First Drive: 2016 BMW X5 xDrive40e Hybrid

When it comes to award-winning security hardware, it’s pretty tough to beat BOLT Locks. This is especially true when it comes to towing and trailer security. This is precisely why the Milwaukee-based brand is rolling out an entire incentive for Father’s Day this year. It may sound silly to some, but handing Dad a set of really sturdy locks for the trailer hauling end of his truck or SUV makes for a really thoughtful gift, and for good reason. Trailers are crazy expensive, and typically so too are what they carry. So you know that your old man is going to appreciate your thoughtfulness when you give him the gift of security this year. BOLT Locks’ patented “Breakthrough One-Key Lock Technology” provides a convenient security option for protecting trailers, hitches, boats, generators, kayaks, and more, all while reducing key clutter on a keychain. For the specially crafted tumblers to memorize a vehicle’s ignition key the first time it is inserted into the lock, all it takes is one complete turn of the key to moving the tumblers into position to fit that specific key. This results in a uniquely programmed lock that can be used with a single key that matches any other security device from BOLT Locks. So in essence, say goodbye to the days of having to use different keys for each lock. “BOLT Locks make a useful Father’s Day gift for anyone that values security and convenience. Whether they are an avid boater or off-roader, enjoy hunting or fishing, motorsports or use their vehicles to secure their work tools, BOLT Locks are a high-quality gift they will appreciate each and every day. With their one key, the ignition key, they can secure many different items.” —Jason Buckles, Sales Account Manager for BOLT Locks   Locks for every occasion Currently, out of all of the products manufactured by BOLT Locks, it is its line of vehicle hitch Receiver Locks that really have dads going wild. Available in both a ½-inch receiver lock for Class 1 and 2 hitches and a 5/8-inch locking receiver configuration for Class 3, 4, and 5 hitches, these products lock the ball mount receiver onto the hitch of the vehicle. so say goodbye to stolen trailers! Furthermore, those on your gift list who tow will benefit greatly from BOLT Lock’s Coupler Pin Lock and Trailer Coupler Lock. When combined, these two provide the same single-key locking convenience for the trailer itself, with the BOLT Coupler Pin Lock fitting couplers from ½-inch to 3 3/8-inches in 1/8-inch increments for a super snug fit. This eliminates any risk of lever movement, making locking a trailer ball that’s been hitched to a vehicle a cinch, as well as making the coupler unusable when off of the vehicle. For additional unhitched trailer security measures, the Trailer Coupler Lock turns unattended trailers, this bold red BOLT device serves as a visible theft deterrent when placed on a trailer’s coupler and locked into place. That’s how widely known its security measures this brand has become. Security beyond towing Naturally, towing often involves tying down gear as well as securing miscellaneous objects. So giving Dad a set of cable locks and padlocks with the same single-key convenience and security as his trailer locking devices is never a bad idea when it comes to Father’s Day gifting. The cable lock from BOLT is particularly impressive, as it can secure things like kayaks to a roof rack or trailer, bicycles and motorcycles to a hauler, generators, spare tires, and a myriad of other items that demand protection during transport and/or storage. This multipurpose cable lock features a six-foot-long ¼-inch black vinyl-coated coiled cable for both appearances, protection, and industry-leading longevity. And then there is BOLT Locks’ padlock, which Dad will find can also be used in multiple ways. Some of these include: Locking a cargo trailer door, securing a storage shed, locking a toolbox, or even securing a tackle box and rods. No matter what your father’s security needs might be, BOLT has a locking system that has him covered, all easily opened with something like his truck’s ignition key.

If you have been in a collision with a truck, you likely know how powerful such a crash can be. The sheer size and weight of these commercial vehicles mean that the resulting injuries and losses are sure to be much more extensive and severe than getting side-swiped by a subcompact. However, as you are dealing with your injuries and trying to get compensated for your losses, you may have found that getting compensation after a truck crash is neither easy nor straightforward. That is why you should waste no time in reaching out to a skilled truck accident attorney who can not only help you calculate how much your case is worth but also help you build the strongest case for your defense. To achieve this, a thorough truck investigation may be required, and today we’ll explain precisely what they are and how they work. What makes truck investigations so unique and complicated? Truck collision investigations can be complex and time-sensitive. This is typical because they may involve multiple parties, such as the truck driver, the trucking company, the cargo owner, the insurance company, local law enforcement agencies, and various lawyers. Also, each party may have its own interests and agendas pertaining to the investigation. Collecting all of the information required to proceed with legal action from the various parties can also take time. You may find that it takes months for the investigation to be completed, depending on the severity of the crash and other factors, such as how promptly the trucking company shares its policies and protocols or how hard it is to obtain evidence from the scene. That is why it is so important to have a qualified and experienced lawyer on your side if you are involved in a truck collision. Why are truck investigations needed? Truck crash investigations are necessary in order to determine the cause and liability of a truck collision. They involve gathering and analyzing different types of evidence, which may include information collected at the scene, such as photos, videos, debris, and skid marks made by the vehicles. Furthermore, they expose the truck driver’s records, analyzing their logbooks, driving history, personnel files, and drug or alcohol tests. The truck’s data recorder, or black box, which records speed, braking, steering, and other data, would also be part of the investigation. The investigation would also include a review of the truck’s condition and maintenance history, which may reveal mechanical defects or failures. Finally, the investigators would also gather witness statements and statements from other drivers, first responders, and bystanders. When needed, they would also call for expert opinions from crash reconstructionists, medical providers, forensic toxicologists, and others. How would an auto collision attorney help me after an incident with a truck? An auto collision attorney is a very valuable tool to have by your side after you have been in a crash. This is because these incidents tend to cause much more catastrophic injuries and damages, calling for more extensive medical treatment and involving higher compensation. Your lawyer will know how to gather evidence from the parties involved, which could be not only the truck driver but also the company that employs them. It could also be whoever is responsible for maintaining the truck or loading it, the manufacturer of the truck or its parts, and other parties that may share the responsibility for the collision. Also, trucking insurance generally involves multiple policies or high coverage limits. If you attempt to carry out these negotiations on your own, you may quickly discover that the insurance companies will try to minimize your claim or shift the blame to others, thus making it an exercise in frustration for you when your health is not in its optimal condition. Your lawyer will not only build a strong case for your defense, but they will also establish a smart legal strategy, prepare all needed legal documents, as well as negotiate with the insurance companies. If a settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer will be ready to defend you in court, contact expert witnesses to strengthen your case and fight to get you the highest compensation. A skilled lawyer knows that when extensive or even permanent injuries are the result of a crash, they may impact your quality of life for a long time or even for life. This means you will not only need compensation for all your medical treatments but also for the pain and suffering, emotional distress, PTSD, or any number of other intangible consequences of the crash. So if you are struggling to recover your health, let your attorney take care of the legal aspects of your case.

America’s roads are more congested than ever. And despite the advent of autonomous automotive safety features, collisions continue to surge every season. Though unfortunate, witnessing a car crash is pretty much a given occurrence any day of the week. According to various statistics, there are over 6 million car collisions in the United States each year, with over 3 million people sustaining injuries in these cases. Knowing what to do immediately after a crash occurs can make a massive difference in the situation’s outcome, with an auto accident attorney answering questions like: “What if I think it was my fault?” In this blog post, we will see some of the key steps you should consider taking if you happen to be involved in a car crash or automotive incident. 1. Ensure the safety of everyone involved The first thing you should do after a collision, is make sure that everyone involved is safe. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately. You should also move your vehicle to a secure location, if you can, to avoid further collisions from occurring. 2. Exchange information with the other driver If you are in a crash with another vehicle, ask the other driver for their name, contact information, license number, insurance information, and vehicle registration number. Also, get the name and telephone number of their insurance company. If there are any witnesses, get their names and phone numbers. 3. Document the scene of the crash Use your phone to take pictures of the scene where the incident occurred, damage to your vehicle, and any injuries sustained. If you don’t have a camera, jot down notes about the crash, including details such as the date, time, location, weather conditions, and any other relevant information. 