5 Tips to Minimize Driver Distraction

September 24, 2021 · 3 min read

Close up photo of two people, one is driving and one is holding their phone displaying that it is connected to Apple Car Play in their Chevrolet Trailblazer.

Almost everyone is guilty of distracted driving at some point, and some drivers do it more often than others. While some distractions are impossible to prevent, you can manage them and minimize them. Other distractions are completely preventable. Driving always requires the full and complete attention of the person behind the wheel, and it's up to the driver to take charge of their vehicle and eliminate distractions. Here are some tips for minimizing driver distraction.

1. Stow Your Phone Out of Sight

One of the biggest distractions is phones, and the best way to avoid this is by turning them off and storing them away, out of sight and out of reach. You can put it on "do not disturb" mode to help you avoid the temptation of picking it up when you are at a red light or stuck in traffic, and even leave a message, so your friends and family know you are behind the wheel. It is also important to note that many states have laws about cellphone use when behind the wheel, and you can get a ticket if you have your phone in your hands, even when you're at a red light.

2. Prepare Before You Hit The Road

Take care of things such as your music playlist and get your navigation system set with directions if needed before you pull out of the driveway. Searching the navigation system for your destination after you are on the road is dangerous and can result in an accident.

3. Set Rules For Your Passengers

Passengers can be very distracting, so it's important to make sure they know the rules in your vehicle. If you have children in the vehicle, get them set with their snacks, drinks, and entertainment before you leave, so you're not trying to hand them anything while you drive. If they ask for something while you are on the road, ask them to wait until you can stop somewhere.

4. Keep The Car Organized

If you keep your car organized, you'll always know where everything is, and you won't have to take your eyes off the road if you need something. Keep some change or bills in the center console, so you are prepared for tolls, and keep your sunglasses in the same spot all the time, so you know where they are when you need them.

5. Avoid Eating When Driving

Almost everyone has a snack when they are behind the wheel, but this can be a big distraction. Make time to finish your breakfast before you leave for work, or when grabbing dinner on the go, park the car and eat before you head back out on the road. It might seem like you'll save time if you eat while you drive, but spills are a major distraction. These tips for avoiding distractions while driving can help keep you and others safer on the road. It takes a little more planning before you get behind the wheel, but it is worth it if you can avoid an accident. Our number one priority at Randy Wise Chevrolet in Flint, MI is your safety and we hope you remember these tips next time you're out on the road in your Chevrolet Trailblazer. Browse our available inventory if you are in the market for a new or used vehicle! Image via chevrolet.com.

Posted in:

Guy in blue working under the hood of the car.

Feb 07, 2022 in Randy Wise Chevrolet in Flint

Does Your Chevy Need an Alternator Repair?

Your battery provides the power to start your engine, but your battery depends on your alternator's recharging ability to keep it fully charged. The alternator also generates electricity for all your car's electrical components. Alternators have a relatively long life of approximately 8 years, but if it fails it will lead to your battery losing power and dying. When you're in Flint, M I and need an alternator repair, you're in good hands as your friendly Chevy dealer will help. Do You Need an Alternator Repair in Flint, MI? See Your Chevy Dealer Today Electrical Malfunctions Your alternator supplies all the power for your car's electrical systems from the time your engine starts till you park your car. A new alternator is designed to provide all the power your car's components require, but as it starts to age it becomes less effective at generating this power. When an alternator becomes unable to supply all the electrical power your car requires, power allocation choices have to be made. One of the first signs of a failing alternator is random electrical malfunctions. Your radio, for example, may suddenly stop working or your sunroof may jam open and refuse to close. These glitches are caused by your alternator trying to allocate its limited power to systems that require it. The devices in your car that demand power, the more frequent these glitches will appear. more Dead Battery A dead battery can just mean that your battery has failed due to age. A battery will usually for 3-5 years and then needs to be replaced as it can no longer hold a charge. If you have a new battery, and it suddenly goes flat the most likely cause is a problem in the electrical system. Your alternator is responsible for keeping your battery fully charged, but if your alternator develops a problem your battery will start to lose its stored electricity very quickly. If your alternator is failing, it won't be able to provide enough electricity to recharge your battery. The weaker your alternator becomes, the lower charge it will deliver to your battery and when the alternator dies it will cease charging that battery altogether. A battery's storage capacity is limited, and it will drain completely if it isn't replenished. Battery Light Is On The battery light on your dash will light up if there is a problem with your electrical charging system. Your alternator produces a voltage of 13 to 14.5 volts, but when it starts to wear out the alternator's voltage output will drop. When the voltage drops, a sensor attached to the alternator will detect the change and the battery light will come on. Our technicians will find the cause of the problem and repair it for you. An alternator problem doesn't necessarily mean your alternator needs to be replaced, we may be able to repair it. Call us right away at Randy Wise Chevrolet and our. expert technicians will fix your car. You'll be on your way again in no time. Image via Pexels.

