Wednesday, April 24, 2013

Fun games you can play while traveling that don't require electronics!



One of the best rides that I can remember was going to Kentucky with my best friend and her parents.   It was fun because we played games in the car during the long trip. This was before video games, tablets, cell phones of course. Some of us here at Terry Ried Kia thought we would share some of our favorite “Road Games” with you.   Who knows it may even give you a chance to re-connect with someone you love or help you pass the time.

1.)  Alphabet Soup – Start with the letter “A” watch signs, billboards, street signs etc. When someone finds a word that starts with that letter they get a point.  Go through the entire alphabet until you get to “Z” and the person with the most points wins.

2.)  20 Questions - One person begins and asks a simple question such as “What’s your favorite cereal? Or “if you could go back in time where would you go?” Each person answers the question and finally, the person asking the question answers.  The next person then proceeds.  (This game is always fun, and it helps to get to know each other better.)

3.)  Geography – Pick a letter then guess as many states, cities, and countries that you can come up with to win points.   First person to reach 100 wins.

4.)  Scramble – Think of  5 to 6 letter word,  scramble the letters to stump your opponents.  Take turns. 


Sure these games maybe old fashioned but they can help to re-connect your family, help you to become closer and just simply pass the time.  If all else fails you can always have a DVD player installed in your car.  For this and other trip tips visit our website at  or give us a call.  770-386-8400

Wednesday, April 17, 2013

Hints on how to drive safely in the rain




Rain is essential.  It helps vegetation flourish, provides nutrients to soil, and is an overall integral part of life here on Earth.  But when it’s hitting your windshield and the pitter-patter of raindrops causes you to clench your teeth, it’s time to take precaution.  Rain can be attributed to thousands of car accidents a year.  Accidents can be preventable by drivers who weather (pun intended) the conditions of the road, using their intuition and defensive driving skills to stay safe during their commute.  When the road is wet, a film is created on the asphalt, causing your tires to lose traction.  Another problem during a downpour is your perception.  You can’t see as far into the distance as normal, so this decreases visibility of other cars and the road itself.

In today’s blog, we discuss some options to driving safely when the roads are wet.

Be careful when it rains after a dry spell.  Engine and oil grease cake up on asphalt over time.  When this is mixed with rainwater, it can cause the road to be extremely slick. 

Allot more time for your commute.  This allows for a steady drive to your destination.  The last thing you want to do is rush, it also compensates for delays, flooding, and unexpected accidents.

No Cruise control!  If you go into a hydroplane, there’s a slight chance your car could accelerate.  Reaction time is crucial and you’ll need your foot close to the pedal at all times.

Turn on your headlights.  This helps you see the road, and also lets motorists see you.  Blasting your high beams however can prove detrimental.  It can obscure your view further, reflecting water droplets in the air. 

Hydroplaning.  The first rule to avoiding the dreaded hydroplane is to avoid braking suddenly or turning the wheel, which can cause your car to spin or skid off of the road.  According to Edmunds: “Release the gas pedal slowly and steer straight until the car regains traction. If you must brake, tap the brake pedal (unless you have antilock brakes, in which case you can put your foot down).”

Defog your windows.  Rain causes your windshield to fog up fairly quickly.  Turn on your defrosters and make sure you're A/C is turned on.  Most vehicles climate control systems will automatically engage the A/C when the windshields defrost is selected.  

These helpful hints will help to keep you safer while driving in the rain.  Stop in to have us inspect your vehicle for other safety issues.  contact us at http://www.terryreidkia.com

Wednesday, April 10, 2013

The Best Twitter Profiles for Car Lovers: 2013 Edition



If you’re a social media fan (like we are) then you’re always looking for the coolest, most innovative individuals to “Like” on Facebook or “follow” on Twitter.  We know that because you visited our blog, that you’re also a car lover.  In today’s blog, we’re listing the most interesting and cool automotive Twitter followers we could find.  So, open up our browser (or smartphone) and get ready to jot these down.  Enjoy!

@TerryReidKia - need we say more??!!

@Jalopnik – a hilarious site that creates an innovative spin on automotive news

@KelleyBlueBook – Great source for automotive commentary, news, and auto expert facts

@edmunds – they empower the automotive consumer with cars, news, pricing, research and more

@BBC_TopGear – awesome group of guys that do the craziest stuff when it comes to cars

@CarandDRIVER – a worldwide leader in providing objective results and expert vehicle reviews.

@cartalk – Just people talking about cars, that just so happen to be REALLY knowledgeable!

@Carmagazinenews – Up-to-the-minute car news and information.  They also have the scoop on new cars!

@DanicaPatrick – Racecar driver of the #7 & #10 goDaddy.com cars, you might have heard of her!

@InsideLine – Edmunds InsideLine is an online car magazine featuring the latest reviews, blogs, photos and HD videos

These are just a FEW of our favorites; do you have any that you would like to add?