Turn your next drive with your kids into a meaningful moment. Whether it’s a quick trip to the store or a longer journey, being in the car together can spark conversation. It’s the perfect chance to connect and dive into the little things that matter most. With fewer distractions, the car becomes a place where stories flow, questions unfold, and you create memories that last beyond the ride. Here are some guidelines to get the conversation started.
Create an Inviting Atmosphere for Great Conversations
Ensure it’s easy to listen and be heard by keeping distractions to a minimum—turn down the radio and ask everyone to stow away devices.
Mix up the topics with a balance of fun and thoughtful discussions that match your child’s age and interests.
Keep the vibe upbeat and supportive—focus on connecting rather than correcting.
Engage by listening just as much as talking. Listening is the key to deepening your bond.
Encourage open dialogue by asking questions that spark more than a yes or no response.
If the conversation doesn’t flow right away, stay patient and keep the lines of communication open.
Creative Ways to Build Stronger Connections
Try any of these creative approaches to tap into topics that are meaningful to your child or teen.
Hobbies and Interests:
Whether your kids are into sports, art, reading, or something else, ask them about it. Your interest shows that their hobbies matter and helps boost their confidence. Inquire about the latest scrimmage, the book they’re reading, their favorite TV show or another beloved activity. You will want to show genuine curiosity and pose follow-up questions. Remember, your role isn’t just to guide, but to celebrate their unique interests and growth.
New Technology:
There are plenty of fun, new gadgets and apps that help us manage our world. Talk with your children about some of the latest tech. Then reveal what the world was like, before they were born, without this technology. Help them imagine what it was like with an engaging story or two. Ask them what new technology of the future should be invented. You never know how that might inspire them.
Current Events:
Talking about social media trends or other age-appropriate current events with your teens is an opportunity to teach them about the world and develop their critical thinking. Encourage them to share their thoughts and opinions, asking open-ended questions like, “How do you feel about what’s happening?” or “What do your friends think about this?” These discussions can help them process information, understand different perspectives, and build a sense of empathy and awareness. Create a safe space for them to ask questions or express concerns.
Role Plays:
Car rides can be the perfect time to role-play with your child and help them work through different problems in a relaxed setting. You can create scenarios based on challenges they may face, like dealing with a disagreement at school or preparing for a big test. By playing different roles, you can guide them to think through solutions, practice how to respond, and build confidence in handling tricky situations. It’s a great way to engage their problem-solving skills. Plus, the casual environment of the car makes it feel less pressured for both of you.
Fun and Silly:
For a lighthearted and engaging conversation with your kids, try mixing in some fun and silly questions. Ask them, “If you were an animal, what would you be?” or “What food could you eat every day for the rest of your life?” These boredom-busting questions can spark creativity and laughter. You might also ask, “If you could switch places with anyone in the world, who would it be?” or “If you could change your name, what would it be?” For an extra challenge, try speaking only in questions to keep the conversation flowing in unexpected ways. And when all else fails, throw in a dad—or mom—joke to lighten the mood!
Driving Safety:
Being in the car is a natural time to talk about vehicle safety. Again, keep the conversation age appropriate. If you have a teen, point out decisions that you make as you drive, and share safety tips such as how to safely pull over on the side of the road. Note the dangerous behaviors that you see from other drivers such as tailgating. Get them ready to focus on the road by asking them to navigate and tell you where you should turn. For younger passengers, point out road signs for stop, yield and crosswalks. Ask them what they notice when looking outside the window. Talk about why we wear seatbelts and what could happen if we forget. Teach them safety around vehicles.
Finally, you’re traveling with precious cargo when you transport your family. Make sure your car is well-maintained and protect it with the right car insurance. Safe travels.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
Transportation Expense (TE) coverage, often called rental reimbursement is an optional coverage that can be added to your auto insurance policy to help cover the costs associated with renting a car while your vehicle is being repaired due to a covered loss, such as an accident.
