Author Archives: Katherine Coig

Blog: The Harder you Work, the Luckier you Get

BLOG: The Harder You Work, The Luckier You Get

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Auto Windscreens Recycles 9 Whales Worth of Auto Glass

Auto Windscreens Recycles 9 Whales Worth of Auto Glass

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Women Are Still Struggling to Break Into Executive Ranks

Women Are Still Struggling to Break Into Executive Ranks

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In Case you Missed it: Mitchell International Announces Sweeping Changes to NAGS at Auto Glass Week

In Case you Missed it: Mitchell International Announces Sweeping Changes to NAGS at Auto Glass Week

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Auto Glass Week to Debut Calibration Competition

Auto Glass Week™ continues its role in industry advancement with the addition of a new competition dedicated to recognizing those performing ADAS Calibrations properly. The first ever Auto Glass Technician Calibration competition will be held during Auto Glass Week ’18, … Continue reading

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Blog: The Power of Teamwork

Blog: The Power of Teamwork

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Toyota Takes a Winding Road to Autonomous Vehicles

Toyota Takes a Winding Road to Autonomous Vehicles

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Saint-Gobain Increases Production Capacity for Automotive Market in China

Saint-Gobain has taken a 50 percent stake in a flat glass production line of the Chinese group JJG, located in Zibo in the Shandong province, North-East China, according to an announcement from Saint Gobain. JJG has a total annual capacity … Continue reading

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Glass Doctor Recognizes Top Performers at Annual Conference

Texas-based Glass Doctor recently held its annual conference in Dallas, where it recognized its top performing employees from its franchisees across the country for their noteworthy performances throughout the year. Ashley Bosserman, an employee of Glass Doctor of Shenandoah Valley … Continue reading

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Today’s Blog: Technically Speaking – Your Recalibration Responsibility

“I hear daily about auto glass technicians who aren’t addressing the issue of recalibrating Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) with their customers. I find this very distressing. Is the problem that they don’t know what ADAS is or what it does? Do techs choose to ignore the issue because recalibration is too difficult to deal with? The statement I’ve frequently heard, “I’ve never had a problem with…,” is always true until it’s not. Here are the facts.” –Bob Beranek Continue reading

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National Windscreens Awarded Days Rental Contract

Days Rental, based in the U.K., has appointed National Windscreens as sole supplier for its windscreen repair, replacement and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) calibration requirements. The two-year contract will see National Windscreens provide glass fitting and calibration to Days … Continue reading

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‘Repair U’: Auto Body Repair ‘Industry Standard’ Outside of OEM Procedures Doesn’t Exist

Auto body repair experts, including one with time in the insurance industry, last month dismissed the idea of an “industry standard” for collision repair outside of the instructions set out in OEM repair procedures. Continue reading

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J.D. Power Study Shows the Public Split on Driving in Autonomous Vehicles

There are estimates that suggest there will be 10 million driverless cars on the road by 2020 (still a relatively small percentage when compared with the 1.4 billion cars currently on the road, which is an important thing to bear in mind). Continue reading

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Key Media & Research Wins 11 ASBPE Awards: 1 for AGRR™

AGRR™ magazine was awarded an American Society of Business Publication Editors’ (ASBPE) award for the Mid-Atlantic region on Wednesday at a ceremony held in Washington, D.C. Contributing editor Drew Vass received a regional bronze award in the Best Impact/Investigative category … Continue reading

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Plymouth Rock Assurance Entering the New York State Auto Insurance Market

On the heels of its expansion into Pennsylvania, Plymouth Rock Assurance is set to bring its approach to auto and home insurance into New York. Already servicing five northeastern states, Plymouth Rock will introduce drivers in the Empire State to … Continue reading

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In Self-Driving Cars, Human Drivers and Standards Come Up Short: Experts

Autonomous cars should be required to meet standards on their ability to detect potential hazards and better ways are needed to keep their human drivers ready to assume control, U.S. auto safety and technology experts said after fatal crashes involving Uber Technologies Inc. and Tesla Inc. vehicles. Continue reading

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Auto Glass Company Finds Success in Writing to TPA about Unfair Pricing

Tired of accepting discounts off NAGS rates, Christina Risinger, manager at Bartak Glass in O’Neill, Neb., contacted higher ups at a third party administrator (TPA)with whom they work, stating that the company would be happy to negotiate prices they considered … Continue reading

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Richard Rawlings, Host of Fast N’ Loud and Owner of Gas Monkey Garage, to Speak at Auto Glass Week™ 2018

Richard Rawlings, the host of the wildly popular Fast N’ Loud on the Discovery Channel and owner of Gas Monkey Garage in Dallas, will serve as the keynote speaker at Auto Glass Week™ 2018 to be held September 27-29, 2018 … Continue reading

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Auto Insurance Rates Going Up 13% Per Vehicle

The assessment paid by auto insurance companies to the Michigan Catastrophic Claim Association (MCCA) will be $192 per insured vehicle for the period July 1, 2018 to June 30, 2019. This is an increase of $22, or 13 percent over the 2017-2018 assessment of $170. Continue reading

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U.S. Senator Says More Safeguards Needed for Self-Driving Cars

U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal, who took a firsthand look at self-driving vehicle technology on Tuesday, said it was frightening to see “no hands on the wheel” as his car approached a parked car and called for more safeguards to be added to federal legislation following two recent fatal crashes. Continue reading

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Waymo CEO Says Self-Driving Tech Not to Blame in Deadly Tesla Crash

As controversy swirls around the death of a Model X driver last month, the head of Alphabet Inc.’s self-driving car unit is drawing distinctions between his company’s technology and Tesla Inc.’s Autopilot. Continue reading

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Uniban Canada and PH Vitres d’Autos Partner with Equity Firm for U.S. Expansion

Uniban Canada and P.H. Vitres D’autos Inc. have their sights set on entering the U.S. auto glass repair and replacement market as a part of their expansion strategy. The Canadian companies have forged a partnership with the Charlotte, N.C.-based private … Continue reading

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Minnesota Senators File Bill to Ban Self-Driving Cars

Four Minnesota senators have introduced a bill that would ban self-driving cars from state highways and roads unless the automated driving systems are disabled and humans perform all the driving tasks. Continue reading

