Buffalo Auto Accident Injury Blog - William Mattar Lawyers

Supplemental Spousal Liability Insurance

2011-08-18T16:43:00.000-04:00

By: Sara Wallitt, Esq. - Attorney at The Law Offices of William Mattar

Imagine that you are a passenger in your spouse’s vehicle and your spouse runs a red light, causing an accident. You suffer very serious injuries in this collision. Under many standard insurance policies in New York State, a spouse is not permitted to make a claim against their spouse’s policy. Unless Supplemental Coverage was obtained, a recovery may not be obtainable for the bodily injuries sustained in the accident.

It is therefore important that you and your spouse consider obtaining Supplemental Spousal Liability Insurance through your auto policy. Many insurance companies will not automatically provide this coverage, but they are required to offer you the opportunity to purchase it if you wish. The cost is rather minimal and, in my opinion, is well worth it, as it will enable you to recover if you are injured in an accident for which your spouse is at fault. After all, who are you in the car with more often than your spouse?

I suggest that you review your automobile insurance policy to determine if you have already purchased Supplemental Spousal Liability Insurance. If you have not, I recommend that you contact your insurance agent and add this very important coverage to your policy.

The lawyers at William Mattar Law Offices are willing to review your car insurance policy with you to provide an overview of your policy. This way you will have a starting point for questions to ask your insurance agent. Give us a call at 444-4444.

What is a “serious injury” and how is it relevant to my car accident case?

2011-08-04T14:15:00.000-04:00

By: Jaclyn S. Wanemaker, Esq. - Attorney at The Law Offices of William Mattar

A person injured in a car accident must satisfy at least one of the below categories of “serious injury” to successfully bring a claim for injuries in New York. The term “serious injury” is defined by New York State Insurance Law Section 5102 (d) as a personal injury that results in:

- death;

- dismemberment;

- significant disfigurement;

- a fracture;

- loss of fetus;

- permanent loss of use of a body organ, member, function or system;

- permanent consequential limitation of use of body organ or member;

- significant limitation of use of a body function or system; or

- a medically determined injury or impairment of a non-permanent nature which prevents the injured person from performing substantially all of the material acts which constitute such person’s usual and customary daily activities for not less than 90 days during the 180 days immediately following the occurrence of the injury or impairment.

As you’ll see, the first few categories are more objective, whereas the latter are more subjective and leave room for interpretation. Courts interpret the categories of “serious injury” and report their decisions in what is known as case law. Case law is continuously changing as new decisions are reported by the Courts. Attorneys who handle car accident cases should be familiar with recent decisions and can perform legal research to find case law applicable to your situation.

If you would like to consult with one of the attorneys at the Law Office of William Mattar, please call us at (716) 444-4444 or visit WilliamMattar.com.

"Ithaca is Gorges"... And Affordable According to AARP

2011-07-27T14:56:00.000-04:00

Whether you're from Western NY, Central NY, Upstate NY, the City; us New Yorkers know what a great state we live in. Residents should be proud of its beauty and historic elements. From the bright lights of NYC to the gorgeous Finger Lakes region, New York is definitely something to brag about.

Ithaca, tucked neatly into the Finger Lakes region, is well-known for its beautiful landscape. Along with being a breathtaking area, its cost of living is also very reasonable. Check out the article below from AARP, naming Ithaca as one of the top 10 Most Affordable Places to Retire!

http://www.aarp.org/home-garden/livable-communities/info-07-2011/affordable-cities.html

Heat Wave Continues in WNY and Many Other Areas

2011-07-22T15:34:00.000-04:00

In this blistering heat, there is more to be concerned about than just feeling uncomfortable. People, and animals, can fall victim to heat stroke due to rising temperatures.

Take a look at this article below from MSNBC that talks about recent weather activity on the East Coast and in the Midwest parts of the U.S. Be sure to keep hydrated and stay safe!

(Click this link to see the article online along with photos of the heat wave - http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/43851978/ns/weather?gt1=43001)

East Coast A.M. Commute in the 90's; Triple Digits Coming

'It's not just about discomfort' but 'survival,' says health expert; 29 states under heat alert

Msnbc.com staff and news service reports

BOSTON — It felt like 96 in Boston, and that was just during the morning commute, as the East Coast braced for searing triple-digit temperatures later Friday.

The National Weather Service issued excessive heat warnings and advisories for 29 states in the country's mid-section and along the East Coast.

The heat has roasted communities across the Midwest for nearly a week. Already responsible for at least 22 deaths, the heat wave moved east on Thursday.

Meteorologists also warned of poor air quality in numerous cities in the northeast, with a code red air quality — designated as unhealthy for all people — forecast for Baltimore and Washington, D.C., according to the Weather Channel's Mark Avery.

"In this heat, it's not just about discomfort," Latoya White, executive director of Health Leads, a program run out of Children’s National Medical Center in Washington, D.C., told The Washington Post.

She told the paper that for many people it's about "survival."

The unrelenting heat prompted power provider Consolidated Edison to reduce voltage in some New York neighborhoods overnight, a so-called brownout.

The company said increased use of air conditioners could push power usage to an all-time record on Friday, although Con Ed and other power companies said they had enough electricity to meet demand.
The thermometer during Boston's morning commute hit 88 degrees, with a heat index of 96 degrees, and the mercury was expected to climb relentlessly through the day.

"It only gets worse from here," said meteorologist Alan Dunham with the National Weather Service in Taunton, Mass.

"We're looking at a high air temperature of about 102 with a heat index value up to 108," he said of the Boston area.

New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Washington, D.C. and other major East Coast metropolises likewise faced stifling heat and should expect to come close to or surpass record highs, according to AccuWeather.com.

Boston's forecast was expected to fall just two degrees shy of its highest temperature on record, 104 degrees set in 1911.

"Today in the Midwest and the Northeast, it's not only record heat, but the humidity is unusually high as well. It's kind of a double-whammy," said AccuWeather.com senior meteorologist Tom Kines.
Cities up and down the East Coast opened cooling centers and extended public pool hours to offer residents some relief.

On top of the heat, areas of southern coastal New England were warned about unhealthy air quality due to high levels of smog.

By the weekend, most of New England will cool off, but the Mid-Atlantic is expected to stay "hot and miserable" through early next week, Kines said.

In parts of the Midwest and in Oklahoma, Kansas and Texas, the heat will also linger, he added.
The combined heat and humidity could spike the heat index or "real feel" of the warmth to 115 degrees through Saturday.

By early Thursday afternoon in New York City, the thermometer hit 91 but it felt more like 112, according to Accuweather.com.

According to the Weather Channel, these searing temperatures in the Big Apple are rare: Central Park has only registered 57 days of triple-digit heat since 1870. The city of Rochester, N.Y., was bracing for its first day of heat of more than 100 degrees since 1953, the Weather Channel said.

Other cities watching their local heat indexes rise into the triple digits because of the oppressive mix of high temperatures and humidity included — among others — Tulsa, St. Louis, Buffalo, and Washington, D.C.

In Chicago, where a five-day heat wave in 1995 killed hundreds, the city on Thursday endured a fifth consecutive day of abnormally high temperatures with the heat index hitting 110 in the early afternoon — and forecasters warned the heat wave could continue into the weekend.

Unhealthy smog levels triggered by the heat were reported in Chicago, where residents were asked by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency to reduce polluting activities such as idling cars and mowing lawns.

Cattle 'starving'

In Oklahoma, where the heat has exacerbated a severe drought, Gov. Mary Fallin said she planned to ease commercial vehicle restrictions to speed delivery of hay and other feed to cattle whose grazing areas have been destroyed by the weather.

"We have cattle that are starving," Fallin told Reuters, "and we have certain areas of the state where we need to get the hay delivered to the farmers and the ranchers and the cattlemen."

With the promise of refreshing ocean breezes, Boston's whale-watching ships and high speed tourist boats sold out their trips by mid-morning on Thursday.

Cooling centers in Richmond, Va., and New York welcomed overheated residents and a truck labeled "Water Fountain on the Go" cruised Manhattan streets, offering to refill empty water bottles to keep residents hydrated.

By the weekend the heat was expected to cover nearly 50 percent of the country and impact nearly half the population, according to AccuWeather.com forecaster Mary Yoon.

"What makes this heat wave so impressive is the pure size and longevity," said Yoon.

Longstanding records in Philadelphia and other cities may melt away by Friday, when the mercury was expected to spike, according to meteorologist Meghan Evans of AccuWeather.com.

"Do not take this threat lightly," the NWS warned in a statement on its website, noting the extreme temperatures are particularly dangerous for the elderly and the very young.

"The length of this heat wave will pose a very real and dangerous health risk to these at-risk groups and those that do not have access to air conditioning," the statement said.

Most of the 22 deaths linked to the high temperatures have occurred in the Midwest.

Reuters contributed to this report.

Each Summer Children Die in Hot Cars

2011-07-12T13:47:00.000-04:00

Humid WNY summers can be brutal, and with today being one of the hottest days of the year, it's a good time to read about car safety. Focusing specifically on the temperature of the interior of your car and making sure NO children, pets, or others are ever left unattended in the blistering heat.

The below article from ABC News talks about how many children have died in 2011 after becoming trapped in a hot car, and also gives helpful safety and prevention tips. One of the most important tips being "if you see an unattended child in a car, dial 911 IMMEDIATELY."

Please take a moment to read the below article and remember to always practice safety in your everyday lives.

Every Summer Kids Die in Hot Car Trunks

By ELISABETH LEAMY

July 12, 2011

There are heat advisories in big chunks of the country this week thanks to triple digit temperatures a good time for a reminder that at least 20 children have already died after becoming trapped in hot cars this year. Three of those recent deaths were somewhere that can be completely preventable: the trunk of the car.

Oklahoma, last week. An 8-year-old boy is exploring the 1998 Chevy Cavalier his parents just bought, when he gets stuck in the trunk and dies in the heat.

"They don't know the dangers of it -- being in a closed vehicle," said Sondra Lockyer, the boy's aunt.
Indiana, last month. Two brothers climb into the trunk of their mom's 2000 Chevrolet Malibu and also die.

"I have a problem with that," said Janette Fennel of the advocacy group Kids and Cars.
Fennel feels ill every time she hears about a new case.

"I felt, why didn't I push harder? Why didn't I just absolutely not stop?" said Fennel.
Kids and Cars has repeatedly called on General Motors to recall its older vehicles and install trunk safety releases that allow people inside to escape.

Starting in 2002, all cars were required to have a glow-in-the-dark safety release inside the trunk. You just pull the latch, and the trunk opens.

Fennel says no one has ever died in the trunk of a newer vehicle that has a safety release.
"Those children, I feel very certain, would be alive today if there had been a trunk release in that vehicle."

GM makes more cars than any other company, so accidents are bound to happen in its vehicles. In a statement, GM put the responsibility back on parents, saying it has "worked...to alert parents and caregivers to the dangers of leaving children unattended in or around vehicles." We asked if GM plans to issue a recall, and the answer was 'No.'

If your vehicle was built before 2002, chances are there is no easy way to escape from inside the trunk. But in this economy, we want to make our cars last. So here are some safety tips:

Teach kids that cars are not toys and don't let them play in or around them.

Keep your car locked, even when it's parked at home in your garage or driveway.
Some cars have a switch in the trunk that allows you to turn off the remote function, so your trunk will only open with a key, which is much harder for small children to maneuver.

Some people get an extra keyless remote and keep it in their trunk.
You can buy a trunk safety release retrofit kit for $10 from Kids and Cars. Click here for more information.

Leaving children in the passenger compartment of the car is another tragic occurrence every summer. Here's prevention advice offered by Safe Kids:

If you see an unattended child in a car, dial 911 immediately.
Never leave a baby unattended in a vehicle, even with the window slightly open.
Place something that you will need at your next stop - for example, a purse, lunch, gym bag or briefcase - on the floor of the backseat where the child is sitting. This simple act could prevent you from accidentally forgetting your child if he or she is sleeping.
Be especially careful if you change your routine for dropping off babies at child care. Have a plan that if your child is late for child care, you will be called within a few minutes.
Watch children closely around vehicles, particularly when loading and unloading. Check to ensure all children leave the vehicle when you reach your destination. Do not overlook sleeping babies.

After the June deaths of two Indiana boys, General Motors provided the following statement to Good Morning America:

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the Indiana boys' family and we are deeply saddened by their loss.

Keeping children safe in and around vehicles is a priority for General Motors. For more than 15 years, we have worked with Safe Kids Worldwide to provide vital child passenger safety information to parents and caregivers in communities across the country. One important part of these efforts is to alert parents and caregivers to the dangers of leaving children unattended in or around vehicles. Increasing awareness and education is critical since millions of vehicles of varying makes and models without trunk latches are still in the marketplace. Since 2001, interior trunk releases have been provided standard in all GM passenger vehicles with trunks.

As always, we encourage parents and caregivers to visit www.safekids.org for tips on how to help keep kids safe in the warm weather months and throughout the year."

http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/ConsumerNews/summer-kids-die-hot-car-trunks/story?id=14049363

Rochester Tops List of 10 Most Affordable Places to Live

2011-07-06T16:43:00.000-04:00

Check out the below blurb from MSN that talks about how Rochester, NY landed in the number one spot on a list of the 10 Most Livable Bargain Markets. Click here to check out what other cities made the cut!

1. Rochester, N.Y.

Rochester provides a lot of bang for your buck. It has big-city culture, a highly educated population, picturesque scenery, affordable housing and an expanding high-tech job base.

The city of Rochester anchors a 90-mile stretch of Lake Ontario shoreline, which serves as its northern border. Affluent suburbs Pittsford to the south and Webster along the shore are populated with workers from companies such as Kodak, Bausch & Lomb and Xerox.

Although it lost many jobs to the Sunbelt in the past few decades, it has now diversified its economy and is adding jobs in health care, food and beverage manufacturing and technology, including alternative energy, as well as in higher education.

"It's not any one thing growing the economy now; it's all of these things," says Mark Peterson, CEO of the Greater Rochester Enterprise, an economic-development organization.

Indeed, the Brooking Institution's MetroMonitor ranked Rochester among the 10 strongest performing metros in the recovery.

Small to midsize technology firms are locating here in part because of the universities, including the Rochester Institute of Technology and the University of Rochester, which provide a highly educated work force.

And there is increasingly more for graduates to do, with the city pouring $1 billion into revitalizing its downtown in the next three years.

There's also the Finger Lakes to the south of Rochester for recreation and wine tasting, and trails for hikers and bikers, including the towpath of the Erie Canal.

It has some of the cleanest air in the country, and a high concentration of physicians and specialists, thanks to the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry.

There's likely no road-rage epidemic here, as commutes are blissfully short, compared to other cities.
"I have a 12-minute commute to my downtown office," Peterson says. "You can work a full day here and still make it home for the soccer game and home for dinner."

Cons: High state income and property taxes, an aging population in some suburbs and cold winters.

Population: 1.02 million
Affordability index: 2.2
Unemployment: 7.72%
Job growth: -0.9%
Median home price: $115,700
Cost-of-living index: 90.8
Median household income: $52,600
Average commute time: 22.8 minutes
Commutes longer than an hour: 3.27%

http://realestate.msn.com/slideshow.aspx?cp-documentid=29305981#2

UNYTS Donate Life Blood Drive Next Thursday!

2011-06-23T16:47:00.000-04:00

William Mattar Law Offices is participating in the UNYTS Donate Life Challenge! On Thursday, June 30th our office will be hosing a blood drive benefiting the Rotary Club of Williamsville. Stop by our principal office at 6720 Main Street in Williamsville to donate blood. The UNYTS Donate Life Express truck will be parked at our building from 10am until 2pm.

Check out the poster below for all the details!

The Amanda Hansen Foundation's Annual Golf Tournament

2011-06-21T11:43:00.000-04:00

Just this past January we partnered up with the Amanda Hansen Foundation and Tops Friendly Markets to give away thousands of dollars worth of CO detectors. The event was a great success and really helped to educate the community on keeping their homes safe.

The main goal of the Amanda Hansen Foundation is to raise awareness of the dangers of carbon monoxide in the home. Carbon monoxide is often called the "silent killer" because it is odorless, colorless and tasteless. So, if you do not have one yet, be sure to get a CO detector for your home immediately.

We're showing our support again by being a proud sponsor of the 2011 Annual Golf Tournament benefiting the Amanda Hansen Foundation. The tournament will take place next week, Wednesday, June 29th. Check out the brochure below for information about the Foundation as well as all the details for the tournament.

AM Buffalo - Talking About the "Cube"

2011-06-15T13:51:00.001-04:00

I had a great time chatting with Linda Pellegrino yesterday morning about our brand new website, WilliamMattar.com. Check out the video below. Also, be sure to swing by our new site to spin the cube and let us know what you think!

Spin the Cube at WilliamMattar.com!