4. Contact law enforcement If anyone has been injured, or if there is significant damage to the vehicles involved, you should call the police immediately. They will prepare an accident report, which will be essential when you file your insurance claim. You should also contact an attorney that specializes in automotive collisions. 5. Contact your insurance company Call your insurance company as soon as possible to report the crash. They will ask you to provide details about the collision and may also ask for the accident report prepared by the police. Your insurance company will also advise you on the next steps, including arranging for your vehicle to be towed and getting a rental car if necessary. 6. Seek medical treatment Even if you don’t feel physical pain right away, it is advised that you seek medical treatment as soon as possible after a car crash. You may have sustained injuries that have not yet become apparent, and if left untreated, these could worsen over time or lead to chronic conditions. 7. Contact a personal injury lawyer If you have been injured in an auto collision, speaking with a qualified personal injury lawyer or an auto accident attorney is crucial. An experienced lawyer can help you understand your rights, advise you on the best course of action, and assist you in filing a compensation claim. 8. Remain calm and organized It is crucial to keep all the documents related to your auto accident organized and in one place. This includes all medical bills, police reports, insurance information, photographs of the scene, and any correspondences with your lawyer and/or insurance company. 9. Take care of yourself Dealing with an auto accident can be stressful and overwhelming, so it is essential to take care of yourself. Make sure you get plenty of rest, and if necessary, talk to a professional counselor or therapist who can help you cope with the situation. 10. Stay updated It is essential to stay updated and informed about your case as it progresses. Follow up with your insurance company or lawyer regularly, and if you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to ask. 11. Keep a crash journal Writing down your thoughts, feelings, and experiences after an auto incident can be quite therapeutic. Keeping a journal can also help you to remember details of the crash that may otherwise be forgotten. Conclusion If you are involved in a car collision, staying calm and following the above steps is essential. Remember, your priority is ensuring everyone involved in the accident is safe. After that, focus on collecting all of the necessary information, documenting the scene, and reporting the incident. It is also helpful to contact your insurance agent as soon as possible, as they will help guide your next steps. That said, with some preparation, anyone can turn a stressful incident such as a car crash into a smooth process.

Semi-truck drivers tend to have long shifts and often pull off the road to rest before continuing their journey. This typically translates to them parking on the side of the street or on the shoulder of highways. Although parked trucks may seem harmless, they actually pose serious risks to other drivers. In this blog, we will explore the potential dangers of parked trucks and how they can cause a crash. Why, you might ask? Because it is important to understand these risks to prevent unfortunate truck-related incidents from occurring, and here’s how… Limited visibility Parked trucks can inadvertently cause collisions due to the limited visibility they create for other drivers. When truck drivers park alongside roads, they can block the line of sight of other drivers attempting to enter or exit the roadway. In general, limited visibility increases the likelihood of car crashes, especially when the parked trucks are situated close to intersections or curves in the road. Drivers might not anticipate the unpredictable maneuvers of other drivers on the road due to the limited visibility caused by the parked truck, resulting in serious car crashes. Sudden movement Another potential danger that parked trucks poses is the sudden movements made when they begin merging with traffic. It is common knowledge that semi-trucks are significantly heavier than passenger vehicles; therefore, they require more time and space to accelerate or decelerate. If a parked truck unexpectedly starts moving without proper indication, it can catch other drivers off guard leading to traffic collisions. On the other hand, if the truck is parked on an incline without the parking brake properly applied, it may unintentionally roll into oncoming traffic resulting in a catastrophic scenario. Lack of warning devices According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMSCA), truck drivers must utilize warning devices such as hazard lights, cones, or reflective signs to alert other drivers of the parked truck. Semi-truck drivers often neglect to use these warning devices or place them incorrectly. Passenger drivers may not be aware of the parked truck until it is too late to react, causing serious collisions, injuries, and property damage. Distracted driving The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), defines distracted driving as any activity that diverts the driver’s attention away from driving. Eating while driving, texting, talking on the phone, and even having an animated conversation with other passengers in the car all count. According to the New Mexico 18-wheeler attorneys at The Fine Law Firm, distracted driving is a leading cause of car crashes and parked trucks continue to contribute to the problem. When drivers pass a parked truck, their attention might shift from driving to the truck. This distraction can lead drivers to fail to notice changes in traffic, potentially causing a collision. They urge drivers to keep their focus on the road to avoid distractions such as parked trucks. All things considered, parked trucks can be a massive hidden hazard on the roads, and their potential to cause car collisions is well documented. Both truck operators and other drivers should take proactive measures to prevent these kinds of collisions from occurring. So make sure that your attention is always on the road, not on other objects on the side of the road, and drive cautiously when passing parked trucks.

Fleet tracking is a rapidly growing industry, thanks in part to advancements in telematics making it easier for GPS fleet operators to monitor various fleets around the world. Incorporating global positioning system (GPS) technology in your fleet management arsenal is a low-cost way to boost the efficiency of your company and fleet operations. GPS tracking systems enable fleet owners to track all their commercial vehicles in real time and manage fleet operations, resulting in optimal resource use and enhanced customer satisfaction. There are dozens of tracking device alternatives on the market today. But, with so many possibilities, how can you pick the best GPS monitoring device for your fleet management needs? Price, quality, and features will vary greatly depending on the manufacturer’s brand and gadget type. After all, utilizing a GPS monitoring gadget that isn’t the best fit for your needs might be more of a problem than a benefit. So read on to learn more about GPS tracking devices and how to choose the right one for trucks. What is GPS truck tracking, and why use it? GPS truck tracking is a cutting-edge device that is put in trucks and feeds real-time data to a fleet management system while also displaying driver assistance information in the cab. Direct advantages of GPS truck tracking include: Fuel savings Higher productivity Increased driver safety Compliance management like Hours of Service (HOS) and DVIR Types of GPS tracking devices Battery-powered GPS tracking devices – A battery-powered GPS tracking device can be appropriate if you require a portable GPS tracking device that gives regular updates for short-term tracking. Battery-powered devices can be powered by rechargeable batteries or a few alkaline batteries. These devices may often be programmed to offer more or less frequent location updates to preserve battery life, with settings that can be tailored to your needs. Hard-wired GPS fleet tracking devices- If you need to follow a vehicle or asset for a lengthy period, a hard-wired fleet tracking device may be the best option. A hard-wired fleet tracker draws power from your vehicle’s electrical system, eliminating the need for a battery. This assures that the gadget will not lose power until your car or asset does, which is an entirely separate issue. Hybrid GPS fleet tracking devices- Some asset-powered GPS fleet monitoring systems provide a hybrid paradigm that combines the best of both worlds. This GPS fleet tracking gadget is useful for assets that are always in motion. If you need to track the whereabouts of cargo trailers or flatbeds that have been removed from a vehicle for several days, weeks, or months, a hybrid GPS tracking system may be the best alternative. How to choose the right GPS tracking device for trucks? Choosing the right GPS tracking device for trucks is essential in a fleet business. Listed below are a few factors to keep in mind when choosing GPS tracking devices for your trucks: 1. Should provide real-time tracking The system should have live tracking and real-time capabilities that allow you to pinpoint the precise location of any vehicle in your fleet. Knowing the current vehicle position aids in calculating the Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA) of each vehicle at the destination, providing emergency response in the event of a collision or vehicle breakdown, and preventing thefts and illegal car usage. 2.Should be compatible When purchasing a GPS device, one of the first things to look for is compatibility with your truck model. This is critical because it guarantees that the device can gather all of the information that it provides, that you can use all of the features with ease, and that it has no negative influence on the performance of your truck. Since most vehicles have a common OBD-II connector, any high-quality OBD-based tracking device should be compatible with your truck. However, it is essential to double-check compatibility with your truck’s exact make and model before purchasing. 3. Should provide fleet maintenance To stay up-to-date on vehicle maintenance and avoid failures and unscheduled downtimes, the tracking software should give an automatic vehicle maintenance schedule similar. Real-time diagnostic notifications allow you to take remedial action before an identified problem worsens and necessitates costly repairs. Example – Matrack fleet tracking providers real time vehicle maintenance updates to the fleet owners. 4. Should provide a phenomenal user experience The GPS tracker comes with an app that will give you access to all of the data that the gadget collects. There are live maps, location alerts, and other accessible tools. An easy-to-use interface should be an ideal feature of the tracker. You should be able to discover the information you’re looking for with minimum effort or confusion. If you buy your tracking device from a store, ask the salesperson to demonstrate how the program works. Before purchasing an item online always ensure to check the reviews to get an idea of what to expect. 5. Should be stable The GPS tracking devices should constantly be connected and collect data. A GPS tracking device that does not collect data is not useful. To impress your customers, you must integrate your GPS devices with the appropriate fleet software that can always provide real-time tracking without any interruption. 6. Date update frequency should be shorter The data refresh rate is the frequency with which your app updates its data points. The lower the time lag, the better it is. This means that the tracker is continually reloading data points, giving you real-time information. You will receive information as soon as it occurs and will be able to respond accordingly with the right GPS tracker that has a data refresh rate of a few seconds. 7. Should fulfill ELD needs Some businesses, such as those hauling hazardous chemicals, have stricter Electronic Logging Device (ELD) standards for their fleets. To protect their safety, they must choose a tracking system that is coupled with an electronic logging device and has advanced functions. 8. Should have offline connectivity To avoid losing any travel data, you would need a device […]