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‘Inside Edition’ Looks at Risk of Underpaid Owners, Unsafe Vehicles with Photo Estimating

An “Inside Edition” broadcast posted Friday challenges the notion that a photo estimate is an adequate substitution for an in-person appraisal, bringing the issue to the national audience of what CBS called “television’s longest-running, top-rated and most-honored syndicated newsmagazine.” Continue reading

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Industry Growth Spurt Drives Opportunities for Alabama Auto Workers

HUNTSVILLE, Alabama — Alabama’s robust auto industry has transformed the state economy over the past two decades, as well as communities scattered from the Tennessee Valley to the Gulf Coast. Continue reading

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Maryland Becomes First State to Notify Drivers of Vehicle Recall Information

Maryland has launched a pilot program that uses the vehicle registration process to alert car owners of recalls involving their vehicle. Continue reading

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State Farm Responds to Claims of Influencing Non-OEM Auto Repair

A jury recently found Texas-based John Eagle Collision Center liable for injuries sustained by Matthew and Marcia Seebachan following a 2013 crash because  a repair was not done according to OEM specifications, according to the verdict. Now, State Farm is … Continue reading

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NOVUS Glass Franchise Opens in Casper, Wyoming

NOVUS Glass announced the addition of its newest franchisee, CJ Bentley of Casper, Wyo. The Bentley Ranch, where Bentley and his family currently reside, has been a part of the Casper community for more than 130 years. “We did a … Continue reading

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Today’s Blog – Leadership Lessons: It’s April; Let’s Go Back to the Future

This week marks the eighth anniversary of my involvement in the glass business. For those of you reading this who have been in the business for more than 30 years, forgive me. I wanted to learn exactly what it was like back then. I talked to a couple of employees who were in the auto glass business then. They shared some of the changes they’ve seen. For those of you who are leaders in our industry and are “short-timers” like me, let me share what I learned as we go back to the future together and remind our very experienced glass friends about their good ole’ days. Continue reading

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Auto Insurance Rates Raise $22 for Michigan Drivers

LANSING, Mich. – Car insurance rates in Michigan are going up once again and not too many are happy about it. The Michigan Catastrophic Claim Association announced this rate yesterday in a press release. Continue reading

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Dying on the Job: 164 Workers Killed in Ohio

The March 22 death of a forklift operator at Fuyao Glass America Inc.’s Moraine plant comes amid concerns that high-pressure work environments across the country are causing more injuries on the job. Continue reading

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Georgia Woman Charged for Driving to Maine Without Windshield

Lack of a windshield proved no barrier for a road warrior who drove from Georgia to Augusta, Maine. Continue reading

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Several Foreign and Domestic Companies Receive DOT Numbers

The Department of Transportation recently awarded seven DOT numbers to several international automotive glass companies and two U.S.-based automotive supplies company. Diamond Glass S.A de C.V, based in Ecatepec de Morelos, Mexico, received DOT number 1094. The company, which was … Continue reading

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Today’s Blog: Technically Speaking – Laminated Door Glasses

“My son Jay recently reported a problem with laminated door glasses breaking after installation. He said he noticed that the aftermarket parts were breaking at the mounting brackets, and that the glass itself seemed to be slightly out of bend. I hadn’t heard about this before, so I did some research with other technicians and found that this was a common problem.” –Bob Beranek Continue reading

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Self-Driving Cars Could Kill Hundreds but Save Tens of Thousands, Toyota Executive Says

NEW YORK — Self-driving cars could kill hundreds of people every year in the early going but save many more lives, a Toyota executive said Thursday at an event near the New York Auto Show. Continue reading

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Discount Auto Insurer Root Raises $51M from California Venture Capital Funds

Root Insurance Co., which deeply discounts auto premiums for good driving habits as measured by smartphone, has raised $51 million from Silicon Valley and San Francisco-area venture capital firms. Continue reading

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Dozens of Car Windows Shot Out in 7th Ward

NEW ORLEANS -“When I came out, I’m looking at glass all on the street, on both sides of the street,” said Seventh Ward resident Sheila St. James. “I thought it was some kind of apocalypse. I’m like, ‘what is going on? Was there a tornado that came through?’ I didn’t know what was going on.” Continue reading

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Ultra Bond Urges Judge Not to Dismiss Case Against Safelite

The attorneys for Richard Campfield, founder of Ultra Bond in Grand Junction, Colo., urged an Ohio judge not to dismiss his amended complaint against Safelite, according to a recently filed court document. Campfield is suing the company for allegedly utilizing … Continue reading

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Webasto Opens New Sunroof Plant in China

German auto parts manufacturer Webasto opened its 10th factory in China this month, a new wholly owned vehicle sunroof plant in the southern province of Guangzhou. Continue reading

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National Windscreens Takes Role in European ADAS Calibration Initiative

National Windscreens has taken a role in a new European-wide initiative to create higher standards for calibration of windscreen-mounted cameras used in ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems). Continue reading

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Nissan’s New Altima Offers Highly Automated Driving Without the Sticker Shock

The Nissan Altima has always sold well, despite being a mostly utilitarian sedan. But the latest redesign includes an unexpected and welcome treat: ProPilot Assist, the Japanese automaker’s semi-autonomous driver assist system. Continue reading

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The Most Important Self-Driving Car Announcement Yet

On Tuesday, Waymo announced they’d purchase 20,000 sporty, electric self-driving vehicles from Jaguar for the company’s forthcoming ride-hailing service. Continue reading

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Access Insurance Company Ordered Into Liquidation

A Texas district court judge has issued an order of liquidation of Access Insurance Company, an auto insurer incorporated in Texas but headquartered in Atlanta, after the Texas Insurance Department found the insurer unable to pay off its debts. The … Continue reading

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New Board Member at National Windscreens

A customer-centric focus is the key to the continued growth of National Windscreens, according to Lisa Pugh, business development director (insurance), who has been recently appointed as a board member of the company. Pugh, who has been with National Windscreens … Continue reading

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$200 Windshield Replacement Vouchers Issued to Cullman Residents

The United Way of Cullman County will be issuing vouchers for windshield repairs/replacements in amounts up to $200 for automobiles damaged in last week’s historical hailstorm. Continue reading