Many drivers opt for the minimum rental reimbursement coverage, but is that enough? With the rising cost of vehicle rentals, extended repair times, and other complications, minimum coverage often proves insufficient, leaving policyholders to cover unexpected expenses out of pocket.
Understanding TE Coverage
This coverage provides a fixed daily amount, up to a total limit, that is put toward rental car expenses. For example, if you have $30/$900, these amounts refer to the specific limits:
$30 per day: The maximum amount your insurance company will reimburse you per day for rental car expenses.
$900 total: The maximum amount your insurer will pay out for rental car expenses over the entire repair period.
On the surface, opting for low rental reimbursement coverage could seem like enough, but it may not go as far as you think when you need it most – leaving you responsible for the difference.
Rising Rental Car Costs
The price of renting a car has skyrocketed in recent years. In 2023, the average daily cost of renting a car was between $50 and $70, depending on the location, vehicle type, and availability. This is a significant increase compared to previous years, primarily driven by supply chain disruptions, vehicle shortages, and inflation.
If you have minimal TE coverage that offers only $30 per day, but rental prices are closer to $50 or more per day, you would be left covering the difference of $20 per day. This gap can add up quickly. For example, if your repairs take two weeks and the daily rental cost is $60, your insurance would cover only $30 of that each day, leaving you responsible for the remaining $30. Over 14 days, that adds up to $420 out of pocket—a substantial and unexpected expense.
Extended Repair Times
Another factor that can make $30/$900 rental reimbursement coverage insufficient is the time it takes to repair vehicles. Repair times have increased due to various factors, including shortages of auto parts, labor shortages in repair shops, and the growing complexity of modern vehicles. What used to be a simple fix taking a few days might now take weeks—or even a month—depending on the extent of the damage and the availability of parts.
If you have minimum coverage, the total limit might not cover your rental for the entire repair period. For instance, if your car is in the shop for 25 days and you’re renting a car at $50 per day, you would need $1,250 in rental car coverage. However, with minimal TE coverage capped at $900, you’ll be on the hook for the remaining $350, even though you’ve been responsible and maintained insurance coverage.
Limited Vehicle Options
The type of vehicle you need can also impact whether carrying minimum rental reimbursement coverage is sufficient. For instance, if you typically drive a larger vehicle, such as an SUV or minivan, you may need to rent a similar-sized vehicle to accommodate your family or lifestyle needs. Unfortunately, rental prices for larger vehicles tend to be significantly higher than those for compact or economy cars, sometimes reaching $80 to $100 per day.
If your insurance only reimburses $30 per day, but you need an SUV rental that costs $90 per day, you would be responsible for the $60 daily difference. Over the course of just days, this could result in hundreds of dollars of out-of-pocket expenses.
How to Protect Yourself from Paying Out of Pocket
While minimal TE coverage may seem like a cost-effective choice at first, it’s important to weigh the risks and consider upgrading your coverage to ensure you’re fully protected in the event of an accident. Here are some ways to avoid financial surprises:
Choose Higher Daily and Total Limits: For a small increase in cost, upgrade your TE coverage limits to $50/$1500. By selecting a higher daily limit and total coverage amount, you’ll have greater peace of mind and reduce the likelihood of out-of-pocket expenses.
Pro Tip: As a California Casualty policyholder, we give you the option to update your coverage at any time during your policy period.
Choose an Economy Rental: If possible, opt for an economy or compact car. These vehicles typically have the lowest daily rates, making it more likely that your $30 daily allowance will cover the cost. Even if you normally drive a larger vehicle, renting a smaller car temporarily can help you avoid additional costs.
