Auto Collision Tips

Keeping calm and on task after an auto collision can save lives and enable you to get back on the road quickly

An auto collision is an emotional and tedious experience. Many motorists drive defensively, take driver education training courses and get ready for stressful driving situations, however vehicle collisions still take place in Arnold, MO.

A driver is responsible for knowing what to do if they are involved in a wreck. Even the most prepared and competent motorists sometimes find themselves involved in a collision. It doesn't matter who's responsible, the most important thing to do first is make sure everybody is OK, then seek medical and law enforcement help and know what to do to protect yourself from legal or financial trouble down the road.

The best defense to prevent any trouble after a collision is to get ready. As outlined by AAA, "Keeping a pen and paper, disposable camera or cell phone camera, and copy of your insurance card readily available all the time will help keep you organized and lessen stress moments following a collision."

After stopping your automobile, Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair recommends all drivers involved in an automobile crash stick to these steps:

1. Help the seriously injured. Quickly talk with those involved in the collision to find out if there are any injuries. If medical assistance is needed, call 9-1-1. If medical attention isn't required, be certain that you're not in imminent danger at the roadside.

2. Control the Scene. Before you take time to exchange information, get to a safe place.  If there aren't any injuries and your vehicle is drivable, safely move to the right or left emergency lane.  Some state laws require drivable vehicles to be removed from the roadway to avoid traffic congestion. Turn on your hazard lights and set out warning flares or reflective triangles. Never leave the scene of the crash, but find a safe place to remain until emergency services arrive.

3. Notify the Police and Submit a Report. The law requires you tell the authorities. No matter what either party alleges, call law enforcement and file a report. If the authorities don't come to the scene to start an investigation, you can file a report by visiting a nearby police department or car insurance agency in the days after the accident. Having a report on file might help later if a liability claim is submitted.

4. Document the Scene and Exchange Information. It is very important exchange and gather information with all parties involved in the accident, including witnesses. Having this on file will help finish any future paperwork or address possible problems. Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair suggests that you document:

•   Names
•   Addresses/email address
•   Vehicle Information including makes, models and years for all cars involved
•   Vehicle identification/license plate numbers
•   Driver’s license numbers
•   Insurance carriers and policy numbers
•   Take pictures of the area, people involved and wrecked motor vehicles

5. Notify Your Insurance Carrier. Your insurance company will have to be notified after a crash to start the right claim filing. Many insurance companies have staff available around the clock and can assist immediately. Having proof of insurance in your car or truck is required by law and makes filing a claim easier if not at home.

6. Get Your Motor Vehicle Fixed. You have the right to get your vehicle fixed at the auto body shop of your choosing. Consider taking it to Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair in Arnold, MO, which also serves Arnold, Oakville, Imperial, and Jefferson County, MO.

7. Unattended Vehicle or Property. If you're tangled up in a crash that involves an unattended motor vehicle or property, take action to inform the owner. If you cannot find the owner, attach a written notice of the crash to the car or property, making certain to include your contact information and information in the list above.

Drivers and owners of motor vehicles must certainly be ready to assume legal and financial responsibility if involved in a crash, don't let your emotions and feelings get in the way of determining who is the culprit. Do not allow yourself to be pressured into admitting fault or giving an opinion about the cause of a crash. If you would like, you can consult with a lawyer before providing a statement.

For additional tips on proper auto body repair or what to do in case of an accident, get a hold of Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair in Arnold, MO today!

Kids And Hot Cars Are No Mix In Summer Heat

With the summer heat here, it is the best time to remember just how hazardous a automobile can be whenever kids and pets are left unattended.  Heat is one of the leading weather-related killers in the US.

At Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair in Arnold, MO, North America’s most reliable brand for auto body repair, the focus isn’t merely on repairing vehicles, it’s on protecting the well-being of the drivers and passengers in those automobiles any time they are driving.

We want to do everything we can to teach drivers about the safety of their motor vehicles in the summer sun.  Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair encourages motorists to plan their trips so you don't have to leave somebody – or any pet – in a automobile that isn’t running with the air condition turned on.  And, it’s important to bear in mind that even a few minutes in a hot automobile can have devastating effects.  You always want to take those extra steps to guarantee the safety of your kids.

According to the National Weather Service, a lot of kids and untold quantities of pets left in parked vehicles die from hyperthermia every year.  Hyperthermia is a severe condition that occurs whenever the body absorbs more heat than it can take care of.  Hyperthermia can occur even on a mild day. The effects can be more severe on youngsters because their bodies warm at a faster rate than adults.