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Alphabet’s Waymo Unveils Fully Self-Driving Car with Safety an ‘Overwhelming’ Priority

Last week’s fatal pedestrian crash involving a self-driving Uber Technologies vehicle isn’t stopping rival Waymo, a unit of Alphabet Inc., from forging ahead with its own autonomous-driving efforts. Continue reading

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When Windshield Repair Goes Very Wrong

So, where’s Oprah when you need her? That’s because two Tri Counties Bank employees are badly in need of new cars.
Their cars, both parked outside the bank in the parking lot off Hilltop Drive, were destroyed Tuesday when an auto glass repairman accidentally lit one of them on fire while trying to fix a rock-chipped windshield, a Redding fire official said.
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Lawsuit Against Fuyao Glass America for Unpaid Wages Continues to Grow

Bad news keeps rolling in for Fuyao Glass America (FGA). Since the beginning of March, 222 current or former employees have requested to join the lawsuit against the company for alleged unpaid overtime wages and rounding policy. Lead plaintiff Julia … Continue reading

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Auto Body Shop Scams Could be Hiking Insurance Costs, Says Industry Expert

A recent investigation by a national insurance company showed consumers in Ontario could be footing the bill for auto body scams, and a St. John’s cab company manager says he’s found evidence of the scams in Newfoundland and Labrador.
While doing a bit of digging, George Murphy got a list of all the claims that had ever been filed on his insurance policy. On that list was a charge of $1,143 for “glass breakage,” he told the St. John’s Morning Show.
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Arizona Governor Suspends Uber’s Ability to Test Self-Driving Cars

The governor of Arizona on Monday suspended Uber’s ability to test self-driving cars on public roads in the state following a fatal crash last week that killed a 49-year-old pedestrian. Continue reading

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Regulators Are Asleep at the Wheel on Self-Driving Cars

The companies and officials influencing the development of self-driving technology offered a wide variety of reactions to the death last week of a pedestrian struck by an Uber autonomous vehicle. Uber Technologies Inc. suspended the testing of its self-driving cars in Tempe, Arizona, where the incident took place, and in other cities. So did Toyota Motor Corp., citing the emotional toll on the safety drivers who sit in the front seat and monitor for hazards. Meanwhile, Ford Motor Co., Nissan Motor Co. and Alphabet Inc.’s Waymo division kept testing. Continue reading

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Uber Disabled Volvo Vehicle’s Safety System Before Self-Driving Fatality

NEW YORK/SAN FRANCISCO — Uber disabled the standard collision avoidance technology in the Volvo XC90 that struck and killed a woman in the U.S. last week, according to Aptiv, the partsmaker that supplied the vehicle’s radar and camera. Continue reading

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Independent Agent Study Ranks Insurance Carriers

In its inaugural independent agent study, National Underwriter, in conjunction with the National Association of Professional Insurance Agents (PIA), polled U.S. property and casualty insurance agents to provide insight into the business, including their most highly-rated carrier partners. So what … Continue reading

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Today’s Blog: Leadership Lessons – The Biggest Decision of My Life

“A month or so ago, I got a notice to appear for jury duty. I’ve been called before but never served on a jury. I was traveling that week and rescheduled.” –Mark Liston Continue reading

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NEW DETAILS: Police Report Fuyao Worker Killed after Cutting Strap Holding Glass

The Fuyao Glass America Inc. employee killed Tuesday in a workplace accident at the Moraine plant was crushed by a ton of glass after he cut a strap, freeing the product to fall on him, police records show. Continue reading

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EU Threatens Retaliation Over Trump Metal Duties

Reacting to the Trump Admin.’s proposed import duties on steel and aluminum products, the European Union warns it is prepared to impose temporary safeguard duties on imports into the EU of U.S.-made trucks.
Auto-industry inputs on the list include a wide range of aluminum and steel products: bars, rods, angles, plate, wire and more. Also included are tempered and laminated safety glass for use in motor vehicles, plus rearview mirrors.
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How Self-Driving Car Policy Will Determine Life, Death and Everything In-Between

Self-driving cars are here. More are on their way. Major automakers and Silicon Valley giants are clamoring to develop and release fully autonomous cars to safely and efficiently chauffeur us. Some models won’t even include a steering wheel. Along with many challenges, technical and otherwise, there is one fundamental political question that is too easily brushed aside: Who decides on how transportation algorithms will make decisions about life, death and everything in between? Continue reading

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Could Self-Driving Car Companies Stop You from Suing?

WASHINGTON — Ten U.S. senators are asking Ford, General Motors, Fiat Chrysler and other companies developing self-driving cars whether they are using or planning to use contracts with consumers that would limit their ability to sue in the case of a crash. Continue reading

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U.S. Business Associations Oppose Tariffs

A lengthy list of U.S. business associations and groups, including several related to the auto parts industry, have sent a letter to the current administration opposing the imposition of tariffs. They contend these tariffs could potentially harm the U.S. economy and its global competitiveness, according to the letter.   Continue reading

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Several Former Technicians Join Lawsuit Against Safelite

Three additional former Safelite technicians have joined the July 2017 lawsuit against the company for alleged unpaid wages due to the company’s purported “Forty-Hour Plan.” The plaintiffs are seeking $500,000 total under the Fair Labor Standards Act. Continue reading

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Erie Insurance Highlights Safelite in Customer Magazine

In the Fall issue of Eriesense, Erie Insurance highlights its partnership with Safelite Solutions for windshield repairs. Eriesense is the quarterly magazine for policyholders. Continue reading

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Democrats Cite Tesla Probe in Raising Self-Driving Car Bill Concerns

Democrats Cite Tesla Probe in Raising Self-Driving Car Bill Concerns

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3M’s Autonomous Vehicle Ambitions

3M’s Autonomous Vehicle Ambitions

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GEICO to Comply with New York Reg Banning Discriminatory Auto Insurance Rates

GEICO to Comply with New York Reg Banning Discriminatory Auto Insurance Rates

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Plan to Attend an AGSC Regional Certification and Training Program

The Auto Glass Safety Council™ (AGSC) will hold a number of regional certification training courses across the United States throughout the next 18 months. Each session will include a three-hour training course, along with time to take the certification exam. … Continue reading