Go Through CalCas: Take advantage of our partnership with Enterprise so you can benefit from:
Negotiated rates that are below the published daily rate
Expedited reservations services
Direct billing from Enterprise to California Casualty for your covered transportation expenses
Pick up and drop off service in many areas when using our Guaranteed Repair Network of body shops
While choosing minimal Transportation Expense coverage might seem like a smart way to save money, it can lead to unexpected out-of-pocket expenses if rental costs, repair times, or vehicle needs exceed your coverage. With rental prices on the rise and repairs taking longer, a bit more coverage now could help you avoid unwanted surprises later.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
The car ahead suddenly collides with another vehicle, forcing you to brake hard to avoid the crash. Your heart races, adrenaline kicks in, and as the dust settles, you realize you’re not just a passerby—you’re a witness. But what happens next? Knowing your role in that critical moment can make all the difference.
While it’s not a legal requirement to stop at the scene of an accident, many people do. As a witness, you’re often the first to arrive and can play a crucial role in calling for help. You may also provide key information that helps clarify what happened and determine liability. If you witness an accident, here are the steps to follow.
Find a place on the side of the road near the accident that is about 100 feet away. Stay
away from broken glass, leaked fuel, downed power lines, and other hazards. You don’t want to put yourself or your car in danger. Once you’ve parked, shut off your car and put on your flashers.
2. Call 9-1-1.
Don’t assume someone else is doing it—unless you see and hear them doing it. Notify the police about the accident, which can be more serious than it looks. Be prepared to give your location. Look for the nearest cross street, a mile marker, or nearest off ramp. The operator will ask how many people need help, and if they are conscious, breathing, or bleeding. Now is the time to step out of your car to check.
3. Exit safely if you can.
Only leave your vehicle if it is safe to do so. Be careful of cars whizzing by and of debris on the road, including broken glass and twisted metal. Be aware of smoke, odd smells or fluids that could signal a potential fire danger. Your safety is your priority.
4. Offer comfort and, if needed, first aid.
Approach the vehicles with the accident victims. Ask if they are okay. Let them know that first responders are on their way. Importantly, do not move an injured individual unless there is an immediate danger of fire. You can bind wounds and stanch bleeding; ask the 9-1-1 operator for direction if you’re unsure.
5. Stabilize the scene.
Make sure all vehicles are in park and turned off. If cars are still on, and fuel is leaking, that could cause a fire. If you need to, and if you can, move the damaged car off the road. Otherwise, set up warning flares (only if there are no fuel leaks) or traffic triangles. You can keep these in your trunk for just this purpose.
6. Document the accident.
The victims may not be able to take photos of the crash. Go ahead and do so and add notes so you will remember what happened. Get contact information so you can get the pictures to the people involved in the accident. Pay special attention if it was a hit and run. Any details you remember could help police track down that car.
7. Talk to the police.
When the police arrive on the scene, they will want to talk with you. Simply share the facts. Don’t speculate on fault if you are unsure who caused the accident. Do not feel pressured to answer every question and do not guess at the answers. “I’m not sure” and “I don’t know” are valid responses. It’s possible that you may be called to testify in a court of law. Don’t ignore a subpoena if you get one. That is against the law, and you could be fined or go to jail.
Some final thoughts…
Witnessing any kind of accident is upsetting. Seeing a fatal accident can be traumatic. Make sure to talk to your pastor, doctor or a therapist to help process the experience.
Did you see the accident occur or did you come by after it happened? If you didn’t see it, then you’re not a witness. You can still stop and help but let the police know that you do not have any information on the crash.
Finally, make sure your own vehicle is protected with the right insurance. This will help add peace of mind if you should get in an accident.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
There are four things standing between you and the pavement when you drive—your tires. Keeping them in good shape is key to staying safe on the road. Whether you’re gearing up for a long drive or just your daily commute, knowing how to check your tire pressure is a small step that can make a big difference.
That’s because the right tire pressure can have some far-reaching impacts:
If you drive a passenger car, your tire pressure is likely between 32 to 35 pounds per square inch (psi). SUVs and trucks require a higher psi. Here’s how to find the exact number:
Open your driver’s side door.
Look along the doorjamb for a sticker. It should display the pressure (including whether you need specific pressures for front and rear tires and your spare).
You can also find the recommended pressure in your owner’s manual.
Importantly, do not go by the number that is on the sidewall of your tires. That is the maximum pressure allowed.
