Know Before You Tow Tips from Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair

Know Before You Tow

There is nothing is worse than having an accident around Arnold, Oakville, Imperial, Jefferson County, MO and having to get your car towed away, unless your car is taken to a shop you didn’t select and held hostage until you pay up.

The problem has existed for years, but is getting worse, thanks to trucking and towing industry deregulation that allows private operators lots of leniency in picking up cars and taking them to the highest bidder.

How can you avoid getting taken advantage of when you get a tow? There are some rights you have as a consumer, and some smart things you should know to prevent a towing operator from taking advantage of you.

The St. Louis Area CARSTAR Experts recommend the following:

1. Stay with your vehicle until the tow truck arrives if possible.
2. Get the towing company’s name, address and phone number, driver’s name and tow truck operator license number and license tag number from the truck
3. Ask where the vehicle will be towed, the address, on-site contact person and pickup policies
4. Ask for an estimate on the cost of the tow and any additional charges – in writing and signed by the driver.
5. Remember that you have the right to have your vehicle towed wherever you want. That’s why it’s important to have an accident plan in place ahead of time that details your selected collision repair center.
6. Keep in mind that once your vehicle is delivered to a storage facility or unapproved body shop, you will be liable for daily storage fees, pressured to use their repair facility and will owe delivery fees should you tow it to your selected shop.
7. Make an extra set of your title, registration and insurance papers from your glove box so you can take them with you if your vehicle is towed.
8. Clean all of the electronics, sports equipment, office materials and personal items from the vehicle before it is towed.
9. Double check how your vehicle is hooked up for towing. Typically, if it is a rear-wheel drive vehicle, these should be off the ground to avoid damaging the transmission. For a front-wheel drive car, the front tires should be off of the ground.
10. Call your insurance company immediately to let them know where your vehicle is being towed. They cannot mandate where you have your car towed or repaired, but may have some guidance on quality collision shops if you don’t already have one chosen.
    

If you have your car towed to Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair, you can trust that we will do the work needed, on time and on budget, all backed by a lifetime warranty. You never want to be at the mercy of a tow truck operator who isn’t working with a reputable shop.
Since CARSTAR was founded, it has performed more than 2.5 million repairs. Today they deliver a repaired vehicle every :30 seconds. CARSTAR franchisees deliver an average customer satisfaction rating of 97 percent or better. To learn more visit www.stlcarstar.com.

When driving in the Arnold, Missouri area its important to use common sense for driving safety

When driving in the Arnold, Missouri area its important to use common sense for driving safety – By being a safe driver, you won’t have to pay expensive tickets or additional insurance costs, nor will you have to face the courts as a result of criminal charges related to reckless driving.

Take care of your vehicle. Check your:

• Tires, wipers, lights
• Oil, transmission and washer fluid levels
• State inspection (if applicable)

Always be courteous:

• Don’t blind other drivers with your auto’s high beams.
• Be patient and considerate of others.
• Look before backing out of a parking space or entering traffic.

Don’t lend your car:

Always have permission to use an auto. Your insurance usually follows the car, not the driver. If a friend wrecks your car, your insurance typically pays for the damage.

Wear your seat belt – It’s a safety issue, but wearing your seat belt is also the law in most states and it will dramatically reduce your chances of receiving a head injury or being thrown from your vehicle if you are involved in an accident. Make sure your passengers use the safety precaution of buckling up too. Don’t let your car’s airbags give you a false sense of security. Airbags are designed to work with seat belts, not in place of seat belts.

Teenage driving safety is important to your family. If you won’t wear a seat belt for your own safety, do it for the people who love and care about you.

Don’t drink and/or take drugs and drive – When you drink, even a small amount of alcohol can affect you. When you drink and drive, you endanger yourself and others. This danger also exists when you take drugs and drive.

Know the rules of the road – In order to step up and be aware of teenage driving safety, know your traffic signs. Disobeying the rules of the road can result in traffic violations, including:

• Speeding
• Reckless/improper driving
• Improper passing
• Hit-and-run or leaving the scene of an accident
• Drag racing on a public highway
• Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs

Avoid distractions – Teenage driving safety includes not using a cell phone when the car is moving and never attempting to send a text message while driving. You should also avoid eating, applying makeup or changing a CD or songs on an MP3 player while driving.

Limit the number of teen passengers – Studies on teenage driving safety show that a young drivers’ crash risk increases with each teenage passenger. Many state laws restrict the number of passengers a teenager is allowed to transport, so refer to your state laws, and remember fewer passengers is always safer.

