America’s 250th Anniversary: Celebrating 250 Years of Freedom, Innovation & the American Drive
A Once-in-a-Generation Celebration of America—and the Vehicles That Helped Move Us Forward
In 2026, the United States will celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, also known as the Semiquincentennial. This historic milestone marks 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. Across the country, communities, families, businesses, schools, and local organizations will come together to celebrate American history, reflect on how far we’ve come, and look ahead to the future.
For those of us in the automotive world, America’s 250th anniversary is also a perfect time to look at something that has been central to American life for generations: the automobile.
From horse-drawn wagons and dirt roads to gas-powered engines, family SUVs, electric vehicles, advanced safety systems, and high-tech driver assistance features, the American driving experience has changed dramatically. Cars have helped families travel farther, businesses grow faster, communities connect more easily, and generations of drivers experience freedom on the open road.
As we celebrate 250 years of America, we’re also celebrating 250 years of movement, progress, invention, and the drive to keep going.
From Horse and Buggy to Horsepower
Before cars filled driveways and highways, most Americans relied on horses, wagons, carriages, walking, trains, and eventually bicycles to get around. Daily travel was slower, more difficult, and often limited by weather, terrain, and distance.
Then came the rise of the automobile.
The early gas-powered vehicle changed everything. It gave people more independence, made travel more personal, and helped shape the modern American lifestyle. Suddenly, families could visit relatives in other towns, workers could commute farther, and small communities became more connected to larger cities and markets.
The automobile did more than move people. It changed America.
Highlights in the Evolution of the Automobile
Here are just a few major ways vehicles have progressed over the years:
- Horse-drawn transportation: Before the automobile, horses and wagons were the everyday standard for many families and businesses.
- Gas-powered engines: Internal combustion engines gave drivers more speed, distance, and independence.
- Mass production: Assembly-line manufacturing helped make cars more affordable for everyday Americans.
- Electric starters: Early drivers once had to hand-crank engines. Electric starters made vehicles easier and safer to operate.
- Closed cabins and heat: Cars became more comfortable and practical in all kinds of weather.
- Automatic transmissions: Driving became easier and more accessible for millions of people.
- Power steering and power brakes: Larger vehicles became easier to handle.
- Air conditioning: Road trips became much more comfortable, especially during the summer.
- Seat belts, airbags, and crash testing: Safety became one of the biggest priorities in automotive design.
- SUVs, trucks, and family vehicles: Cars evolved to fit work, family, recreation, towing, travel, and everyday life.
- Hybrid and electric vehicles: Today’s vehicles are becoming more efficient, more advanced, and more connected.
- Driver assistance technology: Features like backup cameras, blind spot monitoring, lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking are changing the way we drive.
Cool Car Features That Changed the Way Americans Drive
Over the decades, certain vehicle features became turning points in automotive history. Some were created for convenience. Others were designed for comfort, safety, or performance. Today, many features we take for granted were once major innovations.
The Electric Starter
Early vehicles often required a hand crank to start the engine. That could be difficult and even dangerous. The electric starter helped make cars more practical for everyday drivers and opened the door for wider vehicle ownership.
The Automatic Transmission
Manual shifting was once the standard. The automatic transmission made driving easier, especially in traffic and city driving. It also helped make vehicles more approachable for a wider range of drivers.
Automotive Air Conditioning
Today, we barely think twice about turning on the A/C. But when air conditioning first appeared in vehicles, it was a luxury. Over time, it became one of the most appreciated comfort features, especially for family road trips and summer driving.
Seat Belts and Airbags
Vehicle safety has come a long way. Seat belts, airbags, crumple zones, crash testing, and stronger vehicle structures have helped protect drivers and passengers for generations.
Backup Cameras
Backup cameras are now common in modern vehicles and have become an important safety feature. They help drivers see behind the vehicle, making parking, backing up, and navigating tight spaces easier.
Touchscreens and Connected Technology
Modern vehicles now offer features that once sounded futuristic: touchscreen displays, smartphone integration, navigation, voice commands, wireless charging, remote start apps, and over-the-air updates.
Hybrid and Electric Vehicles
The latest chapter in automotive history includes hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric vehicles. These vehicles continue the story of innovation, giving drivers new ways to think about efficiency, performance, and the future of transportation.