2011-06-07T15:10:00.000-04:00

Just last week we launched our brand-new, revolutionary website, WilliamMattar.com. This new site is innovative and very interactive. Not only will you find important information you'd need if you've recently been hurt in a car, but you'll also find lots of other fun stuff.

The site focuses on a three-dimensional cube with six visible sides. Each side of the cube contains pertinent information for site visitors. Whether you're stopping by to learn about what to do after an auto injury, or you just want to play a game or two, WilliamMattar.com is the place to go.

So, take some time to "spin the cube" and check out everything there is to explore on our new site!

New Labels Make It Easier for Car Buyers to Compare Fuel Efficiency

2011-05-25T14:50:00.000-04:00

What is the most important thing you look for when shopping for a new car? Make, model, color, price? One of the biggest deciding factors that people take into consideration nowadays is fuel efficiency. Although Hybrids and electric cars are sometimes a bit more pricey, they could end up saving you money in the long run.

Check out the article below from Reuters that talks about the new labeling on window stickers that conveniently helps consumers compare fuel savings.

New car labels feature more on fuel savings

9:38am EDT

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Fuel economy labeling unveiled on Wednesday includes information on plug-in electric cars and highlights other advanced technologies aimed at reducing oil use and tailpipe emissions.

The redesigned window stickers required on all 2013 models will allow consumers in showrooms to quickly and more easily compare fuel savings of vehicles in the same or different class, whether they rely on gasoline or are powered by gas/electric hybrid systems.

"Today's car buyers want the best possible information about which cars on the lot offer the greatest fuel economy and the best environmental performance," said Lisa Jackson, the administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency.

The EPA developed new labels with the Transportation Department as part of rules adopted last year requiring a 42 percent jump in average efficiency to 35.5 miles per gallon for 2012-2016 vehicles.
The agencies plan a follow-on requirement in September for 2017-2025 cars and trucks that could push efficiency goals to 60 mpg, a target automakers would probably resist if proposed.

Automakers, who supported the new labels, are overhauling their product lines to meet U.S. government and consumer demands that they offer more efficiency and reduce pollution. U.S. passenger vehicles account for about 20 percent of the nation's carbon emissions and about 44 percent of its oil consumption, figures show.

Many cars on the road today already meet or exceed the 2016 standard. U.S. and overseas car companies are accelerating output of hybrids and are beginning to introduce vehicles that run only on electricity for everyday driving.

The EPA labels, which were required by Congress, allow consumers to compare cost advantages of different technologies and for the first time include information on electric cars.

For instance, they post estimates of how much fuel or electricity it takes to drive 100 miles, and how much time it takes to charge a plug-in vehicle, like the mainly electric Chevrolet Volt sedan made by General Motors Co or the all-electric Nissan Leaf.

The most fuel-efficient cars and trucks, however, still represent a fraction of overall U.S. vehicle sales. Less fuel-efficient and more powerful pickups and sport utilities remain enormously popular with American motorists.

(Reporting by John Crawley; Editing by Lisa Von Ahn)

http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/05/25/us-autos-fuel-idUSTRE74O44020110525

Think "Green" When Washing Your Car

2011-05-17T13:54:00.000-04:00

There are countless ways to save energy, conserve water, or just be "green" all around. Now more than ever, it's important to always keep the environment in mind throughout your daily life. Think twice before printing that three-page-long email, flip the light switch when leaving a room, and conserve water by taking quicker showers. These are only a few of the ways to be environmentally conscious in your everyday life.

With summer just around the corner, everyone will be tidying up their vehicles for the warm weather. Check out the below article from MSN that delves into the most environmentally friendly way to wash your car!

The Right, Eco-Friendly Way to Wash Your Car

How to keep your car clean and looking good without hurting the environment or the vehicle's paint job.

By Marc Lachapelle of MSN Autos

Hand- washing a car remains the most effective way to keep your vehicle clean, but it is not the most environmentally friendly way to go.

Preserving the environment is a major concern these days, especially when it comes to automobiles. This even applies to something as seemingly mundane as preserving your vehicle's appearance. How and where you wash your car does make a difference. The matter is never more critical than in spring, when most proud car owners are busy washing off the effects of winter's unrelenting assault before it takes a toll on their pride and joy's looks, integrity and mechanical well-being.

Making a habit of keeping your vehicle as clean as possible, inside and out, will reap great benefits. A sparkling-clean car will not only flatter the eye and the owner's ego, it will also help the vehicle last longer and stay in better shape, thus improving resale value.

The question here is: What is the best and most eco-friendly way to achieve and sustain vehicular cleanliness?

Routine Cleaning

Dirt, road salt, tar and various other forms of gunk, goo and residue are your car's worst enemies. Keeping them off your vehicle's bodywork, year-round, is the basic challenge. Hand-washing a car remains the best and most effective way to do this, but it must be done the right way, and even then it is not the most environmentally friendly way to go.

These days the "greenest" way to wash your car is to run it through an automatic car wash. Studies show that a session in the car wash uses roughly half the water the average owner would use while washing it at home with the traditional bucket and hose. Commercial car-wash systems are also required, by law, to contain and collect the water used during the wash. So are professional detailers. The waste water is then cleaned and, in most cases, used again.

Automatic car-wash systems even get the nod from car-care professionals, especially when it comes to routine cleanings. David Lee, owner and operator of L.A. Detail, based in Toronto, offers thorough detailing services, but he freely admits to using commercial car-wash systems for his personal vehicle and says he finds them both useful and practical.

However, Lee is also quick to point out that not all systems are equally safe and effective. He favors the high-pressure, no-contact systems and warns against using systems with rotating brushes or moplike, moving felt mats. It's hard to assess how well-maintained these systems are, and your car's paint finish might be at the mercy of the grit that was scrubbed off the crusty old jalopy that passed through the wash just before your car. And paint could be at risk even in the best-maintained systems because of the friction generated by the brushes and mats.

High-pressure systems also are useful in performing the most difficult of tasks: cleaning off as much dirt and salt as possible from your vehicle's undercarriage, fender liners and rocker panels. The operation is entirely worth the extra couple of dollars, Lee says. "The best approach is to run your vehicle through a car wash regularly to keep the dirt from building up and digging into the surface," he says.

Lee adds that brush-free systems are at their best when only a light wash is needed. Frequency then becomes the key. Their weak point is glass, "so I always use the squeegee on glass surfaces before running my vehicle through," he says.

The Dirty Job

For really dirty jobs, the best and most effective way to wash a vehicle still involves elbow grease. That's how pro detailers do it to this day. It's the only way some dirt and residue can be removed. Clay, for instance, can leave a hazy, brownish film that will resist a high-pressure brushless car wash.

While hand-washing might get your vehicle the cleanest, it can be far from environmentally friendly. The main culprits are the excessive use of water and the release of harmful substances such as soap residue, oil, acid and metal particles into the sewer system while washing and rinsing. Some cities and states have banned home car washing for these reasons. Others do so indirectly by forbidding all use of tap water outdoors to preserve dwindling supplies during hot spells.

If you plan to wash at home, your first move is to get automotive soap and cleaners that are biodegradable and nontoxic. Even then, you should avoid washing over pavement, which would let the wash water drain into a sewer, storm drain or ditch that would then let it seep into the water system. Make sure to wash over grass or gravel that will absorb the water into the ground to reduce or eliminate the environmental impact.

Hand-Wash the Right Way

The golden rule for hand-washing, Lee says, is to be "as gentle as possible" to avoid scratching or etching the finish. Make sure your car is cool and parked in the shade. You should also wash in the shade to keep the surface from drying out instantly and leaving soap streaks and scratches.

Fill two buckets with tap water. The first gets the soap, with the right dilution ratio, and the second is for rinsing dirt and particles off thoroughly as you go over the car, section by section, moving from top to bottom. Leave the rocker panels and wheels, always the dirtiest bits, for last. Otherwise, the grit from these areas will get stuck in the cleaning rags and scratch the finish off your car as you rub it clean.

Your first step it to give your car the best possible rinse to remove as much of the dirt, dust and grime as possible. Pressure washers do a good job. Lee's team uses and recommends them. "They get dirt out of the nooks and crannies and save a lot of water, too, since pressure does most of the job," he says.

You should use two soft mittens or natural sponges for washing. The first only touches the painted surfaces and the second only the wheels, tires and other dirtiest bits. Rinse them in the second bucket as much as needed to get rid of the slightest grain of sand or dirt. Work in sections that you rinse with the hose as you go. Turn the water off between rinses to avoid waste.

Lee gives the nod to the traditional chamois, be it natural or synthetic, to dry the car afterward. Let the chamois soak thoroughly before use and rinse it frequently. Another pro tip is to use the moist chamois to wipe hazy deposits from the instrument panel and the inside of the windshield once the exterior is done.

A good spring cleaning should also include the floors, where a lot of grit, grime, salt and water has accumulated, often leaving a nasty crust where it dries. An excellent tool for this operation is a wet/dry vacuum cleaner. First, vacuum up as much of the dry stuff as you can. If deposits remain, scrub them with a brush, hot water and some vinegar, but do so sparingly. Then vacuum again quickly. Do not use too much water; it will dissolve the salt, and the resulting mixture will seep under the carpet and never dry. The result might be a rusted floor pan. The door jambs and sills should also be cleaned, this time with lukewarm water and soap.

Additional Steps

Once your car shines after that spring cleaning, you will want to wax it for protection against the elements, including the scorching summer sun. Lee says that the two-stage approach of applying a pre-cleaner compound first and then a protective wax is worth the extra effort.

You can also use "dressing" products on your tires. "Use the clear, petroleum-based type that seems to 'nourish' the rubber," Lee says. It is best to apply it with a cloth instead of spraying it on to avoid getting the stuff on your alloy wheels, where it becomes "a dust magnet." And you should wipe off the excess after a few minutes. Indeed, if the oily liquid mixes with brake dust and spins off onto rocker panels and fenders, it can permanently damage the paint.

These additional steps will help preserve the long-term appearance and value of your prized possession. And a clean car always runs nicer, doesn't it?

http://editorial.autos.msn.com/article.aspx?cp-documentid=1184306&page=0

AAA and Noco Team Up to Help WNY and CNY Save on Gas!

2011-05-11T10:18:00.000-04:00

I'm sure everyone is tired of hearing about gas prices on the rise, and even more tired of having to pay a fortune at the pump. If you are a Western or Central New Yorker, you'll be happy to hear that AAA and Noco are teaming up to save you some serious dough. Check out the article below from CSNews.com that highlights this great program.

NOCO Express, AAA Partner for Fuel Savings

BUFFALO, N.Y. -- With the peak driving season upon us, NOCO Express and AAA Western and Central New York have teamed up to offer a fuel savings and rewards program to Western New York AAA members.

The "AAA & NOCO Fuel Advantage" will save drivers three cents on every gallon of gas purchased when they swipe their AAA membership card at participating NOCO Express stations. In addition, AAA members will earn reward points -- 10 points for every gallon of gas purchased and 20 points for every dollar spent inside a NOCO Express store -- redeemable for free NOCO Express gift cards.

This is good news for drivers as a regular gallon of gas in New York was recorded at $4.163 as of this morning, according to AAA.

"As a locally owned and operated company, we know that the high cost of gasoline is impacting the budgets of families throughout the region, including the families of our 700 employees," said Michael F. Newman, executive vice president, NOCO Energy Corp. "We are doing our best to find ways to provide savings to our customers in these very difficult market conditions and the program we are partnering with AAA Western and Central New York is one way we are trying to bring some relief."

The "AAA & NOCO Fuel Advantage" is the first savings program between the two. The organizations have formed a long-term discount partnership that allows future savings opportunities and additional benefits for AAA members and NOCO Express customers.

"With the average cost of self-serve regular currently over $4 a gallon, motorists are looking for ways to save," explained Tom Chestnut, president and chief executive officer of AAA Western and Central New York. "The cost of gasoline impacts the family budget, and AAA understands how important it is to offset higher costs by taking advantage of every available discount."

http://www.csnews.com/top-story-noco_express__aaa_partner_for_fuel_savings-58678.html

New York Among States With Highest Gas Prices

2011-04-26T11:23:00.000-04:00

With gas prices constantly on the rise, you may want to think twice about that road trip and opt for a "stay-cation" close to home. New Yorkers are paying some of the highest gas prices in the country along with seven other states. Check out this AP article below from ABC News.

Gasoline Rises to $3.87 Per Gallon

By CHRIS KAHN AP Energy Writer

NEW YORK April 26, 2011 (AP)

Gas pump prices continue to climb, hitting $3.87 per gallon on Tuesday, though experts say the national average should fall as Americans drive less.

Retail gasoline prices have increased for 35 straight days. They're above $4 per gallon in California, New York, Michigan, Illinois, Connecticut, Washington D.C., Alaska and Hawaii.

Pump prices, which have followed oil higher this year, got another boost on Tuesday after three Texas oil refineries lost power. Oil analyst Tom Kloza says the shutdowns may have cut off 300,000 barrels of daily production.

Gasoline futures increased 3 cents to $3.3097 per gallon in morning trading on the New York Mercantile Exchange. Benchmark crude rose 5 cents to $112.23 per barrel.

http://abcnews.go.com/Business/wireStory?id=13459318

Wear Your Seatbelt for a Chance to Win a FREE Vacation from William Mattar!

2011-04-07T13:15:00.000-04:00

Do you buckle up when driving or riding in a motor vehicle? If you answered "Yes," then you could enter for a chance to win a FREE trip for four people to Fern Resort in Ontario.

Wearing a seatbelt can mean the difference between life and death. That is why our firm has the William Mattar Buckle Your Belt Program, a 4Safety initiative. For all the details visit mattar.com. If you promise to wear your seatbelt every time you are traveling the roads, then you can enter into a drawing to win the trip to Fern Resort or one of many other great prizes including Darien Lake season passes, Pizza Plant gift certificates, Rochester Knighthawks & Rochester Americans tickets, a gift basket from Capello Salon, and more!

Remember, seatbelts help save lives. So, 4Safety, buckle your belt!

New Technology Disables Cell Phone Capabilities While Driving

2011-04-05T12:03:00.000-04:00

Distracted driving is becoming more and more common nowadays. One of the most dangerous ways to become distracted while driving is by using a mobile device. Here at the Law Office of William Mattar we have several safety initiatives, one of which encourages people to avoid texting while driving.

Numerous states have passed laws prohibiting hand held cell phone use while driving. Check out the below AP article from ABC News that talks about a new type of device that disables cell phone capabilities while a car is in motion.

RI Lawmaker: Device Can Stop Texting While Driving

Rhode Islanders caught texting and driving would have to install device to jam phones in car

By DAVID KLEPPER Associated Press

PROVIDENCE, R.I. April 5, 2011 (AP)

Rhode Island may enlist some high-tech help in the fight against texting while driving: a device that jams most cell phone capabilities when a vehicle's engine is running.

A state lawmaker has proposed legislation to require those caught texting while driving to install such a device. The equipment is wired to a vehicle's engine and alerts the driver's cell phone when the engine is on. Software installed on the phone then disables texting or email capabilities. Phones without the software aren't affected.

Several companies manufacture the technology. Rhode Island would be the first state to require its use for those found in violation of a texting-while-driving ban. A House committee plans to review the proposal Wednesday.

"Texting while driving is such a dangerous thing to do," Rep. Charlene Lima, D-Cranston, said. "This would make sure a person who has been found guilty of doing this won't do it again."

The idea occurred to Lima after she watched a segment about the technology on a morning news show. She said the idea is a natural extension of ignition interlock technology, which prevents those convicted of drunk driving from operating their vehicle if they've been drinking.

Lima said she also wants to require the devices on police and fire vehicles and in the driver's seats of buses and other public transportation.

If lawmakers endorse Lima's proposal, the state will be able to choose from several products in a burgeoning field.

Taser International Inc., the maker of the Taser stun gun, launched a technology two months ago that allows parents to control children's cell phone use while driving. The system prohibits texting or emailing while the phone user's car is moving. It can be modified to only accept phone calls from certain numbers, or to block all calls while the car is moving. Calls to 911 are still allowed.

"We have a number of people at the company that have teenage drivers at home and it made them want to look into this," said Doug Fallon, project manager at Taser. "Traffic collisions are the No. 1 killer of teens. Cell phones are a big problem. This takes that temptation away."

Taser's product retails for $249.95, with a monthly $14.95 service charge.

Competing products detect when a phone is traveling at high speeds and automatically disable texting and emailing abilities. Another works by detecting when a vehicle is put in gear.

But even manufacturers acknowledge the technology isn't perfect. Virtually all the products will only work with the user's phone and car. The technology doesn't work on iPhones or most older-style cell phones.

"It's a solution, but it's not foolproof by any means," said John Fischer, CEO of Try Safety First Inc., a company that developed its own version of the technology. "A smart kid could uninstall it."
Rhode Island outlawed texting while driving two years ago. Violators now face an $85 fine.

http://abcnews.go.com/Technology/wireStory?id=13298953

"Megabus" to Serve Western New Yorkers

2011-03-29T15:22:00.000-04:00

With gas prices on the rise it's hard to find affordable means of travel. If you'd like to take a road trip but don't want to spend big bucks, consider the Megabus. One-way tickets can be purchased at prices as low as $1! Check out the article below from WGRZ.

Megabus Expands Service to Buffalo
Written by Christie Witt

PITTSBURGH (AP) - The Megabus.com transportation service is using Pittsburgh to bring service to nine new cities.

Company officials say Pittsburgh will be the hub for service to Erie, Detroit, Toronto, Buffalo, Akron, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus and Toledo in Ohio. Pittsburgh already has service to New York, Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia, Harrisburg and State College.

Seats can be booked starting Tuesday. Service will begin on May 11 with trips originating under the David L. Lawrence Convention Center.

Travelers who book well in advance can get one-way fares as low as $1.

http://www.wgrz.com/news/article/116141/13/Megabus-Expands-Service-to-Buffalo

Wearing Your Seatbelt Can Win You Some GREAT Prizes

2011-03-17T10:17:00.000-04:00

Do you make the smart decision to buckle up every time you ride in a motor vehicle? If so, then you can enter the William Mattar "Buckle Your Belt" Campaign for a chance to win a trip for four to Fern Resort in Ontario, or one of many other great prizes.

Wearing a seatbelt significantly lowers your risk of getting hurt and can possibly save your life in a car accident. It's a quick and simple task to "click it" as soon as you enter a vehicle. So, please be sure to ALWAYS practice seatbelt safety!

For more information and to register for the William Mattar "Buckle Your Belt" Campaign, follow this link - http://www.mattar.com/buckle-info.php.

William Mattar Elected As President of Western New York Village Preservation Foundation

2011-02-28T16:33:00.000-05:00

The Village Preservation Foundation has once again elected local attorney William Mattar as the organization’s President for 2011. Mr. Mattar has been actively involved in the foundation since its inception and has held the position of President since 2000.

The Village Preservation Foundation hosts yearly celebrations and fundraising events that showcase local area businesses and provide fun for the entire family while displaying the area’s history and culture. The Foundation also hosts the ever-popular local Farmer’s Market and is responsible for the beautification of areas in the local community.

Along with William Mattar as President, the Village Preservation Foundation also elected Ted Young, from Ed Young’s Hardware, as Treasurer and George J. Measer III, from Bee Group Newspapers, as Secretary. The Foundation’s Board of Directors include: William Mattar, Ted Young, George J. Measer III, Ellie Grenauer, Edward Marecki, Wendy Reynolds and Ronald Daniels.

About The Village Preservation Foundation

The Village Preservation Foundation was established in 1999. It was created to inform the public about the culture and history of Western New York. The foundation conducts, sponsors and promotes public events that celebrate the culture and history of the community. Another goal of the foundation is to preserve, protect, promote and beautify public areas.

FREE CO Detector Event Was a Success!

2011-01-25T15:50:00.000-05:00

In support of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Awareness Month, William Mattar Law Offices teamed up with The Amanda Hansen Foundation and Tops Friendly Markets to give away thousands of dollars worth of CO detectors. On Sunday, January 23rd, hundreds of "Buffalonians" lined up at Tops on Niagara Street to received their FREE CO detectors.

The event took place from 10am-2pm. However, lines grew up and down the isles of the supermarket well before 10:00. The first person in line arrived at 7:30am!

The event as a whole was a great success. We gave away over $10,000 worth of CO detectors to hundreds of community members. It was great to partner up with the Amanda Hansen Foundation and Tops to spread the word about the importance of having a CO detector in every home.


Hundreds of people lined up at Tops Friendly Markets on Niagara Street to get their FREE CO Detectors.

Tops Store Manager, Mike Shanahan (Left) presents a donation check to Kim and Ken Hansen, who established The Amanda Hansen Foundation in memory of their daughter.

William Mattar (Right) presents a donation check to Ken and Kim Hansen, who established The Amanda Hansen Foundation in memory of their daughter.

Would You Spend Thousands on a Rental Car?

2011-01-13T14:10:00.000-05:00

Check out this article and slideshow from MSN.com that highlights some of the most outrageous, exotic rental cars:

The Most Radical Rental Cars

By Claire Martin of MSN Autos

Things like gull-wing doors, teak paneling and $450,000 price tags don't make sense for most people's everyday car. But exotic-car rental agencies nationwide offer the chance to sample brands such as Bentley, McLaren and Bugatti for a day without having to lay down hundreds of thousands of dollars. These are among the most expensive rentals in the country, but they may provide you with your one shot at testing the limits of a supercar, pulling 2g around a turn or lounging on yards of natural leather. Here are the top exotic car rentals in the nation and where you can get them.

http://editorial.autos.msn.com/slideshow.aspx?cp-documentid=1172856&icid=autos_1697&GT1=22007

Continuing Our Safety Initiatives Into the New Year

2010-12-23T16:37:00.000-05:00

Here at William Mattar Law Offices, not only are we committed to helping those injured in auto accidents, but we're also committed to keeping Western New Yorkers safe.

Drinking and driving is always a major concern, especially on big party nights such as New Years Eve. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, thousands of people are killed each year in alcohol-impaired driving crashes. These fatalities accounted for 32% of the total motor vehicle traffic fatalities in the United States in 2009. That equals out to an average of one alcohol-impaired driving fatality every 48 minutes.

There is no "safe limit" when it comes to drinking and driving. Therefore, whenever you go out for the night, it is important to always have a reliable designated driver if you plan on drinking.

We are happy to be partnering with Designated Drivers of Buffalo for the third year in a row to sponsor FREE rides home on New Years Eve. The William Mattar Safe Ride Home Program offers a FREE ride home for both you and your car from 12:00am-4:00am on January 1st (New Years Eve night). For all the details visit mattar.com and click on the Safe Ride logo in the right column.

In addition, January is Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Awareness Month in the state of New York. We will be teaming up with local non-profit organization, The Amanda Hansen Foundation, and Tops Friendly Markets to give away thousands of dollars worth of CO detectors. We'll be giving these away on Sunday, January 23rd from 10:00am-2:00pm at Tops on Niagara Street in Buffalo. Keep an eye on our Facebook page for further details!

Check out our segment on this morning's AM BUFFALO! -
http://www.wkbw.com/programming/am-buffalo/video/Attorney-William-Mattar---Safe-Ride-Home-Program---December-23rd-112386464.html

Attorney William K. Mattar (left) and AM Buffalo's Jon Summers

'Tis the Season for Giving!

2010-12-16T16:55:00.000-05:00

It is that special time of year when we all love to open our hearts to those less fortunate. People throughout the country are showing their holiday spirit by helping families in need through the Salvation Army.

The staff here at William Mattar Law Offices is doing their part to help a local family. The employee participation was overwhelming. We put together boxes upon boxes of great gifts that are sure to brighten this family's Holiday.

The spirit of giving is contagious, so we encourage everyone to "catch the bug" and help out their communities. From buying gifts for those less fortunate to donating time as a volunteer, every little bit helps. So get out there and let your Holiday spirit shine.

Happy Holidays to all!

Tips for Toy Safety

2010-12-07T13:36:00.000-05:00

December is Toy Safety Month and, as we all know, the Holiday shopping season is in full gear. There are many things to keep in mind when shopping for toys. Be sure to follow the below guidelines from the US Consumer Product Safety Commission when searching for gifts for your little ones this season and throughout the year. These and many other helpful tips can be found at www.cpsc.gov.

WHEN BUYING TOYS

Choosing toys with care. Keep in mind the child's age, interests and skill level.

Look for quality design and construction in all toys for all ages.

Make sure that all directions or instructions are clear -- to you, and, when appropriate, to the child. Plastic wrappings on toys should be discarded at once before they become deadly playthings.

Be a label reader. Look for and heed age recommendations, such as "Not recommended for children under three". Look for other safety labels including: "Flame retardant/Flame resistant" on fabric products and "Washable/hygienic materials" on stuffed toys and dolls.

WHEN MAINTAINING TOYS

Check all toys periodically for breakage and potential hazards. A damaged or dangerous toy should be thrown away or repaired immediately.

Edges on wooden toys that might have become sharp or surfaces covered with splinters should be sanded smooth. When repainting toys and toy boxes, avoid using leftover paint, unless purchased recently, since older paints may contain more lead than new paint, which is regulated by CPSC. Examine all outdoor toys regularly for rust or weak parts that could become hazardous.

WHEN STORING TOYS

Teach children to put their toys safely away on shelves or in a toy chest after playing to prevent trips and falls.

Toy boxes, too, should be checked for safety. Use a toy chest that has a lid that will stay open in any position to which it is raised, and will not fall unexpectedly on a child. For extra safety, be sure there are ventilation holes for fresh air. Watch for sharp edges that could cut and hinges that could pinch or squeeze. See that toys used outdoors are stored after play -- rain or dew can rust or damage a variety of toys and toy parts creating hazards.

SHARP EDGES

New toys intended for children under eight years of age should, by regulation, be free of sharp glass and metal edges.

With use, however, older toys may break, exposing cutting edges.

SMALL PARTS

Older toys can break to reveal parts small enough to be swallowed or to become lodged in a child's windpipe, ears or nose. The law bans small parts in new toys intended for children under three. This includes removable small eyes and noses on stuffed toys and dolls, and small, removable squeakers on squeeze toys.

LOUD NOISES

Toy caps and some noisemaking guns and other toys can produce sounds at noise levels that can damage hearing. The law requires the following label on boxes of caps producing noise above a certain level: "WARNING -- Do not fire closer than one foot to the ear. Do not use indoors." Caps producing noise that can injure a child's hearing are banned.

CORDS AND STRINGS

Toys with long strings or cords may be dangerous for infants and very young children. The cords may become wrapped around an infant's neck, causing strangulation. Never hang toys with long strings, cords, loops, or ribbons in cribs or playpens where children can become entangled. Remove crib gyms for the crib when the child can pull up on hands and knees; some children have strangled when they fell across crib gyms stretched across the crib.

SHARP POINTS

Toys which have been broken may have dangerous points or prongs. Stuffed toys may have wires inside the toy which could cut or stab if exposed. A CPSC regulation prohibits sharp points in new toys and other articles intended for use by children under eight years of age.

PROPELLED OBJECTS

Projectiles -- guided missiles and similar flying toys -- can be turned into weapons and can injure eyes in particular. Children should never be permitted to play with adult lawn darts or other hobby or sporting equipment that have sharp points. Arrows or darts used by children should have soft cork tips, rubber suction cups or other protective tips intended to prevent injury. Check to be sure the tips are secure. Avoid those dart guns or other toys which might be capable of firing articles not intended for use in the toy, such as pencils or nails.

ALL TOYS ARE NOT FOR ALL CHILDREN

Keep toys designed for older children out of the hands of little ones. Follow labels that give age recommendations -- some toys are recommended for older children because they may be hazardous in the hands of a younger child. Teach older children to help keep their toys away from younger brothers and sisters.

Even balloons, when uninflated or broken, can choke or suffocate if young children try to swallow them. More children have suffocated on uninflated balloons and pieces of broken balloons than on any other type of toy.

ELECTRIC TOYS

Electric toys that are improperly constructed, wired or misused can shock or burn. Electric toys must meet mandatory requirements for maximum surface temperatures, electrical construction and prominent warning labels. Electric toys with heating elements are recommended only for children over eight years old. Children should be taught to use electric toys properly, cautiously and under adult supervision.

INFANT TOYS

Infant toys, such as rattles, squeeze toys, and teethers, should be large enough so that they cannot enter and become lodged in an infant's throat.

Holiday Travel Tips

2010-11-23T16:43:00.000-05:00

The Holiday season not only brings thanks and joy, it also brings backed up traffic and frustrated travelers. Remember to stay calm and do not stress out while driving. Avoid distractions and always keep your focus on the road.

Furthermore, we all know that the roads are not the only place to get caught up. Air travel can be a nightmare, so take a look at these great tips below from ABC News to help your Thanksgiving travel plans run as smoothly as possible.

Seven Tips for Smooth Thanksgiving Travel

By SCOTT MAYEROWITZ

Nov. 22, 2010

Traveling this Thanksgiving? Expect the roads and airports to be significantly more crowded than last year, thanks in part to an improving economy.

Roughly 42.2 million Americans will travel at least 50 miles from their home this holiday, according to AAA. That's 11.4 percent more than last year.

To help avoid car trouble and unnecessary delays during holiday travel, AAA recommends drivers check their tire treads, tire pressure, wiper blades and battery connections.

While the vast majority of those travelers will be driving, it's those who take to the skies that often deal with the most headaches and heartache. Sure, nobody likes bumper-to-bumper traffic, but would you rather be stuck in traffic in your car or having airport security do a thorough pat-down of your privates?

Besides, it seems that every year the rules of the airport change ever so slightly. (Most people drive every day and the rules of the road really don't change.)

And for fliers, there is some good news: the government is once again opening up some military air space to help speed commercial flights.

Stay Up to Date on the Latest Travel Trends from ABC News on Twitter

So with all that in mind, we reached out to Genevieve Shaw Brown, senior editor at Travelocity to answer seven commonly-asked questions about flying during Thanksgiving.

#1: May I Bring My Turkey?

The short answer here is yes, though you might get some strange looks at security. Keep in mind, however, your turkey (or whatever other food you bring on the aircraft) must be part of your carry-on luggage and must not take up more than the free one bag and one carry-on item allotted by every domestic airline except Spirit (which charges for carry-on luggage). Remember, though, that the TSA still allows no more than 3 ounces of liquid in any one container, so your turkey cannot be soaking in brine, getting itself ready for dinner at grandma's house.

#2: How Long Do I Really Need to Get Though Security?

Provided you have checked in online before your flight (see question three), you can arrive at security one hour before your domestic flight and most likely be just fine. But, just to be on the safe side, you might want to leave yourself an extra half-hour during a busy travel weekend like Thanksgiving. If you choose not to check in online, arrive at the airport at least two hours before your departure time to be ready for long lines at the check-in counter, which are in addition to the lines at security. Arrive at the airport two hours before all international flights.

#3: How Do I Make Sure I Don't Get Bumped From My Flight?

There is no guaranteed way to avoid getting bumped, but there are certainly ways to minimize your chances. First and foremost, reserve a seat when you purchase your flight online, rather than letting one be randomly assigned to you at a later date. Next, check in online on your carrier's website up to 24 hours before your flight. Often, when a flight is oversold and no one is willing to give up their seat, the airline will bump the person or people who checked in last. Finally, get to the gate as early as possible (see question two; this is when that extra half-hour might come in handy) and reconfirm your seat with the gate agent.

#4: What If I Miss My Connection?

Typically when you miss a connection, the airline just puts you on the next flight to your destination. During a peak travel period like Thanksgiving, however, that might not be so simple because planes are flying very full and you'll have to wait for a flight with an available seat. The easiest way to not miss a connection is to book a direct flight in the first place. If that's not possible, leave a minimum of two hours to make your connecting flight to protect against any delays on the first leg of your trip.

If you've already purchased your flight and you're worried the connecting time is too tight, visit your airport's website to see a map of the airport to get a lay of the land. Then ask your flight attendant on your first flight to tell you what gate your next flight is using. This can save you several minutes of searching for your gate. Finally, if you do miss your connection and it looks as if it is going to be a while before the airline finds you an empty seat to your destination, it's time to be flexible. Be willing to travel to airports near your destination -- for example, Fort Lauderdale instead of Miami, or Charleston instead of Savannah -- if there are empty seats.

#5: What Should I Keep With Me in Case We Get Stranded on the Tarmac?

It is very unlikely that you'll get stranded on the tarmac. However, make sure you're prepared for the worst-case scenario over Thanksgiving weekend and every other time you fly. Keep on your person at all times a fully charged cell phone, all medications, water (purchased post-security) and a snack. If you're traveling with children, make sure they have formula (this is an exception to the TSA liquid rule), diapers and activities to keep them amused. Bottom line -- if you can't live without it, don't put it in your checked luggage, because once it's checked you're not going to see it again until you get to your destination.

#6: Can I Bring Gifts Along?

Yes, but be aware that wrapped gifts may be opened at security. Use gift bags or wait until you arrive at your destination before wrapping presents. And of course, anything you carry on the plane counts towards your allotted one carry-on bag and one personal item.

#7: How Much Will It Cost My Family to Check Our Bags?

That, of course, depends on how many bags you check. Most airlines charge $25 for the first checked bag and $35 for the second on domestic flights. Exceptions are JetBlue, which allows one free checked bag, and Southwest, which allows two. Generally speaking, a family of four, each checking one bag, will pay a total of $200 round-trip in bag charges. Some airlines offer small discounts -- usually $3 per bag -- if you pay online before your flight.

