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Whether you’re considering driving to Mexico for fun or business, preparing for a drive across the border might entail a few more steps than you may expect. To help ensure you’ve covered all the bases, here are some tips to help you get ready to travel to Mexico by car:
According to the Department of State, you’ll need to obtain the following documents as you prepare for your drive to Mexico:
To help ensure you have all the documentation needed for your specific trip, you may want to contact the State Department to see if there are any additional items you’ll need.
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To help make sure your drive to Mexico is as efficient as possible, consider approaching your travel planning in steps. Getting ready for your trip may be more manageable if you follow these four steps:
Plan ahead for your trip by gathering existing documents that are necessary to cross the border — for example, many travelers likely already have a driver’s license, passport and car registration. Then, consider your driving route and how long you intend to stay in Mexico. You should also determine how far into Mexico you intend to drive. This information is necessary to obtain your TVIP and FMM cards, according to the Department of State.
Whether you’re driving your own vehicle or renting a car, you’ll need to purchase a Mexico tourist auto insurance policy for your trip. If you plan on driving your own vehicle, contact your insurance agent about purchasing a Mexico tourist auto insurance policy. If you’re renting a vehicle, the Department of State says you can purchase the insurance directly through most car rental agencies.
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If you’ll be traveling more than 12 miles into Mexico, you’ll need to obtain TVIP and FMM cards, according to the Department of State. The application process to obtain these documents will likely require some of the documents you’ve already gathered, such as your driver’s license or passport.
While both cards can be obtained at the border crossing, it may be a good idea to apply for these cards before your trip. That way, you can ensure there won’t be any issues with obtaining the cards after you’ve already hit the road.
Before departing on your trip, it’s a good idea to spend some time familiarizing yourself with driving laws in Mexico, road signage and any current travel advisories, says the Department of State. You should also keep some safety measures in mind as you prepare for your trip. Having an emergency car kit and a written list of emergency contacts on hand may be helpful if you get into a bind. If you’re driving your own vehicle, complete a vehicle inspection and any needed routine maintenance to help ensure your car is road trip ready.
Any trip abroad is an opportunity for adventure and learning. By taking a little time to prepare for your drive to Mexico, you can help minimize potential stress during your visit and enjoy your trip.
The post What You Need to Know Before Driving to Mexico appeared first on The Allstate Blog.
From stopping at red lights to signaling when changing lanes, traffic laws help keep us, our passengers and other vehicles safe on the road. There are some local and state rules and regulations, however, that you may find surprising. Here are a few unique traffic laws you’ll find in the U.S.
Stopping for a late night snack or a refreshing soda? Better not honk your horn, at least not while you’re in Little Rock, Arkansas. After 9 p.m. it’s against the law to sound your car horn at any place that sells cold drinks or sandwiches, according to Trip Savvy.
Utah drivers must signal at least two seconds before turning. If you’re driving in Utah, keep your eyes on the vehicles nearby. Also, think about starting that turn signal earlier to give the driver behind you a heads-up.
You may find yourself in trouble if you leave your car doors open too long while you’re in Oregon. It is a traffic offense to leave a vehicle door open longer than it takes to load and unload passengers or cargo. You also need to avoid opening a car door unless it is “reasonably safe to do so.” While these regulations seem unusual, the intention is good — to help prevent an accident with passing traffic and to help protect pedestrians and bicyclists on the sidewalk.
Drivers in Nebraska are required to stay in the right-hand lane on mountain highways. They also must honk (or provide other audible warning) to alert other drivers within 200 feet of approaching a curved area with an obstructed view. The odd part of this law is that Nebraska doesn’t have any mountains, according to WorldAtlas.com. To be fair, Nebraska does have elevated, hilly areas where this law could help make driving safer.
If you’re heading through Youngstown, Ohio, you may want to top off the gas tank. If you run out of gas within Youngstown’s “congested district,” you may be guilty of a misdemeanor. If it happens more than once within a year, the degree of misdemeanor charges will increase. Most likely this is a way of avoiding a traffic jam, but it’s definitely a unique law.
While some of these traffic laws may be a little unusual, it’s a good idea to mind your manners and follow the rules of the road. Wherever you’re driving, adhere to local traffic rules and make your trip a safe one.
Originally published on November 20, 2012.