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Safelite Partners with Ronald McDonald House

Safelite AutoGlass partnered with the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Indiana to host the annual State of the House event. This showcases all that the House does for families of children receiving medical care at Riley Hospital for Children … Continue reading

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Delaware Works to be on Cutting Edge of Self-Driving Cars

Delaware Works to be on Cutting Edge of Self-Driving Cars

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Holography Approach Improves Heads Up Displays for Planes and Cars

Holography Approach Improves Heads Up Displays for Planes and Cars

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NHTSA Releases Preliminary Traffic Safety Facts for 2016

NHTSA Releases Preliminary Traffic Safety Facts for 2016

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China Could Drive Demand for Autonomous Cars, VW Exec Says

China Could Drive Demand for Autonomous Cars, VW Exec Says

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After Reaching Record-breaking Heights, U.S. Auto Recalls at Lowest Level Since 2013

After Reaching Record-breaking Heights, U.S. Auto Recalls at Lowest Level Since 2013

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Investigation Into Auto Body Repairs Reveals Inflated Charges, Incomplete Work

Investigation Into Auto Body Repairs Reveals Inflated Charges, Incomplete Work

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Coming Back from Hurricane Harvey

The 2017 hurricane season was one for the books: Harvey in Texas, Irma in Florida and Maria in Puerto Rico—each causing widespread devastation that some areas are still grappling with. Dave Duensing, owner of Texan Glass & Solar Control in … Continue reading

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Today’s Blog: Technically Speaking – Wire-out Tips

“One of the benefits of being a trainer is having the opportunity to observe and learn tips for using and operating both new and existing tools. I thought I would share some things that I have learned while teaching Auto Glass University.” –Bob Beranek Continue reading

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Key Media & Research Receives Eleven ASBPE Nominations: One for AGRR™ Magazine

AGRR™ magazine was named a finalist for one American Society of Business Publication Editors’ (ASBPE) award on Thursday, showcasing the staff’s outstanding work in print. AGRR™ is up for the regional ASBPE award for best impact/investigative category for contributing editor … Continue reading

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State Farm Layoffs Reported in Wash., Ill., on Top of Scheduled 2018-21 Closures

Collision repairers in multiple states might notice some changes at State Farm this year in light of two scheduled office closures and two new restructuring moves reported by Washington and Illinois media. Continue reading

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U.S. Vehicle Recalls Fall to Lowest Level Since 2013

WASHINGTON — U.S. light-vehicle recalls fell to 30.7 million in 2017, the lowest level since 2013, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said Thursday, after a record 53 million were recalled in 2016 when a callback linked to deadly airbags was expanded. Continue reading

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Trial Date Set in Burrows v. Fuyao Glass America Lawsuit

A trial date and timeline of the discovery phase has been set in the case against Fuyao Glass America (FGA). The lawsuit was brought forth by former executive Dave Burrows, who is suing the auto glass manufacturer over his November … Continue reading

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Novus Glass of Wrens Becomes AGSC Registered Member Company

Novus Glass of Wrens, Ga., has joined the list of safety-conscious auto glass companies by becoming an accredited Registered Member Company of the prestigious Auto Glass Safety Council™ (AGSC). “By becoming a member, Novus Glass of Wrens demonstrates its commitment … Continue reading

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Auto Glass Week™ 2018 Welcomes GlasWeld as Returning Platinum-Plus Level Sponsor

GlasWeld will once again support Auto Glass Week™ 2018 (AGW), including as the top sponsor of the Windshield Repair Competition, which is named after the Platinum-Plus sponsor.  “For over 36 years, GlasWeld has been the Gold Standard in tools, equipment … Continue reading

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Mercedes’ Futuristic Headlights Shine Warning Symbols on the Road

Heads-up displays that use a car’s windshield as a screen are a good way to keep drivers informed while their eyes stay on the road ahead. But Daimler thinks it has an even better solution, and on its high-end vehicles it says it will soon introduce programmable, “million-pixel” headlights that project warning symbols and driving tips on the actual road itself. Continue reading

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U.S. Senators Call New Hearing on Takata Auto Air Bag Inflators

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators will convene a previously undisclosed hearing to focus on the status of Takata air bag inflator recalls, the largest, most complex recall process in auto history that some lawmakers say is too slow. Continue reading

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Performing Pre- and Post-Scanning In-House

Many modern-day vehicles can have up to 100 modules that need to communicate with one another in order to function properly. This emphasizes the importance of pre- and post-repair scans, according to Duane “Doc” Watson, Bosch technical trainer, who discussed … Continue reading

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LKQ Co. Shares Sold by KBC Group NV

KBC Group NV lessened its position in LKQ Co. (NASDAQ:LKQ) by 5.4% during the fourth quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 106,997 shares of the auto parts company’s stock after selling 6,132 shares during the period. KBC Group NV’s holdings in LKQ were worth $4,352,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period. Continue reading

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KCC Completes Expansion of Auto Glass Production Line

South Korea’s building and industrial materials manufacturer KCC Corp. has completed construction to scale up automotive glass production capacity at its plant in Yeoju, Gyeonggi Province. Continue reading

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Record Storm Claims Cut into 2017 Earnings for American Family Insurance

A record $1.5 billion in claims from storm damage led to a 52-percent drop in earnings for American Family Insurance last year, the company said Tuesday. Continue reading

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Self-Driving Cars are Here, but Shouting Californians are Attacking Them, DMV Says

It’s a good thing self-driving cars haven’t been programmed for road rage.
If they had, the Californians who have taken to the streets this year to attack the vehicles — one man “with his entire body” — might have been in trouble.
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Indiana Anti-Steering Legislation Hits an Impasse after House Amendments

After clearing the Indiana House floor, Senate Bill 146, which aims to prohibit insurers and related entities from steering, may have hit a temporary stalemate. The state Senate has refused to concur with the amendments added by the House Committee … Continue reading

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Novus Glass of Roseburg Becomes AGSC Registered Member Company

Novus Glass of Roseburg, Ore., has joined the list of safety-conscious auto glass companies by becoming an accredited Registered Member Company of the prestigious Auto Glass Safety Council™ (AGSC). “By becoming a member, Novus Glass of Roseburg demonstrates its commitment … Continue reading