Research has shown that the heat inside a parked motor vehicle can rapidly rise to a dangerous level for young children, pets and even adults.  Leaving the windows slightly open won't seriously decrease the heating rate.  On an 85-degree day, the temperature within a car or truck with the windows opened slightly can reach 102 degrees within 10 minutes.  After 30 minutes, the temperature will reach one hundred twenty degrees.

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

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

•   Never leave kids, disabled adults or pets alone in a hot car, even briefly

•   Always remember to check the front and back seats of the vehicle before you lock it and leave

•   See a kid alone in a hot car? Call 911 as soon as possible. Get them out as soon as possible if they're in distress

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

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

The people at Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair in Arnold, MO also helping the people in Oakville, Imperial, and Jefferson County, MO are so happy that you are taking the time to read about the necessity of summer car or truck safety. If you want more superb advice, call us up at 636-464-6080

IS YOUR CAR’S BODY READY FOR SUMMER?

Summer has arrived, and even though people are looking at a vacation getaway and some time outdoors, you need to start making plans to maintain your vehicle and reduce damage from summer weather and often challenging driving conditions that you can find in Oakville, Imperial, and Jefferson County, MO.

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

That's where your local Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body in Arnold, Missouri can help.  Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body 's automotive professionals can get rid of any damage you already possess, and  they can also put you on the road to prevention to reduce any future costs.

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE DETAILS

The first place to begin is with CARSTAR’s specialist detailing services. Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body can return your vehicle to like-new condition for a minimal investment.

•   A fresh cleaning can eliminate all of the road grime, tar, and other particles that you could have picked up on the way

•   A proper waxing will help protect your vehicle from the elements, restore faded paint, and bring back that showroom shine

•   Wiping out minor scratches and blemishes within the clear coat and paint now can keep rust from taking over later

•   A detailed interior cleaning can eliminate any damaging elements like sand or dirt that you might have brought into your car

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

•   Repairing torn upholstery now and replacing worn floor mats will help keep a slight problem from turning out to be a bigger, more pricey one later

•   Installing window film can prevent fading later on, and also reduce heat in the passenger area
While you experience the summer sun and outdoor activities, your car does not.  A good detailing and wax is like sunscreen for your vehicle. With good car care and some smart driving, you and your vehicle can sail through summer! Just give Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body in Arnold, Missouri a call at 636-464-6080 today or visit www.auto-body-arnold-mo.com

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

People in Arnold, MO start out each and every New Year with several meaningful changes or plans to make “this year” better than the last. Some plans will probably involve better diets, lifestyle changes, read more, exercise more, journal more, spend more time with our family, and greater focus on how to be more fiscally responsible.

It’s hard to argue with being more responsible with where you spend your hard earned dollars. Insurance costs to protect our vehicles can be a major expenditure for lots of people.  It is just common sense to complete a yearly review where and how these controllable dollars are spent.
Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair in Arnold, MO, also serving the folks of Oakville, Imperial, and Jefferson County, offers a couple of tips to help ensure your auto insurance premium dollars are spent in the most effective manner possible.

1.   When you have a clean driving record with no mishaps and no violations in the last three years you might qualify for a substantial “safe driver” discount. If you don’t see a discount of this type on the declarations page that comes with your renewal, ask your agent or insurance provider.

2.   Assuming you have good or very good credit you may qualify for additional discounts.  Ask your agent or insurance provider.

3.   When you have your auto and homeowner policies with the same insurance company you most likely qualify for another type of discount. Confer with your agent or insurance provider.

4.   If you have young drivers on your policy who are good students, generally a B average or higher, you may qualify for more discounts.  There's also discounts available for taking part in safe driving programs. Check with our agent or insurance provider for availability.

5.   If your vehicles have special accident avoidance systems you might qualify for further discounts.

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

7.   Changing the amount of your collision and/or comprehensive deductibles could be a choice to control your premium costs. Picking out a higher deductible for either coverage will lessen your premium. But it’s imperative that you understand this move will increase your financial exposure should a major accident occur.

8.   Many insurance companies are offering installed driving performance monitors that provide you a deep discount on your insurance for safe driving.  Consult your insurance agent on availability.

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

10.   One more tip to every insurance consumer would be to make sure you have a “what if I have an accident" pack in your glove box. This kit should contain a pencil, a pad of paper to write down accident details and witness contact details, your agent’s contact info, your current insurance card, a plastic camera, and emergency contact information with names and numbers of people identified as the people to call in case you’re injured.

Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair hopes to be sure that everyone traveling in Oakville, Imperial, and Jefferson County are ready for the road in each and every way possible. If you live in Arnold, MO or the surrounding area and would like to have your questions pertaining to auto body repair answered, call Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair at 636-464-6080 or visit our website: www.auto-body-arnold-mo.com.

Why Should You Consider CARSTAR?

Whenever your vehicle needs to be repaired, you need a repair facility that you can rely on to help you stay informed throughout the complete process, offer superb customer service, deliver your vehicle on time and get you back on the road with the best quality repair.

That’s why a lot more people Select Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair in Arnold, Missouri for their motor vehicle repair needs than any other body shop. Across Oakville, Imperial, Jefferson County, and Arnold, MO, we provide national scale, consistently high-quality vehicle repairs and the industry’s finest customer satisfaction ratings, and most repairs are backed by a limited five-year nationwide warranty and service guarantee.

When you Select  Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair for your car repair, you’re choosing to be a part of North America’s biggest network of auto body shop owners.  That means you get the national training, quality standards and resources of the network, in addition to the personal service and community involvement of our local Arnold, Missouri area.  We feel this unique combination provides you the highest quality vehicle repair possible and supports a vibrant locally owned and operated company in your community.

Certified technicians are trained to work on all makes and models and get involved in ongoing education programs on the newest vehicle technologies and materials. Working with Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair allows you the peace of mind in knowing your car or truck will be repaired right and with the utmost attention to your needs. It's just one of the many ways we help minimize the disruption to your life.

We use high-quality parts and products to restore your vehicle to pre-accident condition. And, we do a 50 point quality interior and exterior inspection, a whole test-drive and a complete detail, to assure our workmanship meets your high standards before we give your automobile back to you.

Whenever you need auto body repair, Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair in Arnold, Missouri is here to help. We offer helpful assistance twenty-four hours a day, 7 days a week, and will walk you through each step of the process.   We can call your insurance company, have your motor vehicle towed for repairs and get a hold of a friend or family member for you. Call us today at 636-464-6080 or visit www.auto-body-arnold-mo.com.

Prevent Pandemonium For Perfect Performance

Drivers have to cope with a lot more potential distractions nowadays than they had about ten years ago, and those attention-stealers are accountable for crashes that cost money and lives. Thankfully, people who observe in close proximity the destruction brought on by in-car diversions have put together some suggestions for handling and avoiding them.

Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair in Arnold, Missouri is in the industry of correcting mistakes many people make on the highway. It used to be that all a motorist had to distract himself was a single AM radio. Now, you'll find sufficient high-tech electronic gadgets built in to fly a space shuttle, and they can all diminish a driver’s concentration.

Following these tips can significantly lower the possibility of a crash and make a trip more enjoyable for those involved.

•   Choose a rigid no-text policy – According to figures from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the possibility of an accident is twenty-three times higher for those who are sending and receiving text messages when driving. A vehicle moving at fifty-five miles per hour will go over the length of a football field in the 4.6 seconds it takes to type or receive a message. Driving while texting is comparable to driving while inebriated. The appeal of a text message is that it'll be waiting for you whenever there's time for you pull over and read it.

•   Restrict or get rid of cell phone use while driving – A study by Australia’s Monash University Accident Research Centre discovered that the utilization of handheld devices like a cell phone enhances crash and injury possibilities by four hundred percent. If a passenger is on board, let that individual carry out the conversation whenever you drive.

•   Use a hands-free device, but strictly for essential calls – Carnegie Mellon used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to see brain activity of individuals answering a number of true/false questions whilst replicating driving your car on a computer screen. They uncovered a thirty-seven percent decline in the brain’s capability to judge spatial relationships (like between the automobile at speed and other things) when the “driver” focused on responding to questions. This information indicates that any conversation with someone not in the passenger compartment reduces the driver’s reflexes when driving.

•   Program GPS receivers before beginning a trip or errand – Portable and in-dash GPS devices are immensely helpful for getting us where we would like to go, particularly those that call out the step-by-step instructions. They're only useful, however, if the driver doesn't try to input information when in motion. Most GPS devices show a legal warning against this action before they are used.

•   Master a car’s devices and adjustments before you leave the driveway – Modern cars have a large number of buttons, switches and handles that may need activating when you're out, and a motorist ought to be familiar with them to avoid distraction. Adjusting the windshield wipers, headlights, radio settings, climate controls, seat height, steering wheel angle and emergency flashers can easily disturb the driver for enough time to trigger a major accident.

