Teen Driving in Putnam and Westchester County, NY

Posted on March 27, 2013 by Osceola Garage

Problems – Risks Among Teen Drivers

Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for U.S. teens, accounting for more than one in three deaths in this age group. In 2008, nine teens ages 16 to 19 died every day from motor vehicle injuries. Per mile driven, teen drivers ages 16 to 19 are four times more likely than older drivers to crash. Fortunately, teen motor vehicle crashes are preventable, and proven strategies can improve the safety of young drivers on the road.

How big is the problem?

In 2008, about 3,500 teens in the United States aged 15–19 were killed and more than 350,000 were treated in emergency rooms for injuries suffered in motor-vehicle crashes.

Young people ages 15-24 represent only 14% of the U.S. population. However, they account for 30% ($19 billion) of the total costs of motor vehicle injuries among males and 28% ($7 billion) of the total costs of motor vehicle injuries among females.

Who is most at risk?

The risk of motor vehicle crashes is higher among 16- to 19-year-olds than among any other age group. In fact, per mile driven, teen drivers ages 16 to 19 are four times more likely than older drivers to crash.

Among teen drivers, those at especially high risk for motor vehicle crashes are:

Males: In 2006, the motor vehicle death rate for male drivers and passengers ages 15 to 19 was almost two times that of their female counterparts.

Teens driving with teen passengers: The presence of teen passengers increases the crash risk of unsupervised teen drivers. This risk increases with the number of teen passengers.

Newly licensed teens: Crash risk is particularly high during the first year that teenagers that are eligible to drive.

The following information is from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Give your car the good stuff for the next wash and wax.

Posted on August 16, 2012 by Osceola Garage

DIY … Treat Your Car to a Wash and Wax

Taking care of your car’s exterior will preserve the paint by removig road grime and other harmful debris that can damage the finish. A thorough cleaning will give you the chance for a close up inspection of your car. You can see chips and scratches and other areas of the body that may need attention.

If something looks serious, you should consult a professional.

Spotting something early will save you money and time in the long run. To keep you car looking like new, apply a coat of wax a few times a year. And don’t forget the interior. Car’s that are maintained, look better longer and retain a higher resale value. Plus, it’s more fun to drive when you car is clean and shining.

For more money saving auto tips visit our website.

DIY: Why Change the Cabin Filter?

Posted on July 25, 2012 by Osceola Garage

Many newer cars have a filter that is incorporated within the heater/air conditioner system, called a cabin air filter. This filter is often neglected and over time can become clogged with debris such as leaves, bugs and other contaminants. As the filter becomes restricted it can obstruct air flow, which will affect the air conditioner performance and heater.

As the organic material breaks down it will decompose; mold and bacteria can form, which is not a healthy environment for the driver or occupants, since the main purpose of the cabin air filter is to filter the air flow. We have even seen cases where mice have made their temporary home within the cabin filter.

The cabin filter is usually located under the dash behind the glove box or in the engine compartment under the cowl area. The cabin filter should be check at least once a year and replaced if there is debris found in the filter. Carefully remove the filter and clean out any leaves, twigs or other debris inside the filter box assembly. If you suspect mice have been in the cabin filter area, you should wear gloves to protect yourself from bacteria.

On some car models, it may be necessary to remove dashboard components to gain access to the cabin filter. In these cases, it may be better to have your service professional replace the filter. Also, special tools may be needed.