by California Casualty | Auto Insurance Info |
As more cyclists (of all ages) take to the road to enjoy the nice weather, now is a great time to brush up on the rules for safely sharing the streets.
Think of bikes as cars, but with fewer safety features. Road hazards such as potholes and debris may cause a cyclist to suddenly swerve, much like if they were driving a vehicle. And although riding on the right side of the lane is preferred for bike traffic, there may be the occasion when cyclists take to the center if road conditions require it.
Understanding cyclists and anticipating their next move will help you safely share the road. Here are some quick safety reminders on driving with cyclists this summer.
1. They have the right to “drive” in your lane, but they also need their space. Always give cyclists the right of way. Be sure to watch your speed compared to theirs. Pass only when there’s ample room (at least 3 feet between you and their bike) and while other vehicles are not approaching.
2. Look for bicyclists everywhere. Cyclists may not be riding where they should be or may be hard to see—especially in poorly lit conditions, including dusk/dawn/night and even in inclement weather.
3. Avoid turning in front of a bicyclist who is traveling on the road or sidewalk, often at an intersection or driveway. An oncoming cyclist may be traveling faster than you think. Drivers turning right on red should look to the right and behind to avoid hitting a bicyclist approaching from the right rear. Stop completely and look left-right-left and behind before turning right on red.
4. Completely stop at red lights or stop signs to let bikers pass or check for unseen bikers. Make eye contact with cyclists at intersections or crosswalks to acknowledge their presence and signal to let them know they are free to pass.
5. Don’t honk at someone on a bike. The noise could startle them, making them lose control of the bike they are riding. If it’s absolutely necessary, do so from a distance and make it a light tap.
6. Take extra precautions if you are sharing the road with children riding their bikes. They are smaller and harder to spot on the road, especially for drivers of bigger cars. Plus, these young bicyclists won’t have the same control over their bikes or know the rules of the road as mature riders.
7. Knowledge of common biking hand signals is a must. These include sticking the left arm straight out to indicate a left turn, holding the left arm up at a 90-degree angle to indicate a right turn, and pointing the left arm down at a 90-degree angle to indicate a stop or slowing down.
Taking extra precautions when you are behind the wheel and understanding a cyclist’s next move can help you avoid an accident. Use these tips this summer to help you both navigate the road ahead safely and seamlessly.
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.
by California Casualty | Safety |
The hustle and bustle of the first days of the new school year can get a little crazy. Kids are racing to see their friends, buses are crisscrossing the area picking up and dropping off students and hurried parents are trying to drop their kids off before they have to head to work. Paying attention often goes by the wayside.
This is why it’s more important than ever to practice extreme caution around school zones and neighborhoods.
The National Safety Council warns that more children are hit by cars near schools than at any other location. That’s why they ask that drivers:
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- Don’t double park because it blocks visibility
- Don’t load or unload children across the street from schools
- Carpool to reduce the number of vehicles at school
- Put down cell phones and other mobile devices
Other safety tips to prevent auto-pedestrian injuries around schools include:
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- Not blocking crosswalks when stopped at a red light or making a turn forcing pedestrians to go around you; this could put them in the path of traffic
- Always stopping for school crossing guards
- Using extra caution to look out for children at bus stops, school zones, playgrounds and parks and in all residential areas
- Never passing a vehicle stopped for pedestrians
- Remembering that pedestrians have the right of way
And to prevent distracted walking and texting accidents, students are reminded to keep their head up and phone down and:
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- Never walk while texting or talking on the phone
- Always move out of the way of others and stop on the sidewalk to text
- Never cross the street while using an electronic device
- Do not walk with headphones on
- Be aware of their surroundings
- Always walk on the sidewalk if one is available; if a child must walk on the street, he or she should face oncoming traffic
- Look left, right, then left again before crossing the street
- Cross only at crosswalks
Remember, the first days of school can be a dangerous time for excited students. Safety experts stress that we all need to slow down near school zones, wear seatbelts, leave early so we aren’t rushing and never drive distracted (texting, eating or drinking, horsing around with passengers or adjusting the radio or adjusting the navigation system).