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State Farm Cuts Auto Claims Costs $1.6B but Brings in More in Premiums

State Farm financials released Thursday indicate that the carrier’s auto insurance business made $2.8 billion more in premiums, cut auto claims and loss adjustment expenses $1.6 billion, but ended up $2.8 billion in the red. Continue reading

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New Laser Technology Lets Driverless Cars See Around Corners

Whether it’s a child running after a ball, a herd of cows or a broken-down car, unexpected obstacles can prove deadly to drivers. But scientists say the cars of the future might be able to anticipate such perils. Continue reading

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Take up Stalled Self-Driving Car Bill, Automakers Urge U.S. Senate

WASHINGTON – Major automakers on Monday joined forces with tech companies and a variety of interest groups to urge the U.S. Senate to take up, before the end of May, a stalled bill aimed at speeding the deployment and testing of self-driving cars. Continue reading

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Nor’easter Leaves Auto Glass Shops Without Power

The powerful nor’easter that raked the East Coast over the weekend killed eight people and left 2 million without power across 17 states and the District of Columbia, leaving many auto glass repair and replacement companies unable to access their … Continue reading

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Today’s Blog: Leadership Lessons – Keeping up with the Times

“Laughingly, I often refer to ‘going online’ as going to my Google machine. Never have I thought of referring to this as my ‘YouTube machine,’ though. Why? Must be age!” –Mark Liston Continue reading

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Novus Glass of Almena Becomes AGSC Registered Member Company

Novus Glass of Almena, Wis., has joined the list of safety-conscious auto glass companies by becoming an accredited Registered Member Company of the prestigious Auto Glass Safety Council™ (AGSC). “By becoming a member, Novus Glass of Almena demonstrates its commitment … Continue reading

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NHTSA Creates Program to Help Regulated Industries Comply with Rules

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently announced the creation of the Compliance Assistance Program, which will assist regulated commercial entities in the motor vehicle and equipment industry to comply with safety rules to promote safety on U.S. highways. Continue reading

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Karma Revero Recalled by the NHTSA Over Faulty Side Airbags

We don’t hear much about the Karma these days. Not from Fisker, certainly, and not much from Karma Automotive, either. But we have just received word from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Continue reading

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Year-Over-Year Travel in December Slightly Increased

Travel on all roads and streets experienced an uptick in December 2017, increasing .7 percent, or 1.8 billion vehicle miles, compared to December 2016, according to the latest figures from the Federal Highway Administration. Month-over-month miles driven decreased slightly by … Continue reading

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Belron Net Debt Up, 2018 Outlook

In D’Ieteren’s annual report issued February 28, Belron, parent company to Safelite AutoGlass, reported that its net financial debt increased in 2017 to $1 billion (EUR 1,271.9 million), a 54-percent increase on a year-over-year basis. Belron’s refinancing was complete in … Continue reading

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PCI: CFA Report on Auto Insurance Rating “Based on Flawed Research”

The Property Casualty Insurers Association of America (PCI) has criticized a recent study on auto insurance ratings, saying that the study’s authors have a “fundamental misunderstanding” of how underwriting works. Continue reading

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AXA Makes Deal with Insurtech Brolly

Not taking insurtechs seriously yet? It seems the major insurance players certainly are, as indicated by the establishment of yet another key partnership.
AXA revealed that it will be the first panel member to provide a new car insurance product via start-up Brolly. Scheduled to launch in March it includes a 24hr claims helpline, cover for replacement keys and locks, as well as windscreen repair.
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California Approves Truly Driver-Free Automated Cars

As anticipated, the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) announced Monday that it will allow tech companies and car manufacturers to begin testing automated vehicles on California roads without human safety drivers. Continue reading

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Self-Driving Cars are Smart, but Car Washes Stump Them

Autonomous vehicles aren’t just the future; they’ve already hit the road in many cities around the world. But one place you aren’t apt to find a self-driving car is in an automatic car wash. Not because the vehicle doesn’t need to be cleaned, though. It turns out the self-driving car and its vehicular spa don’t exactly play nice. Continue reading

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Belron Experienced Strong Sales Growth, Despite a Slow Start for Safelite

Belron’s revenue increased by 5.5 percent in comparison to 2016, despite a mild winter in the United States, which negatively impacted Safelite’s sales in the first quarter, according to D’Ieteren’s 2017 financial report. D’Ieteren, a Belgium-based company, owns Belron, which … Continue reading

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Gerber Collision & Glass Opens Repair Location in Colorado

The Boyd Group Inc. announced the opening of a collision repair location in Falcon, Colo. This center was previously operated as Falcon Collision Center. “This new center complements our two locations in Colorado Springs by increasing our market visibility and … Continue reading

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Aston Martin and Dow Continue Partnership

Aston Martin and Dow have announced the continuation of their technical development partnership. “Our collaboration with Aston Martin leverages our companies’ joint expertise and creates a platform that enables us to fast track innovation by validating multiple new technologies and … Continue reading

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Sibylla EV Announced with Sliding Windshield, Gullwing Doors

When you picture a Giugario-designed car, what springs to mind? It might be the Alfa Romeo Brera, or maybe the first-generation Volkswagen Golf. The latest car to roll forth from its legendary studio is unlike anything else in its back catalogue. Continue reading

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Insurance Claims Management Announces New Majority Owners

Dan Wilson, former CEO of Safelite Group, and Paul Gross, former CEO of Insurance Claims Management (ICM), the privately held parent company of HSG and the ProGlass Alliance Network, are now the majority owners of ICM as an investor group. … Continue reading

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NHTSA Unveils New Compliance Assistance Program

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced the creation of a compliance assistance program to help regulated entities, including vehicle and trailer manufacturers, as well as equipment manufacturers comply with safety regulations as a means to promote safety on our highways. Continue reading

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Windscreen and Glass Claims Rise in One Fowl Swoop

Auckland — Pūkekos, ducks and hawks have all made an impact on widescreen claims this summer, but thankfully were only a small percentage of factors responsible for causing damage, according to AA Insurance. Continue reading

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State Farm Earns I-CAR Insurance Gold Class Corporate Status

I-CAR has awarded Insurance Gold Class business recognition at the corporate level to State Farm, an achievement reserved for insurance carriers that are committed to improving the performance and quality of auto collision repairs. Continue reading

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Uber Slow to Grow Its Autonomous Vehicle R&D Center Near Detroit

Uber is up and running in suburban Detroit, where it is slowly ramping up hiring to establish an autonomous vehicle research center to work alongside OEMs and auto suppliers, Autoblog has learned. Continue reading

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November Travel Continued Downward Trajectory

Travel on all roads and streets experienced a slight uptick in November 2017, increasing 1.1 percent, or 2.8 billion vehicle miles, compared to November 2016, according to the latest figures from the Federal Highway Administration. Month-over-month miles driven increased slightly … Continue reading

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Today’s Blog: Leadership Lessons – Talk about Competition!

