Getting trapped in a car after an accident is a real risk that can be deadly.

Your car might have flipped upside down or on its side with you in it. Or you may have run your car into a wall or tree. 

If you’re lucky enough to have survived the initial impact, that’s just the beginning. You still need to get out of the car. Otherwise, you may suffocate from all the smoke, bleed out, or die from a subsequent gas explosion. 

So it’s important to know how to escape a trapped car. Hopefully, your knowledge is never put to the test, but it’s best to be prepared. If you’re ever trapped in a car, here’s what you should do:

1. Stay calm

The first step is not to panic. If you do, it’ll probably only make things worse.

You may be in shock from the collision. So do your best to breathe deeply and gather your senses. Then check to see if you are seriously injured. If you are, apply first aid if possible. For example, you might need to tie a tourniquet around a severed limb to stop it from bleeding.

2. Call 911

If your cellphone is handy, use it to call 911. It helps to have a speed dial option set up so that you can do this with minimal touches. 

Once emergency responders arrive on the scene, they can help you escape your vehicle. So the faster you alert them, the better. 

3. Get bystanders to help

In the meantime, try to get bystanders to help you escape. You may need to get their attention first, especially if it’s a large accident that also involves other vehicles.

To do this, you can try honking your horn, hitting the windows, or simply yelling. Do whatever it takes to be heard.

4. Check to see if any of the doors open

If there aren’t any bystanders around to help you or you can’t get their attention, you may be on your own.

In that case, first check to see if any of the car doors will open. To do this, you may need to unbuckle and remove any clothing that is stuck and holding you back.

If the doors are jammed or you can’t get them open, try to at least open a window to allow for more air circulation. In some cases, you may not even be able to do that (e.g. electric windows may have lost power).

5. Try escaping through the trunk

If the doors and windows won’t open, you can try escaping through the trunk. Most cars have collapsible seats that allow you to access the trunk from the front of the car.

Per federal law, all cars built after 2002 also have release levers inside the trunk. Most are glow-in-the-dark and easy enough for a toddler to use. 

6. Break the window glass

If all else fails, try breaking the windows. 

Side windows are tempered, which means that if they break, they will shatter into a million pieces, making it easier for you to get out. However, some car windows are laminated, in which case, you’ll also need to kick out the window to escape.

Front windows (aka windshields) aren’t tempered, which means they will crack like a spider web, making it harder to get out that way (but if that’s your only option, go for it).

When trying to break a car window, it’s best to use a pointed object like the back of a hammer. Obviously, you may not have one at your disposal in the moment, so try what you can. You may also want to keep an emergency window breaker and seatbelt cutter tool in your car for this reason. You can find them online for as little as $10.

7. Help other passengers escape

Once you’ve escaped, don’t forget to help others do the same. In most cases, you will need to free yourself, before you can help others. But if not, try to prioritize those around you, especially children and the elderly. 

Final thought

Nobody wants to get trapped in a car. But it could happen. Now that you know what to do in this situation, you’re better prepared to make it out alive.

And if the accident was another driver’s fault, be sure to consult an experienced auto accident attorney. They can help you get the compensation you deserve for car damage, injuries, trauma, lost work, and more.

Laptop stands have become increasingly popular as more and more people work remotely or on the go. These stands are designed to elevate your laptop to a more ergonomic position, reducing strain on your neck and shoulders while working. However, like any product, there are pros and cons to using a laptop stand. In this article, we will explore the benefits and drawbacks of using an ergonomic laptop stand for work.

Pros of Laptop Stands

Reduces Neck and Shoulder Pain: One of the main benefits of using a laptop stand is that it can help reduce the risk of neck and shoulder pain. When using a laptop on a desk, the screen is typically at a lower level than the user’s eye level. This can cause the user to hunch over, which can lead to strain on the neck and shoulders. A laptop stand raises the screen to eye level, which can help reduce this strain.

Improves Posture: Another benefit of using a laptop stand is that it can help improve posture. When using a laptop on a desk, the user may tend to slouch or hunch over, which can lead to poor posture. A laptop stand raises the screen to eye level, which can help promote a more upright posture.

Reduces Eye Strain: A laptop stand can also help reduce eye strain. When using a laptop on a desk, the user may have to look down at the screen, which can cause eye strain. A laptop stand raises the screen to eye level, which can help reduce the need to look down at the screen.

Increased Airflow: Another benefit of using a laptop stand is increased airflow. Laptops can get quite hot, and this can cause the internal components to overheat, potentially causing damage. A laptop stand allows air to circulate around the laptop, keeping it cool and prolonging its lifespan.