Your bag must not weigh more than 50 pounds or measure more than 62 inches. Otherwise, it will be subject to overweight and/or oversized bag fees. On international flights, you're often allowed to check one bag free of charge, but check your carrier's website for specifics.

Keep in mind that every ticketed passenger (including a small child) is entitled to one regulation-size carry-on bag and one personal item for free, except on Spirit. Regulation size is generally 45 linear inches or less; you can figure this number out by adding the width plus the length plus the height.

http://abcnews.go.com/Travel/thanksgiving-holiday-travel-tips-traffic-flight-delays-ruin/story?id=12195296

Preparing For Winter Weather Driving

2010-11-12T15:41:00.000-05:00

Via MattarMedia - The morning frost on your windshield, the air turning crisp, the sky becoming darker on your drive home from work... like it or not, winter is on its way. Shivering cold weather is just around the corner which means it is time to start preparing your car for winter driving.

From tire inspection to battery checks, the below list of tips from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration will help you keep track of what needs to be done before Old Man Winter comes to town.

Get your car serviced to check for any leaks, bad hoses or other needed part repairs or replacements that could leave you stranded in bad weather. If you plan on using snow tires, install them now.

Make sure your battery has enough power to start your car in cold weather. When the temperature drops, so does battery power.

Check your cooling system for leaks and for the proper amount of coolant to avoid freezing. If your system hasn't been flushed for several years, have it done to ensure effectiveness. Fill up on wiper fluid and inspect your windshield wipers and defrosters to maintain the best visibility possible.

Inspect your tires for cracks and tread that is worn below 1/16 of an inch. Make sure your tire pressure is at recommended PSI (pounds per square inch) levels, which is listed in your owner's manual and on the inside of the driver's door.

Know your car and how it handles on wet, icy or snowy roads. Take the time to learn how to best drive it during winter weather.

Plan your travel and route by checking weather, road conditions and traffic. Allow extra driving time in bad weather, and keep your gas tank full.

Stock your vehicle with emergency items like a shovel, broom, blankets, sand, ice scraper and jumper cables. Make sure you have your cell phone, water, food and any necessary medicine for longer trips.

For more information, visit safercar.gov

Get Some "Sweet" Deals in the Buffalo Area

2010-11-10T10:22:00.000-05:00

Everyone loves a good deal. Check out this article from The Buffalo News that highlights one of the newest and easiest ways go get up to 90% off at various local businesses. Read on and learn how to start saving!

News launches Web site offering sweet deals for area shoppers

By David Robinson

NEWS BUSINESS REPORTER

Updated: November 10, 2010, 6:46 AM

The Buffalo News has launched a new Web site that provides a different deal each day at local restaurants, stores and events.

Each morning, SweetFind.com e-mails those registered with the site an offer of discounts of 50 percent to 90 percent off the regular prices. Tuesday, the inaugural deal from SweetFind.com offered $20 in vouchers for Paula’s Donuts on Kenmore Avenue in Buffalo for $9. The site accepts payment only by credit card.

With the launch, Sweet- Find.com joins a fast-growing segment of Internet marketing that already includes sites such as Groupon.com, Livingocial. com and SocialBuy.com in the Buffalo Niagara region.

The daily deal site also is a way for The News to broaden the advertising and marketing services it offers clients, both through the newspaper and the Internet, said Emily Lowrey, The News’ director of online operations.

“Newspapers, obviously, are looking for ways to diversify,” she said. “This is one component of a complete media mix we can offer our customers.”

Daily deal sites are a relatively new phenomenon, but they have succeeded in attracting millions of consumers across the country. Groupon, for instance, has 20 million subscribers in the 230 markets where it operates and this week was reported to be seeking venture capital funding that would value the 2-year-old business at $3 billion.

Like the other such bargain sites, SweetFind each weekday will offer one deal that will expire at midnight, or possibly earlier if the limited-quantity offer sells out, Lowrey said. Friday deals will be available throughout the weekend or until they sell out.

While the deals are available only for 24 hours, the vouchers purchased through the Sweet- Find site typically don’t expire for six months to a year.

The daily deal site allows advertisers to reach out to new consumers, attracting them to their businesses with deep discounts in hopes that they then will become regular customers, Lowrey said.
Consumers can sign up to receive SweetFind’s exclusive coupon at SweetFind.com.

drobinson@buffnews.com

WNY Is On the Rise!

2010-11-05T12:43:00.000-04:00

Who doesn't love hearing great success stories about Western New York? Local WNY companies are making it big according to Forbes' list of the top private companies in the United States.

Check out this article from Buffalo Business First! -

WNY companies rise on Forbes list
Business First
Date: Friday, November 5, 2010, 8:04am EDT

A list of the country’s top private companies published by Forbes has a Western New York flavor. Four companies based in Buffalo and Rochester made the list — Wegmans, Rich Products Corp., Bausch & Lomb and Delaware North Cos. — and each improved their standing from last year.

Wegmans, at No. 55, placed highest among the locals, rising from 74th in 2009. The Rochester grocer, which has a prominent business in Buffalo, had revenue of $5.15 billion, up 7.2 percent and an employment roll of nearly 38,700, Forbes said.

Rich Products Corp. climbed to No. 137 from 161 on revenues of $2.9 billion, an increase of 3.5 percent. The Buffalo-based food manufacturer employs some 7,500 workers.

Another Buffalo company, Delaware North Cos., was ranked at No. 204, up from No. 219. The publication said revenue declined 2.2 percent to $2.15 billion. The concessions’ company has 50,000 workers.

In between Rich Products and Delaware North was Bausch & Lomb, the medical appliances and equipment of Rochester. B&L placed at No. 171, compared to No. 189 last year, on revenue of $250 million and 11,000 employees.

The full list can be found here.
Read more: WNY companies rise on Forbes list | Business First

LINK to article:
http://www.bizjournals.com/buffalo/news/2010/11/05/wny-companies-rise-on-forbes-list.html

William Mattar Law Offices Holds Food Drive for Clarence Food Pantry

2010-11-01T12:28:00.000-04:00

Here at William Mattar Law Offices not only do we enjoy working hard for those injured in car accidents, we also love giving back to our local community. We will be holding a food drive to benefit the Clarence Food Pantry beginning this Wednesday, November 3^rd. Items will be collected up until 5:00pm on Friday, November 12^th.

Every little bit helps, so please stop by our office at 6720 Main Street in Williamsville to donate. Below is a list of items that are needed most:

Paper products (plates, towels, napkins, tissues)
Laundry detergent
Cleaning products
Pasta sauce
Canned frosting
Canned corn
Spaghetti O's and Chef Boyardee
Frozen turkeys*

*If you would like to donate a frozen turkey please do so on November 12th, the last day of the food drive.

It's School Bus Safety Week!

2010-10-20T16:44:00.001-04:00

Every day students are at risk from people who drive dangerously around school buses. That's why it's National School Bus Safety Week.

The thought of your child being in a bus accident is a scary thought for parents, but despite the lack of seat belts, they're a pretty safe place to be.

It's generally more dangerous for kids when they're getting on and off the bus. The danger zones are the areas around the bus where the kids are most likely to be hurt. That includes being hit by passing cars or the bus itself, but a few easy habits can help keep kids safe at the bus stop.

Kids need to stay 10 giant steps away from the bus. they need to make eye contact with the driver so the driver gives them the signal that it's okay to cross and okay to load or unload.

One area where there's a lot of confusion about passing a bus with flashing lights is major roads and intersections. A turning lane is not enough, drivers must stop unless there is a physical barrier like a concrete median.

Kids should also be warned that if they drop something under the bus , they should alert the bus driver and not try and retrieve it themselves. They should also take off their backpacks and put them on the floor of the bus to ensure the kids are properly protected in the event of a crash.

Facebook Apps Leak User Info

2010-10-18T14:56:00.000-04:00

Some Facebook applications have been leaking user information — specifically, Facebook UIDs — to third party companies.

The apps in question have a huge combined userbase. The Wall Street Journal reports that all of the 10 most popular Facebook (Facebook) apps are guilty of giving away user IDs to third parties, specifically Internet (Internet) research and advertising companies.

These include Zynga’s FarmVille, Texas HoldEm Poker (texas holdem poker) and FrontierVille; according to AppData, FarmVille alone had more than 80 million users in February 2010.

Facebook confirmed some of the issues in a blog post, claiming most of the apps in question shared the user IDs inadvertently, due to “technical details.”

“Our policy is very clear about protecting user data, ensuring that no one can access private user information without explicit user consent (…) Recently, it has come to our attention that several applications built on Facebook Platform were passing the User ID (UID), an identifier that we use within our APIs, in a manner that violated this policy. In most cases, developers did not intend to pass this information, but did so because of the technical details of how browsers work,” the post said.

Earlier this weekend, Facebook blocked LOLapps, one of the biggest social games providers on the Facebook platform, due to “violations of Facebook’s terms.” The WSJ claims that some of the apps created by LOLapps were also transmitting user info to third parties. LOLapps (whose apps have now been reinstated on Facebook) has confirmed this was the case in a blog post, claiming it shared the info inadvertently.

Facebook also said that “knowledge of a UID does not enable anyone to access private user information without explicit user consent.”

This is true, but Facebook UID can be very revealing, depending on the user’s privacy settings. Knowing the ID of a Facebook user who shares information with “Everyone” can potentially give you access to his/her name, phone number, e-mail, photos and other personal info. Even if a user has set the strictest possible privacy settings on his/her account on Facebook, the ID may still reveal his/her name and Facebook friends.

And then there’s the issue of scale. If an application with tens of millions of users shares Facebook UIDs with an advertising company, that’s a lot of data. Depending on your privacy settings on Facebook, this particular advertising company now may only know your name and the names of your friends or much more. But the real question is one of trust: Have you agreed to any of this, and do you want to be in this company’s database?

This is another in a long line of Facebook’s privacy missteps. Although Facebook has claimed time and time again that it’s doing everything it can to preserve its users’ privacy, this latest incident won’t do much to convince its users that this is really the case.

Thanks to Stan Schroeder for the heads up.

William Mattar Law Offices Rewards Safe Drivers Who Buckle Their Seat Belts

2010-10-12T13:07:00.000-04:00

Whether or not to wear a seat belt could be the most important choice one makes when driving or riding in an automobile. The simple and smart decision to buckle up can mean the difference between life and death. Therefore, every year our firm implements the William Mattar Buckle Your Belt Campaign.

The main purpose of this campaign is to encourage the people of Western New York to practice seat belt safety. Up until late August visitors of Mattar.com had the opportunity to enter for a chance to win a trip for four to Fern Resort; a beautiful, all-inclusive family getaway in Ontario, Canada. William Mattar Law Offices is pleased to announce that one lucky winner was chosen - Western New York native Geoffrey Goodrell!

William Mattar (right) presents Fern Resort vacation package to Geoffrey Goodrell at the winner's home in Rochester, NY.

Our current giveaway allows New Yorkers the chance to win a FREE laptop computer. To become eligible visit www.mattar.com, register in the William Mattar Buckle Your Belt Campaign before December 2010 and agree to wear your seatbelt every time you are traveling the roads in a motor vehicle. Now making the choice to buckle up can not only save your life, it can win you some amazing prizes.

William Mattar Law Offices Takes Part in "Paint the Village Pink" Initiative

2010-10-07T15:29:00.000-04:00

Williamsville, New York (October 7, 2010) – Local businesses throughout Amherst and Williamsville are "Painting the Village Pink" to kick off National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Town residents and passersby visiting Main Street between Kensington Avenue and Youngs Road will see pink ribbon banners hanging from streetlights throughout October. They'll also catch a glimpse of participating businesses decked out with large pink breast cancer ribbons.


"It is a great feeling to know that our participation is making a difference in creating awareness of breast cancer, the most common form of cancer affecting women." ~ William Mattar

William Mattar Law Offices will show their support for Breast Cancer Awareness by participating in the amazing "Paint the Village Pink" campaign. The office will be decorated with large pink ribbons and staff members will be showing their support throughout the month by wearing pink.

According to the American Cancer Society, you have a 100% chance of survival if breast cancer is detected in Stage 1. Events like "Paint the Village Pink" do an incredible job of generating awareness of facts such as this and the need for proper screening.

Rochester Red Light Camera Traffic Safety Program

2010-09-29T14:06:00.000-04:00

The Rochester Police Department is deploying the latest technology to keep motorists and pedestrians safe.

As part of Rochester’s Red Light Photographic Enforcement Program, cameras are being installed at certain intersections to help enforce the vehicle and traffic law. The intersection locations were selected based upon accident data and video surveys conducted by Redflex Inc., the company that is managing the program for the City.

The program is scheduled to begin in October.

How Redlight Traffic Safety Cameras Work
The cameras will capture still and video images of vehicles in the act of a red-light violation, which will initiate the procedure to deliver a civil summons, or Notice of Violation, to the registered owner of the vehicle. The violation is a civil penalty and will not be reported to insurance companies or generate points on a driver’s license.

Evidence captured by the Red Light Cameras will be reviewed by the Rochester Police Department before the summons is delivered in the mail. Vehicle owners will have an opportunity to appeal the summons or pay the fine. The civil violation carries a $50 fine.

The program will begin with a 15 day warning period, when warning letters will be sent.

The cameras operate 24 hours a day and capture still photographs and video of every vehicle that runs a red light at the intersection. Cameras photograph only the vehicle and the license plate of vehicles running the red lights. No images of the driver or passengers are captured. Each set of images of a red light violation are reviewed and approved by the Rochester Police Department before a Notice of Violation is mailed to the registered owner of the vehicle.

A "Motion For Continuance" For That?

2010-09-21T14:24:00.000-04:00

In the Louisiana case of Harrell v. Spencer, et al., defense counsel filed an "Unopposed Motion To Continue Trial Due To Conflict With The LSU Tiger's National Championship Game." In his supporting Memorandum, defense counsel states:

All counsel to this matter unequivocally agree that the presence of LSU in the aforementioned contest of pigskin skill unquestionably constitutes good grounds [under the statute - for continuing the trial]. In fact we have been unable through much imagination and hypothetical scenarios to think of a better reason.

The Motion was granted and the trial moved to February 11, 2008. However, February 11th is George Washington's birthday. Really, you can't make this stuff up. You can read the Motion, Memorandum and Order here

Google Me is Probably Already Bigger Than Facebook

2010-09-20T14:56:00.000-04:00

The world discovered a little bit more about this mysterious "Google Me" project this week, when Googlers, including CEO Eric Schmidt opened up (just a little bit) at the company's Zeitgeist event.

The main thing that has been revealed is that Google Me will not be a new social network from Google to try and compete with Facebook, but rather a "social layer" added to existing Google products. If you think about it, this strategy makes more sense, as Google already has many of the features of a great social network in its various properties. As I've said over and over again, integration among these is the key, and "Google Me" just might turn out to be that integration that connects Google's offerings, effectively making Google itself the social network.

While video is also increasing, photos were responsible for most of Facebook's initial growth. In fact Facebook Photos now has more market share than all the competitors combined (including Google-owned Picasa). Google also clearly has another massive weapon in their arsenal: YouTube. The video site is by far the most popular of all video sites in the world. YouTube is easily the greatest asset Google has in terms of social media. You may recall that YouTube began requiring all users to have a Google account. No coincidence.

So let's compare Google (as one big social network) to Facebook, feature by feature.

Facebook has the news feed. Google is reportedly working on the activity stream. Facebook has chat. Google does too (text, voice, and video). Facebook has photos. Google does too, with Picasa Web Albums and various other complementary photo-related offerings. Facebook has videos. Google has YouTube (and Google Video). Facebook has notes. Google has Blogger. Facebook has Pages. Google has Profiles. Google has email. Facebook may at some point (MySpace just added it last year). Facebook has games. Google is working on getting more. Facebook has news publications setting up Pages. Google has Google News. Facebook has the Open Graph. Google has search (all kinds of search...and maps).

Facebook has Facebook Ads. Google has AdWords, AdSense, and Doubleclick. Facebook has applications. Google has Google Apps, the Apps Marketplace, Android, the Android Marketplace, Chrome, Chrome OS, the Chrome Web Store, Google TV which will support Android apps and web apps. Google is also trying to get a music service off the ground. And let's not forget Google Calendar and Google Reader - two very user-personalized products.

People have often talked about Google's "social media failures", but Google just may have the biggest social network of all but it's all in the integration. Google just needs to make it happen in a way that people can clearly see it all come together and actually use it.

Back to School: Online Safety

2010-09-01T14:24:00.000-04:00

It's hard enough to supervise your kid's online activities at home, by setting and enforcing rules such as no chatting and no instant-messaging people you don't know. What about their online safety at school?