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.
by California Casualty | Calcas Connection, Good to Know |
You might be surprised to learn that school zones and bus stops are some of the most dangerous places for kids as they go to and from school. Since it’s been a few months since school has been in session, these safety refreshers can make this back to school season safer for our children:
SCHOOL ZONES
- Be aware of school zones
- Pay close attention to all school zones along your route. Warning signs, flashing lights and speed bumps are good indicators that a school zone is nearby.
- Never drive distracted, especially in areas where children travel to and from school
- Drinking coffee, texting, talking on the cell phone and completing the morning routine to get ready for the day (applying makeup or shaving) are all distractions.
- Slow down and observe school zone speed limits
- Avoiding the need to rush by building in extra time can save a life. Slamming on the brakes is not the best approach to reducing your speed in a school zone.
- Be patient and expect increased traffic during drop-off and pick-up times
- Don’t get overwhelmed by the controlled chaos. Your patience is greatly appreciated.
- Avoid double parking or blocking crosswalks in school drop-off zones
- Always yield to pedestrians, whether or not they are in the designated crosswalks.
BUS STOPS
- Yield to buses at all times
- Filled with precious cargo, they deserve the right of way.
- Stop when you see school bus yellow or red flashing lights and the stop arm extended
- Drivers behind the bus as well as those approaching it are required to stop.
- Let students getting off of the bus cross in front of your car and wait to ensure all riders have crossed safely
- Stopping a good distance from the bus will help you to see the students and the students to see you
- Be aware of kids standing at bus stops
- They may accidentally step off of the curb and into your path. Be ready.
Nothing is more valuable than the lives of our children. These simple rules can prevent tragedies and keep our school zones safer for all.
TAKEAWAY: Find a great back to school safety resource at https://www.nsc.org/home-safety/seasonal-safety/back-to-school/drivers
by California Casualty | Auto Insurance Info, Helpful Tips, Safety, Travel |
As the temperature drops and the leaves begin to fall, road conditions change in ways that can catch even experienced drivers off guard. Deer are more active, wet leaves can be as slick as ice, and shorter days mean more time driving in the dark. Here’s what to watch for this season—and how to steer clear of danger.
Watch for Deer on the Move
You’ll often see deer during dawn and dusk at the side of the road during the fall months. That’s when they’re foraging for food. Keep a sharp eye out near wooded areas and where deer crossing signs are posted. If you must stop, use your hazard lights to alert other drivers. A few tips to remember:
- Deer travel in groups; if you see one, more are likely close behind.
- Avoid swerving. Swerving can confuse the animal and cause them to run in the wrong direction. It also can put you in the path of oncoming traffic. Instead, slow down in a controlled manner and let the deer pass.
- Know your insurance coverage. Damage from hitting a deer is typically covered by comprehensive insurance—not liability. Check to see if your policy includes it.
Beware of Leaf Trouble
Fallen leaves may look pretty, but they can cause more problems than you might think. Here are just some of the hazards.
Wet Leaves
When wet, leaves can be as slick as ice. They can also block roadside drains, creating puddles and hidden hydroplaning risks. make sure your tires are properly inflated to help maintain grip. If you drive over wet leaves and your tires lose traction:
- Don’t slam the brakes. Ease off the gas. If you need to brake, use a light pumping motion.
- Steer gently in the direction you want to go.
- When you feel the tires connect with the road, you can proceed as normal.
Dry Leaves
Dry leaves and hot car parts don’t mix. Avoid parking over leaf piles. Your exhaust or catalytic converter can ignite them, even if the engine’s off. Also, keep leaves away from garages and undercarriages so there’s no chance that they can cause trouble.
Around Your Car
Leaves can clog air filters, radiators, and windshield gullies. Remove them regularly to prevent foul-smelling moisture buildup and potential damage to your car’s paint or electronics.