More Desk Space: A laptop stand also frees up valuable desk space, which can be used for other work-related items or personal items.

Increases Productivity: A laptop stand can also help increase productivity. When using a laptop on a desk, the user may experience discomfort, which can lead to decreased productivity. A laptop stand can help reduce discomfort and increase productivity.

Cons of Laptop Stands

Cost: Laptop stands can be quite expensive, especially if you are looking for a high-quality, ergonomic model. Some laptop stands can cost as much as a new laptop, which can be a significant investment.

Portability: Laptop stands can be bulky and heavy, making them less portable than a laptop itself. This can be a significant drawback for people who need to take their laptops with them on the go.

Compatibility: Some laptop stands are not compatible with all laptops, so you may need to buy a stand specifically designed for your laptop model.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a laptop stand can provide several benefits for people who spend a lot of time working on their laptops. Ergonomic benefits, increased airflow, and more desk space are just a few of the advantages of using a laptop stand. However, cost, portability, and compatibility are all potential drawbacks to consider. If you are considering purchasing a laptop stand, be sure to weigh the pros and cons and determine if it is the right choice for your work needs.

No one ever plans on being in a car accident. But when it happens, the aftermath can be overwhelming – especially if you’re dealing with injuries. If you’ve been in a road accident and are struggling to cope with the aftermath, know that you’re not alone. A lawyer specializing in these cases can help you get the compensation and support you need to move forward. Keep reading to learn more about what they can do for you.

Get the compensation you deserve

If you’ve been the victim of an injury stemming from a road accident that was not your fault, finding a lawyer to represent you and fight for your rights can be an invaluable step. If you have been in a truck accident in Chicago, the trucking company and its insurance company may be seeking to minimize the severity of your injuries or deny any responsibility. A qualified attorney experienced in handling these cases in the area will be able to assess and analyze your case, provide legal counsel about potential courses of action, and negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive the compensation you are owed. They have extensive experience in this field and will be aware of current legislation surrounding such issues and key precedents that could influence the outcome of your case. Having a knowledgeable advocate on your side can make all the difference in getting you the justice you deserve.

Negotiate with the other driver’s insurance company on your behalf

Even in situations where you are confident of your innocence, it is frequently challenging to negotiate a fair settlement from an insurance company. That’s why it is so beneficial to have a lawyer specializing in this type of case handling the paperwork and negotiations for you. A lawyer experienced in dealing with car accident claims will be familiar with the tactics used by insurance adjusters and can even anticipate their moves before they make them. The attorney will also provide the calming expertise needed to ensure no mistakes are made that could result in a lower settlement than what is deserved. With a professional negotiator, you can be confident that justice will be served if you have been wronged in a car accident.

File a personal injury lawsuit if necessary

If you have been injured due to another party’s careless or intentional actions, consulting with a lawyer could be the best choice for recovering any losses incurred. Personal injury lawyers specialize in the legal prerequisites to file a successful lawsuit and can assist you throughout the process. From collecting evidence and filing paperwork to preparing and arguing your case in court, an experienced lawyer can help you navigate the system and bring justice to your cause. Don’t hesitate to reach out – setting up an initial consultation will put you on the path toward obtaining rightful compensation.

Gather evidence to support your claim

When you face a personal injury claim, understanding the power of evidence is paramount. Although you may have plenty of evidence to support your claim, the skill and knowledge of an experienced lawyer can take you through the process and help gather additional proof that strengthens your case. A good lawyer has an eye for detail and knows how to access, compile and present relevant evidence in court that best reinforces your argument. That’s why it makes perfect sense to rely on a professional who understands the law and its practical implications for your situation.

Interview witnesses on your behalf

Working with a lawyer is essential to building a successful legal case. One of the tasks that lawyers undertake in this process is interviewing witnesses on behalf of their clients. When this happens, the attorney can use their knowledge and expertise to ask the questions most likely to help support the client’s position in court. With a lawyer at the helm, inconsistencies in witness testimony can be identified more effectively, and strategies for refuting opposing arguments can be developed. Most importantly, lawyers are experienced professionals who are best placed to navigate any unexpected situations encountered during the interviewing process successfully. Thus, engaging lawyers for support during witness interviews can provide valuable peace of mind and aid in securing a favorable outcome for your legal case.

