not suddenly brake, accelerate, or jerk the wheel. Instead, let go of the gas and turn the steering wheel into the skid in a slow and controlled manner. While it may seem counterintuitive to aim your car in the direction that it is skidding, it may be the best way to get control back. For example, if your rear wheels slip out to the left; turn the steering wheel smoothly to the left and ease your foot off the gas. Your rear tires will slow their rotation to regain their grip, at which point your car will stop sliding and begin to straighten. You can then bring the wheel back to center, regaining full control.

These four winter driving tips are important. Re-read them and remember what they say. Knowing what to do in a cold weather and snow related mishap and the winter tires you just had put on your vehicle can save you from accidents in the snow and wet, cold weather.

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29 Nov 10 Are Winter Tires On Your Winter Driving Checklist?

Nov 25, 2010 – 7:48:52 PM
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Are Winter Tires On Your Winter Driving Checklist?

Winter tires and your winter driving checklist. Are you ready for winter driving?Winter tires like the Hankook I*Pike are ideal for winter roads – offering maximum steering response and stability.(NC)—With summer in the rear-view mirror and Jack Frost knocking at the door, it is time to think about winterizing your car.

“With unpredictable weather conditions, Canadian winters are challenging for even the most seasoned motorists, placing extra demands on your vehicle and driving skills,” says Bill Hume, Vice President of Hankook Tire Canada. “Every driver should create a complete seasonal checklist to ensure they and their families are prepared to face the elements head on.”

In other words, start thinking about mechanical maintenance and winter tires long before you see snowflakes falling. Here are a few things you can do to help your car get through the winter and keep from getting caught in the cold:

• Change Your Oil:

The change in seasonal temperatures may also dictate changing to a thinner viscosity engine oil to more efficiently lubricate moving parts in colder conditions. Check your cars owner’s manual for fluid recommendations.

• Consider Winter Tires:

Winter tires have added groove capacity, which helps dispel excess snow from your tires. Winter tires are also made of a softer compound, providing additional traction in colder temperatures. Hankook’s winter I*Pike tire, equipped with v-shaped tread, is an ideal solution for winter roads – offering maximum steering response and stability.

• Check Your Battery:

With cold weather comes increased power demand: defrosters, windshield wipers and heating systems can really take a toll on your car battery. For a simple battery test, run your vehicle’s headlights before starting the engine. If you notice that your vehicle’s headlights get brighter once you start the engine, more extensive battery tests may be needed.

• Prepare An Emergency Kit:

The Ministry of Transportation recommends keeping a winter survival kit in your vehicle. Having essential supplies can provide comfort and safety for you and your passengers in the event of an emergency. Some of the essential items include: ice scraper/snowbrush, shovel, sand or other traction aid, booster cables, flashlight, first aid kit, a blanket and a spare winter tire.

It is also important to stay alert, slow down, and stay in control — the three key elements of safe winter driving. Drive according to highway and weather conditions, and keep an eye on your car’s maintenance throughout the season. Be prepared and don’t let winter ruin your road trips.

For more information visit www.hankooktire.ca.

These car winterizing and safety tips can make your winter travel safer. Winter tires and a few simple car maintenance tips to help ensure the safety of your vehicle and your passengers is certainly worth it.

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27 Nov 10 In Winter Driving Conditions Caution Is The Key To Vehicle Safety

Nov 25, 2010 – 8:10:18 PM
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In Winter Driving Conditions Caution Is The Key To Vehicle Safety

Whether in the city or the suburbs, in winter driving conditions caution is the key to vehicle safety. Your winter tires and the air pressure levels are a most important safety factor.

(NC)—No-one can predict what Mother Nature has in store for us this winter, but one thing is clear: by remembering a few simple tips from the Michelin experts, you can take the bite out of winter and its roads, whether you live in the city or the suburbs and whether it rains, hails, or snows.

Town Mice: Avoid Nasty Surprises

If you live in town, you are probably surrounded by high snow banks and roads that are often infrequently or inadequately cleared. How to cope? Think ahead.

Avoid nasty surprises by respecting municipal parking signs. If your vehicle is stuck in a snow bank, use a shovel to remove the snow from around the tires and under the vehicle and create a forward and backward rocking motion with the car.