Hidden Potholes and Road Hazards
A thick carpet of leaves — or later, snow — can hide potholes, curbs, and lane markings. Drive cautiously and maintain extra distance from the car ahead. Slow down near leaf piles; kids sometimes play in them. And remember, some drivers are more focused on the foliage than the road, so stay alert.
Adjust to Early Darkness
When daylight savings time ends, you may find yourself driving home in the dark more often. Make sure your headlights and brake lights are working properly. Darkness also affects depth perception, so give yourself more space and time to react.
- Drive at a speed where you can stop within your headlight range.
- Use high beams when safe and dim them for oncoming cars.
- Watch for pedestrians and pets, especially during dusk and dawn when visibility is lowest.
Reduce Sun Glare
The sun sits lower in the sky during fall, which means more blinding glare during morning and evening commutes. Keep sunglasses handy, use your visor, and clean your windshield inside and out — streaks and dust scatter light and make it harder to see. Replace your windshield wipers as needed. If glare is intense, slow down and increase your following distance.
Handle Fog and Frost the Right Way
Foggy and frosty fall mornings reduce visibility fast. They can sneak up on your car’s windows as temperatures fluctuate. Don’t drive with foggy or icy glass. Use your defroster and a scraper or try a DIY de-icer (three parts vinegar to one part water).
- If it’s foggy, engage your fog lights to increase visibility. Don’t use your high beams; they have the opposite effect — reflecting off the fog and temporarily blinding you.
- Turn on your defroster or crack a window to balance temperatures and prevent your windshield from fogging.
- Remember: frost on your windshield means it could also be on bridges and overpasses, which freeze first. Proceed with caution.
Keep an Eye on Tire Pressure
Cooler weather means lower tire pressure. For every 10-degree drop in temperature, tires can lose about one PSI. Low pressure affects traction, braking, and fuel efficiency, so check often and inflate your tires as needed.
Share the Road with School Buses
Fall also means back-to-school season. Be aware of how that impacts traffic safety and know the rules about school buses:
- Yellow flashing lights: The bus is preparing to stop.
- Red lights and extended stop arm: The bus has stopped for children.
- Always stop — never pass. Watch for kids crossing the street or walking near the bus and remember that visibility is lower in early morning and late afternoon light.
Don’t Forget Your Insurance
Even the most cautious drivers can’t prevent every accident. Make sure your auto insurance is up to date so that you have peace of mind when the unexpected happens.
Safe travels this season!
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.
by California Casualty | Auto Insurance Info |
Your car isn’t just a way to get from point A to point B—it’s a billboard for your personality. That minivan? Probably secretly a superhero in disguise. That flashy convertible? Definitely a thrill-seeker who lives for the spotlight. Buckle up, because we’re taking a fun ride into what your vehicle really says about you.
Let’s talk color.
Think of your car’s paint job as a giant mood ring on wheels—broadcasting your vibe before you even step out. Some shades whisper, others shout, and all of them say something about who’s behind the wheel.
- Red – Bold, fiery, and impossible to ignore. A red car screams, “Look at me!” Whether it’s passion, speed, or a thirst for adventure, red drivers are all about standing out.
- Yellow & Orange – Sunny, upbeat, and just a little bit quirky. These rare road gems belong to the optimists and free spirits who aren’t afraid to zig while everyone else zags.
- Green – From eco-warrior to outdoorsy adventurer, green says you’re in tune with nature—and maybe even a little creative. Go bright for playful energy, dark for polished sophistication.
- Blue – Calm, cool, collected. Blue is the color of trust, stability, and loyalty, which is why it’s often the family favorite. Blue-car drivers give off dependable vibes—even if they do secretly speed when no one’s looking.
- Black – Sleek, powerful, and timeless. Black cars exude confidence and prestige. They can be stylishly elegant… or just a little bit intimidating.