Should something go wrong, Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair is here to help. Check out the following tips for what to do in the event of an accident.

What About My Auto Insurance Deductible?

What About My Auto Insurance Deductible?

If your insured vehicle sustains physical damage as a result of a collision with another car or fixed object or your vehicle sustains damage related to some type of covered comprehensive peril (fire, theft, malicious mischief, vandalism, windstorm, hail, etc) your auto policy declaration pages will indicate the applicable deductible.

It’s always important to double check the accuracy of your policy information with your insurance company before and after a loss. Your deductible is due when you pick up the vehicle after repairs are complete.

Look for a body shop in Jefferson County that offers financing for deductibles if you don’t want to pay this out of pocket. Contact us here at Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair in Arnold for more information.

Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair experts Offer Tips for Safe Driving in the Winter Months

BE IN THE KNOW WHEN DRIVING ON ICE AND SNOW

Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair experts Offer Tips for Safe Driving in the Winter Months

Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair in Arnold, MO – Cold weather can create some of the harshest driving conditions of the year. And, months between October and February top the list for accidents, vehicle damage and injuries.

When the temperature dips and the snow rises, it is important for drivers to increase their attention to safety on the road. With proper preparation, some preventative driving measures and an eye on the weather report, drivers can protect themselves and their vehicles during the winter months. The experts on winter driving accidents at Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair in Arnold, MO, repairs thousands of vehicles each year damaged in snowy, icy accidents.

Check Your Visibility:

• Add de-icer to your windshield wiper fluid
• Make sure your windshield wipers are free of ice before heading out on the road – and consider updating with new flexible windshield wipers before the snow hits
• Make sure all mirrors are clear and properly adjusted for visibility
• Clean your headlights and check the bulbs in all of your vehicle lights – front and rear

Slow Down and Stay Back:

• When there is snow or ice on the ground, drop your speed to a safe limit
• Leave extra distance between your vehicle and the car in front of you for additional safety
• Do not use cruise control on icy roads
• Use caution on bridges, overpasses, and infrequently traveled roads because these may be slippery from ice
• Use extra caution when driving on one-lane roads

Skidding Safely

• If your rear wheels skid...
• Take your foot off the accelerator
• Steer in the direction you want the front wheels to go. If your rear wheels are sliding left, steer left. If they're sliding right, steer right
• If your rear wheels start sliding the other way as you recover, ease the steering wheel toward that side. You might have to steer left and right a few times to get your vehicle completely under control
• If you have standard brakes, pump them gently
• If you have anti-lock brakes (ABS), do not pump the brakes. Apply steady pressure to the brakes. You will feel the brakes pulse — this is normal

If your front wheels skid...

• Take your foot off the gas and shift to neutral, but don't try to steer immediately.
• As the wheels skid sideways, they will slow the vehicle and traction will return. As it does, steer in the direction you want to go. Then put the transmission in "drive" or release the clutch, and accelerate gently

Prepare for a Snow Day:

• If your vehicle has rear wheel drive, put bags of sand or kitty litter to help keep your vehicle easier to control
• Pack a snow day kit just in case you get stuck. Important items to include are a blanket, gloves, hat, water, granola bars, flashlight and extra batteries, extra cell phone battery, flares, wooden matches in waterproof container, compass, scissors, rope and first aid kit.
• Prepare a toolbox for digging your car out with fold-able shovel, 2x4 planks to put under tires, ice scraper and snow brush, reflective triangles, flares and exterior windshield cleaner

For information and store locations visit www.auto-body-arnold-mo.com. For more tips on dealing with an accident or having your car repaired after a collision, visit Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair in Arnold, MO.

About CARSTAR CARSTAR Auto Body Repair Experts is the largest group of branded collision repair facilities in North America with over 400 locally owned and operated locations in 30 states and 10 Canadian provinces. CARSTAR is committed to providing consistent quality services to our customers and insurance partners and has repaired more than 2.5 million vehicles since it was founded in 1989. Our technicians and front office staff receive ongoing training to ensure they are qualified to work on any vehicle. Customer satisfaction is our number one priority as we consistently lead the industry in customer satisfaction ratings.

Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair Experts Offer Tips for Safe Driving During the Holidays

KEEP YOUR SLEIGH SAFE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair Experts Offer Tips for Safe Driving During the Holidays

Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair in Arnold, MO (November 2010) – Whether you’re on the road to grandmother’s house or just heading to the mall for some last-minute shopping, it’s smart to take a few precautions to prevent the holiday headache of an accident.

