Archive for the ‘Driving’ Category

Insurance Costs

Saturday, April 19th, 2008

Insurance Costs

Insurance Costs for Passenger Cars, Station Wagons/Passenger Vans, Pickups, and Utility Vehicles

Comparison of Differences in Insurance Costs for Passenger Cars, Station Wagons/Passenger Vans, Pickups, and Utility Vehicles on the Basis of Damage Susceptibility

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has provided the information in this booklet in compliance with Federal law as an aid to consumers considering the purchase of new vehicles. The booklet compares differences in insurance costs for different makes and models of passenger cars, utility vehicles, light trucks, and vans on the basis of damage susceptibility for the vehicle. However, it does not indicate a vehicle’s relative safety for occupants.

The following table contains the best available information regarding the effect of damage susceptibility on insurance premiums. It was taken from data compiled by the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) in its December 2007 Insurance Collision Report, and reflects the collision loss experience of passenger cars, utility vehicles, light trucks, and vans sold in the United States in terms of the average loss payment per insured vehicle year for model years 2005-2007. NHTSA has not verified the data in this table.

The table presents vehicles’ collision loss experience in relative terms, with 100 representing the average for all passenger vehicles. Thus, a rating of 122 reflects a collision loss experience that is 22 percent higher (worse) than average while a rating of 96 reflects a collision loss experience that is 4 percent lower (better) than average. The table is not relevant for models that have been substantially redesigned for 2008, and it does not include information about models with insufficient claim experience.

Although many insurance companies use the HLDI information to adjust the “base rate” for the collision portion of their insurance premiums, the amount of any such adjustment is usually small. It is unlikely that your total premium will vary more than 10 percent depending upon the collision loss experience of a particular vehicle. If you do not purchase collision coverage or your insurance company does not use the HLDI information, your premium will not vary at all in relation to these rankings.

In setting insurance premiums, insurance companies mainly rely on factors that are not directly related to the vehicle itself (except for its value). They mainly consider driver characteristics (such as age, gender, marital status, and driving record), the geographic area in which the vehicle is driven, how many miles are traveled, and how the vehicle is used. However, some companies adjust their premiums for personal injury protection and medical payment coverage if the insured vehicle has features that are likely to improve its crashworthiness, or ability to protect occupants from injury or death, such as air bags. Different insurance companies often charge different premiums for the same driver and vehicle. Therefore, to obtain complete information about insurance premiums, you should contact insurance companies or their agents directly.

Test data relating to vehicle crashworthiness is available from NHTSA’s New Car Assessment Program (NCAP). NCAP test results demonstrate relative frontal, side, and rollover crash protection in new vehicles. Information on vehicles that NHTSA has tested in the NCAP program can be obtained on the information label on vehicles at new car dealers, by calling the agency’s toll-free Auto Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236, and through the NHTSA Web page at: http://www.safercar.gov/

Insurance Cost Charts:

Insurance Costs - Mini Cars

Insurance Costs - Small Cars

Insurance Costs - Midsize Cars

Insurance Costs - Large Cars

Insurance Costs - Very Large Cars

Insurance Costs - Pickups

Insurance Costs - Sport Utility Vehicles

Insurance Costs - Luxury Sport Utility Vehicles

Insurance Costs - Cargo/Passenger Vans

Treatment Programs - The Alert Program - Coachella Valley

Monday, April 14th, 2008

The Alert Program - Coachella Valley

DUI Education Programs - Serving the Coachella Valley

PROGRAMS OFFERED:

Wet Reckless/12-hr Education:
Consists of: Enrollment + (6) six weeks of 2-hr wkly sessions

First Offender DUI/4-month Program:
Consists of: Enrollment + (15) fifteen weeks of 2-hr wkly sessions

First Offender DUI/6-month Program:
Consists of: Enrollment + 35 weeks of 2-hr wkly sessions

First Offender DUI/9-month Program:
Consists of: (9) nine months includes enrollment, monthly individual sessions, and 2-hr wkly sessions

CONTACT INFO:

The Alert Program - Coachella Valley

730 Eugene Road, Palm Springs, CA 92264
Phone: 760.322.7725
Fax: 760.322.6463
Email
Director: Ms. Jacque Stewart

DUI Insurance is available directly from Serenity Insurance Group’s quick quote DUI Quotes form on their website, from serenity’s fast and friendly agents by live chat with an agent online, by a one click request for an agent to call you or by calling them directly at 1-800-774-0520.