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While national monuments, big-city entertainment, beaches or theme parks may be your ultimate destination, there are often quick stops along the way where you can see something new and break up your road trip.
Here are 10 museums that celebrate the unusual, from action figures and funeral history to matchsticks and aprons. If you plan to hit the road with family or friends this year, consider making a detour to one of these archives of the odd — or do your own research to find a niche museum that fits your interests (there’s sure to be one out there).
While they may not be the reason you plan the trip, these stops could be the best (or most memorable) things you see on your next vacation.
Originally published on March 22, 2016.
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If your family vacation involves a road trip, a little planning can help keep you organized and your kids occupied during the drive. Whether you’ll have a few hours in the car on the way to your cabin or you’re spending a few weeks touring several states, consider these tips for preparing for a family road trip.
Long stretches in the car can be hard on everyone, so it’s important to plan stops along the way to your destination. Take a least a 10-minute break every two hours, says Travel and Leisure. Not only will this give everyone a chance to stretch and use the restroom, but the break can help keep the drivers alert.
It’s a good idea to make sure each leg of your trip is manageable and that you allow time for unplanned stops, says Travel and Leisure. Trip Savvy notes that one of the keys to an enjoyable family road trip is letting the kids get in plenty of activity along the way. A spontaneous stop for an attraction that interests the kids can be a great way to create memories together (and give everyone something to talk about during the next leg of the trip).
Having a schedule or routine can help keep boredom at bay and may keep the kids from bickering, according to The Survival Mom. For example, you may want to tell the kids that it’s time to read for a half an hour, and then they can watch a movie and have a snack. This helps kids understand what to expect and it may help long days in the car seem shorter.
The Survival Mom also recommends setting a schedule for gadgets, who gets to pick the restaurant for dinner and all those other “big” decisions siblings may argue about. If they know they’ll each get their turn playing on the tablet, choosing a movie or sitting in their favorite spot, you may have a more peaceful ride together.
The Travel Channel also recommends scheduling “screen-free” time during the trip. Playing the “License Plate Game” or “I Spy” can be great ways to get everyone looking at the scenery and interacting as a family.
Road trips and snacks go hand-in-hand — especially when you’re traveling with kids. The Travel Channel recommends packing a variety of foods. Healthy options may include raisins or carrot sticks. And don’t forget some treats, like cookies or snack bars. Be sure you have drinks on hand, too. Reusable water bottles (remember to refill them during your rest stops) and juice boxes can be easy to manage in the car.
Remember to keep the food and drinks easily accessible, says the Travel Channel. You don’t want to make a stop every time someone gets thirsty. Even better — put the snacks where the kids can easily grab one themselves.
Bringing pillows and small blankets in the car can help keep everyone comfortable and encourage naps, says The Survival Mom. Pack a backpack for each child with a few toys from home, says Travel and Leisure. Not only can these items help keep the kids occupied, but having something familiar may also help kids feel more comfortable when away from home, says the Survival Mom.
With a little planning, some comforts from home and time for unexpected adventures, you can help your family have an enjoyable road trip this summer.
Originally published on March 22, 2012.
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Whether you’re looking for a relaxing summer vacation along the beach or a more rugged vacation outdoors, the South offers plenty of options. From blues music to pristine beaches, it’s a region that offers entertainment for the whole family. As you start making vacation plans, consider these stops on a Southern road trip.
Following the course of the Mississippi River, the Great River Road starts far north in Minnesota and ends at the Gulf of Mexico in Louisiana. There are countless stop you could make along the way, including attractions in Mississippi where you’ll find yourself immersed in the history, culture and traditions of the area. Make a stop at the B.B. King Museum in Indianola to learn not just about the life and career of the renown musician, but also about the roots of the blues and how it spread throughout the nation.
You may also want to consider stopping at Vicksburg National Military Park. a significant Confederate stronghold where John C. Pemberton surrendered, giving the Union control of the Mississippi River during the Civil War. History buffs will also love the U.S.S. Cairo Museum, which displays a recovered Union gunboat from the Civil War and a number of artifacts that were on board.
Finish your journey through Mississippi at the Rosemont Plantation near Woodville. Once home to Jefferson Davis and five generations of the family, Rosemont is now open for tours.