Heavy traffic, drivers distracted with holiday plans and winter weather create the perfect storm for drivers during December. In fact, it’s one of the highest months for traffic accidents.
But with proper preparation, some preventative driving measures and an eye on the weather report, drivers can protect themselves and their vehicles during the holiday season.

The experts on holiday driving accidents, Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair in Arnold, MO Repair Experts, repairs thousands of vehicles each year damaged in snowy, icy accidents. Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair offers drivers some helpful tips to make holiday driving safer.


Keep In Mind:

• Check your route: Look up road conditions in advance to know if there will be any delays
  
• Turn down the Jingle Bells: Reduce distractions such as loud music
  
• Stay in touch: Bring a cell phone in case of emergencies
  
• Protect yourself: Always wear a seat belt
  
• Take a break: If you are traveling a distance, take breaks or even a quick nap at a rest stop to stay alert
  
• Don’t invite theft: Presents in the back seat are more inviting than cookies and milk for Santa. Lock them in the trunk to prevent break-ins
  
• Don't Text and Drive: Texting and driving can not only potentially harm you and your family but other drivers. Keep the phone stored for emergencies. When it is necessary to send a message, safely pull to the side first
  

Check Your Visibility:

• Check your visibility: Make sure all mirrors are clear and properly adjusted
  
• Update your wipers: Make sure your windshield wipers are free of ice before heading out on the road – and consider updating with new flexible windshield wipers before the snow hits
  
• Fill your fluids: Add de-icer to your windshield wiper fluid
  
• Look at your lights: Clean hazed headlights and check bulbs in all of your vehicle lights – front and rear
  

Slow Down and Stay Back:

• Watch out for holiday revelers: Some drivers may consume a few beverages before hitting the roadways. Remain alert and watch other drivers in case they begin to swerve
  
• Keep it slow: When there is snow or ice on the ground, drop your speed 10 to 20 MPH below the speed limit
  
• Allow some space: Leave at least two to three car lengths between your vehicle and the car in front of you
  
• Cruise with caution: Do not use cruise control on icy roads
  
• Stay alert to the surface: Use caution on bridges, overpasses, and infrequently traveled roads because these may be slippery from ice and use extra caution when driving on one-lane roads
  

Prepare for a Snow Day:

• Weight it out: If your vehicle has rear wheel drive, put bags of sand, litter or bricks to help keep your vehicle easier to control.
  
• Stock up on supplies: Pack a snow day kit just in case you get stuck. Important items to include are a blanket, gloves, hat, water, granola bars, flashlight and extra batteries, extra cell phone battery, flares, compass, scissors, rope, wooden patches in waterproof container and first aid kit.
  
• Take your tools: Prepare a toolbox for digging your car out with fold-able shovel, 2x4 planks to put under tires, ice scraper and snow brush, reflective triangles, flares and exterior windshield cleaner.

You can never be too careful when driving in holiday traffic and in winter weather. Accidents can happen so quickly on slick, icy roads, so slowing down and taking the extra precautions can really make the difference. An accident is never easy to deal with, but having an accident during the holidays can really put a cramp in the holiday cheer. An extra measure of safety is always the perfect present during the yuletide season. For more tips on dealing with an accident or having your car repaired after a collision, visit www.auto-body-arnold-mo.com.

If the unfortunate holiday accident does occurs have a collision plan in place so you aren’t stranded on the roadside waiting for assistance. For information and store locations visit Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair in Arnold, MO.

About CARSTAR CARSTAR Auto Body Repair Experts is the largest group of branded collision repair facilities in North America with over 400 locally owned and operated locations in 30 states and 10 Canadian provinces. CARSTAR is committed to providing consistent quality services to our customers and insurance partners and has repaired more than 2.5 million vehicles since it was founded in 1989. Our technicians and front office staff receive ongoing training to ensure they are qualified to work on any vehicle. Customer satisfaction is our number one priority as we consistently lead the industry in customer satisfaction ratings.

Getting Your Car Ready For Winter Tips from Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair in Arnold, MO

Getting Your Car Ready For Winter

Simple Tips Protect Your Vehicle During Cold Temps and Tough Driving Conditions Around Arnold,Oakville, Imperial, Festus, St. Louis MO.

Winter weather is just around the corner, and with it come salty, sandy roads, foggy driving conditions and limited visibility for your vehicle.