Dangers of Overinflating or Underinflating Tires
You want the right amount of pressure in your tires, not too much and not too little.
Overinflating causes the center of the tire’s tread to wear faster. It also decreases traction and your tire’s ability to absorb impacts.
Underinflating causes the outer edges to wear faster. Your car may pull or drift to the side.
Both overinflation and underinflation cause uneven wear, which reduces your tires’ lifespan. At the very least, it will require you to purchase a new set sooner than normal; at the worst, it could cause a
Start with the Right Tools
Now that you know the basics about tire pressure, you’ll want to gather the right tools. You need a tire pressure gauge to start. While you could use one built into an air machine at a gas station, those aren’t always the most accurate. It’s always good to have your own, which you can use at home and anywhere. You can purchase a gauge at an auto supply or hardware store. You will likely have a choice of three kinds:
Stick gauge: Usually the most inexpensive option, this type of gauge resembles a pen. It has a small bar that pushes out to show the reading.
Dial gauge: This type of gauge has a round dial that looks like a clock face or compass. The needle will stop at the number to show the reading.
Digital gauge: This gauge has an LCD display showing the pressure in numbers. However, it needs batteries to operate and when they run out, you will need to replace them.
Optional but handy:
You can buy a portable air compressor to allow you to fill your tires anywhere and not just at a gas station’s air compressor kiosk. These vary from manual hand-operated or foot pumps to those you can plug into your car’s battery or a 12V power port. You will pay more for one with a built-in gauge, which can be helpful. If you are considering a purchase, look for one where you can put in the proper pressure and the unit will shut off when it reaches that number.
How to Check Pressure
You should check your tires’ pressure monthly or whenever there are changes in weather that could affect them.
Start with a “cold” tire which is when a vehicle has been parked for 3 hours or more, or one that has been driven less than a mile at moderate speed. Tires heat up when they’re driven and that will increase the air pressure, and you won’t get an accurate reading.
Remove the screw-off cap on your tire’s air valve. Put it someplace safe where you will not lose it.
Place your tire gauge over the valve and push it into the stem. If you hear air escaping, continue to press it in until that stops.
Check the reading on your tire gauge. Note that some gauges need to be in the tire’s valve for the reading; others may be removed.
If the reading matches the recommended pressure, screw the cap back on. If not, take the next steps to add air or take it out.
Repeat for each tire.
If you can access your spare, do it for that one as well. It will be helpful to have a spare ready to go should you need to change a tire.
How to Add Air
You can find air compressors at most gas stations, and they are often free or a minimal charge.
Park so the tire in need is closest to the machine so the cord will reach.
Read the directions on the compressor before paying (if there is a cost). Once you pay, you should hear the machine turn on.
Remove the screw-on cap on the tire valve. Put it somewhere safe.
Press the hose nozzle on the stem of the valve. You should see the tire inflating and the numbers on the air machine going up.
If you hear a hissing noise, you’re letting air out. Push the nozzle in to attach it properly.
Check the pressure with your gauge.
Repeat until you have the right number. Replace the cap.
If you had to drive a few miles to get to a gas station with air, your tires will be hotter than normal. Remember your base “cold tire” reading and calculate the difference between that and the ideal pressure. Add that amount. (For example, your tires needed to be 33 psi but were only at 31 psi in your driveway, you will want to add 2 psi.) Then, check again later after the tires have been sitting for 3 hours to make sure it’s the right amount.
How to Remove Air
You don’t need an air machine to let air out. You just need a flathead screwdriver.
Take the cap off the valve.
Press the end of the screwdriver into the center of the valve stem.
Hold it for a few seconds. Listen for air escaping.
Check the pressure and repeat as necessary.
Pressure Changes by Season
As the weather changes, you will notice corresponding changes in your tire pressure. That’s because air expands as it gets hotter, which raises the pressure. It contracts as it gets colder, which lowers it. In cold weather, tire pressure can decrease about 1 psi for every 10-degree drop in temperature. That’s why it’s important to check your tire pressure when the weather changes, in extreme heat and cold, and adjust as needed.
