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Backup Cameras For Your Car

Large vehicles have become incredibly popular over the past decade. Their expanded size allows families to travel comfortably while carrying plenty of cargo. The main challenge is that larger vehicles have bigger blind spots. And the bigger the blind spot, the greater the likelihood of an accident occurring. By installing backup cameras into your car, you can prevent causing injury or damage when backing up. Below, I’ll explain a few reasons why you should consider installing them. Then, I’ll describe how you can find the best system for your car.

Reasons To Install Backup Cameras

A widely-respected advocacy group called Kids And Cars recently estimated that 2 children are killed each week due to backovers. In addition, dozens more are injured. This is the primary reason why car manufacturers are becoming more proactive in installing backup cameras in new models. Another reason is the increasing number of minor accidents that drivers cause when parking. Often, while backing up into a parking space, drivers will hit another parked car or structure. Not only does this damage their own car, but it can cause unnecessary property damage.

Aftermarket backup cameras can usually be installed in older model cars. They can reduce the chances of fatally injuring someone or causing damage. Congress has already been asked to track the number of backover incidents. Their purpose is to potentially establish a law requiring the use of backup cameras in certain types of vehicles (though they have yet to draft legislation).

Selecting The Best Option

If you’re thinking about buying a used car or SUV, it probably won’t have a backup camera system already installed. But, there are several aftermarket systems available. Based upon the functionality, they range in price from under $100 (for example, the Panasonic CY-RC50KU) to over $1,000. Many of the expensive models are integrated into vehicle navigation systems.

Keep in mind that some cameras are mounted in the car’s bumper or rear hull. Having them installed will likely require drilling. Also, some aftermarket systems operate by microwave sensors. Occasionally, the sensors can be impaired by bad weather. Even worse, many of them will only alert you if the object behind your car is moving.

When you’re shopping for a camera system, try to avoid the units that rely on microwave sensors. Also, make sure that you test the resolution of the display screen. A general rule of thumb is that the more money you invest in a backup camera, the better the resolution. And of course, the larger the screen, the easier you’ll be able to see.

Installing a rear view backup camera in your car can prevent your accidentally injuring someone or causing property damage. Before investing in a system, use the tips above to select the model that best suits your needs and budget.

When looking for a great deal on Used Auto Parts I always go to the leader in Parts,  Everdrive.com

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Accidents And Auto Repairs For The Novice

If your car has been involved in a traffic accident, you’ll probably need to have repairs performed. Unfortunately, even a small accident can turn into a major expense once the repairs have been completed. Sometimes, the structural integrity of your car will have suffered even if there’s very little obvious damage on the hull. Other times, a collision can damage parts that will need to be replaced. If you don’t understand how car insurance companies work, you might be surprised by the amount you end up paying and the quality of the work performed. Below, I’ll provide some advice to help you reduce the impact on your bank account while being confident that the work performed meets your standards.

Knowing The Ropes

A lot of people don’t realize how car insurance companies cover damages if they’re at fault. Most insurance companies work with a number of auto repair shops. When policyholders are involved in accidents and the insurer must cover the damages, they’re referred to their “approved” repair shops. The problem is that most of these shops agree to work with the insurers for rates that are often lower than market rates. They do so for the repeat business. However, this also gives them an incentive to hurry through the repair job.

If possible, try to get your insurance company to allow you to take your car to a dealership. If you’re unable to do so, at least speak personally with the mechanic who will be doing the job. Often, the personal interaction is enough to motivate them to do quality work.

Another challenge involves the replacement parts that are used. One of the stipulations under which repair shops agree to partner with insurance companies is that they’ll use salvaged parts rather than OEM parts. Salvaged parts are lower-quality and thus, less expensive. Remember, insurance companies want to slash their costs as dramatically as possible. But, like above, try talking with the technician. Often, they’ll have some room to negotiate and may be willing to use OEM parts.

Fees For Rental Cars

One of the unfortunate realities of having your car repaired (besides the bill) is that the work nearly always takes longer than predicted. You’ll need a rental car, and often for a longer period of time than you originally thought. Call your insurance company and ask them to explain how rental car fees are handled. They may reimburse you for the full amount, regardless of how long you drive the rental. However, many policies have limits such as the type of car you can drive (i.e. compact) and the length of time the fees will be reimbursed.

Getting your car repaired after being involved in a collision is usually a headache. The best you can do is limit the inconvenience. Understand how insurance companies operate so you’ll have the right expectations when you arrive at the repair shop.

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