Represent you in court

If you’re ever in a situation requiring legal expertise, it’s always best to have a lawyer on your side. Not only can they provide valuable advice, but if necessary, a lawyer can also represent and advocate for you in court. An experienced professional who knows the ins and outs of court proceedings can be invaluable in setting out a winning case. With a lawyer on your team fighting for your best interests, you’ll feel more confident moving forward with any kind of legal proceedings, knowing that you have an experienced legal expert ready to work on your behalf.

Hiring a personal injury lawyer to represent you after you’ve been in a car accident can make a massive difference in the outcome of your case. Don’t go up against the other driver’s insurance company alone – hire a personal injury lawyer to level the playing field and get the compensation you deserve.

There’s an infinite number of games that humans can play. When you consider just video games, there are several million titles that already exist today with many more that are yet to be created or released to market. 

On top of that, there are board games, card games, and physical games of sport that all provide us with different ways to compete against our friends. 

While many games may share a long list of similarities, no two are identical. This means that each one requires a slightly different set of skills and experience to excel at it. For example, winning in a multiplayer game of Call of Duty requires fast reflexes whereas that speed would be of little benefit in Animal Crossing.

Other skills you might find useful while playing games include strategic thinking, patience, stamina, speed, mental arithmetic, pattern recognition, drawing, general knowledge, and hand-eye coordination. 

There are also plenty of games where you will find that psychology can be beneficial. It might be because you need to understand the thought processes that your opponents go through when making their decisions, or it might be that you can use psychological tricks to put off the other players. 

Poker

Poker is one of the most popular card games played today. Rather than being a single game, it’s actually a collective term for a range of different titles with many of the same characteristics. 

Most versions of the game use the same hierarchy of poker hands to value the combinations of cards that players can make, though lowball games and hi-lo variants put them in reverse. Part of achieving success in poker is making a hand that contains one of these winning combinations. 

However, what sets it apart from some other card games is that it’s possible to win when you don’t have the best hand – that’s where psychology comes in.

In poker, players can bluff. This, essentially, involves telling opponents that you have a better hand than you really do, or making them think that through your actions. Pulling it off successfully can cause the other players to fold, even if they’re holding a decent set of cards. 

Of course, psychology can work in reverse as each player must also watch the body language and monitor the patterns of play exhibited by the others at the table to deduce any strategies that they’re deploying and spot when they’re trying to bluff. 

Among Us

Among Us is a multiplayer video game that became hugely popular in 2019 and 2020. Players find themselves on a spacecraft where they, along with the others, must complete tasks to keep the ship operational. 

While so far it just sounds like going to work inside a video game, here’s where the twist begins. 

At the start of every game, one or more players are told that they are an imposter. Instead of completing tasks like the rest, these infiltrators must try to sabotage the ship and kill the crewmates. 

When a player is killed, the others must come together to try and work out who is responsible. A vote will then take place to decide who the crewmates think is trying to deceive them. As the imposter, you can partake in these discussions and use psychology to throw them off your scent. (1)

Chess

Chess may not immediately seem like a game that involves psychology. After all, you win by strategically moving your pieces in an attempt to take your opponent’s queen. However, there is a key psychological element to this popular board game. 

But, it works a little differently in chess. The psychology involved here is more about mind games to throw off your opponent, which may begin before you even sit down. The traditional handshake before each game can be used to show off your confidence in your abilities. 

Then, when it’s down to business, some knowledge about your opponent can go a long way. If you know what plays they don’t like or struggle with, you can guide the game in that direction to cause a sense of panic in their minds. (2)

Doormats used in communal hallways are sometimes considered a fire hazard. Some building supervisors have stopped installing such doormats entirely and begun using flame-retardant ones instead in order to minimize such hazards.

There are strict standards set by the European Union (EU) that apply to products used in engineering works or building in the UK. One such standard applying to fire testing can be found in the floor coverings sector and is known as EN 13501-1.

The four European ‘reaction to fire’ test methods included in this standard are applicable to floor coverings, whereas EN ISO 9239-1 and EN ISO 11925-2 are the most significant test methods that apply to resilient, laminate, and textile floors. So, if you’re looking to buy flame-retardant doormats, ensure that you get ones that reach the standards your business requires.

The tests

The tests indicate how easily a test product that is vertically positioned will catch fire by employing a small burner method. In a combustion chamber, the edges and/or surface of the test product are subjected to a flame during a 15-second period.

If the flame doesn’t rise to 150mm above the flame’s point of impingement before 20 seconds are up, this means the specifications of classes D fl and E fl are met, and the test product is classified as normally flammable. On the other hand, if the flame reaches that point, the test is considered failed, and the product is classified as easily flammable or F fl class.

