Chevy's New App Uses a Personal Approach to Combat Distracted Driving

BAY CITY, Mich. -- Chevrolet adds to personal touch to the initiative to curb distracted driving with their new app called "Call Me Out". The app uses the voices of a driver's loved ones to remind them of the potentially fatal consequences of taking their eyes off the road, and what they stand to lose by doing so.

A recent by Research Now reports that 84% of people agree that driving while handling a phone is dangerous, and yet 90% of drivers admit to doing it. Inspired to take a new approach to curb the issue, Chevy hosted a hackathon during which they challenged teams of young people to propose ways to combat distracted driving, and from that, the framework of Call Me Out was conceived.

The new app combines two very powerful forces: technology and those we love. Users can have their friends and family record a message through the app that will activate when the user tries to use their phone while driving; "calling them out" and making them think twice about the huge risk they're taking to answer a text or post on social media when on the road.

“As the father of two daughters, I am keenly aware of all the perils that my children face out in the world on a daily basis, and that is why it is so important for GM and Chevrolet to offer technologies that help all of us become safer drivers,” says Alan Batey, president of GM North America and head of Global Chevrolet. “With Call Me Out we are extending our commitment beyond the technologies integrated into GM and Chevy vehicles and are making the app available for Android phone users who drive other vehicle makes and models in an effort to help people change their driving behavior and make our roads safer.”

HOW IT WORKS

• Call Me Out uses the voices of the driver's loved ones to encourage them to put their phone down and concentrate on the road.

• Currently, the app is only available to Android phone users who can download it for free in the Google Play store.

• The app utilizes the vehicle's accelerometer and GPS to detect when the driver physically picks up their phone while traveling at speeds of more than 5 MPH, at which point it plays recorded, personalized messages from friends and family that remind them that notifications are not as important as the people who love them.

• The app also adds a little competition to help encourage drivers to stay safe on the road, featuring a scoreboard and rankings, and keeping score of how much the user handles their phone. The less they do, the higher their score and rank on the leaderboard.

“Today’s vehicles offer a range of active safety features like Lane Keep Assist and Forward Automatic Braking that help drivers stay more aware of their surroundings,” says Tricia Morrow, Chevy safety engineer. 

“But we also know the vehicle is only one element. Chevy’s Call Me Out app gives drivers another great tool to reinforce good driving behaviors — and as a mom of a teenage daughter, I personally know how important it is to model good driving behaviors and encourage others to do the same.”

Drivers must be 18 years or older and have a compatible device and data plan to use Call Me Out.

Hank Graff Chevy is located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706 and we are here to help our community grow to become an even better place to call home! For more information on Hank Graff Chevrolet, or for any questions call us at (989) 684-4411 or visit our website: www.GraffBayCity.com.

Follow us: Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google+, YouTube, & Instagram

Spring's Dangerous Driving Conditions

BAY CITY, Mich.– The first official day of spring is behind us even though it still feels a bit like winter. Hopefully more spring-like weather will come our way soon, and as it does, it's important to remember that just because the roads will not be snow and ice covered, the new season presents some hazardous driving situations of its own. Stay safe this season by staying aware of spring's dangerous driving conditions.

Dangerous Spring Driving Conditions–

-Rain, rain, go away. But before it does, it creates slippery roads and possible flooding. Wet pavement and road conditions drastically increase stopping distance and can reduce your vehicle's handling. Plus, as puddles grow, road flooding can hide potholes or cause you to hydroplane.

-Not only does spring bring rain, but occasionally it brings hail as well. Those little ice balls can not only cause damage to your vehicle, but they create dangerous driving conditions as well. So if possible, try to stay home until the storm passes.

-One hazardous spring driving condition that we're already experiencing, are the crazy potholes. This winter was especially rough, and after long months of ice, snow, salt, sand, and snow plows, the roads are falling apart. Keeping your eyes on the road ahead of you, can help you maneuver around the potholes if possible.