America’s Love Affair with the Open Road
Few things feel more American than a road trip.
For generations, cars have been part of some of life’s biggest moments:
- Bringing a new baby home from the hospital
- Taking family vacations
- Driving to a first job
- Heading off to college
- Buying a first car
- Towing a camper, boat, or trailer
- Taking the scenic route just because
- Visiting grandparents, friends, and favorite hometown places
- Driving in parades, community events, and holiday celebrations
As America celebrates 250 years, vehicles remain deeply connected to our memories, our milestones, and our sense of freedom.
The Road Ahead: What Will the Next 250 Years Bring?
As we look toward America’s future, the automobile will continue to evolve. Vehicles are already becoming safer, smarter, more efficient, and more personalized. The next generation of cars may bring even more advanced electric technology, improved battery range, expanded charging networks, enhanced driver assistance systems, and new ways for drivers to stay connected.
But one thing will remain the same: people will still need vehicles that fit their lives.
Whether it’s a reliable sedan, a rugged truck, a family-friendly SUV, a hardworking commercial vehicle, a sporty performance model, or an electric vehicle built for the future, the automobile will continue to play a major role in how Americans live, work, travel, and connect.
Celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary Locally
America’s 250th anniversary is not just a national celebration. It is also a local one. Communities across the country will celebrate with parades, festivals, fireworks, historic events, service projects, and hometown gatherings.
For local dealerships, this milestone is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate:
- American history
- Community pride
- Local families
- Road trip memories
- Automotive innovation
- The freedom of the open road
- The future of driving
As we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, we also celebrate the generations of drivers, workers, families, technicians, sales professionals, manufacturers, and innovators who helped move this country forward.
From horse and buggy to horsepower, from hand cranks to push-button start, from paper maps to built-in navigation, and from gas engines to electric vehicles, the story of the automobile is part of the American story.
And the road ahead is just getting started.
Top Questions About America’s 250th Anniversary
1. What exactly is America’s 250th anniversary?
America’s 250th anniversary marks 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. The milestone will be celebrated in 2026 and is often called the Semiquincentennial.
2. When is America’s 250th anniversary?
The main anniversary date is July 4, 2026. Many events and celebrations will take place throughout 2026, leading up to Independence Day.
3. Why is America’s 250th anniversary important?
It is a once-in-a-generation milestone that gives Americans an opportunity to celebrate the country’s history, reflect on the past, honor local communities, and look ahead to the future.
4. What kinds of events will happen for America’s 250th anniversary?
Events may include parades, fireworks, festivals, community gatherings, historical exhibits, service projects, concerts, school programs, and local celebrations. Many activities will be community-led, meaning towns, businesses, schools, and organizations can create their own ways to participate.
5. How is America’s 250th anniversary connected to automotive history?
The automobile has played a major role in American life. Cars helped families travel farther, businesses expand, communities connect, and people experience more freedom and mobility. Looking back at automotive history is a fun and meaningful way to celebrate American innovation.
6. What are some of the biggest milestones in car history?
Some major automotive milestones include the rise of gas-powered engines, the introduction of mass production, electric starters, automatic transmissions, air conditioning, seat belts, airbags, backup cameras, hybrid vehicles, electric vehicles, and advanced driver assistance technology.
7. How can local businesses participate in America’s 250th anniversary?
Local businesses can participate by supporting community events, sponsoring parades or festivals, creating patriotic promotions, highlighting local history, sharing customer stories, volunteering, or partnering with local nonprofits and civic organizations.
8. What does America’s 250th anniversary mean for local communities?
For local communities, America’s 250th anniversary is a chance to celebrate hometown pride, honor local history, bring people together, and create memorable events for families, neighbors, and businesses.
9. How will the 250th anniversary be different from the 1976 Bicentennial?
The 250th anniversary will likely include more digital engagement, broader local participation, and a greater focus on telling stories from communities across the country. While the 1976 Bicentennial was a major national celebration, the 2026 anniversary is expected to include many local and grassroots events.
10. What is a fun way to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary?
A fun way to celebrate is to take a classic American road trip, attend a local parade, visit a historic site, support a community event, volunteer locally, or learn more about the history of American transportation and innovation.
Final Thought
America’s 250th anniversary is a celebration of history, freedom, community, and progress. For 250 years, America has continued to move forward—and for more than a century, the automobile has helped drive that story.