If you’d like to spend some near the ocean this summer, consider taking the Overseas Highway to the Florida Keys. Also called “The Highway That Goes to the Sea,” this southernmost stretch of U.S. Route 1 goes from Miami to Key West, says TripSavvy. You can make the trip in just a few hours, but there are a number of attractions along the way that may be worth a stop.
For instance, the Florida Keys Wild Bird Center in Tavernier is home to more than 40 different species of birds that have been rescued and rehabilitated. Walk along the center’s boardwalk to admire the wild life and great view of the bay. If you want an even better view of the ocean, consider going to the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo. There, you can see Florida’s coral reef during a glass-bottom boat tour, or you can get a close-up view of the sea life by snorkeling or scuba diving.
You may also want to visit the Dolphin Research Center in Grassy Key where you can spend a day with the center’s family of dolphins, sea lions and tropical birds. Watch educational presentations, let the kids run through the sprayground or experience one of the center’s “hands-on” sessions.
As the state capital of Virginia, Richmond shares a deep connection with our nation’s roots. The Virginia Tourism Corporation notes the city’s early days as a small colonial town and that Richmond was where Patrick Henry gave his famous “Give Me Liberty” speech at St. John’s Church.
Next, hop on U.S. Route 5 and follow it along the James River to discover attractions such as the Virginia State Capitol, which was designed by Thomas Jefferson, and the Tuckahoe Plantation, Jefferson’s childhood home. If you want to get out and stretch your legs, enjoy some time and the views on the 52-mile Virginia Capital Trail that runs along the Route 5 corridor between Richmond and Williamsburg.
From the beauty of rolling hills covered in wildflowers to the hustle and bustle of Austin, Central Texas has a lot to offer. Start your trip in Hill Country, where TravelTexas.com says you can view more than 5,000 different kinds of wildflowers. Or head to San Marcos, where you can explore Spring Lake by glass-bottom boat, kayak or stand-up paddle board or hike the trails at Spring Lake Natural Area. Or, you can take a walking tour of Fredricksburg’s historic district, which showcases the rich history of the town originally founded in 1846 by German settlers. Don’t forget to head over the Congress Avenue Bridge in Austin one evening, where on summer nights you can see the world’s largest urban bat colony. And, while you’re making your way around Texas, make sure you stop to get a taste of some famous Texas-style barbecue.
Whether one of these regions is your destination or you’re just passing through, Southern states offer a number attractions you can visit during a road trip. From learning more about the nation’s history to having some fun in the sun, a few stops along the way may make your summer vacation even more memorable.
Originally posted on May 3, 2011.
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Since 1981, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has required that every vehicle manufactured and sold in the United States is assigned a vehicle identification number, commonly called a VIN. The purpose of VINs is to help law enforcement trace and recover stolen vehicles and parts, as each VIN can be tracked back to a single vehicle. Edmunds notes it typically is on a small plate attached to the dashboard on the driver’s side of the vehicle. It may also be imprinted on other major components of the vehicle, as required by the Federal Motor Vehicle Theft Prevention Standard.
Learn more about VIN etching and how it may help protect your vehicle.
Labeling the windows of your car, truck or SUV with its VIN may be an effective tool when it comes to theft prevention. VIN etching, as it’s commonly known, can be a cost-effective method for doing this if your vehicle did not come with the windows marked already. Angie’s List states that car dealers and local police departments often provide etching service. You can also purchase etching kits (check online or at an auto parts store) and do the work yourself. Typically, it only takes about 10 minutes to etch the windows.
The process should not damage your windows, says the Arizona Automobile Theft Authority (AATA). Etching should only affect the outer layer of the glass, and the etching is approximately 2 inches wide and a quarter inch high — so it should not interfere with your view.
Sometimes, car thieves swap the VIN plate on the dashboard with a fake one, says the AATA. This essentially changes the identity of the vehicle and makes it hard for police to track. However, if the windows are etched, each piece of glass will also have to be swapped out. This costs time and money and cuts into any profit the thief can make selling the stolen vehicle. If the would-be thief notices the window etching, they may simply move on and look for an easier target.
If your car is stolen, the NHTSA says you should immediately contact the police and provide relevant information, including the VIN. You can find the VIN on your insurance card or statement as well as the car’s title. (Don’t forget to contact your insurance company, too.) This information will be entered into a national police database, according to the St. Paul Auto Theft Unit. Police can easily spot window etching, says the AATA, and having that information on the window may help them recover your vehicle.