Classes B fl and C fl, which are achieved by flame-retardant construction products, are obtained if the test product passes a radiant panel test. These classes evaluate the burning behavior of a test product that is first positioned horizontally and then exposed to a radiant heat source and lighted using a pilot flame.

If these tests’ criteria are met, this means the floor coverings follow the EN 13501-1 standard.

Classes

In what follows, we’ve provided the different flammability classes, including the criteria that are used to assess floor coverings. The abbreviation fl represents flooring in the table.

1. A1 fl – Only obtained by non-flammable floor coverings that do not pose any risk of smoke formation.
2. A2 fl – Only obtained by non-flammable floor coverings that have low levels of organic binding agents.
3. B fl – Radiation intensity of 8 kW/m2 = flame-retardant construction products.
4. C fl – Comparable with German B1 classification. Radiation intensity of 4.5 kW/m2 = flame-retardant construction products.
5. D fl – Radiation intensity here of only 3 kW/m2 = normally flammable construction products.
6. E fl – Small burner test = normally flammable construction products.
7. F fl – No requirements made, no test = easily flammable construction products.

The lower the class is, the more combustible the material is. Also, it’s less suitable for use in environments where ensuring fire safety is crucial.

It’s impossible for the majority of doormat materials to meet the criteria of classes A1 fl and B1 fl. Also, any material that’s classified as D fl and F fl is perceived as a fire hazard in most places. Accordingly, classes B fl s1 and C fl s1 are considered the most appropriate for commercial uses.

In addition to tests related to flammability, other tests exist whose purpose is to assess how much smoke is released by the product. If the product produces a larger amount of smoke, it’s considered a threat to our health, and it may incur a risk of fire in a fire emergency. This is the reason why it’s of utmost importance to analyze the results of smoke and product flammability tests when choosing doormats for your premises.(2)

Convex Observation Mirrors: Everything You Need To Know

A convex observation mirror is an incredibly useful piece of equipment that has a variety of uses. If you’ve ever wondered what exactly convex observation mirrors are and where or what they’re used for, keep reading, as in this guide, we’ll answer those questions. We’ll also provide several tips on what to pay attention to when buying convex mirrors. (1)

Convex observation mirrors: What are they?

To help you understand what a convex observation mirror is, we’ll compare this type of mirror to a plane one.

A plane, or standard, mirror has a flat surface and reflects an image at the same angle it encounters its smooth, reflective surface with slight distortion. For example, if you look into a plane mirror, you’ll see your own face. And no matter what angle you stand at, the mirror will produce an upright and symmetrical image of the corresponding shape and size.

On the other hand, the surface of a convex observation mirror isn’t flat. Instead, it sticks out from the edges, thereby allowing you to have way broader view without having to change your angle of vision.

What are the applications of convex observation mirrors?

A convex observation mirror has a variety of uses, both indoors and outdoors, including scientific instrumentation.  However, for those who don’t have specialized knowledge of this type of mirror, we can say that convex observation mirrors have two main applications:

Retail

A convex observation mirror is commonly used to prevent and reduce shoplifting in small retail shops. Placing the mirror at a blind spot, at the end of aisles, or at a narrow passage allows the cashier to have a wide view of those critical areas in the shop. This helps strengthen security and reduce the risk of shoplifting as well.

Even in stores with a large number of employees, this type of mirror helps dedicated security staff keep an eye on those around them and the store more easily, particularly if the mirrors are placed in areas where items shoplifters usually target are stored or in other critical areas, such as the alcohol aisle.

Roads

You can commonly find convex observation mirrors placed on fences or trees on narrow roads and roads with sharp turns. They’re usually placed opposite off-road tracks, alleys, and driveways, which helps drivers see around sharp or awkward corners and thus avoid approaching vehicles or simply pull out and merge onto the highway safely.

Convex observation mirrors are used in other places as a safety tool as well, such as in construction sites. Convex mirrors on construction sites allow drivers to move around the site safely and have a wider view of the vehicles they might be approaching if they leave the site as well.

Moreover, this type of mirror is also commonly found in car parks, factories, and distribution centers so that drivers and workers can safely move around the site. Convex mirrors are especially used in warehouses to help workers on foot know where forklift trucks are moving and thus avoid costly surprises.

What should you pay attention to when buying a convex observation mirror?