Alcohol Drug Council - High Gain Project

Monday, April 7th, 2008

Alcohol Drug Council - High Gain Project

The Alcohol Drug Council & the High Gain Project has been providing treatment services to alcoholics, addicts, family members, and to our community since 1974. The Council is one of the oldest non-profit , independent agencies in the county dealing with prevention of addiction and associated negative behaviors. Designed as a multiple-functional, community based treatment center allowing for a variety of services. The Alcohol Drug Council-High Gain Project, is partially funded by Los Angeles County Alcohol & Drug Program Administration, offers a multitude of services, including our Community Based Alcohol Drug Outreach Project, “JumpStarts”.

PROGRAMS OFFERED:

ADOPTS-ALCOHOL/DRUG OUTPATIENT PROGRAM TREATMENT SERVICES

ADOPTS is a drug-free outpatient treatment program. Our ADOPTS Program focus is to treat the symptoms of the progressive aspects of addictive diseases. ADOPTS is designed by utilization of Alcohol/Drug Education, Group Counseling, Cognitive, Behavioral, and Motivational Counseling techniques to assist our client to fully recovery from the disease of addiction. Participation is voluntary and family participation is encouraged. ADOPTS provides:

Individualized Attention & Treatment Planning Include:

Family History
Emotional/Behavioral Evaluation
Individualized treatment planning focuses on chemical abstinence, physical and emotional health, family relationships, social and peer group, work and financial.

Education Focuses on Five Key Areas:

Disease Concept
Psychological/Emotional Aspects
Family Disease and Co-dependency
AA and other 12 Step Programs
Social/Recreational Rehabilitation

Group Dynamics/Workshops:

Behavior Change
Express Feelings
Building a Support Network
Continuing Recovery Discussions
After Care Support

DRINKING DRIVER TREATMENT PROGRAM

PROGRAM GOALS:

One of ten adult Californians and one out of six adolescents is psychologically dependent on, or physically addicted to, one or more mood altering substances. Driving an automobile under-the-influence is probably the single most salient indicator of the magnitude of this problem. Drinking (and using) drivers endanger themselves and others in ways that are visible to all and catastrophic in their consequences. It is clear that any agency or program dealing with DUI client population has a dual agenda with regard to client outcomes. Firstly, all clients, whatever their prognosis as to alcohol/drug dependency, must become both cognitively and emotionally aware that responsible use of alcohol and other drugs absolutely rules out driving a car while under the influence. They must leave the program convinced that there are no exceptions to this rule, no special circumstances, and no safe level of intoxication. Secondly, all clients are guided through an examination of their own reasons for using alcohol and other drugs. Insofar as is humanly possible, clients should arrive at an informed decision about their own actual or possible dependency on psychoactive chemicals, especially alcohol. This direct method works as a sound clinical procedure and is validated by the ADC High Gain Project experience since 1974. And, we believe, allows clients to assume responsibility.

DUI TREATMENT PROGRAMS AVAILABLE

Wreckless - 12 hours Alcohol Drug Education
First Offender - 3-6-9 month
Second Offender - 12 or 18 month
Multiple Offender - 30 month
Customized treatment program available
(Out state DWI/DUI provider)

WORKSHOPS OFFERED:

Our weekly 1.5 hour workshops are offered to help participants identify, understand and conquer the obstacles of recovery. Workshops are designed to teach skills for sobriety through education, self-discovery and utilization of problem solving tools. Participation is voluntary and confidential.