As a car owner, you may take steps like locking your car and parking in well-lit areas to help deter thieves. You may want to consider VIN etching as another line of defense.
Originally published on July 20, 2012.
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If you’re feeling tired, you may want to think twice before getting behind the wheel. Statistics show that a fatigued driver is three times more likely to get into an accident, says the National Safety Council (NSC). According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), drowsy driving results in approximately 90,000 crashes per year.
Learn about some of the people who may risk driving while drowsy and how you can help prevent yourself from being one.
The National Sleep Foundation’s DrowsyDriving.org notes that a number of essential driving skills may be affected by fatigue. A drowsy driver may experience:
NHTSA also notes that a tired driver may experience “micro sleeps,” in which a person experiences involuntary bouts of sleep or unconsciousness. These episodes can last a few seconds, which is enough for a car to drive the equivalent of a football field while moving at 55 miles per hour.
These symptoms tend to get worse the more fatigued a person becomes, further diminishing the driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely.
Although anyone can become drowsy behind the wheel, some drivers may be at increased risked, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. They include:
Drivers with these risk factors may want to be especially careful.
Whether you belong to a group with higher risk of drowsiness or not, it’s a good idea to take some preventive measures when you’re planning to hit the road. Here are a few things you can do:
Even if you take precautions, it’s important to watch out for the signs of drowsiness when you’re driving. The National Sleep Foundation says that if you experience the following symptoms behind the wheel, it may be time to pull over and rest:
Should you start experiencing signs of fatigue, the NHTSA recommends you pull over somewhere safe — like a well-lit rest stop. Consider drinking a cup or two of coffee or another drink with caffeine, and take a brief nap. DrowsyDriving.org notes that it will take about a half an hour for you to start feeling the effects of the caffeine. If you’re still feeling drowsy (or start to notice signs of fatigue again), it’s time to find somewhere safe to get a good night’s rest.
If you find yourself getting sleepy while behind the wheel, you may be putting yourself and others in danger. Instead of trying to push through, take a break and rest.
Originally published on March 31, 2014.
The post Drowsy Driving: Tips for Avoiding the Risk appeared first on The Allstate Blog.
If you’ve noticed prices move up and down at the gas station, you may have wondered what causes gas prices to fluctuate. Or, maybe you’ve noticed higher or lower gas prices in other states during a road trip. From location to tax rates, here’s a look at some of the factors that may affect the price of gas.
The biggest contributor to the price of gas is the cost of crude oil, says the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). Also known as fossil fuel, crude oil is the liquid that is removed from the ground and sent to refineries to be made into gasoline.
Crude oil prices are based largely upon supply and demand. Therefore, when crude oil production rises, prices may decline, but costs may rise when production declines. Economic conditions play a role in crude oil prices, the EIA says. When the economy is doing well, demand for raw materials such as crude oil tends to rise, while prices fall.
State and federal taxes are built into the price of a gallon of gas, says Energy.gov. While the same federal tax rate is charged at every gas station in the U.S., each state sets its own tax rates. Some states charge sales tax, while others may include other costs, such as environmental fees, in the price of a gallon of gas.
State tax rates aren’t the only reason why gas prices can vary by location. Gas prices can vary based on state or region due to the distance from the supply, according to the EIA. Supply sources can include the pipeline and refineries. So, for example, say the source of the gasoline is near the Gulf Coast. States in that region may see lower prices at the pump because they are closer to the source of the gasoline than states along the West Coast or in New England.
In addition, some states have adopted laws that require the use of “cleaner” fuel that has less of an environmental impact. This fuel typically costs more to produce and is offered by limited suppliers, making it more expensive for drivers to purchase, the EIA explains.
Retail competition may also affect gas prices, even within the same town. Gas station owners may adjust their prices based on how many competitors are nearby, says the EIA.
Gas station owners may also consider their operating costs, like employee wages and rent payments, when setting their prices, the EIA says. Other expenses, such as fuel distribution, marketing and refining, also play roles in the price of gas.
While you can’t control the price of gas, the next time you fill up, you may have a better understanding of some of the factors that contribute to the price you pay at the pump.