“Over the weekend, we were on the way to the store and passed by a McDonald’s located just blocks from one of the largest high schools in the area. This busy location was recently torn down and a new, more modern McDonald’s is being built.” –Mark Liston Continue reading

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Sunroofs and Safety: Reports of Shattering Glass on the Rise

A sunroof brings sunshine into a vehicle, but some ongoing safety incidents have cast clouds over the popular feature. Reports on sunroof glass explosions highlight possible risks. Could safety concerns bring the era of the rising sunroof to an end? Continue reading

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NHTSA’s Approach to Autonomous Vehicles Taking Form

The closing years of the Obama Administration saw a whirlwind of regulatory activity from NHTSA, including multiple consent orders, record penalties and soaring recall numbers. Continue reading

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Self-Driving Cars with Remote Human Backup Headed for Testing

SAN FRANCISCO — Self-driving cars that back up their computerized system with a remote human operator instead of a fallback driver at the wheel could be tested on California roads as early as April, the state department of motor vehicles said. Continue reading

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Don Cotton Retires from Auto Glass Industry after 40 Years

Take it from Don Cotton, former owner of The Village Glassmith in Needham, Mass., now retiree, “Sell it, or walk away.” That was Cotton’s last piece of advice to auto glass shop owners, as the industry veteran officially closed-up shop … Continue reading

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Glass Manufacturer Pilkington Opts to Stay in Phoenix

After completing a site selection search spanning the United States and Mexico, glass manufacturer Pilkington North America has opted to remain in Phoenix, renewing a 200,000-square-foot, long-term lease for its Western U.S. distribution center at Buckeye 75 Distribution Park, owned and managed by Lincoln Property Company (LPC).
Pilkington’s Buckeye 75 location serves as a major distribution hub for products including laminated and toughened glass for the automotive glass replacement market. Across North America, Pilkington manufacturers and markets glass and glazing products for the architectural and automotive markets.
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Sunroofs Are Growing in Size and Popularity. Rules Haven’t Kept Up.

After 18-year-old Liza Hankins was thrown through the closed sunroof of her sport-utility vehicle during a crash and paralyzed, her family sued the truck’s maker, claiming it had failed to live up to its safety responsibilities.
The carmaker, Ford, won the case after it pointed out that no government regulations required a sunroof — even a closed one — to keep someone inside a vehicle in a crash.
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California Vehicle Sales Exceed 2 Million for Third Straight Year

For the third straight year, sales for new cars and trucks in California exceeded 2 million and the forecast for 2018 anticipates the number to top 2 million again — but just barely, as the rate of growth is slowing. Continue reading

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Bentley Wants Its Next New Car to be Fully Autonomous

This week in Austria, Bentley launched its new V8 iteration of its luxury Bentayga SUV. The first Bentayga came off the production line back in 2015, and the company has produced more than 10,000 so far. Continue reading

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Judge Dismisses Several Claims in Nissan Sunroof Lawsuit

It’s been more than a year since Nissan North America was hit with a lawsuit claiming certain models have defective panoramic glass sunroofs, which may cause them to explode spontaneously. However, the manufacturer made headway in the case when U.S. … Continue reading

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N.Y. Shop Settles with Progressive; Nationwide Loses Request for More Discovery

Following wins before the Second Circuit Appeals Court late last year, a Syracuse, N.Y., body shop has settled a lawsuit with Progressive and seen a similar case against Nationwide receive another favorable ruling. Continue reading

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Autonomous Vehicle Bill Rolls through House Committee Hearing

SALT LAKE CITY — While federal legislators recently tapped the brakes on efforts to establish national standards for driverless vehicles, the Utah Legislature is cruising toward adopting state rules that would pave the way for autonomous cars and trucks to start sharing the highways and byways of the Beehive State with human operators. Continue reading

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Auto Glass Lawsuits Against Insurers Spike 22 Percent in 2017

A surge in auto glass claims filed against insurers isn’t going away — it’s getting worse. In 2017, there was a 22 percent increase in such lawsuits against insurance providers, according to the Florida Justice Reform Institute. That’s a jump from 19,558 in 2016 to 23,949 in 2017. Continue reading

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Bosch and Daimler Jump in Together on Driverless Vehicle Tech

Bosch’s Connected World conference opened with a demo of its automated valet technology. Though the firm’s chief exec, Volkmar Denner, drove the car up to its drop-off point, the self-parking mode failed to engage. Continue reading

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Illinois Bill Aims to Require Customer Consent for Non-OEM Parts

Illinois Rep. Linda Chapa LaVia has introduced an amendment to the state’s Insurance Code and Automotive Collision Repair Act that would prohibit the use of non-OEM aftermarket parts in an auto repair estimate unless the customer provides written consent. The … Continue reading

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Assured Automotive Establishes a Presence in Northern Ontario

The Boyd Group Inc. announced that it acquired a multi-store operation (MSO) located in Sudbury, Ontario, consisting of four collision repair centers. The centers were previously operated by the Nero Family as Regent Autobody. “We are very excited to add … Continue reading

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PPG Awarded Heated Windshield Contract for Bell 525 Relentless

PPG announced that it has been awarded the contract by Bell Helicopter, a Textron Inc. company and major global helicopter manufacturer, to produce heated pilot and co-pilot windshields for the Bell 525 Relentless commercial helicopter. Continue reading