In town, traffic signals often force us to make frequent stops. It’s important to keep in mind that the condensation formed by the heat of cars in contact with the cold road surface creates ice – often hidden under snow. Another good reason to slow down and keep your distance – especially when stopping at intersections.

Finally, be aware that leaving your car in an underground parking lot during the day and then exposing it to the winter cold at night may cause your tire pressure to fluctuate widely. It is thus vital to frequently check and adjust your tire pressure to avoid rapid tire wear, save gas, and, above all, ensure your own safety and that of other drivers.

Country Mice: Keep Your Distance

If you live in the suburbs and must travel long distances to and from work each day, don’t panic.

When driving on the highway, keep an even longer distance than usual between you and the vehicle in front to help you maintain control of your car in case of a sudden stop. And, above all, be doubly cautious and slow down when approaching bridges, curves, and exits, which are often icier than usual.

Finally, many of today’s cars come with up to three different electronic control systems to assist the driver in maintaining traction and control. However, it is important to remember that these systems cannot compensate for tires of poor quality.

Everything you need to know about winter driving with a single click

More valuable tips about winter driving are available online at Michelin’s Winter Driving Academy, www.michelinwintercentre.com. This entertaining website, created by Canadian experts for Canadian drivers, offers videos, tips, and hints to help you keep control of your vehicle under the most difficult winter driving conditions.

Learn all you can about winter tires and winter driving condtions at Michelin WInter Centre where Canadian experts help to keep you and yours safe.

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26 Nov 10 Conquer Your Winter Driving Fears

Nov 25, 2010 – 8:20:07 PM
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Conquer Your Winter Driving Fears

Conquer your winter driving fears. Black ice, snow storms, other drivers and loss of vehicle control are all valid fears, but you can conquer them by paying attention to these simple driving tips from the experts at Michelin Winter Driving Academy.

(NC)—Every year, winter driving is a source of many unpleasant surprises. For many, driving on snowy or icy roads is a cause for alarm and even a source of stress. Black ice, loss of control, other drivers, and snow storms are the four major fears identified by Canadians in a recent Michelin survey. To give you some insights into these problems and allow you to benefit from the experience of a pro, we asked Richard Spénard, professional race car driver and driving instructor, to share his know-how with you. He offers some simple, effective ways to deal with these four major driving hazards this winter.

Black Ice: Slow Down

That thin layer of transparent ice is almost invisible on the road – that’s why it is indisputably the most dangerous of surfaces. So drive slowly while testing your vehicle’s braking ability by tapping lightly on the brakes to check their reaction and the grip of your tires. That way, you’ll be aware of the driving surface and won’t be taken by surprise.

Loss Of Control: Focus On Your Destination

Should you have the misfortune to lose control of your vehicle, keep your foot on the brake until the car comes to a complete stop. Remain calm and manoeuvre your car out of the way to avoid any danger of being hit by approaching vehicles. Never get out of your car on the road or shoulder. Should a car in front of you lose control, rather than looking at that vehicle, brake while focusing on where you want to steer your car. Vision and planning are your best allies!

Other Drivers: Keep Your Distance

Although some people believe they are past masters at winter driving –beware. Nobody is safe from dangerous weather and changing road conditions. Be wary of other drivers. Drive defensively, slow down, and keep an even longer distance than usual between yourself and the vehicle ahead of you.

Snow Storms: Prepare For The Worst

Nothing beats preparing your vehicle to meet any situation. Get into the habit of checking weather conditions before setting off and delaying or moving up your departure time based on the forecast. Also prepare an emergency kit containing a blanket, flashlight, matches, toque, mittens and other articles that might be of use. Remember that it’s important to prepare carefully for every trip and to remove all the snow from your vehicle to ensure maximum road visibility.

Everything You Need To Know About Winter Driving With A Single Click

For more details or tips, stop by Michelin’s Winter Driving Academy. This interactive website offers educational content developed by Canadian experts for Canadian drivers to help you adopt simple, effective habits to conquer your winter driving fears. Test your knowledge at www.michelinwintercentre.com and, above all, drive safely.

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25 Nov 10 New Year’s Eve and Drunk Driving

Nov 25, 2010 – 12:35:51 AM
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New Year’s Eve and Drunk Driving

New Year’s Eve and Drunk Driving…many people associate those two and rightfully so. New Year’s Eve is when we celebrate a brand new year and we usually celebrate with alcohol. Make sure to designate a driver who will not drink to take everyone home from the party.