The post What Factors Determine Gas Prices? appeared first on The Allstate Blog.
According to the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reports, over 773,000 motor vehicles were reported stolen in 2017. While auto theft has decreased over the last few decades, the Insurance Information Institute (III) notes that a vehicle is stolen every 40.9 seconds in the United States.
Thieves have gotten increasingly savvy, using smart keys to steal cars and switching vehicle identification numbers to avoid detection, says the III. So, how do you help protect yourself from becoming a victim of car theft? Be vigilant about securing your car, and take preventive measures to keep your car safe. Here are 10 things you can do to help protect your car from theft.
Keeping your doors locked is the first step in deterring a thief. It’s good to get into the habit of checking your car doors.
Never leave your keys in the ignition, says the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB). If your key is in the car, a thief can simply break a window and drive off. Firestone also cautions against leaving your car running, even if you’re just going into a store for a quick errand. A running vehicle may be an easy mark for a thief, especially if it is unattended or unlocked.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends taking your keys with you when you leave your car. Some people keep a spare key under the car or in the glove box, just in case they get locked out — but thieves know where to check for an extra key. While getting locked out of your car is a pain, think about the potential hassle of your car getting stolen.
Keep your windows closed completely, says the NICB. A thief can simply reach into your car through an open window — taking what they can reach or unlocking the door to gain full access to your vehicle and everything in it.
Avoid parking in areas that are poorly lit or places that are not immediately seen by passers-by. Firestone Complete Auto Care recommends parking under a light and in a well-trafficked area, as thieves may be deterred if they know they can easily be seen.
The NHTSA recommends installing an audible alarm system, if your car did not come with one, and using a visible anti-theft device. An audible alarm is designed to emit a loud noise, often the car’s horn, if someone attempts to enter the vehicle while the alarm is on. The unwanted attention attracted by the noise may chase off a potential thief, says the NHTSA. There are quite a variety of car alarms available, says Angie’s List, but keep in mind that you may need to have a mechanic or alarm technician install it for you — especially if the installation requires working with the vehicle’s wiring system.
Visible devices, such as a steering wheel lock, window etching or an alarm system’s flashing light, may also be enough to deter a car thief, according to the NHTSA. If they are not sure they can get away with the car quietly or fear they may get caught, Firestone says they may just avoid your vehicle altogether.
Thieves can bypass your ignition by “hotwiring” your car, but you can help prevent this by using a vehicle immobilizer system, says the NHTSA. According to the NICB, immobilizer systems may incorporate smart keys, kill switches and wireless ignition authentication. They’ll essentially disable the vehicle so that a thief cannot make off with it. You may need to have a mechanic or technician who is familiar with the vehicle’s wiring and computer systems install the immobilizer in your vehicle, says Angie’s List.
You may want to consider installing a tracking system, which can also be called a vehicle recovery system. (As with the other alarms, you may need to have a professional install the device.) When your car is stolen, this tracking system will use wireless and/or GPS technology to emit a signal to the police or a monitoring service of your vehicle’s location, says the NICB. This may help the police recover your vehicle faster.
One way to attract a thief is to leave a purse, cell phone or another high-value item in a highly visible area of your car. It’s best to leave anything of value at home, but, if you must have something important with you, keep it out of sight. Firestone also recommends putting valuables in the trunk before you get where you need to be, as some thieves scope parking lots — looking for people who are moving items to their trunk. Once you’ve left the vehicle, they’ll break into the trunk to grab whatever you stashed away.
Be aware of your surroundings when you park your car, says PropertyCasualty360.com. If you are wary of the safety of your car or see someone loitering around the parking lot, it’s best to park somewhere else. Firestone also recommends double-checking that your vehicle’s windows and doors are closed before leaving your car unattended.
If your car is stolen, contact the police immediately. The NHTSA says you may need to provide the following information to the police:
You’ll also want to let your insurance company know within 24 hours if your vehicle has been stolen, says the NHTSA.
While auto theft is not as common as it once was, it is unfortunately still something you need to protect yourself against. Thankfully, taking a few simple precautions may help you reduce the chances of your car being stolen.
Originally published on May 2, 2011.
The post Keeping Your Car Safe: Tips for Preventing Auto Theft appeared first on The Allstate Blog.