- As the weather warms, drivers must keep an eye out for even more distractions on the road. Not only are motorcyclists and bikers excited to hit the road when warm weather arrives, but animals become more active too as hibernation ends and mating season begins. So when making traffic maneuvers, be aware of motorcycles and bikes, and always keep an eye out for excited animals that are especially active during dawn and dusk.

This year especially, we're all excited to get outdoors and enjoy some nicer weather. Just make sure to stay safe on the road by avoiding spring's driving dangers. Hank Graff Chevy is located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706. For more information on Hank Graff Chevrolet, or for any questions call us at (989) 684-4411 or visit our websites: www.GraffBayCity.com.

Follow us: Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google+

Top Chevy Safety Features Make Preventing A Crash A Priority

BAY CITY, Mich. - When you're in your car, we know that you take the necessary means to make sure you reach your destination safely; especially with precious cargo like your friends and family in the car with you. Chevrolet also knows that you can only do so much to prevent an accident, and your car needs to be there for you if something unpredictable happens. Thats why top Chevy safety features make preventing a crash a priority.

Top Chevy safety features make preventing a crash a priority, so check out a few of the features that comes standard with any Chevy vehicle, and see how we are working to keep you safe and secure.

Antilock Brake System (ABS)
ABS is a safety feature that will keep your wheels from locking up when you encounter a slippery surface. While some vehicle's wheels will lock up, causing the car to skid uncontrollably, the ABS on a Chevy car allows your tires to maintain traction with the road. This is especially useful during the harsh Michigan winters, or during the rainy season.

Stabilitrak®
The Stabilitrak® Electronic Stability Control System is another feature that helps you during tricky weather. One of the scariest moments any driver can face is hitting a slippery spot and having your car start to slide in the opposite way that your steering wheel is turning. This can be especially terrifying for someone not used to driving in extreme weather conditions. The Stabilitrak® system keeps this from happening by calculating the position of the steering wheel, the amount of force that is preventing you from going straight, and the speed of the vehicle. By reading all that comes into play, your vehicle will then use the brake and/or adjust engine torque to keep you going straight. So when your mind freezes with panic during the event of a slide, rest assured that your car is 'thinking' straight for you.

Traction Control
Continuing with the slippery surface scenario, the Chevy traction control has you covered again.  If you're driving on slippery surfaces, it is important to keep steady. The traction control safety feature reduces wheel spin when accelerating, allowing your wheels to maintain traction. This keeps you in control of your vehicle, and your mind at ease.

Daytime Running Lamps
Daytime Running Lamps are another important safety feature, as they increase your visibility during daylight driving conditions. These lamps automatically turn on when your vehicle starts, allowing your vehicle to remain visible in all conditions. such as fog and/or rain.  These lamps are particularly useful for Michigan residents, as you never know what the weather will throw at you throughout the course of the day. Chevy's got you covered.

Driver Information Center (DIC)
The Driver Information Center is useful for all drivers, as it lets you know what is going on with your car. The DIC will light up, displaying different messages to let you know that something may be wrong with your car.  These messages range from letting you know how your engine temperature is doing, all the way to alerting you to an open trunk. This center alerts you to all that you need to know about your car, ensuring that a problem never sneaks up on you.

Side Blind Zone Alert
Every driver knows about the blind zone in a car, as well as how difficult it can be to ensure that you switch lanes safely. This Chevy system makes changing lanes extremely simple, with an amber light on your vehicle's outside rearview mirrors.  When the light is on, your car is alerting you that there is a vehicle in your blind spot. When the light is off, you are in the clear. This is just another simple solution that Chevy provides for it's customers, ensuring that their drive is as easy and safe as possible.

Forward Collision Alert
This safety feature is a great asset, especially for those with young drivers, since it encourages positive driving habits. We all have either been, or experienced, the parent that slams the imaginary passenger side brake pedal when the new driver fails to brake at the appropriate distance from another car. The Forward Collision Alert can help with that, as it alerts the driver with visual and audible signals if it detects a potential collision. The alert gives the driver plenty of time to become aware of the situation and maneuver safely.