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Spotlight on ADAS: Why ADAS is Not a Fit and Forget System

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems are being installed in new vehicles at an ever-increasing pace but they are not ‘fit and forget’ technology. There is an essential maintenance requirement, such as after an accident or when a windscreen is replaced, needed to ensure the assistance systems continue to work correctly. Continue reading

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Tampa Bay Residents Report Scary Explosions Involving Tempered Glass

From sunroofs to sinks it is likely something in your home is made of tempered glass. It’s supposed to be the safer option but we found people here in the Tampa Bay area and across the country are reporting scary explosions in their cars and homes. Continue reading

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Lippert Components Manufacturing Acquires Auto Glass Manufacturer Hehr

U.S.-based Lippert Components Manufacturing Inc. (LCI), an international supplier of OEM components to several transportation industries, has acquired all of the business assets of Los Angeles-based Hehr International Inc., a manufacturer of tempered and laminated glass for the RV, transit, … Continue reading

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Today’s Blog: Leadership Lessons – Are You Easy to do Business With?

“As I mentioned last week, MK and I were at the International Franchise Association (IFA) Convention in Phoenix. From there, we headed to Palm Springs, Calif., for a Lead Like Jesus Conference for the remainder of the week. We like road trips, so we chose to drive then fly home after dropping the rental car there.” –Mark Liston Continue reading

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Safelite Autoglass to Open on Evansville’s East Side

EVANSVILLE, Ind. — Safelite AutoGlass is relocating its local store from Henderson to Evansville, and it could open by late next week, a company official said. Continue reading

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The Hurdles of Fixing Automated Vehicles

As automated vehicles slowly populate selected urban areas, the question persists: Who will repair and maintain these robotic and technological marvels? Continue reading

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Advanced Blind Spot Cameras Could Spell the End of Car Mirrors

It’s one of the facets of driving that still seems archaic, especially in an age when we are considering the imminence of self-driving vehicles. How, in 2018, is it possible that we must still strain our necks and take our eyes off the road to change lanes? Continue reading

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IIHS: Drivers Wary of Automation on Highways and in Heavy Traffic

Automation that takes human error out of driving could one day help reduce accidents that killed more than 40,000 Americans last year. But if motorists are going to make use of the potentially life-saving technology, they’d prefer it operate as they would, and not all people have the same driving style. Continue reading

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Arizona Senate Bill Clears First Hurdle

After much discussion, Arizona SB 1155, a bill aimed at strengthening the state’s current anti-steering laws and requiring timely inspections of glass claims, cleared the state’s Senate Committee on Government.  “I come here before you today as someone who’s been … Continue reading

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Uniban Canada and Desjardins Insurance Renew 12-Year Technology Agreement

Uniban Canada announced the renewal of a 12-year agreement with Desjardins Insurance for the use of the Conversense portal, the company’s automotive glass claims management system. “It is an honor to sign an agreement of this duration and magnitude with … Continue reading

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Global Auto Sales Poised to Set Record in 2018

Light-vehicle sales are on track to rise to a record 97.3 million units this year, despite a second straight annual decline in North America, according to an LMC Automotive forecast. Continue reading

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Why the Rise of Self-Driving Vehicles Will Actually Increase Car Ownership

It’s been a long time coming. For years Waymo (formerly known as Google Chauffeur) has been diligently developing, driving, testing and refining its fleets of various models of self-driving cars. Now Waymo is going big. The company recently placed an order for several thousand new Chrysler Pacifica minivans and next year plans to launch driverless taxis in a number of US cities. Continue reading

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How IoT is Shaping the Auto Insurance Sector

Internet of Things has created a buzz among the technology enthusiasts and tech-based start-ups with its interesting concept of connecting objects to objects, objects to people and people to people. The latest offerings of IoT are now uniquely combined with the physical groundwork of every industry leading to its overall efficiency. Continue reading

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Watch: The Latest Technology Unveiled at Detroit Auto Show

Watch: The Latest Technology Unveiled at Detroit Auto Show

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Autoglass Launches Artificial Intelligence Technology

Autoglass, a vehicle glass repair and replacement company based in the UK and owned by Belron, says it has successfully trialed the latest Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology to assess the severity of vehicle glass damage. The company says this can … Continue reading

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Kemper to Acquire Nonstandard Auto Insurer Infinity in $1.4 Billion Deal

Kemper to Acquire Nonstandard Auto Insurer Infinity in $1.4 Billion Deal

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Administration Questioned on NHTSA Readiness

Administration Questioned on NHTSA Readiness

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Autonomous Vehicle Bill Hits Bump with Manufacturers

Autonomous Vehicle Bill Hits Bump with Manufacturers

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SuperGlass Windshield Repair Recognizes Its Top Earners

SuperGlass Windshield Repair, headquartered in Orlando, released its Top 40 Franchises in Sales for 2017, which recognizes the company’s top performers, including international locations. Here are the rankings, according to the company: Rank Location Owner/Operator 2017 Sales 1 Phoenix Quinton … Continue reading

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Pittsburgh Glass Works Employees Seeking Retraining, Other Benefits as Plant Shutdown Nears

Employees from East Deer’s Pittsburgh Glass Works are seeking federal help to weather upcoming worker layoffs because half of their automotive glass manufacturing plant’s production is moving to Mexico. Continue reading

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Safelite Auto-Glass Replacement Practice Challenged by Glass-Repair Resin Maker

Columbus-based Safelite is defending itself in federal court from a lawsuit challenging the company’s support for the so-called “dollar-bill rule” as a guide to determine whether to repair or replace cracked auto glass. Continue reading

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Louisiana Auto Insurance Rates Increase, Second Highest in the Nation

BATON ROUGE – For a fourth straight year in a row, Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon says residents in Louisiana can expect increases in their auto premiums. In some cases, it may be a double-digit increase. Continue reading

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Ford Expands ‘Do Not Drive’ Airbag Warning to 33,000 More Ranger Trucks

WASHINGTON — Ford on Monday warned an additional 33,000 owners of older pickup trucks in North America to stop driving them until potentially defective Takata Corp airbag inflators can be repaired. Continue reading

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ADAS Sensor Calibration Increases Repair Costs