Statistically, kids are safer online at school than at home. They are often better supervised at school, as someone usually oversees all their online activities by watching the PCs or using monitoring technology. Also, most children have limited school Internet access; the less time they spend online, the less likely they are to be drawn into something harmful.

Another key factor is the expertise of school librarians and media specialists. One of them told me that you can always tell when students are surfing where they shouldn't be: Other kids gather around to see what's on the screen. It's rarely pornography; more often it's a gory site, or one that targets a student. Librarians can usually find sites that threaten specific children, by watching for high traffic to little-known sites (which kids find by word of mouth).

Many schools block instant messaging and chat. Since most Internet sexual predators entice children through these means, this alone makes your child much safer. Still, make sure that the school and its board have effective policies in place to deal with a variety of cyberrisks.

Ask if the school has an acceptable-use policy. It should be signed both by students and parents, and clearly state the rules, the consequences of violating them, and how to report problems. Find out what happens if a parent refuses to sign; too many schools let the student go online anyway, feeling it's needed for their education.

Ask about privacy. Does the school have a Web site? Does it include the school directory or students' personal information? Student photos? (Pictures should show groups of four or more students and not give their names.) Does the school let students fill out forms online or register at Web sites? COPPA (the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act) bars Web sites from letting preteens use interactive communications (chat, IM, discussion boards, e-mail) or from collecting personally identifiable information from them without parental permission.

Kids can be inventive in finding ways to abuse the Internet and each other. But if parents, teachers, students, library personnel, safety officers, and school officials and boards work together, we'll keep making progress in ensuring that students' online experience is as safe as possible.

Back to School Back Pack Safety

2010-08-23T16:38:00.000-04:00

As the new school year approaches, parents and children planning their "back-to-school" lists are urged to keep backpack safety in mind.

Each year, about 6,000 children in the United States experience backpack-related injuries, Linda Rhodes, an occupational therapist at MCG Health Children's Medical Center in Augusta, Ga., explained in a news release from the medical center.

In an effort to cut down on the number of these injuries, Rhodes offers parents the following backpack safety advice:

Choose a lightweight backpack that doesn't add too much to your child's load. The pack should have two wide, padded shoulder straps and a padded back that will improve comfort and protect your child from being poked by the sharp points and edges of pencils, pens, rulers and other objects they need to carry.
Select the proper size backpack for your child. It should cover no more than three-quarters of the length of your child's back.
Load backpacks carefully. The maximum weight of a loaded pack should not be more than 15 percent of a child's body weight. Place the heaviest books closest to the back as they require the most body support. If a child has to lean forward to carry a pack, it's too heavy.
Have your child wear the pack correctly. He or she should use both shoulder straps. Carrying a backpack on one shoulder puts too much strain on one side of the upper body. The straps should be snug, but not too tight. If a backpack has a waist strap, use it to help better support the load.

More information

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons has more about backpack safety.

Teaching your teens about distracted driving hazards

2010-08-12T11:56:00.000-04:00

Via MattarMedia - We have been blogging about distracted driving since last week. The statistics show that teens are not getting the message about how dangerous and deadly the consequences really can be.

There are so many distractions that drivers need to be aware of - music, eating, cell phones, other people in the car, etc. As parents, we need to take the time to talk to our teenagers about safe driving techniques. Have your teen take this quiz to see how much they really know about the hazards of texting while driving. Then have them watch the graphic texting while driving video.

Most importantly, as parents we need to model safe driving in our own vehicles. Practice what you preach.

Strange stories about distracted driving

2010-08-06T11:19:00.000-04:00

Via MattarMedia - We hear a lot of talk in the media about the problem of texting and driving, or cell phone use and driving, but what about other types of distracted driving? Most of us have witnessed another driver doing something ridiculous, like applying makeup, eating, or navigating with a large road map, while driving. Why are so many Americans convinced that driving is a great time to show off their multi-tasking skills?

A local radio call-in show covered this topic a few weeks ago. Callers shared some outrageous stories regarding distracted driving. We have a highlighted a couple here:

One caller recalled a story about driving behind a car that was swerving all over the road. When he found an opportunity to safely pass the driver, he discovered that she was reading! She had a hardcover novel spread out on the steering wheel and was actively reading it.

Another caller told the audience about a time when they passed a car and saw that the driver was brushing his teeth - complete with toothbrush, a tube of paste and a bottle of water (for rinsing, of course).

Do you have a distracted driving story that you would like to share? We would love to hear it - feel free to comment below.

Distracted driving kills people every day. Moral of the story: Just wait until you get where you are going. The time "saved" isn't worth the risk taken.

Distracted driving is still a serious problem for teen drivers

2010-08-04T10:29:00.000-04:00

Via MattarMedia - Our latest blog topic is an issue that is receiving a lot of press coverage lately - distracted driving. Unfortunately, it doesn't appear to be getting any better, especially among teen drivers. Frightening statistics show that motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for teenagers (claiming more lives than drugs, alcohol, suicide, or violence combined.)

AAA recently collaborated with Seventeen Magazine in a poll to find out more about teen driving habits. While more than 80% of teens admitted that distracted driving was dangerous, an alarming 86% admitted to engaging in some act of distracted driving.

More details about the study are available here, along with some great suggestions from AAA on how to talk with your teen to combat this serious problem.

Keeping the kids happy on your family road trip

2010-07-28T11:21:00.001-04:00

Via MattarMedia - Do you have a family road trip planned and wonder how you are going to keep the kids entertained in the car? Sitting idle for long periods is not easy for children of any age. A little advance planning may help to limit their boredom - and the inevitable bickering that is sure to happen.

First, let each kid to fill a backpack with activities that they enjoy. Allowing them to fill their own bag is the best way to select items they will actually use. Storybooks, coloring books, crayons, drawing paper and small electronic toys are a great start for younger children. Older kids may prefer books, hand-held gaming devices or MP3 players to keep busy.

Second, try to plan a couple of stops along the way. If you have packed a lunch, take a little time to stop at a nice park or picnic area to enjoy it. Everyone needs a chance to stretch and the kids will be able to run off some of their pent up energy. This simple 30 minute lunch break can re-energize everyone for the next leg of the trip.

When the kids have reached their limit and the packed activities have run their course, play some car games. Travel games require no extra packing and can be fun for everyone. Here are a few great sites which offer game ideas for people of all ages:

Top 10 Road Trip Games

21 Games Sorted by Age

Classic Road Trip Games

Printable Car Games

With good planning and preparation, family road trips can be so much fun. Drive safe and enjoy the great memories you are making!

How to save money on your next road trip

2010-07-21T13:56:00.000-04:00

Via MattarMedia - If you think you can't afford your vacation this year, think again. With the current state of the economy, high-end luxury vacations have taken the back burner to low-cost weekend getaways. Road trips can be a cost effective alternative with the proper planning. Here are some budget friendly tips to help you save money on your next road trip.

FOOD
Eating out for three meals a day can add up fast. Consider making sandwiches or bringing the bread and fixings with you to make them along the way. When you do want to mix it up by eating out, look for local diners and early bird specials.

You can also save a lot of money by packing a bag of snacks from home and a cooler of drinks for the road. Grabbing a 16 oz. bottle of water and a granola bar can cost you close to $5 at a gas station. For that price, you can buy an entire case of water bottles!

LODGING
We all love those 5 star resorts, but when you are cutting costs, they don't fit the bill. What are some inexpensive options? Camping, motels, and some Bed & Breakfast Inns can help you save big bucks. There are also a lot of accommodations that offer discounts with certain memberships, like AAA.

GAS
The first way to save money on gas is to travel using the most fuel-efficient car in your household. You may get a little more cargo space with a SUV, but you will pay for it at the gas pump.

Next, try to drive your car at a constant speed. Repeatedly speeding up and slowing down just wastes gas. If you are on the highway, set your cruise control to maintain a steady speed and good fuel efficiency.

An additional way to save money on gas for long road trips is to plot your course in advance and see who has the best gas prices before even leaving home.

One last money saving tip (which is good year round) - DON'T SPEED! Even if you don't get in a car accident from speeding, a ticket can cost hundreds of dollars and can put a big dent in your budget.

Close to home: Great ideas for your next road trip

2010-07-15T16:24:00.000-04:00

Via MattarMedia - Whether you are planning to camp out for the weekend or stay at a luxury resort for the week, there are many great spots near Western New York to consider for your next road trip. We have gathered some of our favorite places and categorized them for you below.

Our top 5 family destinations:
1. Darien Lake
2. Adirondack Mountains
3. Cooperstown, NY (Home of the Baseball Hall of Fame)
4. Gettysburg, PA
5. Splash Lagoon in Erie, PA

Our top 5 romantic getaways:
1. Niagara-on-the-Lake
2. Finger Lakes Wine Trail
3. Alexandria Bay, NY
4. Toronto, Canada
5. Saratoga Springs, NY

Our top 5 day trips:
1. Goat Island (in Niagara Falls)
2. Lewiston, NY
3. Letchworth State Park
4. Tift Nature Preserve (in Buffalo)
5. Gorge trails (in Niagara Falls)

Between sight seeing, hiking, boating and camping, there are plenty of ways to keep busy this summer and enjoy the outdoors.

Feel free to comment - we would love to hear what your favorite close to home spots are. Check back for some more road trip fun next week!

10 tips to get your car ready for a road trip

2010-07-12T16:15:00.000-04:00

Via MattarMedia - You've packed your favorite Hawaiian shirt, flip flops, sunscreen, snacks, and have your itinerary planned, but are you really ready for that road trip? Run through this checklist to see if you have missed anything...

1) Check your tire pressure.
You can usually find the recommended PSI pressure on the tire itself.
2) Align and rotate your tires.
Having your tires aligned and rotated will reduce uneven wear and make your tires last longer.
3) Check your brakes.
If your rotors or brake pads need replacing, now’s a better time to do it than in the middle of your road trip.
4) Check coolant levels.
Repairs for an overheated car can be expensive, but is easily avoidable with regular maintenance.
5) Change engine oil.
Even if you had your oil changed recently, it’s smart to check your oil level before you leave on a road trip.
6) Check windshield wipers & fluid.
Replace old wiper blades and fill up the windshield wiper fluid so you can keep you windshield clear in summer rain storms.
7) Check the levels of your power steering, brake and transmission fluids.
If they are not full, you will want to fill them before getting on the road.
8) Keep an emergency kit in your car.
If you don't know what you need, read our blog post from June for a detailed list.
9) Check your car for a spare tire and jack.
If your tire blows out on a deserted road, you want to be equipped to handle it.
10) Bring road maps for the areas you are traveling through.
A GPS is a handy device, but technology can be unpredictable.

Our Road Trip Series continues all week, so come back to find out more helpful hints.

Anyone up for a summer road trip?

2010-07-07T16:23:00.001-04:00

Via MattarMedia - Summer is here and the kids are out of school. So, what does this mean for a lot of people this summer? Road trip!

Whether you're planning a one day trip or a cross country trek, it's best to plan ahead. To help you stay prepared and safely enjoy your getaway, we introduce our Road Trip Series. For the next couple of weeks, we will be blogging about various topics, including:

*Preparing Your Car
*WNY Road Trips
*Road Safety
*Games to Play in the Car

Check back for some useful travel information as we revv up our July Road Trip Series.

Road Rage vs. Aggressive Driving: Is there a difference?

2010-06-30T15:30:00.000-04:00

Via MattarMedia - We can all admit to having been in a hurry to get somewhere and we have all been a witness to impatient, reckless drivers. But is speeding an equal offense to tailgating or failure to yield? What exactly is the difference between aggressive driving and road rage?

Most people don't realize the distinction, but aggressive driving is not road rage. The most notable difference is that road rage is a violent, criminal offense, such as using your vehicle as a weapon or physically assaulting another person with your vehicle.

According to the New York State police, an aggressive driver is one who:

"Operates a motor vehicle in a selfish, bold or pushy manner, without regard for the rights or safety of the other users of the streets and highways."

So, what qualifies as aggressive driving then? Here's the list of traffic violations:

* Excessive Speed
* Frequent or Unsafe Lane Changes
* Failure to Signal
* Tailgating
* Failure to Yield the Right of Way
* Disregarding Traffic Controls
* Impaired Driving

These are all moving violations that can result in points on your license and fines.

Moral of the story: Keep your emotions in check and never drive the way you feel.

Police try to Prevent Aggressive Driving

2010-06-28T13:40:00.000-04:00

Via MattarMedia - As part of a new campaign, Operation Work Brake, state police will start to target aggressive drivers. Throughout the week, you may see Troopers surveying construction zones and highways.

As reported by Your News Now:

"As we get closer to the 4th of July weekend, State Police will be on the lookout for aggressive drivers along the Thruway. It's called "Operation Work Brake."

From Monday to Friday, state troopers will be out in full force looking for drivers showing erratic behavior along the Thruway and construction zones across the state.

State officials said that with the summer season here, drivers need to do their part by showing caution while on the road."

As always, we encourage you to drive safe and will be posting more information about aggressive driving throughout the week.

New study shows lower car crash rates for older drivers

2010-06-23T11:59:00.000-04:00

Via MattarMedia - As the Baby Boomer generation is getting older, we have more older drivers on the roads than in previous years. A few of the more common generalizations made about the elderly include:

1. They drive slow, sometimes under the speed limit which can be hazardous.
2. They have poor reflexes, resulting in slow reaction time.
3. They have poor vision, which affects their driving ability.

While some of these stereotypes may be true for some drivers, a new study released by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety shows that the greatest decrease in crash rates was for older drivers. Results from the report show that injury crash rates declined 34% for drivers 80 years old and up, while the decrease in injury crash rates for 35-54 year-olds was only 16%.

What could this mean? Well, for one, with the advances in the medical field, older people are, generally speaking, in better health today than in the past. Some other theories are that cars are built safer today; and, elderly people are using better judgment as to when they should stay off the roads.

Earlier this year, the New York State DMV unveiled a new web site geared specifically for older drivers. If you have a loved one in the older age bracket, please pass the link on to them. Staying informed is the first step to staying safe.

Teen ticketed for driving drunk and texting while driving

2010-06-21T11:38:00.000-04:00

Via MattarMedia - Generally speaking, multi-tasking is usually considered to be a positive thing. However, when you are driving, it's best to keep your focus on the road.

As reported by News Channel 2:

A Fredonia man was ticketed Saturday after he rolled his vehicle over and it was determined that he was texting and drunk.

Sheriff's deputies responded to a scene of a rollover motor vehicle accident around 2:30 a.m. Saturday. Through further investigation, it was determined that Brandyn Lambe, 19, was texting while driving.

According to the Chautauqua County Sheriff's Office, the texting caused him to become distracted which lead to his vehicle going off the road, through a ditch. The vehicle then flipped over several times, landing on its wheels in the opposite lane.

Once Police got to Lambe and treated him for his minor injuries, it was discovered that he was also intoxicated.

Please drink responsibly and don't text and drive.

State Troopers are trying to keep drunk drivers off the roads

2010-06-18T11:10:00.000-04:00

Via MattarMedia - New York State Troopers are making a statement against drinking and driving. DWI checkpoints, like the one seen in this video, will be seen often throughout Western New York this summer.

Trooper Joe DiMaria said:
"We'll be conducting these road checks throughout the season, and hopefully people are getting the message. This way, things will pay off and we'll save some lives."

Driving while intoxicated endangers everybody on the roads. If you plan on drinking, have a designated driver to get you home safely.

Stay prepared with an emergency kit in your car

2010-06-16T11:11:00.000-04:00

Via MattarMedia - Hindsight is 20/20, and unfortunately, until we are faced with a calamitous situation, we don't think about being prepared for those events. After writing last week's Survival Series, we realized how unprepared we are to deal with those life-and-death scenarios and have decided to dedicate this post to correcting that.

Many retailers sell emergency car kits for around $25, but you can make one that's better suited to a variety of potential problems yourself. Grab a duffel bag and fill it with these items:

Basic First Aid Kit
Blanket
Cell phone charger (adapted for use in your car)
Center punch (to break the windows)
A couple bottles of water
Non-perishable food items (trail mix or granola bars)
Flashlight (with an extra set of batteries)
Candles (which give out a surprising amount of heat)
Matches (stored in a ziploc bag)
Multipurpose pocket tool (Swiss Army Knife)
Duct tape
Flares
Jumper cables
Tire inflator (such as Fix-A-Flat)
Anti-bacterial hand gel

Store the bag in your trunk for use in an emergency. If you already own a store bought kit, take a look at the contents and see if you should supplement in any of the items listed above.

It's also a good idea to have a second first aid kit under the driver's seat for easy access in the event that you can't get out of the vehicle. If you have a special medical condition, like diabetes or asthma, you should consider keeping a supply of your medication handy.

This list is a great start, but we recommend checking a few different sites and tailoring the kit to your needs.