From the earliest roads to today’s modern highways, from the first engines to the latest electric vehicles, the American journey has always been about possibility.
Here’s to 250 years of America—and to the road ahead.
A few key facts used here were checked against official and automotive-history sources: America250 states that July 4, 2026 commemorates the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence; the U.S. DOT/NHTSA rule required rear visibility technology on vehicles under 10,000 pounds manufactured on or after May 1, 2018; Cadillac introduced the electric self-starter in 1912; Packard introduced automotive air conditioning in 1939/1940; and Oldsmobile’s Hydra-Matic became a major early automatic transmission milestone around the 1940 model year. (america250.org)
AWD vs 4WD: The Real Difference (Simple Explanation)
What AWD (All-Wheel Drive) does
AWD automatically sends power to the wheels with the most traction. In many vehicles, it’s “always working in the background” so you don’t have to think about it.Best for: daily driving, wet roads, slush, light-to-moderate snow, and highway travel.What 4WD (Four-Wheel Drive / 4×4) does4WD is most common in trucks and rugged SUVs. Many systems let you switch between 2WD and 4WD and may include 4HI and 4LO (low range). 4LO is a big deal when you need extra torque at low speeds.Best for: deeper snow, unplowed roads, mud, steep terrain, towing/hauling, and off-road use.Local note: Some modern SUVs blur the lines with “Auto 4WD” or advanced traction modes. When buying used, it’s important to check what the vehicle actually has (4HI/4LO, locking diff, snow mode, etc.).
What Do You Actually Need for South Glens Falls + Upstate NY Driving?Here’s the most realistic way to decide.
Choose AWD if you…
- Drive mostly on paved roads (commuting, errands, school runs)
- Want automatic traction help in snow, slush, and rain
- Spend a lot of time on highways and main routes that get plowed first
- Prefer better fuel economy (often) than traditional 4WD trucks/SUVs
- Want a great “set-it-and-forget-it” option for winter confidence
AWD is perfect for: most crossover SUVs and family vehicles that need year-round grip without extra complexity.
Choose 4WD if you…
- Regularly drive on unplowed back roads or have a long/private driveway
- Need capability for deeper snow, mud, or rough terrain
- Work in conditions where you can’t “wait for the plow”
- Tow, haul, or want the added control of 4HI/4LO
- Spend time on trails, campsites, or steep/uneven surfaces
4WD is a smart pick for: truck owners, rural drivers, and anyone who truly needs maximum traction and control.
AWD vs 4WD in Snow: What Matters Most (And What Doesn’t)Both AWD and 4WD can help you get moving when roads are slick. But here’s the truth most people don’t hear: AWD/4WD helps you go — tires help you stop. Stopping distance is where winter driving gets dangerous, and the drivetrain doesn’t change that nearly as much as tire traction. If you want the biggest winter upgrade: consider winter tires (or at least excellent all-season tires) and make sure your brakes and alignment are in good shape.
Pros and Cons for Upstate NY DriversAWD Pros
- Easy: traction help happens automatically
- Great on snowy highways, slush, rain
- Often better fuel economy than many 4WD trucks/SUVs
- Excellent resale value in snow-belt regions
AWD Cons
- Not built for true off-roading (varies by model)
- Some AWD systems aren’t meant to be pushed hard in deep mud/sand for long stretches
4WD Pros
- Strong traction in deep snow and tough conditions
- 4LO can help when you’re stuck, climbing, or pulling through heavy snow
- Great for work, recreation, and rough terrain
4WD Cons
- Usually lower fuel economy
- More weight and often higher purchase/maintenance costs
- Part-time 4WD systems shouldn’t always be used on dry pavement (can cause driveline binding)
Quick Decision Guide (Carriage Traders Version)Pick AWD if you want:
- A confident winter daily driver
- Easier ownership for mixed conditions
- Mostly paved-road driving with occasional storms
Pick 4WD if you need:
- Capability for unplowed roads/driveways
- Work-site or rural reliability
- 4HI/4LO for the toughest conditions
The Most Common Mistake Buyers MakeAssuming AWD or 4WD makes the vehicle “winter-proof.”The best winter setup is:
- good tires
- good brakes
- good visibility (wipers/lights)
- and a drivetrain that matches your needs
Final Takeaway: Which One Do You Actually Need?For many drivers in South Glens Falls and the greater Adirondack-region commutes, AWD is the best all-around choice—simple, confident, and great in the snow you’ll encounter most days.If your routine includes unplowed roads, deep snow, steep driveways, towing, or rugged weekend travel, 4WD (especially with 4LO) is worth it.
