S12 Sunday, November 6, 2011 - The Morning Star
www.vernonmorningstar.com
~ What Type of Winter Driver are You? (NC)—Canada is the second largest country in the world, so it’s no surprise that 86 percent of Canadians aged 16 years or older have a driver’s license. However, not all of us drive the same way. Some of us love to drive fast; others are nervous or cautious behind the wheel. Canadian winter driving brings particular challenges that often magnify these differences. On wthe ice and snow, cautious drivers can become almost paralyzed with indecision, and confident drivers can become reckless.
the different drivers on Canadian roads. Canuck drivers can be broken down into five different types, each needing specific help when it comes to tackling winter roads in Canada. Here are some customized pointers for all types of drivers from the Michelin Winter Driving Academy (http://michelinman. ca/wintertire).
Smooth, steady pressure on the gas to maintain forward motion is the key to conquering slippery inclines. DAREDEVILS love a thrill at the wheel, and they don’t believe that speeding causes accidents. They love their cars and generally look after them with care. Similarly, the Fast and Confi-
Michelin recently conducted a survey to find out more about
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W O R R YWARTS lack confidence at the wheel and worry they are surrounded by drivers who are less cautious than they are. Worrywarts can sometimes get paralyzed and stop in the middle of an ice-covered hill, or incline. Stopping in such a situation is never advisable as you may not have traction to begin moving again.
AFICIONADOS love the automotive world and understand the characteristics of different cars. These drivers are aware that most cars today have up to three different electronic-control systems that assist in maintaining traction and control. What they may not know is that features like a Traction Control System work by analyzing the traction that each tire has with the road, so the effectiveness of these systems is directly related to the quality and traction of the tire. By no means are these systems meant to make up for the difference between all season and winter tires. There is more than one type of winter driver, and there is more than one type of winter-driving tactic. All drivers should know their strengths and weaknesses so they can drive more safely in the treacherous winter months.
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dent aren’t afraid to drive fast, but like f b they h also l lik feeling in control when at the wheel. They are not intimidated by winter driving, because they rarely get stressed at the wheel. Both of these types of drivers should remember in the winter to significantly increase their following distance and anticipate longer distance for braking to avoid losing control and causing an accident.
CAUTIOUS PRAGMATISTS consider cars first and foremost as a method of transportation, a way to get from point A to point B. They are cautious at the wheel and follow the recommendations of their car manufacturer or mechanic for maintenance. These drivers will always ensure that they have a fully prepared car with essential equipment for the winter.
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Most of you are probably familiar with the clear plastic put on the front of new vehicles known as 3M Clearbra to prevent rockchips but how many people know it originated from a war? During the Gulf War the US Military was having issues with the dust from the desert environment causing damage to the nose of their helicopter fleet as well as the rotor blades. They approached 3M for a solution. 3M created a clear urethane film to cover those prone areas and take the brunt of the damage. It was a success and since then has crossed over into the automotive industry as 3M Clearbra.
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Window Tinting and 3M Clearbra
SolarTech Films applies 3M Clearbra to the rock chip-prone areas of your vehicle. These typically being the leading edge of the hood and fenders, the mirrors, front bumper and lights. But not to be overseen is the leading edge of the roof and especially the lower section of the doors known as
the rocker panels that are getting constant damage from debris thrown by the tires. Installation of 3M Cleabra should be done by a trained professional for the best installation. When researching an installer rely on 3 major points: 1. Are they certified 3M installers? 2. Will the film be wrapped around the lower edge of the hood leaving no exposed paint? 3. Will they be using a pre-cut pattern so that knives will not be used on the paint? As certified installers Solartech Films is able to offer lifetime installation guarantee on all of our pre-cut 3M Clearbra kits. Protect your investment to the fullest while increasing your resale value with Solartech Film’s 3M Clearbra. Article submitted by Solartech Films