How to Survive being Stranded in your Car during a Blizzard

2010-06-11T15:18:00.000-04:00

Via MattarMedia - It's the last day of our Survival Series and we have one more "what if" to cover. If you haven't read the first two blog posts in this series, from Monday and Wednesday, check out how to survive those situations now.

Today's scenario:

There is a terrible blizzard outside and your car has broken down. You are traveling alone on an unfamiliar rural road, with no houses in sight, and your cell phone has no service. What should you do:

1. Get out of your car and walk until you find help.
2. Stay in your car and wait out the storm.
3. Get out of the car and try to start a fire nearby to keep you warm.
4. Build a snowman.

Chances are you don't have any carrot "noses" or button "eyes" handy, so let's skip #4 as a possibility. The best thing to do in this situation is to stay in your car (#2). Unless you can actually see a house or business from your vehicle, do not attempt to go out in the snow for help. In blowing and drifting snow, it is easy to become disoriented and you may wander off the road or be unable to find your way back to the car.

As recommended by FEMA, here are some tips on what you can do if you get stranded during a snowstorm:

Turn on hazard lights and hang a distress flag from the radio antenna or window.
Remain in your vehicle where rescuers are most likely to find you.
Run the engine and heater about 10 minutes each hour to keep warm. When the engine is running, open window slightly to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
Exercise lightly to maintain body heat and circulation, but avoid overexertion.
In extreme cold, use road maps, seat covers, and floor mats for insulation.
Be careful not to waste battery power.

Once you have regained service on your cell phone, you can call for help. Next week, we will discuss what you should keep in your car for emergency situations like this and others.

"My car has plunged into a river!": What do you do in this worst-case scenario?

2010-06-09T16:46:00.002-04:00

Via MattarMedia - Today we continue our Survival Series. If you missed Monday's blog post, we recommend checking it out now.

Today's scenario:

You swerve to avoid a dog in the road and lose control of your vehicle. Before you know what's happening, you have gone off the road and your car has plunged into a river. What is the first thing you should do (if possible):

1. Text for help.
2. Open your car window.
3. Try to kick out the windshield.
4. Change into your bathing suit.

Yes, we all want to look good at the beach, but this isn't the time to get "dolled up". How about #3, you ask? A car windshield is made of several layers of glass and would take too much effort to try to break.

So, now that we have eliminated #4 and #3 as options, the best choice (when possible) is #2. Your car window should be your primary escape route and if you are able to open your window and get out of the vehicle before it submerges completely, do so. At some point, your electric windows and doors will short out and you will lose the "window" of opportunity to open them.

If you are unable to open your window or your car has completely submerged under water, things get a bit trickier. The water pressure outside of the car will be extremely high and opening the door will be next to impossible. What you need to do is wait for the water pressure inside and outside of the vehicle to equalize, which means letting the interior of the car (almost) fill up with water. When the water reaches about neck level, you should be able to open your car door - or use something sharp to break a side window - and swim out.

When you escape from the vehicle, it's important to note the direction that the bubbles are going in. You can be surprisingly disoriented under the water and your car may have turned or flipped while sinking. The last thing you want to do is swim in the wrong direction.

Come back on Friday as we wrap up our Survival Series.

"There's a live wire on my car!": Could you survive if this happened?

2010-06-07T16:14:00.001-04:00

Via MattarMedia - This week we bring you a new safety topic that we call our "Survival Series". The scenarios we present throughout the series are life and death situations that, while rare, could occur when you are in your car. The question is, could you survive if this happened to you?

Today's scenario:

You are sitting in your car after having just parked. Before you have a chance to exit the vehicle, a power line breaks and a live wire lands directly on the hood of your car. What should you do:

1. Get out of the car as fast as you can.
2. Use your cell phone to call for emergency services.
3. Start your car and drive away.
4. Find a method to harness and store the electrical power so you can save on your home energy bill.

Unless you are MacGyver and have a roll of duct tape and a hairpin at the ready, we hope you didn't pick #4.

The best option to try is #3. If your car wasn't disabled by the wire, start it and slowly back away. We still recommend calling emergency services before getting out of your vehicle to make sure the area is safe.

If your car is unable to start, the next best choice is #2. Unless your car is on fire or there is some other immediate threat, you should not leave the vehicle. Emergency services will call in the utility company to shut off the power and they will then help you get out of the car safely.

Check back on Wednesday to continue our Survival Series.

Don't rain on my parade: Summer Driving Hazards

2010-06-03T10:19:00.000-04:00

Via MattarMedia - With the recent change of seasons and summer on the horizon, snowfall and blizzards are behind us (Knock on wood - this is Buffalo after all.) We tend to think that hazardous road conditions are another worry we can store away for the season along with our shovels, but spring and summer rain storms can be just as dangerous as snow to drive in.

Like snow, rainfall will decrease your visibility and cause slick roads. Here are a few safety precautions to keep in mind when driving in rainy weather:

Give yourself more time
Leave earlier and be prepared to drive slower.

Brake early
Applying your brakes sooner will give you more stopping distance.

Use your lights
Most cars today are equipped with daytime running lights, but if yours isn't, make sure you turn them on. Using your headlights will increase your car's visibility and help you to see better.

Avoid puddles
When you can, try to steer clear of standing water.

If you find yourself in a situation where your car is hydroplaning, DO NOT BRAKE OR TURN YOUR WHEEL. The best thing you can do is slowly release your brake pedal and steer straight until your tires regain traction with the road.

As always, please stay prepared and drive safe.

A Little Motorcycle Fun to Gear up for Summer

2010-05-27T14:51:00.000-04:00

The First Motorcycle invented by Gottlieb Daimler, 1885

Via MattarMedia - May is coming to a close and with it ends Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. Our topics all month have been full of safety tips and information geared towards helping motorcyclists. After weeks of serious articles, we thought we should close out the month with a bit of fun and trivia.

Did you know...

...Some famous motorcycle brands make more than just cars and motorcycles? Yamaha also makes swimming pools, Kawasaki makes spaceships, and Ducati used to make radios.

...You can find motorcycle parts in your pantry? The first Harley Davidson motorcycle built in 1903 used a tomato can for a carburetor.

...That there is a patron saint of motorcyclists? The Vatican officially endorsed the Irish saint Columbanus of Bobbio in the 1940's.

Do you pride yourself on being a bike afficionado? We invite you to test your knowledge on motorcycles. Take this fun Motorcycle Trivia Quiz to see how much you really know.

Enjoy your motorcycle even more this summer by riding safe and sober.

Still THINK Speeding on a Motorcycle is Cool?

2010-05-24T11:27:00.001-04:00

Via MattarMedia - We have been blogging about motorcycle safety all month to commemorate Motorcycle Awareness Month. Today we are going to talk about speeding and the importance of staying within the posted speed limits.

Speeding is dangerous irregardless of how experienced a driver you are, how well you "know" the roads, or what the road conditions are. We know what it's like to be late for something or to be in a hurry to get where you are going, but speeding is not the answer. Besides making you an aggressive driver, speeding also increases your likelihood of getting into an accident and decreases your ability to react to obstacles or situations in your path.

A common error made by many drivers is thinking that you are safe when you are close to home, which can lead to careless or distracted driving. There are many of us who can probably attest to having driven home on "auto pilot", where you don't even remember making the turns. The reality is that a large proportion of accidents happen within just a few miles of your home. It is never safe to assume that the roads you "know" so well should be treated any differently than roads you have never traveled on before.

This video is yet another creative collaboration by the United Kingdom as part of their THINK! Safety Campaign. Watching it will definitely make you THINK before speeding.

"Look out!" Avoiding Obstacles in the Road

2010-05-19T16:19:00.003-04:00

Via MattarMedia - One of the big hazards motorcycle riders face is dealing with obstacles on the road. How should you handle an obstacle? Well, there are essentially two options: slow down or go around it. Do you know the rules for when you should to do which?

According to one safety site, the general rule is that when you are traveling under 50 MPH, you should brake. When traveling 50 MPH or faster, you should try to maneuver around the hazard because the distance needed for braking increases with increased speed.

Some common hazards to avoid include:

Leaves: So pretty in the fall but far more dangerous than they appear, especially if wet.

Small animals: Hitting a very small animal can be treacherous, especially on a smaller motorcycle.

Standing water: Don't just charge through water like you would in a car. Depending on tires you can hydroplane which will make the bike feel like it's on ice. If you are unlucky enough to experience this make no steering inputs and ride straight on through.

Ice: A pretty clear danger. Stay off the roads in icy conditions and beware of early mornings, even in warmer fall and spring weather.

Snow: Another one to avoid. If you have to do it, make minimal traction demands and remain smooth.

We encourage you to watch this video which highlights the importance of staying aware of your surroundings when you are riding a motorcycle. "If Only" obstacles were clearly labeled like this, there would be far fewer accidents and fatalities.

What not to do on a Motorcycle...

2010-05-17T15:56:00.000-04:00

Via MattarMedia - In honor of Motorcycle Safety Month, we have been blogging about different topics aimed at keeping you safe and informed about motorcycle riding. So when we saw this news article in our feed this morning, we had to bring it to you as What Not to Do on a motorcycle.

As reported by an Albany, NY news source:

An Esperance man on his motorcycle led police on a high-speed chase late Friday night, running red lights, sideswiping a car and went flying after hitting a parked car, police said.

Morgan Henness, 21, was charged with DWI, Unlawfully Fleeing a Police Officer, Reckless Driving and several other traffic violations, police said.

Henness was riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle on Madison Avenue when he ran through a red light at Madison Avenue and Quail Street, police said. A patrol officer witnessed it and tried to pull Henness over near the entrance to Washington Park at Madison Avenue and New Scotland.

Police say Henness actually accelerated, sideswiping another vehicle that was traveling in the same direction on Madison Avenue. Henness ran through the red light at Willet Street then lost control of his motorcycle and hit a parked car at Madison and Delaware Avenues, police said.

Henness was thrown from the bike and sustained injuries from the accident. He was taken to Albany Medical Center for treatment. His condition is unknown at this time but his injuries were not life threatening, police said.

Hmm....wonder what he did wrong? Where do we begin?! Let's see....there's the drinking and riding, evading the police, hitting other vehicles, and being ejected from the motorcycle, just for a few starters. We sincerely recommend not taking a page from Mr. Henness' book, and do not encourage this type of riding.

Motorcycle Safety - Do you know what you need to know?

2010-05-13T12:59:00.000-04:00

Via MattarMedia - Maybe you have decided that you want to purchase a motorcycle, or maybe you have been riding for 20 years. Either way, there is a RiderCourse for you.

Why should you take a motorcycle safety course? Besides for the obvious reasons - like being safer on your bike, being a more experienced rider, and being better equipped to react to situations - most insurance companies will offer a discount to riders who successfully complete a RiderCourse. Check with your agent to see what these savings could be for you.

The Basic RiderCourse is about 15 hours of class time - both in a classroom setting and on your bike in a controlled environment. Some of the topics covered at the Basic RiderCourse include:

Protective Gear
Pre-ride inspection of your bike
Street strategies to stay safe
How to maneuver your bike
Avoiding obstacles
Collision avoidance
Riding at night

Advanced classes are also available for experienced riders. For information about where you can take a RiderCourse, visit the NYS Motorcycle Safety Program. This site is full of useful information for both the novice and advanced rider. Please remember to ride safe and ride sober.

Drinking and Riding Don't Mix

2010-05-11T14:07:00.001-04:00

Via MattarMedia - We all know the dangers of drinking and driving, and it applies to drinking and motorcycle riding too. It seems like that would be a logical conclusion, yet studies show some scary trends in motorcycle accidents.

Here are some sobering motorcycle statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA: 2004 study):

41 percent motorcycle operators who died in single-vehicle crashes had BAC levels of .08 g/dL or higher.
Riders in the 40- to 49-year-old age group had the highest percentage of alcohol involvement (46%).
Alcohol was involved in 49 percent of single-vehicle fatal motorcycle crashes and 25 percent of multiple-vehicle fatal motorcycle crashes.
Alcohol was involved in 54 percent of nighttime fatal crashes.

Riding while under the influence of alcohol is simply not worth it. If you are planning on drinking, have a designated driver or call for a cab ride home. The risks are too big to take.

Check back this week to find out what you should know about motorcycle RiderCourses and where you can take one.

The Least Known Motorcycle Safety Tip

2010-05-06T14:09:00.000-04:00

Via MattarMedia - Continuing with the topic of motorcycle safety, here is a tip you may never have considered before. Do not wear sunblock with a full-face helmet. Why? Read the story by James Davis from this resourceful Motorcycle Safety Site to find out:

Yesterday Elaine and I participated in the third annual Lime Run hosted by the Lone Star Ladies. It turns out that we manned one of the stops on the run which meant that we were in the sun all day long. We used a sunblock on our faces, necks and arms so that we would not get 'over-done'.

We had about a 100 mile ride to get home. 12 miles from home I went blind, at 70 MPH! One minute all was right with the world, the next instant both my eyes stung and gushed tears so badly that I was forced to shut them both completely - blinking did not help - I could not see a thing!

Mind you that I was wearing a full-face helmet, glasses, and the shield was down on the helmet. It didn't exactly make any sense to me either - how could something get into my eyes like that?

Elaine happened to be driving her cage rather than her bike yesterday and was in front of me. Fortunately we had put a hand-held CB into her car that very day! She slowed and steered interference for me for about a quarter of a mile.

With one of my eyes totally shut and the other blinking rapidly (and painfully), I managed to be able to see enough to guide the bike one lane to the right on the freeway, then mercifully there was an off ramp right in front of us - we took it.

Off the freeway we pulled right into a vacant lot off the access road and again I was unable to open either eye. I felt for the kickstand and got it in place just as she jumped out of her car and came back to see what was wrong. Not sure if I was level or not, I wanted both hands to stay on the handlebars and asked her to take my glasses off for me.

Tears poured down my face from both eyes - not from the pain, though there was plenty of that, but from whatever was in my eyes. Elaine ran to her car and got a bottle of water and a handful of Kleenex tissues for me. I washed my eyes with the water and then applied the tissues and all was instantly well again!

It turns out that some of the sunblock on my nose had vaporized with the heat in my helmet and my dark glasses wrap around my head and touch my face all around my eyes - keeping the vapor in.

The message is simple: If you use sunblock on your face be sure to wipe it off before putting your helmet on! (Incidentally, you can buy sports-oriented sunblock products that purport not to sting your eyes.)

Hey! Watch out for that motorcycle!

2010-05-04T15:04:00.002-04:00

Via MattarMedia - May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month and we have been commemorating it by posting some helpful safety tips since last week (be sure to check out some of those informational articles).

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), approximately 70% of motorcycle-vehicle collisions occur at intersections. As motorists, we need to be aware of everything that is going on around us. Often times, a motorcycle or bicycle can be overlooked or completely out of view in your blind spot.

Watch this eye-opening video to see how simple it is to miss a motorcycle. Please remember to always look twice for bikes - it only takes a second of your time and it's easier than living with the consequences.

[You can also view other great videos at MattarMedia.]

How can you avoid hitting a motorcyclist?

2010-04-30T15:40:00.005-04:00

Via MattarMedia - Spring has sprung! The warm weather is rolling out, and so are the motorcycles. After a long winter, cyclists are revving up their engines and breaking out on the open roads. So, what should you know as a motorist to avoid colliding with a biker?

Motorcycles have some unique characteristics that generally would not be known by people who do not ride themselves. Being aware of these small differences may help to keep motorcyclists safer on the roads.

Hazard #1: Braking
Motorcyclists will often slow down by downshifting, as opposed to applying the brakes. When this happens, there will be no brake lights to communicate their change in speed.
Solution: Always keep a reasonable distance behind a motorcycle so you have enough time to respond when you notice that they are slowing down.

Hazard #2: Turning
Unlike most cars, the turn signals on a motorcycle are not self-canceling. This means that if a biker does not turn it off, it may look like he is turning when he is not.
Solution: Never assume a motorcycle is turning, even when the turn signal is on. This simple defensive driving tactic can help to eliminate this danger.

Hazard #3: Stopping
Inclement weather and slippery road conditions make stopping quickly difficult on a motorcycle.
Solution: Again, allow plenty of distance between you and a motorcycle. Don't expect that the rider can stop suddenly.

Hazard #4: Maneuvering
Motorcycles are known for quick and easy movement. While maneuverability might be characteristic of a bike, don't assume that a rider will always be able to get out of the way of road hazards.
Solution: Keep your distance and slow down when you spy potential risks, such as potholes and road debris.

As motorists, we are responsible for not just ourselves, but everyone else on the roads that we may encounter. Treat motorcyclists as if they were pedestrians in the road - bikers have just as little to protect them when they are hit by a motor vehicle.

Is motorcycle riding for you?