Size

Ensure that your mirror is suitable for the purpose you’ll be using it for. For example, if you need to view from a great distance and have a panoramic view, you should buy a larger convex mirror. But if the place you intend to attach the mirror to is quite close to your viewpoint, then buying a smaller mirror will probably be a better choice.

Indoor/outdoor

If you’re going to use your convex observation mirror outdoors, make sure it has weather protection to prolong its external use and save yourself from the trouble of having to change it. (2)

Author Bio: First Mats entered the world of business as specialists in safety matting. However, they’ve become an industrial and commercial supplies company since then. Their aim is to offer services and quality-approved products that contribute to the safety and well-being of staff. https://www.firstmats.co.uk/

If you’re looking to paint your car parts, there are five steps you can take to ensure your job gets done right. These tips include making sure you’re using the best primer, applying the correct kind of paint, and buffing the finish.

Supreme Wraps specializes in providing high-quality custom wraps, XPEL paint protection, and Ceramic Window Tint services for your automobile. We offer top-of-the-line Ultra-High Gloss Ultimate Plus PPF to transform and protect the paint on your car, as well as XPEL Stealth film for a unique custom car wrap in Scottsdale, AZ. Choose us as your first choice for all your vehicle enhancement needs.

Step 1: Preparation

If you’re planning on painting your car, preparation is one of the most important parts of the job. Failure to prepare your paint job can result in defects in the finish. The most common mistakes include applying the wrong kind of paint, using too much paint, and not cleaning the surface of car body parts correctly.

Plastic body parts require different types of paint than metal components. For example, polypropylene (PP) is oil saturated and can be tricky to paint. A special primer is needed for plastic. This primer also needs to be applied in three or four coats.

To prepare the PP part, it’s important to sand the area well. Ultra-fine sandpaper is ideal. It will remove the top layer of the car paint and help the paint stick to the part.

Step 2: Plastic adhesion promoter

Plastic adhesion promoter is a tool used to improve the adhesion of paint to plastic. The adhesion promoter works by opening up the pores of the plastic to make it easier for the new coat of paint to adhere.

Adhesion promoters are not designed to work on cured or treated plastics. You need to make sure that you are using the correct product for the type of plastic that you are working on.

First, you need to make sure that you are using the right primer. Primer is one of the easiest ways to improve the adhesion of paint to a plastic surface. However, primers vary in their ability to adhere to different types of plastic. It can depend on the type of plastic that you are working with, the thickness of the plastic, and the amount of time that it takes to cure.

Step 3: Primer

Primer is a chemical that bonds to metal, fiberglass, and other smooth surfaces to provide a protective coating. The primer also helps the paint adhere to the surface.

There are many different kinds of primers. Some types are available in aerosol form, while others are a liquid. Both are designed for specific applications.

Epoxy primer is an ideal choice for dings and dents on car bodies. It is water-resistant and has excellent adhesion properties. Moreover, epoxy can be used to repair cracks and rust.

Urethane primer is perfect for repairing small scratches. It provides a filling layer that can be removed or reapplied. Moreover, urethane primers come in standard and high-build varieties. Regardless of the type, it is recommended that you mix the components according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Step 4: Clear coat lacquer

Automotive clear coats are formulated to protect the paintwork from atmospheric agents, mechanical and chemical products. They are also formulated to give the paint an attractive and glossy finish. A clear coat can be applied in spray or laquer form. The process is divided into three stages.

First, the paint must be thoroughly cleaned. This is important to minimise defects during application. You can use a brush to apply the clear coat. Once the coat is dry, you can rub it with a rubbing compound.

Next, you need to determine the thickness of the clear coat of painted auto body parts. The final coating must be sufficient to cover the surface. It should also have adequate adhesion. If you are working with a high-solids formula, you may want to apply fewer layers to achieve your desired coating thickness.

Step 5: Buffing

Buffing your car painted parts is an important part of maintaining its beautiful finish. Not only does it remove scratches, it also gives your vehicle a wet looking, deep shine.

If you want to buff your car, you’ll need the proper tools. This includes a buffing pad and polishing solution. You should also wear gloves to protect your hands. Also, be sure to use a microfiber cloth for wiping up your compound.

When you buff your vehicle, you’re removing dirt, tar, and other debris that can leave a dull look on your paintwork. Buffing isn’t designed to take out layers of paint protection, though. Rather, it’s intended to polish and restore your vehicle’s clear coat layer.

To get the job done, you’ll need the right buffing pad and a quality polishing solution. The best products provide a wet looking, deep shine. It’s also important to avoid getting the polisher too close to your painted surfaces.

Source: https://paintedautoparts.com/