Your local Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair in Arnold, MO recommends a few simple tips to give your vehicle the equivalent of winter parka and ski goggles to protect it all winter long.

For the car’s exterior, the key is to get all of the exterior finishes cleaned and prepared for a protective winter coat, then keep damaging salt and sand off of the car’s finish throughout the winter. The top 10 tips include:

1. Give it a good bath with car wash soap to remove summer dirt and grime without removing wax protection
2. Remove the tar and debris from summer road work with adhesive remover. Just rub it on with a microfiber cloth, let sit for a few minutes to loosen dirt, old wax and tar, then wipe off
3. Restore plastic headlight lens to like-new clarity in time for winter snow and fog with a quick trip to your local CARSTAR Auto Body Repair Experts to remove the yellowing and hazing that reduces headlight performance and visibility
4. Clean the wheels and tires to remove brake dust and highway grime then restore tires to brand new finish with a tire restorer.
5. Remove surface scratches with a cleaner wax. This easy to apply wax eliminates surface scratches and restores the shine to the paint finish in one easy step.
6. Deeper scratches and dents should be repaired at your local CARSTAR Auto Body Repair Experts before rust sets in.
7. Give the car a good protective coat of synthetic wax, which chemically bonds with clear coat finishes and keeps the car’s finish looking good all winter.
8. Get the glass clean inside and out for improved visibility.
9. Protect the upholstery with a leather and vinyl restorer, which revives the natural sheen and soft feel of the factory finish
10. Clean the car’s carpet with a high-quality carpet cleaner and protect from winter salt and dirt with a protective spray.

Once you’ve cleaned and protected your car, all you need to do is wash it at least once a month to remove damaging salt and sand. When spring comes, you’ll be ready to ride with a great-looking car.

For more tips on dealing with an accident around Arnold, Oakville, Imperial, Festus, St. Louis, MO or having your car repaired after a collision, visit www.stlcarstar.com.

About Steve's CARSTAR

About Our Company

Heath Harris,
Owner

Steve's CARSTAR has been servicing the collision repair needs of Arnold and Jefferson County for more than 30 years and recently received a 99.12% customer satisfaction rating! Steve's technicians are I-CAR and Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certified and our equipment is all specially designed to bring your vehicle back to pre-accident condition. Owner Heath Harris continues to improve on their business through ongoing education and awareness of the latest collision repair techniques in an effort to give their customers the best service possible. Steve's CARSTAR has a talented and service-driven staff of 13 people.

CARSTAR Auto Body Repair Experts is the largest group of branded collision repair facilities in North America with more than 400 locally owned and operated locations in 30 states and 10 Canadian provinces. CARSTAR is committed to providing consistent quality services to our customers and insurance partners and has repaired more than 2.5 million vehicles since it was founded in 1989.

Giving Back To The Community

Participating St. Louis locations and other CARSTAR locations across the country are making a donation to the Make-A-Wish Foundation® for every car they repair and nationally, CARSTAR auctioned off a specially recreated 1967 Super'Stang Mustang in January, 2009 with net proceeds benefiting the Make-A-Wish Foundation®!

The Metro St. Louis CARSTAR collision service group continues its support of the local Make-A-Wish Foundation with a commitment to help grant a wish to Matt, a South County resident in remission from Hodgkin's disease. His wish is to have his S-10 truck repaired and tricked out, complete with a hot new paint job! For more information about this Wish and the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Missouri chapter, visit www.mo.wish.org or call 1-800-548-5058.

The CARSTAR Super'Stang is a recreation of a unique 1967 Mustang created by the Ford Motor Company, but never made available to the general public. The Super'Stang is in the midst of an 18-month nationwide 'Muscle Tour' to highlight the minimum $150,000 commitment that CARSTAR has made to the Make-A-Wish Foundation nationally and the $20,000+ commitment that the St. Louis CARSTAR group has made locally.

For information about the national Make-A-Wish Foundation, please visit www.wish.org.

Local Partners

Recognizing the importance of quality training in the auto body repair field, the Metro St. Louis CARSTAR Group has formed a partnership with Ranken Technical College, donating $35,000 to the school's automotive collision repair program. The majority of CARSTAR's donation will be allocated to stocking and furnishing an auto collision repair classroom. The new CARSTAR classroom will be equipped with smartboards and other essential 21st century learning tools, enhancing the traditional learning aspects of the program.

For more information please contact our website at Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair.