Come On... You Know You Want To.

Planning to go all out with your holiday decorating this season? You still have time. Why not intall some Christmas lights on your car? This may be a fun way to show off your Christmas spirit. Remeber that there may be local laws that technically prohibit having any kind of distracting lights on a car. However, if you’re doing it for a specific event, like a parade or a tailgate party, go for it! It can be tempting to want to completely deck out your car with lights on your first try. However, it is best to begin with a small fixture that you can easily remove in case something goes wrong during installation. To make your car decorating process even more foolproof, use battery-powered lights instead of the ones that need to be plugged in. Here’s a quick guide on how to put Christmas lights on a car. You’ll need: Power inverter Christmas lights (quantity and length based on your choice) Zip ties Electrical tape Ladder or stool Not fgeeling so techy but still want to show some holiday sprit? You can also: Add a wreath to your spare tire Clip-on antlers Add Christmas decals

Do You Eat In Your Car?

The holidays are officially upon is. For many, this means parties and gatherings with friends and family. Many will likely be packing up food to share. You should not leave food in your car for more than two hours, or one hour if the temperature is above 90°F. Bacteria that cause foodborne illnesses can double every 20 minutes at room temperature. If you do need to leave food in your car, you can try these tips to keep it safe: Use a cooler Take perishable items home right away: Don't leave food in the trunk: Don’t travel with hot and cold foods together. Keep hot foods hot by packing them in insulated bags or containers. Keep cold foods cold by packing them in coolers with ice, frozen water bottles or ice packs to maintain safe temperatures for as long as possible. You should also avoid eating while driving. It can be bad for digestion and increase the risk of choking

When is the Best Time Travel Long Distance To Avoid Traffic?

The best time to leave to avoid traffic on a long drive is before 6 am. If you are traveling by car you should aim to avoid rush hour congestion by starting your road trip first thing in the morning.It's best to be on the road before 7 am to avoid unwanted delays. The busiest time to drive is between 4 pm and 7 pm in the evening from Monday to Friday. Heavy traffic is due to a large number of commuters driving home and other road users traveling for social reasons. You should drive early in the morning rather than late at night in order to prevent the risks associated with driver fatigue. The roads will be quieter during the night which may reduce your journey time but safety should always be your priority. Leaving first thing in the morning when you are rested will lead to a safe and comfortable trip.

Do You Know What Today Is?

The day following Thanksgiving—commonly referred to as Black Friday—has become one of the busiest shopping days of the year in the United States. National chain stores traditionally offer limited money-saving specials on a wide variety of goods in an effort to lure shoppers into stores while offering similar deals online. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 39% of private-sector workers get a paid holiday, with 69% of public-sector workers also enjoying the day as a paid holiday It is a state holiday in Arkansas, California, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Washington, and West Virginia. In Nevada, the day is known as Family Day. In Indiana, the day after Thanksgiving celebrates Lincoln's birthday while Georgia observes Robert E. Lee's birthday The popularity of this holiday is understandable. As Thanksgiving falls on a Thursday many add this day as a holiday to create a four-day weekend. Shops are open and this day has come to mark the start of the Christmas shopping period. Black Friday is followed by other shopping holidays, including Small Business Saturday, which encourages shoppers to visit local retailers, and Cyber Monday, which promotes shopping online. Giving Tuesday has also emerged to spur charitable donations.

Thanksgiving Travel Safety

Can you believe that Thanksgiving is next week? For most, spending time with loved ones and indulging in feasts is on most people's mind. It's also a day for making lasting memories. For many families, it is the most significant gathering day of the year. In this time excitement and festivities—it's crucial to prioritize safety Thanksgiving Travel Safety on the Road If you’re driving, ensure your vehicle is in optimal condition. This includes checking brakes, lights, and tires. Watch the weather: Pay attention to the forecast at home, at your destination, and everywhere in between. Be prepared to take extra time if storms or hazardous conditions (like icy roads) are in the forecast, and study up on how to handle winter driving conditions. Share travel plans with a family member or friend.  Have a car emergency kit with essentials like jumper cables, first aid supplies, and a warm blanket for chilly breakdowns. Avoid Distracted Driving- it’s easy to get distracted. Stay focused on the road and avoid using your phone while driving From all of us at Car-Lotta- May your blessings be many, your troubles be few, and your Thanksgiving be Wonderful.

Was There Ice On Your Windshield This Morning?

If you park your car outside overnight during the winter chances are there may be ice on your windshield. Before you call it a night during frosty seasons, grab some cooking spray from your kitchen. A light spray on your windshield and wipers can make a huge difference. This creates a barrier that prevents ice from bonding strongly with the glass, Doing this will help to have less scraping to do in the morning. Just make sure to wipe away any excess spray to keep your windshield clear and streak-free. You can use a indshield cover or a sheet, towel, or tarp can be placed over your windshield to prevent ice buildup. Your wiper blades can be used to hold the cover in place. Got an onion? The idea of using a vegetable may sound strange, but rubbing half an onion over your car windows and windshield at night will stop frost from forming in the morning. Cut the onion lengthwise and apply it the night before. The oil from the onion line the glass with a coating that works wonders. Remember.... Before you hit the road .... NEVER clear a tiny space and then drive off with only a small area cleared. Spending a few minutes will save you a lot of time and keep you, and others, a little safer on the roads.

Don't Be A Drowsy Driver

Daylight Saving Time ended last week. With the change comes increased risks on roads as a result of limited visibility and drowsy driving. Drivers need to be aware of increased drowsiness resulting from disturbed sleep patterns and reduced visibility from daylight changes. Drowsy driving is more likely to cause a crash. When you drive without adequate sleep, your motor skills are impaired. Drivers who’ve only slept 3 to 5 hours in the last 24 hours are unfit to drive. Most people understand it’s risky, but don’t think about the consequences. Drowsy driving is likely to cause a crash. Like drunk, drugged, and distracted driving, drowsy driving is a real public health issue, causing thousands of car crashes each year. Carlotta encourages everyone to prioritize sleep and drive when they are alert and refreshed. Our goal is to help people get the sleep they need and reduce the number of drivers who choose to drive while sleep-deprived.

Ready to "Fall Back"

It's almost time to turn back your clocks, and prepare for darker afternoons Daylight Saving Time ends at 2 a.m. on Sunday, Nov. 3. The return of standard time happens in autumn and involves turning clocks back by an hour -- earning it the motto "fall back." Out of all the devices that you need to update, your car's clock is probably the most important. Some modern cars that include GPS systems will allow you to do this. They will be able to synchronise the car's clock with the global positioning satellite signal and so they will automatically change the time according to the zone you're in. Some cars come with a Summer Time option in their settings. Just think.... we will “spring forward” one hour on Sunday, March 9, 2025.

Watch Out For Those Deer!

Deer are more active in the autumn months, especially with the approach of their breeding season. Drivers are urged to stay alert. Fall is peak season for deer-related accidents, and Pennsylvania drivers face some of the highest collisions risk in the nation. Daylight saving time ends November 2nd meaning that drivers will spend more time on the road during dawn and dusk, the peak hours for deer activity. Pennsylvania is already one of the states with the highest rates of vehicle collisions involving deer or other large animals. A recent report found that Pennsylvanians have a 1-in6 4 chance of such accidents, the highest in the country. Drivers can lower their chances of an accident by staying vigilant in areas marked with deer crossing signs. Remember that deer often travel in groups. Even if one deer crosses safely, another may follow. Be especially attentive from sunset to midnight and during the hours shortly before and after sunrise. These are the highest risk times for vehicle/deer collisions. Drive with caution when moving through deer-crossing zones, in areas known to have a large deer population and in areas where roads divide agricultural fields from forestland. Deer seldom run alone. When you see one deer, others are very likely to be nearby. When driving at night, use high beam headlights when there is no oncoming traffic. The high beams will better illuminate the eyes of deer on or near the roadway. Give yourself more time to react by driving in the furthest lane from the shoulder, if possible.

Time To Switch Your Tires?

Now that temperatures are starting to consistently drop below 45°F over nite, it’s probably time to change over your tires from Summer to Winter. Many people use a rule of thumb of using winter or snow tires from Thanksgiving to Tax Day – basically, November to April. In NEPA... this comes a little earlier. You should definitely have winter tires installed before the winter weather hits. If you consistently are able to see your breath, it's time to mount winter tires. Winter tires are specifically built to work best in colder temperatures. They are made with rubber compounds that are specifically designed to stay more flexible in the cold temperatures. Winter tires should ideally be used in a full set of four tires. Having tires with differing levels of grip can drastically upset the way the car handles and can lead to a loss of control.

Are Those Leaves On Your Car?

When the weather starts to drop, so do leaves from trees. Those stunning leaves in beuatiful shades of orange, red, yellow, and brown are damaging your vehicle’s paint. Leaves contain acid-based materials, such as tree sap, that can damage your car's paint. The bottom layer of leaves is often wet, which can act like glue and stick to your car's paint.As leaves decompose, they release sap, tannic acids, and other natural compounds that can damage your car's paint To protect your car's paint from leaves, you can: Remove leaves quickly by hand to avoid scratching your car's paint. You can also use a leaf blower with light air pressure or a vacuum Remove tree sap by using rubbing alcohol on a cloth or a tree sap remover to remove tree sap. Wash your car After cleaning off your car, why not give it a rinse or take it through a car wash.

Is There A Rattle In Your Engine?

Engine rattling noise, (clicking sound in an engine) can happen for a number of reasone. Whether it's engine knocking when accelerating or some kind of spark knock or just a general engine noise, some are more serious than others. One thing that’s true is that it's never good to leave it alone. There are a bunch of reasons you might be hearing your car engine making noise. Engine Rattling When Accelerating may be Belt Tensioner Engine Rattling At Idle could be Spark Plug Knock or Collapsed Lifters Engine Noise When Cold could be Rod Knock Sound or Piston Slap Engine Rattling When It’s Hot could be Low Oil Pressure or a Heat Shield Hopefully this gave you a better idea of where to start your search and ultimately helped you find your rattling noise.

Life Of A Pothole

What is a Pothole?? They are pot-shaped depressions in a road surface.The most common cause of these are traffic and water. Potholes can be dangerous and expensive to fix if they damage your vehicle. There are four main areas of the car that are most likely to be damaged: the suspension, steering, wheels, and tires. Suspension misalignment can cause your car to mishandle and potentially put the occupants at risk of a crash. Other suspension problems include broken ball joints and damaged struts or shocks. Potholes can dent or bend aluminum or steel wheels. Remember to drive on tires that are properly inflated and in good condition. Be alert to what’s ahead, and make sure you keep enough distance between you and the vehicle in front of you so you can avoid issues. Recognize that though you might miss the first pothole, there can be another waiting. If can’t avoid a pothole, SLOW DOWN and hold your steering wheel tightly. Don’t brake. This will allow you to maintain the most control during the impact.

What Turn Signals?

Turn signals are your way of informing the other drivers the direction you're going to move your vehicle. If you don't use your signals, the other vehicles won't know what you're planning to do, and you could get into an accident. Be sure to signal properly as you travel around the roads. Turn signals are amber or yellow lights on your vehicle that flash. All modern vehicles come equipped with turn indicator lights today, but some have more lights than others. They indicate that you’re about to move your vehicle by turning, changing lanes, parking, or merging. The law requires you to use your turn signals to let other drivers and road users know your intentions and are important for your vehicle's safe operation. Not everyone uses their turn signals as regularly as they should. Their usage dramatically reduces the number of accidents and driver errors. Remember, turn signals are not only a legal requirement but also a crucial safety feature that helps prevent accidents on the road.

Ready For Fall Driving?

The arrival of autumn brings with it a unique set of challenges for drivers. Falling leaves can gather in a pile and create a road hazard. Wet leaves can be as slippery as ice. Fallen leaves can also hide road markings and obscure hazards like potholes and bumps as well as obscure traffic lines and other pavement markings. Other fall hazards for motorists can be fog and sun glare and morning frost. Here are a few fall driving tips: Increase your following distance in severe weather, at dusk and dawn and when in an area with wet leaves. If you are being tailgated, let the other driver pass. Check your vehicle's headlights, taillights and turn signals to ensure they are working properly since darkness will be a part of many driver's morning and/or evening commutes. Make sure you turn on your headlights as the sunlight fades. Have your vehicle's heating and wiper systems checked to ensure they are working properly. Be sure you have tires with sufficient tread depth in case of an early season snow.

It's Getting Cooler.. Are You Ready?

It's happening, the weather is gettting cooler and the leaves are starting to change colors. It’s time to get ready for a change of seasons at home and your vehicle. Fall car maintenance is important to keep your auto in shape for the colder weather. Wondering what to do to make sure your vehicle is ready for autumn? Here are a few car care tips for fall: Getting Your Car Ready for Fall: A Complete Car Maintenance Checklist AC/Heating System Check. ... Change or Top off the Fluids. ... Tire Pressure Matters. ... Brighten up the Headlights. ... Change the Wipers. ... Car Maintenance Checklist for the Battery. ... Detailing and Sanitization. It may seem like a lot to keep track of, but if you follow this a car care checklist, you’ll be more than prepared for when the snow starts to fall.

Are You Ready To Say Good-bye Summer?

We've already seen the return of yellow school buses and all things pumpkin spice. Are you plannning end of summer festivities over Labor Day? By now we hope you have made your travel plans for the popular three-day weekend. Congestion is expected on most major routes. You should also be alert of wildfire activity and road closures affecting travel plans.Most construction will be paused over the holiday weekend to help limit congestion. Remeber to go early or late and give yourlves plenty of extra time. Crashes or emergency road repairs also can add to travel time. Car-Lotta Car Sales will be closed on Monday September 2nd and will re open on Wednesday, September 3rd. Have a Happy and Safe Labor Day holiday!

Can You Believe It Is Back To School Time?

It's that time of year....School buses are picking up their passengers, parents are trying to drop their kids off before work. It's never more important for drivers to slow down and pay attention than when kids are present – especially before and after school School buses are the most regulated vehicles on the road. Designed to be safer than passenger vehicles in preventing crashes and injuries to protect children from other motorists. If you're driving behind a bus, allow a greater following distance than if you were driving behind a car. This gives you more time to stop once the yellow lights start flashing. It is illegal to pass a school bus that is stopped to load or unload children. Never pass a bus from behind or from either direction if you're on an undivided road – when it is stopped to load or unload children If the yellow or red lights are flashing and the stop arm is extended, traffic must stop The area 10 feet around a school bus is the most dangerous for children Stop far enough back to allow them space to safely enter and exit the bus Stay alert! children can be unpredictable, and they tend to ignore hazards

Can A Pot Hole Due Damage To Your Automobile?

Hitting a pothole can damage your vehicle- this is a no brainer! Unfortunately, pothole damage is an every day road hazard and is a potential nightmare for your car. You may experience : Tire puncture Wheel rim damage Premature wear on shocks and struts Suspension damage, including broken components Steering system misalignment Exhaust system damage Engine damage If you hit pot hole or suspect pothole damage occurred—, take your vehicle to be looked at as soon as possible. Quickly identifying and correcting negative effects of pothole damage will save you from costlier damage to your car’s valuable parts.

Do You Go Straight In A Turning Lane?

If you are in a lane marked for a turn only, then you must complete the turn! Pennsylvania traffic laws require drivers to stay in the appropriate lane for their intended maneuver. This means using the right lane for right turns and the center lane for going straight. Going straight in a right turn lane can create confusion and potentially cause accidents by blocking other vehicles attempting to turn right. Road markings and signs clearly indicate the intended use of each lane, including designated right turn lanes.Violating lane markings and driving unsafely can result in traffic citations and penalties.

Speed Bump or Speed Hump- Which One Is It?

Speed bumps, are used to reduce speeds and to help make neighborhoods safer. They're usually placed on residential streets and other low-speed roads with speed limits under 35 mph. Some say they can cause a 40% reduction in speed helping prevent speed-related accidents and reduce the risk of injury or death to children and pedestrians. Speed bumps can also make drivers more alert and help with traffic control. Speed humps Speed humps, are slightly smaller than speed bumps but longe. These tend to work best to keep traffic between 10 – 15 MPH. Some say that speed bumps can have negative effects, including: Vehicle damage Damage tires and suspensions, May cause power steering to leak fluids. Increased emergency response time Increased traffic noise Reduced fuel efficiency Force drivers to brake and accelerate repeatedly, which can reduce a car's fuel efficiency. Dangerous driving behaviors Speed bumps can encourage drivers to take dangerous actions, like driving off-road to avoid them. There are always going to be bumps in the road- They may slow you down... Don't let them stop you!

How Safe Is Water On The Road

Water on the Road If water is present over all or part of the road it me be trafficable, but you should proceed with caution. Standing water refers to water that isn't flowing anywhere, so a puddle is one kind of standing water, but standing water is often used in the context of driving, when you have to be careful because standing water on the road could cause an accident A road running below the water level of a stream or river is often known as a "watersplash". It is a common name for a ford or stretch of wet road in some areas, and is sometimes also used to describe tidal crossings. Floating roads are roads that float on water or are built on a very unstable substrate, like peat. These roads can represent both temporary and permanent solution in areas where standard roads are difficult or even impossible to build due to unfavorable natural conditions.

Can You Believe It?

This summer is flying by! It’s hard to believe it is almost August. School will be starting again in a few short weeks. It truly feels like this summer is going by way too fast! Here is your reminder to enjoy every moment left of this summer before it’s gone!!! There is still time for vacations and summer road trips. Now is a good time to review these summer driving safety tips. A little planning and some safety checks might spare you from dealing with a breakdown — or worse, a crash. A long with your cell phone , it's best to carry an emergency roadside kit with you. Cell phone and charger First aid kit Flashlight Flares and a white flag Jumper cables Tire pressure gauge Jack (and ground mat) for changing a tire Work gloves and a change of clothes Basic repair tools and some duct tape (for temporarily repairing a hose leak) Water and paper towels for cleaning up Nonperishable food, drinking water, and medicines Extra windshield washer fluid Maps Emergency blankets, towels and coats Always check the weather, road conditions, and traffic. Don’t rush, allow plenty of time to get there safely. Familiarize yourself with directions and maps before you go, Be sure to let others know your route and anticipated arrival time. Have FUN with everything you do!

Do You Use An App To Check Road Conditions?

There are many apps that can help you check road conditions. There are navigation apps, weather apps, and even apps that offer roadside assistance: Navigation apps provide real-time traffic updates and other information to help you plan your route: The more popular are Wazae and Google Maps and Apple Apps. Some allows users to report incidents and hazards, such as accidents, slowdowns, speed traps, and dangerous driving conditions. Waze also provides safety alerts for roadworks, potholes, speed bumps, sharp curves, bad weather, emergency vehicles, and railway crossings. They provides real-time traffic and navigation information, including ETAs, traffic conditions, and automatic rerouting and even route options and allows you to plot waypoints along your route. Weather apps can help you plan your trip around bad weather: based on your departure time, showing what to expect at each point along your route, including severe storms, tornadoes, icing, fog, blizzards, dangerous temperatures, and high winds. Weatherbug: Some say this is one of the best and most reliable weather apps. Roadside assistance apps can help you get assistance if you need it including request help and track your driver's progress, jumpstarting a battery or fixing a flat tire.

Are You Off Today??

The day after a holiday for some is a buffer day. Some say that knowing they don't have to get up for work the next day releaves some stress from the holdiy. If you were traveling, having a day to unpack, do laundry, get groceries, before having to return to work you may need this extra day to decompress. This works especailly well if the holiday falls on a Thursday and you have a extended weekend. It anticipates that it TSA will screen more than 3 million individuals today surpassing the agency’s current record for most people screened on a single day,

Are You Traveling for the 4th of July?

It is projected that 70.9 million travelers will head 50 miles or more from home over the Independence Day holiday travel period*. 60.6 million people will travel by car. Drivers can expect the worst traffic delays on Wednesday, July 3rd, as they leave town, and Sunday, July 7th, as they return. See the following for the Best and Worst Times to Travel by Car Date Worst Travel Time Best Travel Time Monday, Jul 1 Minimal Traffic Impact Expected Tuesday, Jul 2 2:00 – 6:00 PM After 7:00 PM Wednesday, Jul 3 2:00 – 7:00 PM Before Noon Thursday, Jul 4 2:00 – 7:00 PM Before Noon Friday, Jul 5 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM Before 10:00 AM Saturday, Jul 6 10:30 AM – 2:30 PM Before 10:00 AM Sunday, Jul 7 2:00 – 8:00 PM Before 11:00 AM Monday, Jul 8 1:00 – 5:00 PM After 7:00 PM

Is There A Proper Way To Use Your A/C

Baby it's Hot Outside! Air condition the proper way.... Air conditioning is great, but you can do more than to turn it on. The way your air conditioner is set up can change how fast your auto cools down. If you want to do cool as quickly and efficiently as possible there are a few things you can do. Make sure the A/C is on the coldest setting, and then that the climate control is set to draw in external air. Then, open the windows slightly, and set the A/C to come out of the lowest vents. Since cold air is heavier than hot air, it’ll make sure the hot air gets pushed up and out of the window. Once the air coming from the vents feels cooler than the outside air, shut the windows and switch to recirculated air. Your A/C will do its thing and keep you nice and cool.

Do You Park Like A Pro?

Parking is the action of moving a vehicle into a place in a car park or by the side of the road where it can be left. Why is it called parking your car? The term “to park” originated from the practice of placing cannon carriages parallel to one another; in such a position these are said to be parked. Cars left unattended on streets or in public areas were a major problem for cities at the turn of the 20th century. How to perfect car parking? 1 – Find a parking spot. The parking spot should have at least 0.5 – 1m on each side. ... 2 – Drive slowly and enter at an angle. Enter the parking spot at an angle and slowly edging forward until your car is correctly positioned within the white lines. 3 – Align the car in the parking spot. ... 4 – Open the car doors carefully. Want to Park Like A Pro... Keep Practicing. Choose the Right Spot. Know the Size of Your Vehicle. Set the Mirrors Correctly. Understand the Parking Dimensions. Align Your Car.

Does Your Windshield Fog Up On The Inside?

Your windshield fog can occur when warm air inside a car meets and cools rapidly against the windows, causing condensation and liquid to form. As the liquid evaporates, it can leave behind a cloudy fog. The easiest way to keep your car windows from fogging up is to open a window, even just a little bit. Letting some of the air inside your car escape will help equalize the temperature difference between the outside and inside of your vehicle. It will prevent water vapor from forming on your windows in the first place. Here are some other tips for clearing foggy windows in hot weather: 1. Utilize your windshield wipers. 2. Heat up the interior of your vehicle. 3. Keep recirculation turned off: To combat foggy windows, deactivate the recirculation feature in your car so that the interior temperature and humidity align with the external conditions.

What Color Is Your Car?

Did you know that the color of your car can make a $5,000 difference in how much you sell it for? Yellow, beige and orange will bring the most money when it’s time to sell Yellow, beige, orange and green cars all lose less than 20 percent of their value Gold, brown and black cars drop the most in value, losing over $10,000 after 3 years SUVs: Yellow Is the Best Color for SUV Resale Value Pickup Trucks: Beige Scores Big With Off-Road Truck Buyers Sedans: Brown Moves From Zero to Hero in the Sedan Category Convertibles: Yellow Is Popular With the Drop-Top Crowd Coupes: Yellow Is Also the Top Resale Value Color for Coupe Buyers Minivans: Minivan Buyers Go Green…and Brown The average car loses 22.5 percent of its value after 3 years, but yellow cars only lose 13.5 percent, which equates to saving more than $3,000 compared to the average vehicle Yellow, beige, orange and green cars all lose less than 20 percent of their value Gold, brown and black cars drop the most in value, losing over $10,000 after 3 years So, which car color is the best? At the end of the day, it's totally up to you.

Memorial Day

This U.S. federal holiday is observed on the last Monday of May to honor the men and women who have died while serving in the military. Nearly 44 million people are expected to be on the move over the four-day weekend Memorial Day commemorates the men and women who died while in the military service of their country, particularly those who died in battle or as a result of wounds sustained in battle. In other words, the purpose of Memorial Day is to memorialize the veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. We spend time remembering those who lost their lives and could not come home, reflecting on their service and why we have the luxury and freedom that we enjoy today. We might consider how we can support and safeguard their grieving families and loved ones who are left behind. Car-Lotta Car Sales will be closed on Monday, May 27th in observance of the holiday. We will re open on Tuesday, May 28th at 9:00 am.

Stuck In Traffic?

Getting stuck in traffic is like a rite of passage for all drivers. Whether you like it or not, it’s happened to you, and it’s most likely going to happen again. Nobody wants to be sitting in a traffic jam, but at least make the best of it. If you’re a passenger, or if you’re pulled over to the side of the road, out of the way of other cars/traffic – Here’s a handy list of things to do to pass the time; Bust out your Karaoke chops Play the license plate abbreviation game Make the person/people in the car next to you laugh Switch it up with a podcast Clean up the general area around your seat Do some car exercises Start a round of I-Spy Become a champion of 20 Questions Phone a friend- It’s always good to catch up with people! The most important tip of all though: pay attention to the traffic around you! The games and advice may be fun to do, but driving is always your top priority.

Do You Zipper Merge?

When a lane is closed in a construction zone, a zipper merge occurs when motorists use both lanes of traffic until reaching the defined merge area, and then alternate in "zipper" fashion into the open lane. Merge points are specifically set up for vehicles to merge from two lanes into one lane in a zipper fashion. This keeps traffic flowing. Each car should alternate zipper fashion into the remaining open lane just before the point of closure. When there is a lane closure ahead, drivers should continue to drive in both lanes equally. Just before the lane ends, cars should take turns filling in the open lane carefully and resume full speed. In a Zipper Merge, please be respectful of those who wait to merge until just before the lane ends; they are doing it correctly

Road Construction Is Frustrating

Pennsylvania has many roads that connect with various arteries that go through many areas. Weekday mornings and early evenings, no matter what direction you’re going, you’ll likely end up stuck in some hot traffic hell. Despite the perils of a long commute, most people in our drive to work. More than 75% make the trek to work alone. The stress of waiting in gridlock can get intense if you’re in a hurry, leaving you feeling frustrated and anxious about the traffic. That stress can translate into deeper health hazards. Try to distract yourself with your smartphone, and you can put yourself and other drivers in even more danger. We understand how frustrating road construction can be! It’s one of those necessary inconveniences that can disrupt our daily routines.

What Do You DO??

You’re sitting calmly in traffic drumming your fingers on the steering wheel when you hear the sound of brakes screeching from behind. Glancing in the rearview mirror, you see a car barreling toward you and brace for the crash. More than 5.25 million Americans a year experienced an auto accident, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). While we can’t always prevent accidents from happening, we can prepare for what to do when they occur. A car accident is just that, an accident. If you find yourself in the aftermath you might notice that as the adrenaline drops off, your brain starts to whirl with questions. Often, the loudest one is, what now? First, make sure everyone involved is safe. If your vehicle can be moved out of the roadway, do so. No matter what, be sure to turn on your hazard lights. Next, remember to stay calm. Take some deep breaths. Then: Call the police to report the accident. If someone needs medical attention at the scene, call 911 If your vehicle needs to be towed, be cautious of predatory towing companies. Using them may result in expensive out of pocket charges. ERIE has a towing program, and you can request an accident tow by using your mobile app. If using a towing provider at the scene, be sure to obtain the towing company name, operator, contact information and location to where the vehicle is being towed. Document the scene. Take notes, photos, videos and voice memos. Make sure to get: Date, time and location Description of what happened, while it’s still fresh in your mind Contact information of those involved and any witnesses Insurance information, driver’s license number and license plate information of all drivers involved Identifying information of all responding officers Photos of the involved vehicle from different angles, showing the damage done to both cars. Copy of final accident report If your accident was the result of a hit and run, the steps don’t vary much. Record any details you may recall about the vehicle that hit you and gather witness statements and contact information. Finally, contact your insurance agent directly to begin the claims process.

Make An Appointment- Keep It- Or Call

We Know - Life gets crazy. Keeping up with appointments can be overwhelming amid the chaos of a busy life -IF YOU CAN’T MAKE IT, JUST CALL- When a customer fails to show up for their automotive appointment, it can significantly impact the business. First off, the company may have incurred costs associated with special ordering the required part for the customer's vehicle, which now must be returned. This can lead to financial loss due to restocking fees or shipping costs, as well as the time and effort invested in the ordering process. The missed appointment represents a lost opportunity for the business to generate revenue during that time slot, potentially disrupting the scheduling of other appointments and affecting overall productivity. The company's reputation and customer satisfaction may be at stake if such occurrences become frequent, as it can lead to dissatisfaction and mistrust among both existing and potential customers. If you find yourself unable to make a scheduled appointment, reach out to them promptly. Making a courteous phone call, send a text or email to notify them of your inability to attend, you show respect for their schedule and allow them the opportunity to make alternative arrangements. A simple act of communication shows that you value their time and are considerate of the impact your absence may have on their operations. It also helps to maintain a positive and professional relationship with the company, building trust and understanding.

What is Comprehensive Insurance ?

What is Comprehensive Insurance ? Comprehensive insurance is an optional type of car insurance coverage that pays for damage to a vehicle caused by non-collision events that are beyond your control. For example, comprehensive insurance covers damage due to falling objects, fire, theft, flooding, vandalism, wind, and more. Without comprehensive insurance, you risk having to pay out of pocket to repair or replace your vehicle should an incident occur. Things to Know About How Comprehensive Insurance Works: • You can purchase comprehensive insurance from any auto insurance company, as it is a very common type of insurance. • You will likely be required to purchase collision insurance when you get comprehensive coverage, since most insurance companies do not sell comprehensive insurance by itself. • Comprehensive insurance is not required by law, but a lender or lessor might require it. • You can file a comprehensive insurance claim by calling your insurance company and providing them with all the information you have about the accident. You may also be able to file your claim on your insurer's website or app. • You will always file comprehensive claims with your own insurance company. • When you file a comprehensive insurance claim, you will be responsible for paying a deductible. • If your insurance company approves the claim, you will pay your deductible directly to the repair shop.

Are You A Sunday Driver ?

What does the phrase Sunday drivers mean? A person who drives slowly and leisurely or overcautiously What is the origin of the Sunday driver? The use of the automobile for the Sunday drive began in the 1920s and 1930s. The idea was that the automobile was not used for commuting or errands, but for pleasure. There would be no rush to reach any particular destination. The practice became increasingly popular throughout the 20th century. Why is it called a Sunday drive? A catchphrase that made specific reference to people who broke the Sabbath by driving their automobiles, especially during church services, Sunday driving stood as a metaphor for what many believed was a nationwide decline in morality.

Does Your Auto Have An Easter Egg?

Easter eggs in cars are fun, hidden gems with symbolic or deeper meanings. Most car Easter eggs are free, Tesla drivers can pay $175 for an optional key fob, which is also a hidden gem. While many vehicles hide Easter eggs, Jeeps and Teslas use the most hidden features in their vehicles. From functional to simply fun, easter eggs provide a little more character and often show off an automaker's playful side. Easter eggs might not influence sales numbers too much but they do help buyers engage with their vehicle. Some are purely based on having a little fun with the design while others are intentionally functional. Which is your favorite though? That’s our question of the day. Easter eggs in the automotive sector come in a variety of forms but just as their namesake might suggest, they’re somewhat hidden from plain view. You often needs to go looking for them to find them. Does Your Auto Have An Easter Egg?

If You Replace Your Windshield What Happens To Your State Inspection Sticker?

Understanding Windshield Replacement and Inspection Stickers in Pennsylvania In the state of Pennsylvania, the process of replacing a windshield can sometimes lead to confusion regarding inspection stickers and their transfer between the old and new glass. It is essential for both auto glass shop customers and service stations to understand their responsibilities in this situation to ensure compliance with the law and avoid unnecessary issues. When a windshield replacement is performed in Pennsylvania, an auto glass shop is not legally obligated to transfer inspection stickers from the old windshield to the new one. While some auto glass shops may make an effort to save and transfer the stickers as a courtesy to their customers, it is important to note that any damage to the stickers during the replacement process is not the shop's responsibility. According to Pennsylvania regulations, inspection stickers are considered the property of the vehicle owner rather than the auto glass shop. As a result, it is the responsibility of the customer to ensure that their inspection stickers are replaced. In cases where the stickers cannot be saved or are damaged during the replacement process, the customer may need to visit the service station that inspected their vehicle to obtain new replacement stickers. Auto glass shops are required to cut out the inspection stickers from the old windshield and hand them over to the customer. The customer can then take the stickers to the service station for replacement, bearing in mind that they may incur additional costs for the new stickers.

Do People Decorate Their Cars for Weddings ?

Do People Decorate Still Their Cars for Weddings ? Typically the best man, with the help of the maid of honor, groomsmen, and bridesmaids sneaks out of the wedding reception about halfway through to decorate the wedding car. Sometimes, even the bride and groom like to be included. Decorating the wedding car is definitely a fun and creative way to honor (or even embarrass) the new couple! Old shoes were tied to the back bumper because leather was thought to ward off evil spirits, and would keep the young couple safe. Sometimes tin cans were also tied to the back of the car, to make noise and call attention to the happy newlyweds. Now, more couples are renting limousines and are aware that shaving cream might damage the paint and rental companies discourage tying anything to the car. There are many other alternatives now available that won’t harm the car in any way.

Spring Forward..... and Change The Clock In Your Car

Daylight saving time has gotten easier since the smartphone has replaced so many wristwatche. In cars, GPS-linked navigation systems often change the time automatically in the same way. They will be able to synchronise the car's clock with the global positioning satellite signal and so they will automatically change the time according to the zone you're in. Some folks have a clock in their car that not only needs adjusting manually but is often the most complicated function in the entire car. As all cars operate differently the first thing you should do would be to check the manufacturer's manual. As a general rule the dashboard buttons will help you set the time right in your car as its clock is usually connected to the radio. You will need to push the "menu" or the "clock" button to access the time setting menu. By tapping the "volume" buttons you will be able to adjust the hour and minutes. Once you are finished make sure to tap the "set" or "clock" button again and you're good to go. Saturday while you’re running errands, don’t forget to turn the clock an hour back. The time doesn’t officially change until 2 a.m. Sunday, but you don’t want to head to work Monday an hour earlier than you need to.

Are You Thinking Spring?

Springtime is often associated with house cleaning, but here at Carlotta, we think it’s a great time to focus on your car as well. Routine, seasonal maintenance checks will help your car perform its very best, as you turn the corner from winter to spring. With the weather warming up, early spring is ideal for getting your car prepared for road trips, more frequent driving or even that epic summer vacation that’s only a few months away.

Why Won't My Car Start??

Winter weather is tough on vehicles. When temperature drops below freezing and you get in one morning and turn the key, only to find your vehicle won’t start. What are you supposed to do? WHY CARS AND COLD WEATHER DON’T GET ALONG.... We tend to think about our vehicles as machines, but there’s also a lot of chemistry involved. Car problems related to the cold are usually caused by a combination of chemical and mechanical malfunctions. A battery that worked fine during the spring, summer and fall can fail as the mercury drops. Your battery runs on a chemical process, one that gets slowed down by low temperatures. The colder it gets, the less power the battery will produce. If your battery’s condition is marginal, it may not be able to start your vehicle as temperatures drop toward single digits. When you turn the key, you may hear the starter running very slowly, or not at all. If you think your battery might be at fault, kill everything else that would draw power from it. Turn off the lights, the heater and the stereo. Unplug any phone chargers. And, if you have a manual transmission, hold the clutch down. If you think your battery might be at fault, kill everything else that would draw power from it. Turn off the lights, the heater and the stereo. Unplug any phone chargers. And, if you have a manual transmission, hold the clutch down. Now turn the key in the ignition, or push the start button. Hold it for about 10 seconds, but no longer. If all goes well, your engine should start. If not, wait a few minutes and try again. If this doesn’t work, try to tighten or clean your battery cables, or get a jumpstart. If you have some timeyou can remove the battery and take it indoors where it can warm up. If all else fails... get a tow to your mechanic.

What will your vehicle cost be over the next 5 years?

When you consider the prices in the vehicle market over the past few years, you may feel that buying a vehicle today is an expensive. Prices of used cars will continue to drop, but you should consider when buying a car is the true — and overall — cost of ownership. What Vehicles Will Cost You the Least After 5 Years? 5-Year Cost to Own projections reveal the overall financial costs associated with a vehicle, including the price tag and other hits to your wallet down the road. Consider the car costs for you to drive it off the lot, maintenance, fuel, insurance, repairs and its market value after five years of ownership. Let’s take a look at vehicles with the most favorable five-year costs overall....a range of 2023 model classes, including subcompact SUVs, midsize cars, hybrids and more. Here’s What A Few Vehicles Are Projected To Cost Over the First 5 Years Make and Model Vehicle Class 5-Year Cost to Own 2023 Toyota Tundra Fullsize Pickup Truck $48,254 2023 Hyundai Venue Subcompact SUV $31,686 2023 Subaru Forester Compact SUV $37,367 2023 Subaru Impreza Compact Car $31,041 2023 Honda Accord Midsize Car $36,732 2023 Lexus LS Fullsize Luxury Car $83,727 2023 Lexus ES Midsize Luxury Car $53,063 2023 Subaru BRZ Sports Car $39,908 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid Hybrid Car $30,207 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV Electric Car $28,610 2023 Toyota Sienna Minivan $42,669

Can You Sign and Drive ?

What defines sign and drive? A sign and drive deal is an extremely popular pay structure amongst lessees since it allows the consumer to drive off in a car without paying anything at signing. It is literally called a “Sign and Drive deal.” but it's actually more of a sign THEN drive deal. Instead of putting your savings as a down payment, a Sign and Drive lets you bundle the leasing costs into your monthly payments.

Planning A Winter Road Trip?

Is it time to head for warmer temperatures? Get ready and take advantage of off-season rates and smaller crowds. Whether you head west or east, you’ll find great places to stay and enjoy some natural beauty on these three winter road trips. Winter Road Trip #1 – Southern California Average Temperature (December to March): 65-73°F high, 38-50°F low Winter Road Trip #2 – Arizona Average Temperature (December to March): 60-70°F high, 33-48°F low Winter Road Trip # 3 – Florida Average Temperature (December to March): mid-70s F high, 53-66°F low

How Do You Protect Your Auto From Theft?

Did you know a motor vehicle was stolen every 32 seconds in the United States in 2022? What is the best protection against car theft? Close and lock all windows and doors when you park. Take your vehicle's key; do not leave it in or on your vehicle. Do not leave a spare key near your vehicle. ... Close the windows. ... Park in well-lit areas. ... Install an audible alarm system and anti-theft device. ... Install a vehicle immobilizer system. ... Install a tracking system. ... Don't leave valuables in your vehicle especially if they can be seen from outside the vehicle.

Can Snow Cause Damage To Your Car?

Snow can be hazardous to any type of vehicle, large or small. Heavy snow build up, in addition to the exposure to salt from the roads, can affect your vehicle's performance in a major way. Heavy amounts of snow can put a strain on your windshield and cause it to become loose from the weight of the snow. Cacks or breaks may appear and you will have to replace your windshield before getting back on the road. To avoid damage to your windshield from the snow, avoid parking under trees and shovel snow off of your car when possible. Snow can cause damage to your car's frame by leaving dents from heavy snow if proper measures are not taken. This typically occurs on the roof or hood of your car, where large weights of snow left for long periods can cause the most damage. If this happens, it can damage the value and appearance of your car. Keep your car in great shape by shoveling snow when necessary or parking your car inside a garage when snowing. In some cases, snow does cause your car to rust. Snow can cause rust by pools of water sitting on top of your car for extended periods or corrosion from road salt. Rust can be a major problem for your vehicle as it slowly corrodes the metal of your vehicle’s frame and inner parts. The best way to avoid damage to your car from snow and rust is to take preventative measures before the winter months hit. By doing so, you ensure your car is prepared and protected from extreme weather conditions and likely preventable damages. But never to fear, there are many things you can do to protect your car from the snow, including: - Washing your car frequently - Driving safely - Avoiding ice or large puddles in the road - Installing winter snow tires - Not driving in deep or heavy snow - Avoid parking on the street

Making Good Travel Decisions

When making travel decisions during inclement weather, you should keep in mind that major roadways are the first to be cleared. It is unusual for conditions on rural and county roads to be better than those on major roadways. While drivers are encouraged to use all available information when making winter travel plans, even the latest, most accurate forecast information could change with little or no warning. If weather conditions appear to be too severe to travel, they most likely are. The majority of winter driving crashes can be attributed to drivers going too fast for the roadway conditions. When this happens, drivers can lose control and begin to leave the roadway. Driving slow on snowy and icy roads allows the driver a longer reaction time. It can take up to 10 times longer to stop in snowy or icy weather. Drivers should be prepared to look ahead and begin braking well in advance of an intersection. Remember: Active winter weather and hazardous traveling conditions create the greatest demand for police and EMS services. Please do not tie up telephone lines and dispatch personnel by calling to request weather or travel information.

Using Your Tax Return for Buying a Car?

The average refund is usually enough to cover a big part of the down payment. If you're not wanting to get a brand-new car, truck, or SUV, you can also utilize your income tax refund to pay off a part or the entirety of your existing auto loan. Our financing specialists recommend paying a considerable down payment to help you get a car loan for your next automobile purchase. Having a substantial deposit can help reduce your monthly payments. By using your refund as a down payment, you might receive better vehicle funding options. Using your tax refund to repay an existing car loan is always a great idea. Customers can make use of that extra money to significantly lower the existing balance on their existing vehicle financing. You can do this either by making a few extra payments or by making a principle only payment. Paying off or considerably reducing the remaining balance will reduce the amount of interest that would have been paid with time.