“Life Skills & Recovery Workshop”
Our recovery discussion focus:
Relapse Prevention
Nature of Addictive Diseases
Co-Dependency
Application of 12 Step Process
Communication Skills
Continuing Recovery Plans

“Anger Management Workshop”
This workshop was developed from a current Domestic Violence prevention program. Our program has been enhanced by incorporating a chemical dependency recovery emphasis as we have discovered that the two are many times closely related. The program emphasizes Time Outs, Communication Skills, Stress Reduction, Appropriate Reaction, Cultural and Family Anger/Violence History, High Risk Anger Situations and Development of Alternative Behavioral Responses.

CONTACT INFO:

Alcohol Drug Council - High Gain Project

1424 4th St. Suite 205
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Phone (310) 451-5881
Fax 310-576-0945
Office Hours Monday - Thursday 9am - 7pm
Friday 9am - 5pm

Cheap Car Insurance for recovering DUI drivers is available directly from Serenity Insurance Group’s quick and easy Car Insurance Quote form, from Serenity’s fast and friendly agents by live chat with an agent online, by a one click request for an agent to call you or by calling them directly at 1-800-774-0520.

Treatment Centers - Academy of Defensive Driving

Monday, April 7th, 2008

Academy of Defensive Driving

The Academy of Defensive Driving has been providing state of the art education and counseling services to drinking drivers in Orange County, California since 1974.

SERVICES OFFERED - DRUG AND COUNSELING:

Drug Testing and Monitoring

On Site Urinalysis Immediate results for those requiring answers without waiting for lab analysis.

SERVICES OFFERED - DRINKING DRIVING PROGRAMS:

AODD offers First and Multiple Offender Programs.
Services are available for out of state offenders also.

Clients wishing to enroll in a program prior to court sentencing may enroll directly.
Services are also provided to those needing to satisfy DMV requirements.

Multiple Offender Program

This is an 18-month program for multiple offenders.
The program uses group and individual counseling, Education Sessions, and attendance at
community based self-help meetings.

First Offender Program

This is a three-month program designed for first time DUI offenders.
A combination of Education and group counseling are utilized.

AB541 Level II Programs

These programs are six or nine months in duration and are designed for first offenders needing a
more intensive experience. Alcohol Education, Group Counseling, Individual Counseling, and
attendance at self-help meetings are the major components of the programs.

Volunteer, DMV and Out of State Programs

Many individuals need to complete a licensed program in order to obtain a valid driver’s license.

SERVICES OFFERED - SUBSTANCE ABUSE PROGRAMS:

PC10 and PC1000 Programs

AODD is a certified provider of services for clients requiring a PC10 or PC1000 Program.
Components include Education, Group Counseling, & self help attendance.
Additional program requirements are determined as part of the treatment planning session.
The primary focus is the development of a drug free lifestyle.

Substance Abuse and Education Programs

Court and County Certified 10 hr. programs for early intervention and education.

PC1210 / PROP 36

AODD is a contract provider outpatient clinic for Orange County HealthCare
Agency (HCA).
HCA assesses and refers male and female adult drug offenders,
who have been court ordered to attend PC1210/Prop 36 outpatient drug
treatment.
AODD Prop36 treatment protocol includes individual & group
counseling sessions; random drug testing; drug education; treatment plan
development; aftercare follow-up and relapse prevention planning.

SERVICES OFFERED - TRAFFIC VIOLATOR SCHOOL:

Academy of Defensive Driving’s California 8 Hour Traffic School

AODD’s Level 1 Traffic School contains the most current information on defensive driving and implications of alcohol, drugs or the combination of both. Our program satisfies the 8-hour traffic school requirement for the driver cited for minor traffic violations.