(ARA) – If you were to conduct a poll of Americans, it’s likely that a vast majority would associate New Year’s Eve with drunk driving. But the reality is the danger of being hit by a drunk driver or receiving a citation for DUI (driving under the influence) may actually be far greater between Thanksgiving and Christmas, according to Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD).

While many Americans have become conditioned to take extra steps to avoid drinking and driving on New Year’s Eve, many fail to recognize the danger that exists throughout the holiday season and the professional football season.

With office holiday parties, holiday get-togethers thrown by friends and family, and a myriad of professional sports events, the opportunities to consume alcohol seem nearly endless this time of the year. Add factors such as poor driving conditions due to winter weather, shorter daytime driving hours and other holiday season driving distractions, and you have all the ingredients of a potential tragedy on the road.

According to FindLaw.com, the nation’s leading online source for legal information, drunk driving means being under the influence of any substance (alcohol, illegal drugs, prescription drugs, etc.) that impairs a person’s ability to safely operate a motorized vehicle (car, motorcycle, boat, all-terrain vehicle (ATV), etc.). All 50 states and the District of Columbia have laws defining it as a crime to drive with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) at or above a proscribed level, currently .08 percent in most states. On average, the BAC among fatally injured drinking drivers is .16 and the relative risk of death for drivers in single-vehicle crashes with a high BAC is 385 times that of someone with a zero BAC.

The most important thing to do before going out to a holiday party or meeting friends at a local bar to watch a pro football game is to become familiar with the consequences of drinking and driving in your state. In many states, public safety officials are actively taking a stance against drunk driving through public information campaigns and stepped-up roadside DUI checks, especially during peak times, such as the holiday season.

Here are some additional tips from FindLaw.com on how to have a safer, DUI-free holiday season:

* Select A Designated Driver.

Make sure to choose someone who promises not to drink and who will make sure that all passengers buckle up.

* Take A Cab or Public Transportation.

If you’re traveling alone or with just one other person, consider taking a cab or public transportation to and from your holiday event.

* Hosting The Holiday Party.

If you host a holiday party, either at your home or at your workplace, make sure to offer your guests a cab ride to get home, if they need it. Make sure to also offer non-alcoholic beverages to your guests – as well as food to offset alcohol intake.

* Be Aware

That you can receive a DUI while operating snowmobiles and ATVs as well. Also keep in mind that alcohol consumption combined with excessive speed and the lack of safety belts dramatically increases your odds of injury during a collision on the trail.

* Put Down The Cell Phone.

Even if you’ve only had one glass of wine or one beer, alcohol in any quantity can impair. Avoid compounding the situation with distractions such as talking on your cell phone or texting, which takes your eyes off the road.

* If You’re Pulled Over,

Remember to treat the officer with respect; otherwise, he or she could use your defiance as evidence against you in a trial. Turn your car off, put your keys on the dashboard, keep your hands on the steering wheel, in full view of the police officer and be prepared to show your driver’s license and proof of auto insurance.

* Think Twice

about refusing to take a breath test or blood alcohol content test. Some states impose severe consequences if you refuse a blood or breath test, as opposed to taking one and failing.

* Behavior Matters.

Even if you do test below the legal limit of .08 (standard in many states), an officer who still believes that you have demonstrated behavior that prevents you from safely operating a motor vehicle can arrest you. If you are taken to court, the prosecution will almost always rely on the arresting officer’s testimony about your behavior and operation of the vehicle. This includes swerving your car, having slurred speech and/or bloodshot eyes, a heavy odor of alcohol and your inability to walk straight.

* Hire An Attorney.

Being convicted of a DUI can have serious ramifications. If you do go to court, it’s essential to hire a defense attorney who specializes in DUI matters. To locate a lawyer who specializes in DUIs in your area, search FindLaw.com.

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10 Oct 10 Teens And The Dangers of Distracted Driving

Oct 9, 2010 – 10:10:53 PM
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Teens And The Dangers of Distracted Driving

Teens and the dangers of distracted driving, how do you get your teen’s attention when teaching the dangers of distracted driving. This is one of the most important driving lessons you will give your child and it is important that they don’t tune you out during it.

(ARA) – Windows down, music turned up, friends giggling in the back seat, freedom … it’s the moment all teenagers dream of – getting their drivers license.