It’s a distinctive sound that provides a constant backdrop to cities around the world: the car horn. Ever wonder where this quintessential caution device come from? Or, how car horns have changed through the years? Here’s a quick look at the history of car horns.
Long before the days of interstates, backup cameras and drive-throughs, drivers made use of warning signals to alert other road users to their approach or possible danger. Early signaling options included bells, whistles and hand-squeezed horns (yes, like the one you had on your bike as a kid), says Jalopnik. These simple sounds and motions were helpful to other vehicles, including horse-drawn carriages, and pedestrians as “horseless carriages” started becoming more common on the roads.
The increasing speed of cars, however, eventually necessitated something a little louder than a simple bell.
At the beginning of the 20th century, the quest for effective in-car signaling devices changed the acoustics of American roads forever. Automobile owners had their choice of whistles, sirens and bells so they could manually alert pedestrians and other road users. According to MoparMagazine.com, interesting variations included the Sireno, which could be heard a mile away, according to its manufacturers; the Godin, a “press while you steer” device; and the Gabriel, an inventive, multi-toned horn.
Simultaneously, a young inventor called Miller Rees Hutchinson, who also worked with Thomas Edison, set to work to improve on the existing horn, says Car and Driver. His invention, which became known as the Klaxon, could be operated either by a small hand crank or via motor-powered batteries and emitted a loud and piercing sound, according to MoparMagazine.com. The Klaxon, which was frequently found on the early Ford cars, Model T and Model A, provided the now infamous “aoogha” sound. Klaxon horns remained popular until the 1930s, says Car and Driver, when they began to be replaced by electric car horns.
Modern car horns’ function has not changed much over the years, but they do require less power and electronic magnetic interference, according to Car and Driver. They are also built to last longer — using anti-corrosion materials and filtering out dirt and humidity.
The tones of car horns have changed over the years, though. Over the past century, the practice of combining two horns that produce two different notes has resulted in more unique tones, says MoparMagazine.com. Car and Driver states that there are two main types of modern car horns: disc and fanfare horns. You’ll recognize a disc horn by its metallic sounding beep, while a fanfare horn is a fuller and more rich tone.
One memorable horn in the 1960s took a unique turn and did not use the common two-tone sound. Plymouth’s Road Runner emitted a sound that didn’t quite fit with its tough muscle car exterior, but it was certainly attention-getting. MoparMagazine.com notes that the Road Runner’s horn sounded just like the famous cartoon, a familiar high-pitched “beep-beep,” which was only a single tone.
Horns are mandatory on cars, but each state determines what is and isn’t legal in regards to car horns, says Car and Driver. These regulations are typically in regards to the maximum allowed decibels as well as how audible they are — essentially balancing the need for the horns to be heard while keeping them from becoming unnecessarily loud. For example, Car and Driver notes that California’s rules dictate that a horn should be audible from at least 200 feet away, but it should not be “unreasonably loud.” Aftermarket horns are also limited to no more than 110 decibels. This 200 foot rule is common in many states, says Car and Driver, and most car manufacturers monitor the decibel levels on their car horns to keep them within reasonable limits.
The car horn, one of the many things we take for granted about our vehicles, has its roots in road safety — something that remains as important today as it was then.
Originally published on January 28, 2015.
The post History of the Car Horn appeared first on The Allstate Blog.
Does your car still smell like that fast food you picked up a few days ago? Is the aroma of your kid’s hockey gear still lingering after being carted around all season? Unwanted odors can turn any car trip into an unpleasant experience, but there may be easy ways to get rid of them. Try these three quick fixes to freshen up your ride.
Baking soda can help to neutralize odors, according to Consumer Reports:
Step 1: Pour baking soda into a mason jar.
Step 2: Put the open jar into one of your car’s cupholders. Let it sit overnight or as long as it takes to remove odors. To help prevent spilling, be sure to remove the jar from your car or put the lid on before driving.
Coffee beans can also help absorb unpleasant smell. Thrillist recommends this approach:
Step 1: Gather a clean sock you no longer wear, some whole coffee beans, a piece of twine or string and a funnel.
Step 2: Pour the coffee beans through the funnel into the sock.
Step 3: Once the sock is full, tie the end closed.
Step 4: Place under your passenger seat until the odor is gone. Be sure it’s not blocking an air vent, speaker, heating element, motor or any other object.