Tips For Your Teen Driver | South Glens Falls, NY
Welcome back for another week of refreshing automotive content! This week we want to talk to all the parent of new/teen drivers. We know this chapter is kind of scary, but we’re here to help make it a little easier. With summer in full swing and school officially being out, it’s no secret that your kids are gonna hit the road for some fun in the sun with their friends. If the thought of that makes you nervous, take a deep breath and take a look at our helpful tips below! Below you will find our tips for teen drivers, and although they might seem self-explanatory, you’d be surprised how many of us don’t obey these rules…and yes, I’m talking about parents too. That’s the thing, as parents you have to practice what you preach, which means you can’t speed, text and drive, play loud music, etc. because if they see you doing that, then they will too. So nip in the bud and start enforcing these rules to help create safer driving habits, giving you better peace of mind when they are behind the wheel.
Tips:
Keep your cell phone off:
- It’s no secret that texting while driving is a huge epidemic when it comes to all drivers, but especially when it comes to teen drivers. The best thing you can do for yourself is to turn off your phone completely, or if that is too hard for you, put it on airplane mode or a mode that disables messages. It might be hard to not have your phone but it will be better than getting into an accident and hurting yourself or someone else.
Turn your headlights on:
- Using your headlights increase your visibility and help others see you. Even if you think it is bright enough, you should still have them on at times like the early morning or early evening (dusk).
Obey the speed limit:
- Speeding is a major contribution to teen driving, especially when there is a lot of traffic. Obeying the speed limit is important because it gives you time to react in case you need to come to a stop quickly or something else happens unexpectedly.
Driving solo:
- According to the DMV, having one passenger with a teen driver behind the wheel can double the risk of an accident. Teen drivers do not have the experience and skills of an adult driver, having even one person in the car can cause an extreme distraction…now imagine a full vehicle! Driving solo is a much safer bet in most instances.
Practice defensive driving:
- Always be aware of the traffic ahead, behind, and next to you. It’s better to know your surroundings and have a plan in case an unexpected incident occurs. Stay at least one car length behind the car in front of you at slower speeds, and maintain a larger buffer zone with faster speeds.
Choose a safe vehicle:
- If possible try to drive a vehicle with the most up-to-date safety features such as anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, and airbags, and one with an excellent crash safety record
Are you looking for that perfect ride your new driver? Then browse our available inventory here at Carriage traders and allow our helpful and knowledgeable team match your son or daughter with their dream vehicle today!
Have you ever thought about throwing a dart at a map and heading to the destination it lands on? No? Well, no problem because we have five amazing spots you can go right here in New York State! Getting away for some sun and relaxation is important, and even if you don’t have the time to head across the country for a week away, you can still enjoy a weekend getaway or even a day trip with the family right here in New York! Not sure what would be a fun trip for the family? No problem! This week’s blog is dedicated to just that, helping you and your family have an awesome getaway! So pack it all in, buckle-up and let’s hit the road!
Hold up! Have you serviced your vehicle recently? No! Well, before you hit the road be sure to stop into Carriage Traders for a tune-up to ensure that your trip doesn’t come to a halting stop because you forgot to service your vehicle! Plus, you can save big when you take advantage of our service specials! So head over to our site and check them out now! Be sure to print out the offer that works best for you and schedule an appointment for whenever works best for you!
Adventuring in Tupper Lake
- Take in the Adirondack wildlife at The Wild Center, which gives visitors a bird’s-eye view of the Adirondack Park. Try The Rail Explorers pedal powered rail bikes, which make use of forgotten waterside train tracks for a unique experience. Or even shoot over to Lake Placid and grab a bite to eat and see if you can reach top speed with the Summer Bobsled Experience!
Strong National Museum of Play
- With a name like National Museum of Play, you can see why it might be a great spot to bring the family for a day of fun! The museum is all about having a good time thanks to activities like the Bristol Mountain Aerial Adventure Mobile Park, which gives visitors the chance to test their skills of balance, climbing, and endurance. From the aquarium to the robot exhibit, the whole family will be entertained by a day trip!