Note that your car’s tire pressure light activates when there’s a temperature change as well as a small leak. The light goes on when the pressure is about 25% below the recommended level.
A Word About Air vs. Nitrogen
When it comes to keeping your tires inflated, you have a choice: air or nitrogen. If you have nitrogen in your tires, you will need to revisit a nitrogen provider to fill your tires. You will not be able to fill them at air kiosks at a gas station.
Keeping the right tire pressure will help extend the life of your tires. Keeping your vehicle well maintained will help extend its life. Finally, protect it with the right insurance coverage. This will give you peace of mind for your journeys ahead. Safe travels.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
From traffic jams to reckless drivers, it can be stressful on the road. When you’re also juggling life’s daily demands, the stresses can leave you frazzled behind the wheel. Stressed driving not only affects your personal wellbeing, but it poses risks to road safety. Here’s how to bring back a sense of calm and control — and crush your daily commute.
How Stress Affects the Brain
Stress is the body’s reaction to potential threats. It affects your frontal lobe, where you set goals, make plans, and keep your emotions in control. It also impacts the hippocampus, which stores your memories. Importantly, stress causes a chemical reaction known as “fight or flight.” When you’re stuck in traffic or upset about being cut off, there’s often nowhere to go. That’s when your emotions can turn to road rage.
Driving While Stressed
Stress can cause mental and physical symptoms that affect not only how you feel but how you drive. Recognizing these symptoms can help you take steps to manage your stress.
Physical Signs of Stress
You may notice your heart beating faster or your palms getting sweaty. Those are common symptoms of stress. You also may feel muscle tension in your neck, shoulders and back. Biting nails, tapping fingers, and other repetitive motions also are indicators of stress. You may even get tension headaches or feel unusually tired after a short drive.
Stress often leaves you distracted. When you’re worrying about traffic, other drivers, or being late, you’re not focusing your attention fully on the road. Your concentration is reduced. You could have difficulty with decision-making and slower reaction times as a result. If you’re sitting in traffic and you pick up your cell phone to complain about the stress, that adds another level of distraction.
Irritability
When you are stressed, you may feel easily annoyed or angered by minor inconveniences. You start to engage in aggressive driving behaviors such as tailgating, speeding or frequent lane changes. This can escalate to emotions that are hard to control.
Tips to Reduce Your Stress While Driving
Stress may be unavoidable, but you can take steps that help you manage it. Follow these tips to reduce your stress behind the wheel.
Plan ahead. Know the route you’re taking and plan your journey in advance. Be aware of alternate routes should you encounter traffic or road closures. Bringing the kids along? Pack books, snacks, and games to keep them entertained so that they do not add stress to your trip.
Leave early. Allowing extra time for your journey can help you better handle the unexpected, such as traffic, weather, or detours. When you leave early, you are less likely to worry about being late.
Set your playlist. Research shows that listening to music can enhance immune system function and lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol. Create a mindful playlist and avoid news or any content that might stress you out. Sing along to your favorite tunes for a mood boost.
Adjust your posture. Improving your posture can increase oxygen flow, decrease tension in the neck and shoulders, and reduce physical discomfort. Adjust your seat and mirrors to maintain a comfortable and relaxed driving position.
Breathe. Inhaling through your nose and into your belly is a proven way to reduce stress. Deep breathing sends a calming message to your brain, helping you relax. If you’re feeling stressed, try this breathing exercise: breathe in for a count of 8, contract one muscle group (like your neck and shoulders), then exhale and relax. Repeat for muscle groups in your neck, shoulders, and back as needed.
Change your perspective. Managing your thoughts can help control your emotions. Instead of getting angry at a driver who cuts you off, think, “I’m glad no one got hurt.” Don’t let a stranger’s actions affect your mood.
Pull over if needed. If stress becomes overwhelming while driving, don’t risk it. Find a safe location to pull over and take a break until you feel calmer.
