Road & Travel Magazine's Blog

Don't Bump your Bumper!

You'd think the purpose of a bumper would explain itsself: bumpers are for bumping. Well, today, they're just part of the design, costing on average $4,500 to fix. Most are smooth, soft-plastic "fascias" that add to the car's demeanor but are easily damaged - the term bumper is practically an oxymoron. But who knows how to pronounce "fascia"?

Your best bet? Drive safe, or find a good deal on repairs.

Tips to protect your bumper:
-Drive as if your car's bumper were made of fine china - or hundred dollar bills.
-Park away from other, less careful, drivers.
-Don't overrun parking curbs, but if you do, don't immediately back up; this could pull the entire fascia off. Examine the problem and consider calling a tow company.
-Try before you buy (or consult the IIHS's crash tests for bumper damage costs).

What models' bumpers are the least-costly to repair?
Ford Focus
Mazda 6
Scion xB
Smart Fortwo

For more car care tips, visit RTM's Car Care & Maintenance section.

Subscribe to Roadandtravel Blog   Become a Facebook Fan

What To Do After an Accident

The fact is, the more time that drivers spend behind the wheel and the more drivers on the streets, the more likely it is that you will be involved in a car accident. Thus, it is vital that people know what to do — and not to do — if involved in an auto accident.

Stay Put
Do not leave. If you leave the scene of an accident — whether or not it was your fault — you may face criminal prosecution. Even if the accident is minor, you must exchange information with the other driver, also it’s wise to move the vehicles to the side of the road for your safety.

When to dial 911
If there appears to be over $500 in damage to any vehicle or if anyone feels any pain, call the local police or Highway Patrol immediately. It's also good to file a police report to clear up.

Feel the Pain?
If you are seriously injured, do not move. Stay in your car and wait for help. Most people, even if they feel pain, often refuse medical attention at the scene of an accident. any potential discrepancies, just in case there's a lawsuit later on.

More Information on How to Handle a Collision.

How to Handle a Deer Crash

It’s early morning and you’re beginning the long commute to work. You’re going the speed limit (or maybe just a bit over) and suddenly a deer appears in the middle of the road. Your heart jumps into your throat. What do you do?

If a crash with a deer is unavoidable, the Michigan Deer Crash Coalition (the experts in these matters) recommends the following steps:

• Don’t swerve!
• Brake firmly.
• Hold on to the steering wheel.
• Come to a controlled stop.
• Pull well off the road, turn on emergency flashers and be cautious of passing traffic.
• Do not attempt to remove a deer from the roadway unless you are convinced it is dead. An injured deer’s sharp hooves can easily hurt you.

More tips on how to handle a crash with a deer.