Lockport Caves and Boat Tours
- Want to get out for a day unlike any other? Go deep underground at the Lockport Cave and Underground Boat Ride, on the Erie Canal!
A day in Lake George
- Take in the sun with a relaxing beach day, maybe a friendly game of putt-putt, let the kids enjoy a day at the arcade or water parks, or even treat yourself with a shopping day!
Old-Time Baseball
- Go back in time at the Genesee Country Village and Museum! Don vintage wool baseball uniforms and wood baseball bats! A great way to learn about the history and still get out for some family fun!
How To DIY Car Wash | South Glens Falls, NY
We know you’ll be hitting the road this summer for some fun in the sun, but it is important to remember that all that traveling takes a toll on your vehicle. Wear and tear is normal, but if you don’t properly protect your vehicle against outside forces you’ll find that you could do permanent damage to both the interior and exterior. To avoid your vehicle from falling apart over time, it is important to regularly wash your vehicle and that means doing more than letting a rainstorm take care of it. Your vehicle needs products made for the paint to not only make it look better but to also protect it from outside forces. If you’re not into getting your vehicle washed on your own, DIY might be the way to go! Lucky for you this week’s blog is dedicated to teaching you how to properly DIY detail your vehicle. Check it out below or schedule an appointment with us and we can get your vehicle back into tip-top shape in no time!
Part 1: Wash Your Vehicle
- Washing your vehicle regularly keeps dirt, debris, and gritty residue that can accumulate over time, off of your exterior.
- Start washing your vehicle from the top (the roof) down. Use a soft-bristled brush, in small, circular motions, to remove more stubborn stains and grease. Use a microfiber cloth to clean less dirty areas.
- DO NOT USE REGULAR DISH SOAP.
- These substances are designed to remove grease and oil, and they can damage your car’s finish, not to mention strip away the vehicle’s protective wax coating.
- It is important to rinse your vehicle as you go to prevent the soap and water from drying on your vehicle.
- Try not to take too long while washing your car so that the water does not dry, leaving behind mineral deposits in the form of water spots.
Part 2: Drying Your Car
- Dry your vehicle by hand. Start drying as soon as your done with the basic wash. This keeps water from drying and leaving spots.
- Use a microfiber towel to absorb the water.
- DO NOT DRAG THE TOWEL ACROSS THE CAR.
- Debris and dirt can be trapped under the towel and potentially scratch the paint.
- Drying your car to remove the majority of the moisture, allow it to air dry completely before proceeding to the detailing phase.
Part 3: Detail Your Car
- Most often, basic washing does not remove smaller particles and substances that might stick to or are worked into the paint job itself.
- Items you may need include Compound, Clay bars, Glaze, and Polish.
- Before using any detailing method, make sure you understand how to use it properly.
- USE A MICROFIBER MITT OR TOWEL.
- Don’t forget to clean and shine your tires, which are one of the most overlooked areas of a vehicle. When doing so, clean, wash, and polish one tire at a time to prevent the cleaner from drying on the tires in patches.
Step 4: Wax Your Car
- After washing, drying, and detailing the outside of your vehicle, seal it with wax. You only need to wax your car about every three months, so this process is not required every time you wash your car.
- When using a buffer, be careful because overuse could lead to paint removal
- Apply wax – using a microfiber towel, or a clean buffing pad using the car buffer
- Allow the wax to set – Proceed with applying the wax a section at a time, allowing the wax to set before removal. Check the wax container for directions on use and recommended wax set times.
- Buff the wax in – Take a microfiber cloth and use circular motions with the buffer to rub in the wax. Repeat this process until you have waxed the entire surface of the vehicle
Hello June! A new month means new ways to save big on service here at Carriage Traders! We know summer is right around the corner and that means that the time to hit the road for some fun is almost here! I think we can all agree that we enjoy the peace of mind knowing our vehicle can get us from point A to point B without any issues. If you’re not sure that your vehicle can do that, then it is definitely time to stop into Carriage Traders and service your ride with us! Our service professionals can get your ride into tip-top shape and help you take on whatever adventures you might have planned this summer! If you’re worried about spending too much on service, don’t stress it! Here at Carriage Traders, we understand service can be expensive, that’s why we offer an impressive lineup of service specials for you to choose from. So get your ride ready for summer and check out our service specials listed below! Once you find the right one for your vehicle’s needs, be sure to print out the coupon and head in today!