Teen drivers are often euphoric with this new sense of independence. After all, getting a drivers license is a big rite of passage. Teens are inundated, and rightfully so, with statistics and horrific stories that point to the dangers of driving while intoxicated. However, new research shows that distracted driving is among the leading causes of auto accidents, and the problem is getting worse.

“Although laws have been put into place in the spirit of eliminating dangerous distractions for drivers, it’s critical that parents, teachers and influencers at large talk to teenagers about the dangers of driving distracted,” says Duke Daugherty, vice president of auto at Fireman’s Fund Insurance. “It seems harmless to take your eyes off the road for a few seconds to send a text, or change the station, but those few seconds could cost the loss of lives, and a lifetime of angst.”

Research complied by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that distracted driving caused 6,000 deaths and 500,000 injuries in 2008. And data shows that these numbers are continuing to grow. Research also shows that teen drivers are four times more likely to be involved in a distracted-related collision than any other age group.

In general, three types of distractions are most dangerous for teenagers on the road. These distractions can be visual (actions that require drivers to take their eyes off the road), manual (actions that require taking hands off the steering wheel) or cognitive (actions that require drivers to take their minds off what they’re doing).

Local agencies, police departments and focus groups have put into place programs intended to inform teenagers of the dangers of distracted driving, but it’s crucial for parents and schools to keep the dialogue going so teenagers understand the urgency of the problem.

“Encourage your teenagers to be completely alert and fully focused on the road and their surroundings while driving,” says Daugherty. “Parents need to model good behavior in front of their kids by not texting or making calls that distract from driving. If we all take steps to show how important this is, we will see a drop in the behavior by teens.”

Discuss and stress the following driving guidelines:

* Keep both hands on the steering wheel and eyes on the road (use mirrors).

* Avoid cell phone use – Cell phones are the number one distraction for teenager drivers. Cell phone use falls under the categories of visual, manual and cognitive distractions. Mobile technology has made texting, surfing the Internet and social networking all too easy.

* Encourage teenagers to avoid using their phones, for anything at all, until they are safely pulled off the road and parked. Devices are available to disable cell phone use in autos.

Drivers younger than age 20 represent the highest proportion of distracted drivers involved in fatal crashes, according to the National Automotive Sampling System (NASS). Reiterate to your teenagers that making a phone call, using the Internet or sending a text message is never more important than somebody’s life. If they are driving with friends who participate in cell phone use while driving, encourage them to be bold and speak up.

Teenagers should also refrain from the following activities while driving, according to the US Department of Transportation:

* Eating and drinking

* Having lengthy or involved discussions with passengers

* Grooming

* Reading (including maps)

* Using a PDA or navigation system

* Watching a video

* Changing the radio station, CD or MP3 player

It only takes one simple distraction to cause a potentially fatal car accident. Remind your teenagers to avoid participating in distracted driving activities, and to be advocates for their own safety and their peers as well.

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12 Jul 10 Texting Driving – Stop Texting, Start Driving

Jul 11, 2010 – 11:41:10 PM
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Texting Driving – Stop Texting, Start Driving

Texting Driving. New texting while driving laws encourage people to stop distracted driving and go hands free. Check out the reasons and find out how to stop using hand held cell phones and texting.

(NAPSI)-The urge to text while driving has become a commonplace in the United States. In fact, more than 25 states have signed or implemented texting while driving laws. That’s good news, since a distraction of any type-whether you are taking your eyes off the road, your hands off the wheel or your mind off your driving-can have very serious consequences.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, as recently as 2008, nearly 6,000 people died in crashes involving a distracted driver, and more than half a million were injured.

Although the spotlight’s on cell phones and texting, distracted driving encompasses many other activities-from tuning the radio, eating, putting on makeup, reading, looking for something on the floor or in the glove box, and talking or refereeing disagreements in the car. You can do a number of things to break the habit and cut down on your own distracted driving incidents, such as:

• Be Prepared Before You Start Your Car

If you put on makeup, eat, or program your GPS before you hit the road, you’ll cut down on some distractions. If you organize what you need for your final destination before you leave, you won’t need to search while driving.

• Go Hands Free

If you must use the cell phone when driving, invest in technology that will help you keep your eyes on the road. Several installation-free kits are available that can help you go hands free for less than the cost of a ticket.

• Take a Break

Even with a hands-free device, the best idea is to pull over if you must make calls, answer texts or deal with issues involving other passengers.