Lane Departure Warning
Another safety feature to help us practice safe driving habits, the lane departure warning alerts drivers when they stray over the lines along the road.  If you switch lanes without using your blinker, or perhaps stray off to the side of the road, your car will alert you. As it will alert you both visually and audibly, you will not be able to ignore the warning as you safely maneuver back into your lane.

With all these safety features that come standard on any Chevrolet vehicle, you can be sure that your safety is a top priority. Did you know that the Chevy Sonic has received the highest safety rating possible? It's true! Check out our 2013 Chevy Sonic Brochure, or stop in at our Tuscola Area Chevrolet Dealership to see it for yourself!

Graff Bay City, your Mid-Michigan area new Chevrolet and used car dealer, is located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706. For more information on Graff Bay City, or for any questions call us at (989) 684-4411 or visit our website: www.GraffBayCity.com.

Follow us: Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google+

Kelsey's Law Protects Teen Drivers

BAY CITY, Mich.- Later this week we will hopefully see less teen drivers talking on their cell phones while driving as the result of a new law that will take effect on Thursday. The new law, Kelsey's Law, aims to protect teen drivers by allowing police to ticket Michigan's Level 1* and 2* drivers a $100 civil infraction fine for talking on their cell phone while driving. While Kelsey's Law allows police to cite new drivers solely for talking on their phone, it is most likely that citations will happen in conjunction with other violations.

However, there are exceptions to the new ban. Kelsey's Law does not apply to hands-free telephone services like Chevy MyLink. In addition, exceptions will be made for new drivers reporting traffic accidents, medical emergencies, road hazards, or criminal activity.

Kelsey's Law was created in honor of Kelsey Raffaele, from Sault Ste. Marie, who died in a cell phone related, distracted driving accident in 2010 at just 17 years old. And while you may be questioning how effectively Kelsey's Law will Protect Teen Drivers, police officials show proof with past driver-safety laws. For example, the seat-belt requirement and texting ban have resulted in more drivers wearing their seat-belts and less drivers texting while driving. Overall, the new ban will compliment current efforts to educate young drivers about the dangers of distracted driving and will enforce the message that distracted driving can have fatal consequences.

Help us keep our young drivers safe out on the road by demonstrating and educating them about safe driving practices. To take a look at some vehicles equipped with the hands-free Chevy MyLink, like the 2013 Chevy Traverse or 2013 Chevy Cruze, stop by your Mid-Michigan Chevy Dealer. Graff Bay City is located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706. For more information on Graff Bay City, or for any questions call us at (989) 684-4411 or visit our websites: www.GraffBayCity.com.

Follow us: Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google+


*Michigan Level 1 licensees have completed a minimum of 6 hours of driving time, have been observed driving for at least 4 hours and can only drive with a parent or licensed adult. Level 2 drivers have had their learner's permit for a minimum of 6 months and are only allowed to drive between the hours of 5am-10pm, unless driving to or from work.

Think Safety With a Truck For Winter

Living in the Michigan means snow, and lots of it! Those of us that have taken up winter sports know it’s especially helpful to have a truck for towing snowmobiles, ice fishing shanties, trailers with winter supplies and a dozen other things!  But safety and security is of most concern for everyday driving.

How many times have you been in the office and looked up to see heavy snowfall and wondered how were you going to get home?  Or after a lovely night out with friends, as you walk out the door around midnight, you see that Jack Frost has completely whitewashed the parking lot leaving 6 inches of snow?

Enter the 2012 Chevy Silverado.  Equipped with four-wheel drive, four-wheel disc brakes, and four wheel ABS, you will be able to make a quick stop, even if it is a little slippery out.  With the stability control option the Chevrolet Silverado automatically senses when the vehicle is no longer handling like it should, and cuts power down on the engine or applies brake pressure to prevent the driver from losing control. Of course if the worse happens and you end up in a crash, front, side and overhead air bags are standard to help you absorb the impact and walk away safe. If you are looking for a great low mileage used car instead, The F-150 has many of the same features of the 2012 Silverado, but can be purchased a great pre-owned price!