First Time Customers – Get 10% off*
Front-End Wheel Alignment – Get for only $78.88*
Conventional Oil Change – Get for only $24.95*
Full Synthetic Oil Change – Get for only $49.95*
State Inspection – Get for only $5.00*
Transmission Fluid Flush – Get for only $189.95*
Brake Fluid Flush – Get for only $89.95*
A/C Recharge – Get for only $89.95*
Make Your Own Discount:
Spend $50.00 – $100.00 – Save $5.00*
Spend $101.00 – $200.00 – Save $15.00*
Spend $201.00 – $400.00 – Save $30.00*
Spend $401.00 – $600.00 – Save $50.00*
Spend $601.00 – $800.00 – Save $75.00*
Spend $801.00 – Up – Save $100.00*
*All offers expire 6/30/2019. For more information check out our service specials page!
If you’re thinking about saying goodbye to your old ride and hello to a like-new one, Carriage Traders has an impressive lineup of cars, trucks, and SUVs for you to shop from. But before you say yes to your dream new-to-you ride, there are a handful of important questions to ask. What are they? Well, lucky for this week’s blog is here to do just that! You want to remember a pre-owned vehicle had a life before it ended up on our lot. That doesn’t mean it isn’t in good shape or the right vehicle for you, it just means it’s important to ask what it has been through before. But not the only thing you should be asking about! So let’s not waste any more time, instead, check out our top 6 questions to ask before saying yes to your like-new ride!
- Is the car I want on the lot?
What’s the point of wasting time and energy negotiating and falling in love with a car to find out the model, or color you want isn’t even on the lot? And even if they can get it from another dealer it won’t be immediately, and who says they will honor the price you’ve agreed upon with another dealer. Talk about a heartbreaker! An easy way to avoid this problem is to do a little research. Go to the dealership with a couple of cars in mind, when you get there ask to see those cars, and have them check the inventory before you fall in love! And if they don’t have your dream car, keep your head up. There are lots of fish in the sea.
- What is the actual cost of the car?
Okay, this one is the obvious question but something important to know, there’s a vehicle’s MSRP (manufacturer suggested retail price) and then there is the amount you have to pay to drive that baby off the lot. Depending on the car, the MSRP can be higher or lower. So again, do some research and come informed! You should also expect to pay sales tax, a state licensing fee, and a documentation fee, which dealers charge for filling out the contract. These fees can vary, so here’s where you ask how much your dealer is asking for!
- What features don’t work the way they’re supposed to?
It’s not a bad question when shopping for a used car, I mean come on this baby might have already taken a few trips around the block and it might not be as young as it once was. Most of the time if there is an issue it isn’t a deal breaker and is an easy fix, but it’s better to know everything, rather than know nothing.
- What is the ownership history?
If you ask this question and the dealer doesn’t know much about the vehicle’s history this could be a red flag! Don’t be afraid to ask for the vehicle history report or service records. Remember this will be your car, you don’t want to find any surprises after you’ve already signed your name!
- What is the mileage on my car?
This is an important question even when buying new cars. What if the car was the “test drive car” or maybe it was traded from another dealership. If you’re buying a new car and the odometer reads over 300 miles ask for a discount!
- What are my terms of payment?
Deciding whether to lease or buy is only half your battle, you have to then figure out how much you’ll be paying each month. Don’t discuss how much you can pay monthly until you’ve settled on a price of the car. And before you sign a lease, be sure to understand all of the fees and conditions, including what is considered “wear and tear.”
Work Zone Safety Tips | South Glens Falls, NY
Will you be hitting the road this summer? Regardless if you’ll be going across the country or up the road, chances are you’ll see some orange warning signs telling you there’s a work zone ahead. Work zones are inevitable during the summer months, and although it might be frustrating because the backup traffic, they are important. It is even more important to SLOW DOWN when you are driving through them. No, not because you’ll get a pretty hefty fine (even though that is a good reason to slow down), but because there are people working right there on the side of the road. Slowing down helps to avoid any potentially dangerous accidents. Just think about it, if you are going 50 plus miles an hour and you hit someone, or something hits you, it’s not going to be good. Slowing down is extremely important, even if it slows down your trip. So we ask that you take a few minutes to check out our tips for driving in work zones below!