Here’s how to transform a simple clothespin into an air freshener, as suggested by Simple Life Mom:
Step 1: Gather a wooden clothespin and a small bottle of essential oil, in whatever scent you prefer.
Step 2: Apply 5 to 10 drops of the essential oil to the clothespin.
Step 3: Clip the clothespin into an air vent in your car. Depending on the essential oil, how often you drive your car and how much air is blowing, the scent may last a few days or longer. You can add a few more drops of essential oil to the clothespin when the scent has faded.
The post Quick Fix: 3 DIY Car Air Fresheners appeared first on The Allstate Blog.
When you get a new vehicle registration sticker or parking pass, you know what that means — it’s time to remove the old one. But peeling those old stickers off your car’s windshield can be difficult, and it often leaves behind some pesky residue. Better Homes and Gardens suggests three ways to remove stickers from car windows with supplies you probably have at home. Watch this video to learn how to remove sticker residue for good:
Once the sticker has been removed, try one of the below methods to help get rid of lingering residue on your windshield. And remember, these methods can also help remove sticker residue from any window on your car.
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Step 1: Use a spatula to cover the sticker residue on your window with creamy peanut butter.
Step 2: Let the peanut butter sit on your windshield until the residue has a chance to soften.
Step 3: Use a clean rag to wipe off the peanut butter and softened sticker residue.
Step 4: Clean the area with window cleaner to remove any streaking.
Step 1: Soak a whole clean rag with rubbing alcohol.
Step 2: Hold the soaked rag on top of the residue. Leave it there for several minutes to allow the residue on the glass to soften, suggests Better Homes and Gardens.
Step 3: Use the alcohol-soaked rag to wipe away the residue.
Step 4: Polish it up by cleaning the area with glass cleaner to remove any streaking.
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Step 1: Apply a spray lubricant directly onto the sticker residue.
Step 2: Let the spray lubricant sit on the sticker residue for several minutes to soften the adhesive, Better Homes and Gardens says.
Step 3: Use a clean rag to wipe away the spray lubricant and the residue.
Step 4: If necessary, use window cleaner to remove any remaining residue, lubricant or streaking.
The post How to Remove a Sticker From a Car’s Windshield appeared first on The Allstate Blog.
The U.S. is among about 75 percent of the countries in the world that drive on the right side of the road, National Geographic says. The reason why most countries use the right lanes dates back to before the invention of cars — and the same is true for the approximately 50 countries in which drivers travel on the left side of the road. Here’s a look at why different countries drive on different sides of the road.
The reason why some countries drive on the left side of the road is likely due to the fact that most people are right-handed. Some of the earliest modes of transportation, such as ancient Roman chariots, were pulled by horses whose drivers likely drove on the left side and defended themselves from oncoming enemies with weapons held in their dominant right hands, the History Channel says. Elsewhere, there was such little traffic from horse-drawn wagons that the preferred side of the road typically varied by community. Eventually, the British government decided traffic should keep to the left, and the law carried down to many of its colonies. That’s why South Africa, Australia and India, among other former British territories, drive on the left side of the road to this day.
Although the U.S. was colonized by Britain, people traveling on horseback and by wagon used the right side of the road, according to the Department of Transportation (DOT). By sitting to the left, drivers could better see oncoming travelers and defend themselves when necessary. When Pennsylvania began plans to build a turnpike in 1792, it adopted a law requiring drivers to use the right lane. Soon after, New York legally required drivers to use the right side of all public highways. Every state followed suit by the Civil War, the DOT says.
Right-side travel was further reinforced in 1908 when Henry Ford introduced his popular Model T with the steering wheel on the left side, National Geographic explains, and other auto manufacturers followed the trend. Over the years other countries also adopted right-side travel, often to help facilitate trips across their borders. Canada, for instance, switched from driving in the left lanes in favor of the right to allow easier travel to and from the U.S., the History Channel explains.
Although most countries adopted their respective sides of the roads decades ago, some have switched traffic patterns more recently. Samoa, which previously favored the right side of the road, moved to the left in 2009 to help drivers more easily travel in Australia and New Zealand, which drive on the left. It’s unlikely many other countries will make similar changes due to the costs of changing infrastructure, The Economist says.
Originally published on April 5, 2012.
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