Your Chevy Dealer Near Bad Axe Michigan also has great year-end deals!  So take advantage of Graff’s Year End Incentives on our entire 2012 model inventory including the Traverse and Camaro!  We are located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706. For more information on Graff Bay City, or for any questions call us at (989) 684-4411 or visit our websites at www.GraffBayCity.com, www.HankGraffUsedCars.com, www.HankGraff-Chevrolet.com, or www.GraffChevroletMidMichigan.com.

Follow us: Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google+

Tips for Teen Drivers

Bay City, MICH.,- Is your teen driving by themselves now? Every parent is worried about putting their child behind the wheel alone. We found Things Teens Should Know About Cars and Driving over at edmunds.com. From traffic stops to road rage, read and pass this information along to your teen driver.

1. What to do when you're stopped by a police officer
Safely pull to the side of the road, turn off your car, roll down the window and keep your hands visible. Don't make any sudden moves or argue with the officer.

2. How to deal with a flat tire
Pull completely off the road, even if it means destroying the tire. Call roadside assistance and let that person change the tire. If you have a spare and know how to change the tire, make sure you are out of traffic and in plain sight of oncoming traffic before changing it yourself. Afterwards you can find Tire Discounts at Graff Bay City!

3. What to do when the "check engine" light comes on
If there is any change in the car's performance, any mechanical noises, smoke from the tailpipe or electrical smells, stop the car and call for assistance. If there are none of these symptoms, take the car to a dealer and let them diagnose the problem. However, if you just bought gas, the light might just be indicating that the gas cap is loose. Tighten the cap and continue driving. The light should go off on its own.

4. How to deal with a friend who is about to drive under the influence
Don't get in the car. Do anything not to drive with an intoxicated person, and that includes calling your parents for a lift or paying for a taxi. Your next move is to try to prevent your drunken friend from hurting themselves or someone else.

5. How to drive safely while talking on a cell phone
Most states ban all cell phone use by novice drivers, so be sure you know if these provisions apply where you live. If it's permissible to use a cell, always use a hands-free device so you can keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road. Learn how to pair your phone with the car's Bluetoothsystem. Don't even think about texting while driving (no, not even at stoplights).

6. How to get an honest quote for an automotive repair
Search Edmunds.com's Car Maintenance Guide or the Web to get an estimate for how much the repair should cost. Search online for garages with high customer ratings and ask friends for recommended garages. Call the garage and ask for a ballpark estimate and let the garage know you are contacting other places for their best quote.

7. What to do after an auto accident
If the car is drivable and there are no serious injuries, turn on your flashers and pull safely out of traffic. Call the police to report the accident. Exchange insurance information with the other driver but refrain from discussing the accident and who is at fault. Make notes and use your cell phone's camera to take pictures of the cars involved. Graff Bay City's Collision Center will get your car running like new again!

8. How to drive in rain and snow
Reduce your speed and leave more room between your vehicle and those in front of you. Understand how to handle skids. If possible, practice reacting to skidding in safe conditions, such as a snow-covered empty parking lot. Understand that a car might hydroplane on a rain puddle on the road and learn how to react to driving with reduced traction and visibility.

9. How to avoid road rage situations
Understand the severe consequences to you, your car and your driving record when minor disagreements escalate to life-threatening situations. When someone offends you, take a deep breath and know that your anger will dissolve in minutes. Don't anger other drivers by cutting them off or tailgating. If you've inadvertently angered another driver, don't get drawn into interacting with them. Ignore them or, if necessary, change your route. Finally, repeat this phrase: It's just not worth it.

 If you liked this article, we have other Driving Tips articles available for your reference too!

Graff Chevrolet is proud to be a Mid Michigan Chevy Dealer serving the auto needs of local families and their new drivers. We provide exceptional customer service, a warm and friendly environment, auto financing options to fit your budget, and an inventory of great new and used cars, trucks, SUV’s, and crossovers. Call us at (989) 684-4411 or stop in at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI, 48706 and check out our great GM inventory selection.

Visit our website at www.graffbaycity.com

Follow us: Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google+