- Increase your following distance:
- You should have three car lengths in front of you when entering a construction zone. I know you might think this is extensive but give yourself more room leaves space in case of an accident like a worker stepping out too far or even something falling in the road!
- Don’t assume workers are present:
- A lot of the time you’ll see signs that tell you to reduce your speed because you are approaching a work zone, but once you get there it looks like nobody is working…so most people accelerate to normal speed. Regardless if you don’t see the worker or not, obey the speed limit. Workers could be working farther up, and even if they’re not working a cop could still be monitoring the area just waiting for someone to break the law!
- Follow instructions from flaggers:
- Always obey instructions from flaggers, and assume that their instructions overrule any other traffic signs or signals. Their directions might not align with normal traffic patterns, so be prepared. Also, be on the lookout for flaggers’ signals, such as an extended palm indicating that you need to stop. Be sure to also reduce your speed and be especially aware of your surroundings when driving near a work zone with flaggers posted.
- Minimize your distractions:
- Distraction-free driving is always important, but especially during work zones! When you are approaching a work zone, slow down, turn down any loud music, and stay focused on your surroundings. The more attentive you are the less likely you will be to have an accident!
- Merge promptly at land closure;
- One of the most common causes of accidents and road rage in construction zones is that of lane closures. When you see a sign posted for an upcoming lane closure, be sure to merge as soon as safely possible. Do not wait until the lane is coming to an end to force your way over into the next lane over. This is not only rude to the other drivers who followed the posted signs and merged but it could cause a road rage incident.
With summer right around the corner, we are sure that you have been planning your next road trip, and you want to know what would make your road trip even better? If you said goodbye to your old, worn down vehicle, and hello to a like-new vehicle that can get you where you need to go confidently! Well, if you are you in the market for a like-new vehicle it’s your lucky day because Carriage Traders has just dropped our brand new May used-car specials and we are confident that you’ll be able to find the right one for you! Whether you’re looking for a car, truck, or SUV, we have an impressive lineup of vehicles for you to choose from so you can feel confident we can get you behind the wheel of your dream ride!
Check out all of our May offers below and be sure to head over to our website to see our full inventory if you don’t see the vehicle you were looking for! Once you’ve found your dream ride, stop into Carriage Traders for a test drive and allow our friendly and knowledgeable team walk you through all of your vehicle’s functions and features! So don’t wait any longer, stop in today before your dream ride ends up in someone else’s driveway!
Used-Car Specials:
2013 Ford C-Max Hybrid SE – Buy for only $11,900*
2011 Honda Accord SDN LX-P – Buy for only $12,900*
2012 Nissan Frontier S – Buy for only $15,900*
2013 Toyota RAV4 Limited – Buy for only $17,900
2013 Ford F-150 Lariat – Buy for only $23,900*
2009 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD DRW LTZ – Buy for only $29,900*
*All offers expire 5/31/2019. For more information check out our specials page!
With spring in full bloom and summer right around the corner, there is no better time than NOW to get our beloved vehicle service and ready to hit the road! Luckily, with a new month comes new specials and this month we have a handful of impressive service specials that are sure to help you SAVE BIG on whatever your vehicle might need! Whether you need a simple tune-up service or more serious service, we have specials that can keep you saving big! So take a few minutes to check out all of our offers and once you find the service special for you, be sure to head over to our service specials page to print out the coupon that works best for you!
May Service Specials:
First Time Customers – Get 10% off*
Front-End Wheel Alignment – Get for only $78.88*
Conventional Oil Change – Get for only $24.95*
Full Synthetic Oil Change – Get for only $49.95*
State Inspection – Get for only $5.00*
Transmission Fluid Flush – Get for only $189.95*
Brake Fluid Flush – Get for only $89.95*
A/C Recharge – Get for only $89.95*
Make Your Own Discount:
Spend $50.00 – $100.00 – Save $5.00*
Spend $101.00 – $200.00 – Save $15.00*
Spend $201.00 – $400.00 – Save $30.00*
Spend $401.00 – $600.00 – Save $50.00*
Spend $601.00 – $800.00 – Save $75.00*
Spend $801.00 – Up – Save $100.00*
*All offers expire 6/30/2019. For more information check out our specials page!
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