Stay fueled. Keep your car filled with gas to avoid the added stress of running low. When planning your trip, make sure you know when you plan to fuel up.
Maintain and insure your vehicle. Make sure your vehicle is well maintained so it is less likely to break down and leave you stranded. In addition, protect your vehicle with the right insurance coverage. This will give you peace of mind for your journeys ahead. Safe travels.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to education professionals, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
You’re ready to head home after a night out, but there’s one thing missing: your car. You could have sworn you parked it right here, but it’s no longer there. Vehicle theft can happen anytime, anywhere. When it comes to keeping your car safe, where you park can make all the difference.
Theft by the Numbers
A vehicle is stolen every 32 seconds, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau. More than a million vehicles are reported stolen each year. California and Colorado have some of the highest number of auto thefts in the country, and of course, urban centers are hotspots for theft. However, thefts happen in the suburbs too, and cars can even be taken from your driveway. In honor of July, National Vehicle Theft Protection Month, we’re taking a look at what you need to know to keep your vehicle safe.
The Worst Places to Park Your Car
Thieves are looking for a chance to steal a car. Don’t give them the opportunity to steal yours. Before you park your car for a short time, or overnight, look around and assess the area for theft potential. Is the area well lit? Are other vehicles parked nearby? Are people around? Is there a security camera or guard? Are there signs of break-ins or damage? All of these can offer clues to an area’s safety.
Avoid empty streets.
Quiet streets and alleyways offer thieves a place to work without interruption. With no one around to witness the theft, they can get in and out quickly with your vehicle.
Avoid poorly lit areas.
Thieves prefer locations where they can work without being seen. Well-lit areas increase their chances of being noticed, while poorly lit and dark locations offer cover.
Avoid high-crime areas.
Do your research before parking in a new place. If the crime rate is high, it’s worth paying for a more secure parking option. High-crime areas aren’t just seedy sections of town. They could be residential neighborhoods that are targeted by thieves.
Avoid empty lots.
You may see lots of cars at office parking lots or at schools. However, when these buildings are not in session, the empty lots provide an easy place for thieves to work. Don’t be tempted to park in an empty lot and put your vehicle at risk.
Avoid remote locations.
Places that are less frequently traveled can be attractive for thieves. Chances are these locations are less often patrolled.
Avoid parking near large vehicles.
Parking your smaller car next to a larger vehicle automatically gives thieves cover. The truck or large car blocks the view so they can work without being easily seen.
How to Protect Your Vehicle
A skilled thief can steal a car in about a minute. However, there are things you can do to make your car seem harder to steal because it will take longer, or they are more likely to get caught.
When parking away from home:
Park in a garage with security cameras. Park in view of the cameras.
Be aware of tow truck thieves who come in and tow away your vehicle. When you park, turn your wheel as far to one side as possible. If you have front-wheel drive, park forwards in the spot. For rear wheel drive, back into the spot. This will make it harder to tow your car.
If you’re parking on the street, choose a busy road where there will be people and other cars the whole time your car will be there.
Lock your vehicle. The first thing that thieves do is try the doors.
Hide your valuables out of sight. Even loose change, phone chargers, and other items can tempt thieves to break in.
Don’t crack your window open on a hot day. An experienced thief can use that to get inside.
Don’t run your car with the keys in it – while you’re somewhere else.
Keep your registration and insurance in your wallet rather than your glove compartment. That will help prevent the risk of identity theft if your car is stolen.
Use an anti-theft system. New cars come with one, and you can also add one after market.
When parking at home:
If you can, park inside your home’s garage. Don’t leave the garage door open. Out of sight is out of mind, and thieves won’t try to steal a car they cannot see.
Add motion sensor lights to your home and driveway area.
Don’t leave your key fob in the car. Don’t put it near a door or window inside your home either. Thieves can use the signal to break into your vehicle. Consider keeping keys in a container that doesn’t allow digital signals to pass through.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
