Monthly Archives: August 2012

A cracked windshield may not seem like a major problem, but it could turn out to be a serious hazard over time. It’s quite easy to end up with a crack or chip from flying stone or other debris. A comprehensive auto insurance policy might not only cover you for damage from an accident, it can also cover the repair of a cracked windshield.

A small crack in your windshield may spread, and eventually obstruct your view, making it difficult for you to see pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles. This could lead to an accident, and a claim on your insurance. If your windshield is already compromised and you are involved in a collision, the windshield is also more likely to shatter. The windshield also contributes to the overall structural strength of your car, which is critical in an accident.

It is important that you have your windshield repaired or replaced if it becomes chipped or cracked in order to avoid a more serious situation. It is vital that the structural integrity of your car is maintained and your view of the road is unobstructed, so that you may reduce your risk of an accident and a claim on your auto insurance policies.

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It is important that you make sure your car is in good working order before you hit the road for a long trip. It would be unfortunate to spend part of your long-awaited vacation in an auto repair shop because disaster unexpectedly struck. You may want to contact your Long Island agent before setting out on your trip to make sure your auto insurance policies are current, and give you the coverage you need to financially protect your car and passengers.

There are some items to check before embarking on your journey:

• Check your tires and the tire pressure. Also, make sure that your spare is in good shape.
• It may be wise to check all fluids such as water in the radiator, transmission and brake fluids, engine oil, and windshield wiper fluid.
• You may want to make sure that all lights are working and that your air conditioner is functioning well.

It may make sense to take a fire extinguisher and flashlight on your trip, as well as jumper cables and water bottles. It’s also a good idea to make sure you have the contact information for your insurance agent in case of an accident. Ensuring you have adequate auto insurance is especially important before taking your car on a lengthy vacation trip.

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Proper auto maintenance is crucial for preventing car fires, keeping your family safe, and avoiding claims on your auto insurance. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), it is a good idea to have your auto thoroughly inspected at least once a year for any potential hazards that could cause a fire or other problems.

Some potential vehicle fire hazards include fluid leaks, cracked hoses, loose wiring, or wiring with exposed metal. These kinds of hazards may warrant an immediate trip to your Long Island auto repair professional. Changes in the way your vehicle runs or sounds may need to be investigated too. Loud exhaust tones, smoke coming from the tailpipe, or backfiring could be signs of trouble that may cause a vehicle fire. It is important to have these kinds of problems repaired right away. Your insurance policies for your auto may not cover damage done to your vehicle from simple lack of maintenance.

Should your auto catch on fire, the NFPA recommends you pull immediately off the road, put the car in park, turn off the ignition, put on the emergency brake, get yourself and all passengers out, and stand at least 100 feet away from the vehicle. It may be dangerous to open the hood as more oxygen may feed the fire, and cause you injury. It may be better to call 911 and wait for emergency services to arrive. Once the fire is out and you observe the damage, you may need to contact your auto insurance agent for help in filing a claim.

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