Dec 27, 2021 in Randy Wise Chevrolet in Flint

5 Key Features of the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe

Have you been searching for a new car but haven't had any luck finding one that is the perfect fit for you? If so, the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe is a great car for you to consider. The 2021 Tahoe has a starting MSRP of $49,600 and is a luxurious SUV with a spacious cabin, good handling, and a presence that is difficult to ignore. The vehicle also includes a variety of notable features that are sure to impress both you and your passengers. 1. Reliable Safety Features The 2021 Tahoe comes with a range of reliable safety features that will help you and your passengers stay safe during your drives. Standard safety features include Automatic Emergency Braking, Following Distance Indicator, and Forward Collision Alert. Available safety features include Adaptive Cruise Control, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, and HD Surround Vision. 2. Strong Performance Capabilities The 2021 Tahoe is ready to take you wherever you need to go with its strong performance capabilities. The vehicle comes with five powertrain choices that have different horsepower and torque. Available powertrain choices include the 5.3L EcoTec V8 that has 355 horsepower, the 6.2L EcoTec V8 that has 420 horsepower, and the Duramax 3.0L Turbo-Diesel that has 277 horsepower. The vehicle also has available advanced suspension. 3. Innovative Technologies This 2021 Chevrolet includes numerous innovative technologies that will make your drives even more convenient. The vehicle has an available 15-inch diagonal color Head-Up display that can project directions, incoming calls, and safety alerts on your windshield so you can keep your eyes on the road. It also offers an available built-in Wi-FI connection as well as AppleCarPlay and Android Auto compatibility so you can listen to all of your favorite music and podcasts. 4. Comfortable and Practical Interior The interior of the vehicle is comfortable and practical while still being stylish. The interior was designed to be roomier and more open than previous models and includes enhancements that allow you to configure the space to your needs. The 2021 Tahoe has an available Power Sliding Center Console that can automatically slide back up to 10 inches, which gives you extra storage in between the front seats. It also has an increased amount of third-row legroom. 5. Variety of Trims The 2021 Tahoe comes in a variety of trims with unique styles and capabilities. Available trims include the High Country, the Premier, the Z71, the RST, the LS, and the LT. The LT is the least expensive trim with a starting MSRP of $49,600 while the High Country is the most expensive trim with a starting MSRP of $69,600. The High Country includes features like a 6.2L EcoTec3 V8 engine with Dynamic Fuel Management and a signature grille and sill plates. With impressive interior, performance, technology, and safety features like these, it is hard not to be impressed by the 2021 Tahoe. Stop by Randy Wise Chevrolet today and have a look at our large selection of new and pre-owned Chevrolet vehicles! We have an honest, knowledgeable, and friendly staff that is happy to work hard and answer any questions that you may have. Our goal is to help you find a vehicle that fits into both your budget and lifestyle. Image via chevrolet.com.

Chevrolet Trax parked in front of a sunny and cloudy sky.

Dec 18, 2021 in Randy Wise Chevrolet in Flint

6 Favorite Features of the 2021 Chevrolet Trax

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax is a compact SUV that offers a comfortable cabin, great cargo space, and a smooth ride. This small SUV performs well on the road and is agile both in and out of traffic. If you are looking for an out-of-the-ordinary drive, here are six features that make the Trax unique. 1. Eye-Catching Exterior Trax comes in two models, the LS and LT, both offering eye-catching style. For 2021 Trax also offers two stunning new editions, the Midnight and Sport, available on the LT. Both the Midnight and Sport Editions offer a sleek exterior design with unique Blackwall tires and black moldings. The new Midnight edition also has black skid plates, and black door handles. Dazzling exterior colors are also new for 2021: Crimson Metallic, Midnight Blue Metallic, Shadow Grey, and Iridescent Pearl Tricoat. Fans love the new premium colors and Trax's contemporary design. more 2. Advanced Tech Features Trax offers advanced technology like remote start as standard on LT and available on LS. LT also has a convenience package that includes keyless open, keyless start, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and driver six-way adjustable seating. 3. Infotainment & Connectivity Trax has a 7-inch touchscreen and Chevy's advanced infotainment system. The available WiFi hotspot and dual USB ports keep you charged and connected as you travel. Trax is also compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto so that you can use your phone apps on the touchscreen display. 4. Spacious Interior & Cargo Space For a compact SUV, Trax offers a surprisingly comfortable interior. The cabin is well-designed with plenty of head and legroom. With eight seating configurations, you can tailor the Trax to precisely what you need. The comfy seating makes this small SUV feel like a bigger car. The cargo area is large enough to hold up to 48.4 cubic feet of cargo. Drivers can fold up the second-row seats flat for more oversized items, and the passenger seat folds down to tote the rest of your gear. 5. Performance & Fuel Economy The 1.4 L Turbo I-4 engine is a six-speed automatic with up to 138 HP. Smooth handling and a nimble, comfortable ride characterize Trax. For better handling in bad weather, you have the option of front-wheel-drive or available all-wheel drive. The EPA estimated mileage on front-wheel-drive models is 26 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. All-Wheel-Drive versions offer 24 mpg city and 29 mpg highway. 6. Safety & Driver Assistance Trax is equipped with a standard rear vision camera. When you reverse the car, the Trax touchscreen display automatically shows the rear of the area behind your vehicle. Trax also offers ten airbags on all models. Safety and driver assistance options include rear cross-traffic alert, rear park assist, and side blind zone alerts. Trax is a fun-to-drive SUV with everything you need for your daily commute or road trip. Check out Randy Wise Chevrolet for this unique SUV. We'll be happy to provide information, answer your questions, and schedule a test drive! Image via chevrolet.com.