AODD is a DMV-licensed traffic violator school (TVS License #1648)

CONTACT INFO:

Academy of Defensive Driving

San Juan Capistrano Office
31726 Rancho Viejo Rd. Suite 120
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
(949) 240-0115 Phone
(949) 443-5018 Fax

Newport Beach Office
2000 Quail, Suite 120
Newport Beach, CA 92660
(949) 752-0710 Phone
(949) 752-0705 Fax

Car Insurance for DUI drivers and high risk drivers.

Photo ID Technology identifies the user of the Ignition Interlock Device

Wednesday, January 23rd, 2008

Ignition Interlock Device Smart Technology identifies the user.

Smart Start, Inc. as one of the leading manufacturers in the Ignition Interlock industry, exclusively dedicated to the installation, servicing and manufacturing of ignition interlock, on January 19, 2006 announced that they have the exclusive rights to a patent which ties photographs to an ignition interlock device. Smart Start, Inc. began development of the actual product in June of 2005 and will be releasing the photo ID module alongside its NEW, SSI 20/20 Interlock device, in the spring of 2006. (US Patent # 6,956,484 B2)

The photo ID unit is a small, approximately 1 cubic inch box which mounts to the inside of the driver’s side windshield, about half way up from the dash. The device is electronically connected to our SSI 20/20 interlock device and captures the picture of the breath test subject at the time that the subject is taking the test. The unit will store the picture electronically and it will be date and time stamped in combination with the interlock units’ logger. The particular camera chosen works well in very dark situations as well as bright sunlight in convertibles.

By using the photo id module, Smart Start will be able to positively identify the user of the device and minimize tampering now that a picture is being recorded.

The device will have several tamper detection features to prevent the user from covering the camera with tape or disconnecting it. When tampering is detected, the unit will send a message to the interlock aborting the test thus preventing the user from starting the vehicle.

According to the MADD/Nationwide Insurance Survey conducted by Gallup, Nine out of 10 Americans (94 percent) believe that drinking under the influence of alcohol is a major highway safety problem. Additionally, 60 percent of those surveyed who said they drink alcoholic beverages on occasion said they have operated a vehicle under the influence of alcohol, or close to being under the influence of alcohol, at some point in their lives. Of the top 10 factors to discourage drunk driving, 81 % thought ignition interlock would help in discouraging drunk driving. Of the top 10 methods to reduce drunk driving 91% thought requiring repeat offenders and high BAC offenders to install an ignition interlock in their car was a valid deterrent.

“Drunk Driving is preventable; we have a commitment to assist in the prevention of the needless incidences of drunk driving. Ignition interlocks have been shown to be effective with results ranging from 50 to 90 percent reductions in subsequent drunk driving offenses while the interlock is on the car”, said Lamar Ball, CEO of Smart Start. “Photo ID is a major step forward for ignition interlock technology. It will answer the question of “how do I know that the test results belong to a particular user?” Smart Start is committed to making our roadways safe and developing life saving technology to prevent drunk driving,” added Ball.

Smart Start®, founded in 1992, is a leading manufacturer of Ignition Interlock devices, exclusively dedicated to the installation, servicing and manufacturing. Smart Start has locations throughout the U.S.; they are headquartered in Irving, Texas.

CADDTP - California Association of Drinking Driver Treatment Programs

Sunday, December 16th, 2007

CADDTP - California Association of Drinking Driver Treatment Programs

The California Association of Drinking Driver Treatment Programs, also commonly referred to as “CADDTP”, is a non-profit, mutual benefit organization, which was originally formed as an association in 1986 and then incorporated in 1988.  CADDTP is self-supported through membership dues, association activities, and contributions. CADDTP’s policies are established by a volunteer board of directors, which is elected from among those individuals who are the designated representatives of organizational members.