- Silver, Gray & White – Clean, crisp, and effortlessly cool. These neutral tones say you appreciate subtlety over flash. Bonus: they hide dirt and scratches better than most—practical and polished all at once.
- Brown, Bronze, Gold & Tan – Down-to-earth and unpretentious, these colors belong to the reliable realists. Whether it’s a latte-like tan or a deep chocolate brown, you’re all about substance over show.
Now let’s talk type.
Your car’s shape says just as much as its color. From low-slung convertibles to family-friendly haulers, the body style you choose is like a personality profile on four wheels. Let’s see what your ride reveals.
The Sleek Sports Car – The Adrenaline Junkie
You’re bold, confident, and not afraid of a little attention (okay, a lot of attention). Life for you is about speed, style, and seizing the moment. Whether you’re chasing the thrill of the open road or just pulling into the coffee shop parking lot, you love to make an entrance. Friends know you as the one who’s always up for an adventure, the one who adds a little spark—and maybe a little drama—to every outing. Buckle up, because with you in the driver’s seat, life is never stuck in the slow lane.
The Practical Sedan – The Organized Achiever
Reliable, steady, and efficient—if you’re behind the wheel of a sedan, people can count on you. You’re the type who actually reads the manual (and maybe highlights it). Schedules, routines, and to-do lists? You’ve got them down to a science. Your car choice reflects your ability to get things done without unnecessary flash. But don’t mistake your practicality for boring—you know exactly what you want, and you know the smartest way to get there. In a world full of detours, you’re the one who always finds the fastest, most sensible route.
The SUV or Crossover – The Adventurer/Family Hero
SUV and crossover drivers are the ultimate multitaskers. One day, you’re hauling soccer gear; the next, you’re loaded up with hiking packs and snacks for a road trip. You thrive on versatility and love knowing you’re ready for anything—from a weekend camping trip to a Costco run. Friends see you as dependable and fun, with a “why not?” spirit that’s always game for the next big adventure. Your car says, “Hop in, there’s room for everyone,” and that’s exactly how you live your life.
The Minivan – The Secret Superhero
You may not always get the flashy spotlight, but let’s be real—you’re the one holding everything together. Minivan drivers are the unsung heroes of the road, juggling schedules, passengers, and bags of snacks with ease. You’re resourceful, patient, and always prepared for chaos (with a pack of wipes hidden in the glovebox, just in case). Behind the wheel, you’re proof that practicality is powerful, and you manage to do it all while keeping your cool. Others might underestimate you, but those who know you understand—you’re the real MVP.
The Convertible – The Free Spirit
Top down, wind in your hair—you’re all about living in the moment. Convertible drivers thrive on freedom, sunshine, and a little bit of flair. You’re spontaneous, fun-loving, and happiest when life feels like a rolling playlist of good vibes. Your car doesn’t just get you places—it turns every drive into a mini vacation. If life is a highway, you’re the one singing at the top of your lungs in the fast lane.
The Electric/Hybrid – The Thoughtful Innovator
Forward-thinking and eco-conscious, you’re not just driving—you’re making a statement. Electric and hybrid drivers care about the bigger picture, and you like to be on the cutting edge of what’s next. You’re smart, intentional, and probably have a gadget or two that makes life easier (and cooler). Your car reflects your values: sustainability, progress, and a touch of sophistication. You’re not just keeping up with the future—you’re helping shape it.
The Vintage/Classic Car – The Nostalgic Romantic
Driving a classic car isn’t just transportation—it’s an art form. You appreciate craftsmanship, character, and things that last. Nostalgic at heart, you value stories, traditions, and the beauty of a simpler time. Friends might tease you for being “old school,” but they secretly admire your sense of style and your refusal to settle for the ordinary. Like your car, you’re timeless—and you wouldn’t have it any other way.
No matter what you drive—flashy, practical, adventurous, or timeless—your car is more than just transportation. It’s part of your story, and it deserves the same care and protection you give yourself. Be sure to protect it with the right insurance coverage to safeguard against the unexpected. 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.