2010-04-28T16:40:00.000-04:00

Via MattarMedia - The motorcycles are back on the road and you find yourself envious of the inherent freedom that biking symbolizes. But before you seriously think about purchasing a motorcycle, is it right for you?

Take this self-assessment, courtesy of The Motorcycle Safety Foundation, to see if you should even consider getting a bike:

1. Are you a higher risk-taker than others you know? If you tend to need a thrill while driving a car and have aggressive or risky tendencies, motorcycling may not be for you.

2. Can you ride a bicycle? This is generally a good gauge of your ability to maneuver a motorcycle. Bicycling, like motorcycling, is a physical activity that involves balance and coordination.

3. Can you drive a stick-shift car? This is not a requirement, but it may make learning to ride easier because almost all motorcycles have manual transmissions.

4. Do you see well? Riding a motorcycle requires special perceptual skills that rely on good vision. The ability to see well ahead is important for safe riding.

5. Are you safety-minded? Riders can control their situation only if safety is a high priority. Millions of motorcyclists ride millions of miles without incident, and they likely take safety seriously.

6. Can you focus? Inattention is a major cause of crashes. Safe motorcycling requires dedicated attention to the immediate task and a keen awareness of everything going on 360 degrees around you.

7. Can you react quickly in an emergency? On a motorcycle, having quick reaction skills is essential because other drivers tend not to see motorcyclists in traffic, especially around intersections.

8. Are you willing to invest some time in learning to ride the right way before hopping on a bike? Your best “first ride” is a Basic Rider Course where you can familiarize yourself with the safe operation of a motorcycle.

Riding a motorcycle can be a lot of fun, but also comes with some serious risks. Please ride carefully.

Why older motorcyclists should be careful

2010-04-26T14:12:00.001-04:00

Via MattarMedia - Riding a motorcycle can be risky business. Now, a new study shows that older motorcyclists are at an even greater risk.

As reported by YNN:

Motorcycle riders across the country are growing older, and the impact of this trend is being seen in emergency rooms daily. That’s according to a recent study published in the March issue of the American Surgeon. Doctors are finding that these aging road warriors are more likely to be injured or die compared to their younger counterparts.

Despite the warnings, riders themselves say it’s worth the risk. In only ten years on her bike, Grace Rizzo has become a pro, but even the most experienced rider can run into trouble. That's just what happened to Grace two years ago during a trip through the Smokey Mountains in Georgia.

"And I slipped on some gravel and went down and the bike landed on top of me," said Rizzo. By the time help arrived, the heat from the motorcycle burned through her leg right down to the bone. "The accident was almost three years ago it took almost two years for me to be actually being walking again," Rizzo said.

According to a national study, Grace's story is all too common among older riders. "It tells us that people getting injured on motorcycles appear to be getting older. It's possibly a result of the 'Baby Boomer Generation' continuing on with their motorcycle activity," said Dr. Mark Gestring Assistant Professor of Surgery and Emergency Medicine at the University of Rochester.

Gestring co-authored the study that tracked more than 61,000 motorcyclists over a ten year period. Between 1996 and 2005, researchers found the average age of motorcyclists involved in crashes increased from approximately 34 to 39 years, and the proportion of injured riders above the age of 40 increased from around 28 percent to close to 50 percent.

For riders above the age of 40, injury severity, length of stay in the hospital or intensive care unit, and mortality were higher compared to riders below the age of 40. The risk of dying was one-and-a-half to two times more likely in riders over 40, based on the severity of the original injury. The study also found that older riders are more likely to die from less severe injuries than younger riders.

Even before her accident, Rizzo knew how dangerous riding could be. As a nurse in an intensive care unit she tells her patients to take precautions. As a lover of the open road she has a different message.

"Keep riding. Enjoy life. You never know. Just be careful," Rizzo added.

Check back this week for some safety tips and more information about motorcycling. Please remember to ride safe!

The DWI Hall of Shame

2010-04-22T11:46:00.001-04:00

Via MattarMedia - When someone chooses to drive a vehicle while impaired, they endanger everybody on the roads. On Tuesday, we discussed "what is a vehicle" in New York state (you can read the post here if you missed it).

Today, we highlight some of the most news worthy DWI arrests we have seen. The results are in! Our Hall of Shame nominees are:

Most Geographically-Challenged DWI: This man was so drunk that he drove up to the loading dock at a prison in Fultonville, NY and asked for permission to cross into Canada (he thought he was at the Canadian border in Niagara Falls - some 260 miles away from where he actually was). Read the story here.

Most Embarrassing DWI: I am sure you are wondering, "how can a DWI be embarrassing?" Well, what if you were arrested while driving drunk on an electric Barbie jeep? Yes, we are referring to the pink toy jeep marketed to 3 year old toddlers. Find the story here, complete with photos.

Most Innovative DWI: Every now and then, we see a news article about someone who was arrested for driving a lawn mower drunk. While one could make an argument for best use of time management, it is not very unique. This guy on the other hand, put a motor on his La-Z-Boy armchair and took it for a spin after a few too many drinks. We blogged about him last year, but we think it deserves a second mention. You can find the original blog post here.

Thankfully, no one was injured in any of these stories. Please remember to have a designated driver if you are going to be drinking. There is nothing wrong with having a good time but only if you do it responsibly.

You don't have to be driving a car to get a DWI

2010-04-20T12:28:00.002-04:00

Via MattarMedia - Most people would agree that drinking and then driving a motor vehicle is a poor choice. We have laws against it for a reason. What seems to be less clear is "what exactly constitutes a motor vehicle"?

New York state Vehicle & Traffic Law defines a motor vehicle as "every vehicle operated or driven which is propelled by any power other than muscular power". Obviously, this encompasses automobiles, trucks and motorcycles, but would also extend to include powered vehicles like go karts, golf carts and snowmobiles (among many others).

What does this mean in regards to DWI laws? It means that operating any motorized vehicle while impaired can result in a DWI. As reported by WIVB:

Police charged a Lewiston man with DWI who they say was driving drunk on a go-kart.

22-year-old Ronald Voight was arrested Sunday morning on Village Street. 24-year-old John Burnett was also charged with DWI after police say he nearly hit the go-kart and patrol car alongside the road.

Now that the warm weather is (almost) here, use caution on all of your utility vehicles and please drink responsibly.

Bike Safely with these Rules of the Road

2010-04-16T14:34:00.000-04:00

Via MattarMedia - Today we wrap up this week's series on bicycle safety. If you need a recap, read our blog posts on How to Correctly Wear Your Helmet and How to Prepare for Your Bike Ride. Now that you have the right equipment and your bike is properly prepared, let's discuss some basic rules to follow when on the roads.

A bicycle is considered a vehicle. This means that bikers are required to obey the same traffic laws as other motorists. You must stop at red lights and stop signs, yield when necessary, and signal your turns. Take a look at the chart on the right to be sure you are using the correct hand signals to communicate with other drivers.

Just like other vehicles, you must ride on the right-hand side of the road with traffic. When you are able to safely do so, you should ride as far to the right as possible - using the shoulder or a bike lane. Look for hazards in your path, like potholes and storm grates, which can easily cause a fall.

It is best to always assume that the other drivers do not see you and try to make eye contact with them. Keep aware of the other vehicles on the road and anticipate their movement (i.e. lane changes). To learn the 10 most common auto-bicycle collisions and how you can avoid them, click here.

Safety Tip: Do NOT wear headphones while riding! In New York State, it is illegal to ride a bike wearing more than one earphone. Your greatest defense against an accident is your sense of sight and sound, so don't compromise either.

You are finally ready to get on that bike! Enjoy the outdoors and ride safely.

Before you get on your bike, are you prepared?

2010-04-15T12:51:00.000-04:00

Via MattarMedia - If you have been following our series this week on bicycle safety, then you are ready for the next lesson! Let's review. You have the right helmet and you know how to wear it (if not, please read Tuesday's blog post).

So, what comes next? You need to make sure your bike is ready for riding. Here is a basic checklist to get you started.

Is your bike adjusted to fit you properly?
Are your wheels straight and secure?
Do the handlebars turn easily?
Have you tested the brakes?
Are your tires fully inflated?
Do you have reflectors on the front, rear, spokes and pedals?

Regardless how much bike riding you do each year, it is a good idea to take your bike into a shop each spring for a general tune-up which will address most of these problems. A worn tire or brake-shoe pad left unattended can end in serious injury. The staff at the bike shop are specially trained to inspect bikes and may spy a hazard that you are unaware of.

Now your bike is properly outfitted, but are you? When dressing for a bike ride, always choose clothes that are brightly colored so that you will be easily seen by motorists. Consider the time of day when selecting your outfit. It may be mid-day when you leave for your excursion, but what time do you plan on returning? If you take a long trip or make stops, it may be dark by the time you get home. Plan for that by bringing a reflective vest and having your bike installed with the appropriate night-time gear (i.e. headlight and taillight).

Guess what? You are almost ready to ride your bike. Check back tomorrow to learn some good Rules of the Road.

Are you wearing your bike helmet the correct way?

2010-04-13T15:18:00.000-04:00

Via MattarMedia - When we think about bike safety, we tend to think about using hand signals or riding on the right side of the road. What often gets forgotten is that bike safety starts before you even get on your bike - with the proper equipment.

When worn correctly, a bike helmet can help protect you from head or brain injury, and can even be effective in saving your life. It is important to make sure that the helmet you wear is made for bicycling, as each helmet is designed for a certain sport. You also want to check that the helmet meets CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) standards - this information can be found on the manufacturer's label inside the helmet.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration offers the following guidelines for properly fitting a bicycle helmet:

Helmet should fit level on the head (one to two fingers above eyebrow).
Helmet straps should form a “V” under the ears.
Helmet straps must be buckled tight enough so no more than two fingers can fit between the chin and the strap.
When adjusted, the helmet should not move more than about an inch in any direction.

For additional information on bicycle helmets, including how to measure your head and when to replace a helmet, visit The Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute. Be sure to check our blog for more helpful tips throughout the week. Safe riding!

The Death of a Bicyclist is a Tragic Reminder

2010-04-12T10:28:00.002-04:00

Via MattarMedia - With spring in full bloom and icy roads behind us, we begin to see an increase in speed as hazardous road conditions are assumed to be exclusive to winter weather.

Just as the first snowfall of the season results in many traffic accidents, because we have seemingly "forgotten" how to drive in the snow, the shift to spring comes with calamitous reminders.

As reported by Your News Now in Central New York:

A bicyclist was hit by a car and killed Sunday evening in Westmoreland. State Police say the man was riding on Route 5 when he was struck by a vehicle headed westbound. The man was taken to Saint Elizabeth's Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

At this point investigators have not said if the driver was at fault, but they do have a message for others out on the road.

New York State Police Troop D Sergeant Kevin Maxwell said, "Slow down. Pay attention especially now that the days are longer, the late afternoon sun; be aware of your surroundings. Now, with bicyclists and motorcyclists, they are everywhere."

Police say they are still trying to identify the man who was killed, so they can notify his next of kin.

As motorists, it is important to remember that we share the roads with bicyclists and motorcyclists. All week, we will be blogging about bicycle safety and providing tips to keep everyone safer on the roads. Check back to find out more.

Investigators Believe Texting Contributed to Fatal Crash

2010-04-08T13:18:00.001-04:00

Via MattarMedia - The Livingston County Sheriff's Department believes a SUNY Geneseo student killed in a one car crash in Leicester early Tuesday morning may have been texting at the time of the crash.

The sheriff's department identified the victim as Mary Kavanaugh, 22, of Sanborn, Niagara County.

Investigators believe Kavanaugh may have been text messaging, which contributed to her drifting off the roadway and causing the vehicle to roll.

SUNY Geneseo officials notified the campus Tuesday of Kavanaugh's death through an e-mail from the dean of students.

Many of Mary’s friends and co-workers at The Statesmen bar, where the owner said Kavanaugh was an employee, were upset about the news. Some of them told YNN she was the type of person who would give you the shirt off her back.

Some students say they are still shocked about her death, especially with graduation weeks away.

"You hear things like this on the news and you don't really think twice about it sometimes but when it's someone from your community and from the school you go to it definitely hits home a little more," said Holly Judge, SUNY Geneseo student.

"I'm a senior too and we were all going to graduate in May, so it's really sad to hear that she died," said Kristelle Cadeno, SUNY Geneseo student.

The school said Kavanaugh was a 2006 graduate of Starpoint High School in Lockport and was a senior communications major at Geneseo.

GM gets Proactive to Prevent Unintended Acceleration

2010-04-06T12:35:00.007-04:00

Via MattarMedia DETROIT - General Motors says it will install a new brake safety measure that can prevent unintended acceleration on all its new vehicles worldwide by 2012.

The step comes as federal regulators consider making the system mandatory on cars and trucks after Toyota's big problems with vehicles that can speed out of control.

A brake override reduces power to the engine when the driver steps on both the brake and accelerator. It should also slow a vehicle if the gas pedal is stuck.

GM has not had major problems with unintended acceleration, but says the safety measure is meant to reassure drivers.

Drunk Man Intentionally Drives Car into Firehouse

2010-04-06T09:42:00.001-04:00

Via MattarMedia BUFFALO, N.Y. - Buffalo Police say a drunk driver intentionally rammed his vehicle into a fire station.

28-year-old Colin Billingsley faces several charges including DWI and aggravated criminal contempt. Investigators say a female passenger suffered non-life threatening injuries when he drove into the the firehouse at Jefferson and Kingsley around 11:30 Sunday night.

Bikers Reminded about Motorcycle Safety

2010-04-05T14:03:00.001-04:00

Via MattarMedia Syracuse - Bikers are out on the roads earlier than ever because of record high temperatures.

But the unofficial start of the motorcycle season has been accompanied by an increased number of motorcycle accidents.

"People forget some of the basics, such as a motorcycle goes where you look," said Dale Parsons, Owner of F.I.R.S.T. Motorcycle Safety Program. "If you get in trouble and you look at what it is you're trying to avoid, you'll hit it."

New York riders are required to pass a written test and a road test in order to get their motorcycle license.

The DMV also recommends the Motorcycle Safety Foundation course. Both beginners and experienced riders can sign up for the course at http://nysmsp.org.

"I tell everybody who tells me they're buying a bike or thinking about it," said Patrick Hogan, a 44-year motorcycle veteran. "I make them promise me that they're going to take the course. It's not going to save everyone's life but if it saves one, it has done a good job."

Cop Responding to City Shooting Flips Car in 4-Car Crash

2010-03-31T09:03:00.001-04:00

Via MattarMedia - A Rochester police officer is recovering Wednesday after flipping his cruiser in a 4 car crash.

He was responding to a shooting on Grace Street just before 10:30 p.m. Tuesday. When he crossed through the intersection of Portland Ave and Draper Street, a car smashed into the cruiser. That sent the cruiser spinning and it hit a third car and flipped over. A fourth car was hit. All four cars were damaged.

The officer was taken to Strong Hospital for back pain. The other three drivers were taken to Rochester General Hospital. All are expected to be okay.

Drunk driver slams into school bus

2010-03-30T09:18:00.001-04:00

Via MattarMedia BUFFALO, N.Y. - Buffalo Police say a drunk driver slammed into a school bus at East Ferry and Stevens Avenue.

Three people were injured. No children were on the bus. The accused driver's name has not been released.

Dispute Between Drivers Ends in Car Crash

2010-03-29T09:30:00.000-04:00

Via MattarMedia - Rochester police say a dispute between two drivers ended when one of the vehicles flipped over.

Officers responded to a crash at Remington Street and Avenue A shortly after noon Sunday.

Police said the drivers were involved in some sort of fight when one of the drivers swerved at the other, causing the car to hit a curb and flip over.

A young child, who was in the car that flipped, was taken to Strong Hospital as a precaution; the child was checked out and is fine.

Police are still determining if charges will be filed.

NYPD crackdown on drivers on phones nets 3,700

2010-03-26T09:32:00.000-04:00

Via MattarMedia NEW YORK CITY - Police have sent a message to more than 3,700 drivers they say were talking or texting behind the wheel in New York City: Hang up.

The New York Police Department issued 3,753 summonses for using hand-held cell phones while driving during the first 18 hours of a daylong crackdown Thursday. Each ticket carries a fine of up to $150.

The department says it issued an average of 617 summonses a day last year for cell-phone offenses.

Buffalo NY Mayor Makes Pothole Promise

2010-03-25T10:42:00.001-04:00

Via MattarMedia BUFFALO, NY (WKBW) - The City of Buffalo is taking aggressive action to battle its pothole problems.

Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown has pledged to fill all potholes reported within 48 hours.

Potholes are most numerous in the spring season, and even though our mild winter has produced fewer this year, the damage they can cause is still severe.

Watch the video to see the full report.