There are several categories of active membership in CADDTP:

(1) organizational membership is limited to state-licensed driving-under-the-influence, or “DUI”, programs;
(2) individual membership is open to most individuals; and
(3) associate membership is designated for those other organizations who wish to participate in and support the Association.
CADDTP is a pro-active organization which seeks to promote understanding of, improve, and sometimes preserve, the role of the state-licensed driving-under-the-influence (education and counseling) programs in California’s approach to alcohol and other drug impaired driving. CADDTP also seeks to evaluate and enhance the services offered by its members and others in providing DUI programs throughout the state.
CADDTP’s organizational membership currently includes a majority of the several hundred DUI programs licensed by the California Department of Alcohol and Drug Programs. Almost 200 persons, most of who are employed in DUI programs as counselors, instructors, and/or administrators, comprise CADDTP’s individual membership.
CADDTP holds semi-annual educational forums, open to both members and non-members. These forums include issues that address both the internal and external concerns of DUI program operators and staff members.

CADDTP places heavy emphasis on regular communications with its membership about the Association’s activities and developments in the DUI field. Such communication is primarily accomplished through periodic newsletters, regular reports on legislation, other “special” reports, and bulletins. Meetings of the CADDTP’s board of directors and members are held at least twice a year preceding the educational forums.
There is a growing body of evidence that California’s system of license sanctions AND DUI education/counseling programs are the most effective ways to reduce subsequent DUI incidents among those who have been convicted of DUI. (Source: California Department of Motor Vehicles’ 1995 through 2005 Annual Reports of the California DUI Management Information System) California’s DUI program network is arguably the most inclusive, structured, and complex one in the United States: (1) all the programs in that network must be licensed by the state and monitored by their respective counties, (2) they must conform to statewide education, counseling, and other requirements, and (3) with minor and controlled exceptions for rural areas, all of the programs in the network must be self-supporting through fees paid by participants. Yet, by law no one who is unable to pay can be denied services.

For two decades, the California DUI program network has been providing services to well over 120 thousand impaired drivers per year at no cost to taxpayers. Even though the total number of DUI-related fatalities has risen slightly in the past several years, they are still markedly lower that they were before California’s DUI program system was established.  DUI-related arrests have also dramatically lowered during this time, and recidivism continues to decline.   CADDTP believes that future studies and evaluations will show that the DUI programs are not only an important component in preventing recidivism, but that they are also a wide-reaching and effective means of moving alcohol and other drug dependent individuals toward long-term recovery. CADDTP will continue to work to improve and promote understanding of those programs.
contact Information:

Executive Director Mike Wood JD

CADDTP
1731 Howe Ave., PMB #352
Sacramento, CA
95825

Phone: (800) 464-3597
Fax: (800) 585-5411

Website: California Association of Drinking Driver Treatment Programs

Driving Advice - Help for Alzheimer’s Caregivers

Thursday, December 6th, 2007

Help for Alzheimer’s Caregivers - Driving Advice

Audio File:  Help for Alzheimer’s Caregivers

People suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or other causes of dementia are driving an average of ten months longer than their caregivers think is safe. Brian Osuch has more with help for caregivers.

Newsbreak, I’m Brian Osuch. New research by The Hartford Financial Service Group in conjunction with the MIT Age Lab and Boston University helped to develop “At the Crossroads,” a new booklet designed to help Alzheimer caregivers make the difficult decision on when their loved one should stop driving. Jodi Olshevski is a corporate gerontologist with The Hartford.

Quick Auto Insurance quotes for elder drivers.

(Olshevski) The booklet includes all kinds of helpful information in terms of the issues of dementia and driving, warning signs for them to look for. We also have a conversation planner, how can the caregiver have a good conversation about not driving.  Lisa D’Ambrosio, a research scientist at MIT, says the goal is to help caregivers gradually move the person from driver to passenger.

(D’Ambrosio) What we encourage caregivers to do, is actually get in the car and observe driving of their loved one to keep track of these warning signs and look for patterns or changes in patterns that signal the driving has become a problem. To order or download your free copy, visit Thehartford.com/alzheimers. That’s Newsbreak from The Hartford, I’m Brian Osuch.


Cheap Car Insurance 1-800-546-5470 -- SR22 Insurance 1-800-774-0520