National Impaired Driving Prevention Month

A police officer stands by a car on the side of the road at dusk, with emergency lights flashing on a nearby police vehicle. The scene represents National Impaired Driving Prevention Month.

December Is National Impaired Driving Prevention Month Celebrate safely during the upcoming holiday season by talking about the risks of impaired driving and setting clear expectations for drivers. Parents and Caregivers Can Promote Responsible Decision-making The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) encourages parents and caregivers to set clear boundaries with young drivers. Impaired driving,…

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Does My Credit Score Affect My Car Insurance Rates?

The image shows a person inspecting a damaged car and taking notes on a clipboard. The text "Does My Credit Score Affect My Car Insurance Rates?" is displayed at the bottom, along with the SIA Blogs logo in the corner.

Many drivers don’t realize how much their credit score can impact car insurance premiums. In most states, insurers use your credit score to help determine your rates, and even a small change in your score can lead to significant fluctuations in your premium. However, three states—California, Massachusetts, and Hawaii—have banned the use of credit scores…

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Steps to Foster Safer Drivers in Businesses

A bearded man in a safety vest smiles while driving a large vehicle, focusing on the road ahead. The caption reads, "Steps to Foster Safer Drivers in Businesses," along with the SIA Blogs logo.

Drivers representing companies face significant risks on the road, with transportation incidents ranking as the leading cause of work-related fatalities in the US. In 2020 alone, there were 1,778 fatal occupational injuries involving transportation incidents, accounting for 37.3% of all workplace fatalities. This poses financial and safety concerns for businesses, highlighting the need for proactive…

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Steps to Take After a Car Accident

A woman sits in a blue car holding her head in pain after a car accident, with smoke visible in the background. The caption reads, "Steps to Take After a Car Accident," along with the SIA Blogs logo.

Experiencing a car accident can be unsettling, and navigating the aftermath may seem overwhelming. Here’s a guide on what to do:

Check for Injuries:

Inspect yourself and passengers for injuries.

Avoid moving anyone seriously injured and call 911 immediately.

If safe, check on other involved drivers.

Move to Safety:

If drivable, move your car to the side of the road with hazard lights on.

Turn off your vehicle after relocating.

If immovable, prioritize moving yourself and passengers to a safe area.

Contact the Police:

Dial 911 or the nonemergency police number based on the accident’s severity.

Some situations may legally require police involvement.

Prompt police contact initiates a vital incident report for insurance claims.

Document and Exchange Information:

Note the accident location, take comprehensive scene pictures.

Capture various angles and all vehicle damages.

Exchange information with other drivers: name, address, contact, insurance details, license, plate, and vehicle specifics.

Request contact information from willing bystanders.

Obtain the Police Report:

Document officers’ names and badge numbers at the scene.

Inquire about obtaining a copy of the incident report.

The report is crucial for insurance claims.

Contact Your Insurer:

Call your insurance agent promptly after the accident.

Consider reaching out from the scene if possible.

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Navigating the 2024 Auto Insurance Market: Key Insights

A smiling man wearing glasses sits in the driver's seat of a car, looking back over his shoulder. The caption reads, "Navigating the 2024 Auto Insurance Market," along with the SIA Blogs logo.

The auto insurance landscape in 2024 poses challenges for consumers seeking cost-effective coverage without compromising quality. Understanding the market dynamics is essential for informed decision-making amid rising rates. 2023 Insights: The auto insurance industry faced challenges in 2023, driven by factors such as poor rate adequacy, an increase in car insurance claims, and the impact…

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