Black ice blamed for many crashes in Buffalo

2010-03-24T09:51:00.000-04:00

Via MattarMedia - Police radios were crackling through the morning rush hour today, with vehicles sliding off roads and barreling into each other, slowing traffic and causing several accidents on main thoroughfares.
The culprit was black ice, that hard-to-see phenomenon that tricks drivers on sun-splashed days like today.

"We had numerous accidents all over the place, due to the road conditions," Town of Hamburg Senior Public Safety Dispatcher Tom Taylor said. "We're in the process of clearing them all up."

Another observer called it "a banner day for collision shops," although there were few, if any, reports of serious injuries in the crashes.

Some highway ramps were closed this morning, and lane closures were common as commuters inched forward in some spots.

Racing driver flips car in Columbia County

2010-03-22T11:16:00.001-04:00

Via MattarMedia CLAVERACK - One of two drivers racing on State Route 217 in Claverack flipped a car Saturday morning, according to state police.

The accident happened at about 11:50 a.m.

The driver of a 1994 Ford Mustang - Jeromy Jennings, 25, of Philmont - lost control of his car and flipped over, landing in a ditch, police said.

He was airlifted to Albany Medical Center with chest injuries.

His passenger - Melissa Hally, 29, of Saugerties - was brought to Columbia Memorial Hospital with possible neck injures.

Police are still looking for the driver of the other car - said to be a white Corvette, according to witness reports.

Cop Car Flipped After Chase Involving Alleged Drugged Driver

2010-03-17T09:33:00.001-04:00

Via MattarMedia - In Warren County, a sheriff's deputy escapes serious injury after his vehicle flips over after a chase with an alleged drugged driver. Tonight, that driver faces multiple charges including felony DWAI. Police say you should be just as concerned about drugged drivers as drunk drivers out on the road.

The windshield and headlight are smashed, the roof is dented after a Warren County Sheriff's vehicle flipped after a chase with an alleged drugged driver. Police say 38-year-old Brett Johnson had been drinking and smoking pot and led them on that chase. Police say lately, they have seen an increase in drugged drivers. Warren County Sheriff Bud York says, "we are seeing more prescription pills. A lot of people borrowing, stealing them and taking them and driving."

Another driver was allegedly under the influence of drugs and charged with DWAI in a Colonie crash just last weekend. That crash was fatal, killing another driver. Lynda Rose, the Clinical Supervisor for Outpatient Treatment at the Addiction Care Center of Albany says, "its a misfortune to the community that they are out there and that's why we are here."

At the Addiction Care Center of Albany, they're seeing a larger number of drug addicted patients. They say a drugged driver is just as dangerous as a drunk driver.
Rose says, "could be heightened awareness, lowered awareness, going into a seizure, convulsion. Depends on what they are on and how they are taking it and how often."

Johnson faces multiple charges in both Glens Falls where the chase began at a traffic stop, and with the Warren County Sheriff's Department. Those charges include Felony DWAI, resisting arrest, Reckless Endangerment, and unlawfully fleeing a police officer. Police say this isn't Johnson's first offense, but think it should be the last time he is behind the wheel.

Sheriff York says, "its a privilege to drive not a right. And if you're going to drink or do drugs and drive, you could hurt someone. You shouldn't be driving."

Car winds up on its roof after accident

2010-03-15T13:22:00.001-04:00

Via MattarMedia BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - We're waiting for information about a crash along Route 5 in Buffalo Sunday afternoon.

These pictures show emergency crews at the scene on Route 5 near the Ohio Street exit. A white Pontiac ended up on its roof. There are no official reports of injuries or charges so far.

Truck pulled from Seneca River, driver not found

2010-03-15T09:19:00.001-04:00

Via MattarMedia Baldwinsville (WSYR-TV) - A pick-up truck was pulled from the Seneca River, near Paper Mill Island, Baldwinsville this morning. The truck ended up in the river after a police pursuit. The driver of the truck was not in the truck.

Onondaga County dive teams were called to the scene around 2:00 Monday morning. A tow truck removed the pick-up truck from the Seneca River around 3:30am.

Investigators have left the scene and say they will return at 10 am.

Distracted Driving Causes Dramatic Crash

2010-03-12T14:12:00.001-05:00

Via MattarMedia AMHERST, N.Y. (WIVB) - Police believe a distracted driver triggered this dramatic crash that snarled rush hour traffic in Amherst Friday morning.

Crews on the scene say the driver, who was lost, was driving east bound on Main Street.

While looking at a map he crossed the center line, panicked and then lost control of his car.

Amherst Police Senior Investigator Scott Lawinda said, "He struck a telephone pole, sheared the telephone pole in half and flipped over several times."

Police say the driver, 39-year-old Daniel Melock, was taken to ECMC with chest injuries.

Police say a cat was in the car and is expected to be ok.

A portion of Main Street was closed in the West Bound direction as crews cleaned up the sagging phone lines.

It has since reopened.

New Campaign Tells People That 'No Text Is Worth Dying Over'

2010-03-11T12:22:00.000-05:00

Via MattarMedia and Advertising Age Magazine - Texting and driving can have serious consequences. That's the message of a new campaign being rolled out by AT&T this week that says, "Txting & Drivng ... It Can Wait."

The national effort, by BBDO, New York, and BBDO, Atlanta, seeks to raise awareness, especially among younger drivers, about the risks of texting and driving. Ads show true stories about texting that changed or ended people's lives. For example, one TV spot shows the text "Where u at?" while a woman says, "This is the text my daughter was reading when she drove into oncoming traffic," along with the message: "No text is worth dying over."

"We explored several campaign concepts, but we didn't have our 'aha' moment until we asked one of our focus groups to take out their devices and read the last text they received," said Cathy Coughlin, senior exec VP-global marketing officer for AT&T, in announcing the effort. "When we asked if that particular message was worth the potential risk of reading while driving at 65 mph, you could have heard a pin drop. That's when we realized the message 'it can wait' was effective in educating consumers about the dangers of texting while driving."

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Toyota Prius Crash in Westchester

2010-03-10T09:05:00.001-05:00

Via MattarMedia and MYFOXNY.COM - A woman crashed her Toyota Prius into a stone wall in Westchester County Tuesday morning, police said. Investigators said the 2005 Prius hit the heavy stone wall in Harrison that it also barreled right through.

Police said it all began when the 56-year-old woman was coming out of a winding driveway and then lost control. The driver told cops that the car suddenly accelerated and would not stop even though she slammed on the brakes. She was hurt, but luckily her injuries were not life-threatening.

Right now, there is no way to know for sure what went wrong. That will be up to federal agencies. Although this particular car was part of Toyota's floor mat recall, detectives said the floor mat had nothing to do with this case.

Toyota issued a statement about the crash: "Toyota is committed to investigating reports of sudden acceleration involving our vehicles. It's not appropriate for us to comment on specific reports whose causes are under investigation or have not been verified."

Truck Crashes into House After High-Speed Chase

2010-03-09T13:39:00.000-05:00

Via MattarMedia - A truck almost hit a woman before plowing into her house in Batavia, Genesee County, Monday afternoon.

A Genesee County investigator said the truck wouldn't stop after deputies tried to pull him over for speeding. After using a spike strip on the suspect's vehicle it swerved onto South Main Street.

"Then, all of a sudden, I saw the pickup come. It was just erratic. Like it was just going straight for, I saw it go straight for my house. Like, I had to move out of the way basically because I was standing right there. Cause I stand right there where that curb is to wait for my daughter, to wait for my daughter to come home from school," said Luz Castro of Batavia.

"Life is a matter of seconds and inches you know? And luckily, her child wasn't here getting off the bus at that moment," said Investigator Chris Kautz, Genesee County Sheriff's Department.

The driver of the truck, Louis Reeb, 19, of Corfu, was airlifted to Strong Hospital, where he is listed in guarded condition. There is no word yet on what charges Reeb may face.

Runaway Prius Hits 90 MPH

2010-03-09T09:39:00.001-05:00

Via MattarMedia EL CAJON, Calif. - A California Highway Patrol officer helped slow a runaway Toyota Prius from 94 mph to a safe stop on Monday after the car's accelerator became stuck on a San Diego County freeway, the CHP said.

Prius driver James Sikes called 911 about 1:30 p.m. after accelerating to pass another vehicle on Interstate 8 near La Posta and finding that he could not control his car, the CHP said.

"I pushed the gas pedal to pass a car and it did something kind of funny... it jumped and it just stuck there," the 61-year-old driver said at a news conference. "As it was going, I was trying the brakes...it wasn't stopping, it wasn't doing anything and it just kept speeding up," Sikes said, adding he could smell the brakes burning he was pressing the pedal so hard.

A patrol car pulled alongside the Prius and officers told Sikes over a loudspeaker to push the brake pedal to the floor and apply the emergency brake.

"They also got it going on a steep upgrade," said Officer Jesse Udovich. "Between those three things, they got it to slow down."

After the car decelerated to about 50 mph, Sikes turned off the engine and coasted to a halt. The officer then maneuvered his car in front of the Prius as a precautionary block, Udovich said.

In a statement, Toyota said it has dispatched a field technical specialist to San Diego to investigate the incident.

Toyota has recalled some 8.5 million vehicles worldwide - more than 6 million in the United States - since last fall because of acceleration problems in multiple models and braking issues in the Prius.

Toyota owners have complained of their vehicles speeding out of control despite efforts to slow down, sometimes resulting in deadly crashes. The government has received complaints of 34 deaths linked to sudden acceleration of Toyota vehicles since 2000.

One of the crashes claimed the life of a CHP officer last August.

Off-duty CHP Officer Mark Saylor was killed along with his wife, her brother and the couple's daughter after their Lexus' accelerator got stuck in La Mesa.

The Toyota-manufactured loaner vehicle slammed into a sport utility vehicle at about 100 mph, careened off the freeway, hit an embankment, overturned and burst into flames.

Police Say Failure to Yield Caused Crash

2010-03-08T13:24:00.001-05:00

Via MattarMedia - Four people were taken to the hospital after a crash Sunday morning.

It happened just after 10 am at the intersection of Mt. Hope Avenue and Raleigh Street.

Rochester Police say a female driver didn't yield to traffic as she was making a left turn onto Raleigh. Her vehicle collided with another car heading northbound on Mt. Hope. There were initial reports to 911 of people trapped in the vehicles, but when rescue crews arrived they found there were no trapped victims.

Police say four people were taken to Strong Memorial Hospital as a precaution, but we are told there were no apparent injuries to anyone involved in the crash.

The female driver was ticked for failure to yield to the right-of-way traffic.

Police Chase Ends In Fatal Crash

2010-03-08T09:24:00.000-05:00

Via MattarMedia - New details on that police pursuit that ended in a head on fatal crash in Columbia County Friday night.

Police say the suspect, who died in that crash, was 44-year-old David Carman of Dover Plains, New York.

Police say Carman took off from a traffic stop in Dutchess County in the Village of Red Hook, taking police on a chase through two counties before hitting a dump truck head on in the Town of Claverack in Columbia County.

The driver of the dump truck was not injured. Police later said the car Carman was driving was stolen.

Police investigate accident involving stolen car, Albany police car

2010-03-05T13:01:00.000-05:00

Via MattarMedia ALBANY - Police are investigating an accident involving a stolen car and a city police vehicle that occurred Thursday evening on North Lake Ave.

According to Albany public safety spokesperson Det. James Miller, a plainclothes police officer spotted a stolen Toyota just south of Central Ave. at about 5:15 p.m. and called for marked police units to pull over the stolen vehicle.

When police cars arrived and attempted to pull over the car, the driver, later identified as 18-year-old Dario Lewis, jumped out of the car and started running, said Det. Miller. The stolen car, meanwhile, continued to travel about 40 feet and struck a patrol car.

Both cars were slightly damaged in the accident.

Lewis was caught by police officers after a short chase. Charges are pending against him, including criminal possession of stolen property and reckless endangerment.

The investigation is continuing, said Det. Miller.

Mini Bike Crashes Into Cop Car; Rider Hurt

2010-03-05T09:00:00.000-05:00

Via MattarMedia - A man went to the hospital after riding his mini bike into a police car. It happened around 12:40 Friday morning.

Rochester Police say an officer was on Jay Street turning North onto Hague Street when a mini bike traveling south on Hague turned onto Jay into the back door of the police cruiser.

The bike rider was taken to Strong Hospital with non-life threatening injuries. The officer was not hurt.

Police say alcohol and or drugs may have been involved and the driver was not wearing a helmet. Police say he faces numerous traffic violations.

Drivers complain that Toyota's fixes didn't work

2010-03-04T12:56:00.000-05:00

Via MattarMedia DETROIT (AP) - At least 15 Toyota drivers have complained to U.S. safety officials that their cars sped up by themselves even after being fixed under recalls for sticky gas pedals or floor mat problems, according to an Associated Press analysis.

The development raises questions about whether Toyota's repairs will bring an end to the cases of wild, uncontrolled acceleration or if there may be electronic causes behind the complaints that have dogged the automaker.

Although the allegations were unverified by the agency, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said Wednesday it was contacting people who have complained about acceleration problems even after repairs were done under two large recalls. The agency wants to hear from others who have had similar troubles, it said.

"If Toyota owners are still experiencing sudden acceleration incidents after taking their cars to the dealership, we want to know about it," agency administrator David Strickland said in a statement.

The new complaints raised eyebrows in Congress, which has held three hearings on the recalls in the past week and is investigating Toyota's safety problems.

"I am deeply concerned that NHTSA has received this many reports of possible sudden unanticipated acceleration even after these vehicles have received Toyota's recommended fix," said Rep. Bruce Braley, D-Iowa, who serves on one of the committees investigating Toyota.

"It's critical that we get to the bottom of this problem as quickly as possible."

Toyota spokesman Brian Lyons said Wednesday the company was investigating the complaints, though it remains confident in its recall fixes. Teams of engineers are being mobilized to check into the complaints, he said.

Couple Aids Woman in Car Accident

2010-03-03T09:50:00.000-05:00

Via MattarMedia - Hamburg, NY - Stacey MacLaren is recovering from a car accident last Friday.
The terrifying experience also left her inspired by the kindness of a couple she'd never met. "She had such a soothing voice," MacLaren said of the woman.

MacLaren was headed west on the I-90, on her way to pick up her son from pre-school. Her other son, Owen, just 16 months old, was strapped in the passenger seat.

In an instant, her plans changed. "The SUV in front of us went out of control, hit the cement barrier, and started rolling towards us," MacLaren recalled.

She avoided hitting the SUV, but the car behind her slammed into her car.

Still recovering from a previous back surgery, MacLaren was in tremendous pain and could barely move.

That's when she says out of nowhere, a man and woman stopped. She says the pair spent at least 45 minutes tending to her injuries and calming her baby. They even called her husband and sister-in-law to relay instructions. "They don't know me, you know, I'm not a relative of theirs, I'm not a friend, it was just something they were doing," MacLaren said. "They were good people."

Good people that made an impact stronger than a collision-and that's why she's trying to find them. The last time she saw them, Stacey was on a stretcher. "I touched her hand and I said, 'are you an EMT?'" she recalled. "And she said, 'No, honey. We just stopped to help.'"

GM Announces Recall for 1.3 Million Vehicles

2010-03-02T15:35:00.000-05:00

Via MattarMedia - General Motors announced a recall of 1.3 million cars on Tuesday for problems related to power steering in 4 North American compact car models.

The recall covers the 2005-2010 Chevrolet Cobalt, 2007-2010 Pontiac G5, 2005-2006 Pontiac Pursuit (sold in Canada), and 2005-2006 Pontiac G4 (sold in Mexico).

“After our in-depth investigation, we found that this is a condition that takes time to develop," Jamie Hresko, GM Vice President of Quality, said in a statement released this morning. "It tends to occur in older models out of warranty. Recalling these vehicles is the right thing to do for our customers' peace of mind.”

The voluntary recall comes after the National Highway and Traffic Safety administration concluded an investigation beginning on Jan. 27, 2009 into 905,000 Cobalt models after receiving over 1,100 complaints of loss of power steering assist, 14 crashes and one injury.

Owners reported failures that went away after restarting the car.

"Power steering started to go out occasionally," said one complaint filed February 18 of this year on a 2005 Chevy Cobalt. "It would come back on if I turned off and restarted the car. Quickly became more frequent."

GM has said that drivers can still control the affected models in the event of loss of power steering assist, though controlling the cars may require greater steering effort under 15mph.

"While greater steering effort under 15 mph may be required, if the customer experiences loss of power steering assist, it is important to note that the vehicle can still be safely controlled because the customer can still steer the vehicle,” Hresko said. “When the condition occurs, both a chime will sound and a ‘Power Steering’ message will be displayed.”

GM has not announced a remedy yet, but has noted that plans are being developed and that customers will be notified when the plan is finalized.

Automotive recalls are nothing new, but their reception as of late has been extremely hostile. The GM recall comes at a time in which lapses in automotive quality are met with extreme scrutiny, especially by the U.S. government.