One way to go hands free is the Parrot Minikit Slim. The speakerphone clips onto your car’s sun visor, and once paired via Bluetooth with your mobile device, it automatically downloads your contact list. Using voice commands, it can dial up anyone in your phonebook and can be turned off and on with the push of one button.

In addition to portable options, another way to go hands free is with an installed product such as the Parrot MKi9200. Installed products are fully integrated into the vehicle’s existing stereo system so phone calls can be heard with the same sound quality as music. In addition, music players such as iPods can be played through the vehicle stereo system via an installed solution.

To learn more, visit the website at www.parrot.com.

The best way to stop texting driving is to go hands free with a device like Parrot. If you use your cell or you text as you drive your car, that is distracted driving and the new texting while driving laws are meant for you. So be careful, drive safely and go hands free.

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11 Jul 10 DWD. Driving While Distracted

Jul 7, 2010 – 8:14:50 PM
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DWD. Driving While Distracted

Drivers are getting the message texting and driving while distracted are dangerous and people are beginning to pay attention to this fact.

(NAPSI)-A growing number of people are paying attention to the dangers of driving while distracted. According to a recent survey, U.S. drivers say they are talking and texting less while driving than they did a year ago, and they say it’s because they are more aware of what can happen if they are driving while distracted (DWD).

The survey shows that 20 percent of drivers with cell phones say they text while driving and that number jumps to 47 percent for drivers under the age of 35. Of those who admit to texting behind the wheel, 40 percent say they do it less often than they did last year. The survey was sponsored by Nationwide Insurance.

According to the telephone survey of 1,005 U.S. adults conducted by Harris Interactive, 67 percent of drivers admit to talking on their cell phone while driving. Of those who do, 30 percent say they do it less often than they did last year.

While the problem of DWD remains one of the deadliest risks facing drivers, this survey shows that drivers are changing their behavior due to awareness and legislation.

“This is the first survey we’ve seen showing drivers making positive changes in their behavior, but there are still too many drivers who either don’t realize just how dangerous distractions behind the wheel are or are willing to take that risk,” said Bill Windsor, Nationwide’s associate vice president of Consumer Safety. “The stigma now associated with distracted driving may also have fewer people willing to admit they do it, but studies continue to indicate that DWD causes one out of every four U.S. crashes.”

Hands-free Not Used Widely

While hands-free technology is readily available, two-thirds of drivers surveyed say they rarely or never use the devices. Most drivers who do use a hands-free device report feeling safer when doing so, although nearly one in four of these drivers say they talk more often since they started using the hands-free device.

“This survey shows that it is likely that when handheld cell phone laws are passed that a number of people will switch to hands-free devices and their usage of the phones will actually go up,” said Windsor. “More research needs to be done on the extent of crash risk related to the cognitive distraction aspect of cell phone use. We need to be sure that for this segment of heavy users it does not actually result in increased crashes.”

To learn more, visit www.nationwide.com. Driving while distracted or DWD, texting while driving and talking on cell phones are all against the

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04 Dec 10 Get The Best Winter Tires For Safe Winter Driving

Get The Best Winter Tires For Safe Winter Driving

03 Dec 10 Make Your Winter Driving Safe Driving With These Car Care Tips

Make Your Winter Driving Safe Driving With These Car Care Tips

01 Dec 10 Winter Tires and Four Easy Tips To Prepare For Canadian Winter Driving

Winter Tires and Four Easy Tips To Prepare For Canadian Winter Driving

29 Nov 10 Are Winter Tires On Your Winter Driving Checklist?

Are Winter Tires On Your Winter Driving Checklist?

27 Nov 10 In Winter Driving Conditions Caution Is The Key To Vehicle Safety

In Winter Driving Conditions Caution Is The Key To Vehicle Safety

26 Nov 10 Conquer Your Winter Driving Fears

Conquer Your Winter Driving Fears

25 Nov 10 New Year’s Eve and Drunk Driving

New Year’s Eve and Drunk Driving

10 Oct 10 Teens And The Dangers of Distracted Driving

Teens And The Dangers of Distracted Driving

12 Jul 10 Texting Driving – Stop Texting, Start Driving

Texting Driving – Stop Texting, Start Driving

11 Jul 10 DWD. Driving While Distracted

DWD. Driving While Distracted

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