•   Save meals for the rest stop – Americans have perfected the art of eating and driving, which is the reason why cars created for the USA market frequently have more cup holders than seats. Based on the findings of the NHTSA, a driver’s morning cup of coffee and muffin are practically as distracting as a mobile phone conversation.

•   Keep children and pets in authorized seats or locations – Crash-test engineers have established the most secure placement for kids of various sizes and ages in vehicles. Following applicable federal and state laws also decreases a parent’s potential for distraction while driving because the child is less inclined to get injured or into trouble in a moving vehicle if restrained. Letting animals freely roam within a vehicle isn't just a terrible idea; it is illegal in many states as legislators crack down on distracted driving.

Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair in Arnold, Missouri, also repairing vehicles in Festus, Imperial, Oakville, and St. Louis, want you to realize that there are lots of ways to decrease the amount of dangerous distractions within a vehicle. These tips target just a few which are simple for people to fix. Anything a driver can do to concentrate on the highway will only increase the likelihood of a safe arrival.

For more tips on safe driving and collision repair, visit www.auto-body-arnold-mo.com. CARSTAR Auto Body Repair Experts offers high-quality, reliable repair service in thirty-two states and ten Canadian provinces. Just call 1-800-CARSTAR when you want to have a vehicle repair, and they will send a tow truck, get a hold of your insurance company, arrange for a rental car and fix your car.

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

At first sight, a scratch repair pen may seem like a wonderful idea. What’s not to want about making fast repairs to your car’s finish simply by drawing a line across the damage? It just so happens, the results aren't always like what you see on the TV commercials. Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair in Arnold, Missouri, also serving folks in Festus, Imperial, Oakville, and St. Louis, are pleased to offer these fascinating test results.

For instance, we discovered that they won't work on anything but small exterior scuff marks. And, they'll often make the damage look even worse.

Marketed as a simple way to avoid expensive auto body shop expenses, manufacturers claim that anybody can get professional results from the pens, which cost ten bucks or less. We sampled three to find out if the claims were true.

What We Tested

The Simoniz Fix it Pro ($10), DuPont Pro Fusion Color ($8), and Turtle Wax Scratch Repair Pen ($10) are available everywhere online or in auto parts stores. Advertised to work with any color paint, they have a durable clear coat similar to the protective outer layer applied to brand new vehicles straight out of the factory. But what their packaging does not make entirely clear is that these pens are purely for surface scratches inside the clear coat. If the harm gets into the paint below, you are out of luck.

We also discovered that the pens are difficult to use, and that it is quite difficult to achieve the thin, even line required to nicely fill scratches without overdoing it. With applicator tips which are as wide or wider than an average scratch, our sampled products make it extremely difficult to avoid applying too much filler, and leaving a visible residue that is more noticeable than the harm you are attempting to repair. And eliminating that residue may need sanding and buffing it out, and maybe even some touch-up paint.

Generally speaking, these items will not help on any scratch that is deep enough to feel with your fingernail, or if you are able to see primer or bare metal. For that sort of damage, you will need more than clear filler and a stable hand. The only method to fix damaged paint is by using more paint.

How We Tested

For our assessment, we took the same lab-grade black test panels we buy for car wax testing. These boards are painted and clear coated with automobile finishes. We used them on a couple of automobiles with light scrapes: a silver Toyota Sienna minivan and a dark blue Honda CR-V.

We established scratching for the test panels with a key and a bolt, and then used the products according to manufacturers' instructions on both of the panels and the pre-scratched vehicles. This included washing and drying the damaged area, shaking the pen thoroughly to mix the contents, dabbing the tip on paper towel to get the product flowing, and carefully drawing the pen across the surface of the scratch. After applying the products, we moved the trial samples to the roof of our building where they were allowed to weather for four straight weeks.

The Results

All three of these products loaded the scratches, and we saw no really big distinction between them in either convenience or effectiveness.

From some angles, the repairs looked every bit as good as marketed in the TV advertisements. But some angles revealed a ridge of extremely noticeable excess clear coat. The results had the appearance of an amateur job, at the very best, and generally the repair was much more obvious than the initial scratch. The Simoniz and DuPont products advise wiping off any surplus with a paper towel, but we discovered that this only made things appear worse, as it smeared the paint over the intact surface.

Our advice is that you save your cash and skip these quick fixes for minor damage or try some sort of cleaning polish instead.

For deeper scratching, a visit to Steve's CARSTAR Auto Body Repair in Arnold, Missouri might be your best bet.