ADAS Sensor Calibration Increases Repair Costs

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Senators Eye Nebraska as Testing Site for Self-Driving Cars

Senators Eye Nebraska as Testing Site for Self-Driving Cars

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FOX 46 Gets Car Restored for Veteran Firefighter Ripped Off by Auto Shop

FOX 46 Gets Car Restored for Veteran Firefighter Ripped Off by Auto Shop

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At Least 13 Windshields Smashed in Anderson

At Least 13 Windshields Smashed in Anderson

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Blog: Create your Network

I spent this week with 3,600+ franchisors, franchisees and franchise suppliers at the International Franchise Association annual meeting.  It was an amazing week of sharing ideas and best practices with the best of the best. It was very inspirational. Create … Continue reading

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Motorcars Inc. Becomes AGSC Registered Member Company

Motorcars Inc. of Cleveland Heights, Ohio, has joined the list of safety-conscious auto glass companies by becoming an accredited Registered Member Company of the prestigious Auto Glass Safety Council™ (AGSC). http://www.agsc.org/news/Member_Motorcars_Feb2018.html

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Five Rude Emails You Send Without Realizing It

Five Rude Emails You Send Without Realizing It

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Judge Grants Class-Action Status in Fuyao Glass America Lawsuit

A U.S. district judge has granted class-action status to current and former employees of Fuyao Glass America (FGA) in the June 2017 lawsuit against the manufacturer. The plaintiffs are suing the company for unpaid wages, including overtime compensation. The 13 … Continue reading

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TRICO Group: The New Name for Crowne Aftermarket

The aftermarket business of Crowne LLC, consisting of TRICO wiper blades, Carter fuel pumps, and StrongArm lift supports has been renamed, “TRICO Group.” “As we continue to grow our aftermarket business, it became clear to us that we should lead … Continue reading

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777 Auto Glass Becomes AGSC Registered Member Company

777 Auto Glass of Sacramento, Calif., has joined the list of safety-conscious auto glass companies by becoming an accredited Registered Member Company of the prestigious Auto Glass Safety Council™ (AGSC). Continue reading

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Lawmakers Debate Repealing Michigan’s No-Fault Auto Insurance System

Some Michigan Republicans want to repeal the state’s no-fault auto insurance system. Continue reading

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First He Stole a Woman’s SUV. Then He Called Her When He Had Trouble Starting It, Police Say

As temperatures in Sartell, Minn., dipped to -9 degrees Fahrenheit on Monday, a woman shopping at the town’s Walmart auto-started her car so it would be warm once she got to the parking lot.
Then Wilson started talking to the owner directly over the phone, police said, using the name Wayne Hennen and telling the owner he was employed at an auto glass repair company. Wilson told her he’d fixed her car — and that he’d return it to her if she could re-start it for him, WJON reports.
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Hawaii Representative Pushes for Consumer Choice of OEM Parts for Repairs

Hawaii Representative Roy Takumi is pushing to pass a bill that would allow the state’s residents the choice of using OEM parts instead of aftermarket ones. If passed, the bill aims to prohibit insurers from charging policyholders extra fees associated … Continue reading

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Auto Insurance Rates Have Skyrocketed — and in Ways That are Wildly Unfair

Auto insurance rates have increased at more than twice the rate of inflation recently, with premiums hitting a national average of $1,427, an online marketplace has found. Continue reading

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Outdated Auto Safety Regulations Threaten the Self-Driving Revolution

Self-driving cars should be welcomed for their substantial safety and mobility gains for the traveling public, especially the elderly and disabled. But the federal government’s failure to modernize auto regulations is already denying consumers safer and superior products, and this problem will only grow larger as automated driving systems near the deployment stage. Continue reading

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Here’s Why Level 5 Autonomous Cars May Still be a Decade Away

Although the hardware and software technology for fully autonomous cars is ready today, the cars themselves may still be a decade or more away, vehicle experts said at the recent North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Continue reading

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For 3rd Time, General Motors Seeks to Avoid Takata Recalls

DETROIT — For the third time in the past three years, General Motors has asked the U.S. government for permission to avoid recalls of potentially deadly Takata air bag inflators. Continue reading

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Auto Glass Fitters Adheres to the Automotive Glass Replacement Safety Standard

Auto Glass Fitters in Cook County, Ill., with locations throughout the nation, has completed its services while adhering to the Automotive Glass Replacement Safety Standard (AGRSS). The AGRSS Standard focuses on six vital areas for the auto glass installation process … Continue reading

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Tracy Releases All Data from Honda Fit Crash Tests

Amid a series of appearances discussing the results, Tracy Law Firm attorney Todd Tracy has released all the data related to the 2017 crash-testing of three Honda Fits. Continue reading

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Report: Michigan has Highest Auto Insurance Rates in the Country

Michigan drivers have been complaining about the state’s higher than average auto insurance rates. Continue reading

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Autonomous Vehicles in the Spotlight – Drivers and Manufacturers on Autopilot?

The first notified insurance claim against a (semi) automated vehicle manufacturer has been brought in the US. Reports have also arrived from California indicating that drivers may be becoming over-reliant on partially automated vehicles in a manner inconsistent with their actual abilities. Continue reading

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Mitsubishi Recalls Nearly 57,000 Vehicles for Sunroof Detachment Defect

There’s been a lot of attention on faulty sunroofs lately, and Mitsubishi Motors North America is one of the latest automakers caught in the mix. The company has issued a recall for certain 2007-2010 Outlander, 2008-2010 Lancer, 2009-2010 Lancer Evolution, … Continue reading

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Today’s Blog: Just Sayin’ – Leadership and Mentoring

“You may or may not have seen this short YouTube video below titled, ‘Steve Kerr Explains How Steph Curry Has Changed the League.’ It is a great example of mentoring and leadership.” –David Rohlfing Continue reading

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Car Owners Left Waiting for Replacement of Dangerous Air Bags

KENOSHA — They’re supposed to keep you safe, but could actually put you in harm’s way — so why are some Wisconsin drivers being forced to wait years to have these potentially dangerous air bags replaced? Continue reading

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Two Injured as SUV Hits Car, Building in Worcester

WORCESTER – Two men suffered serious injuries when an SUV they were in hit a parked car on Southbridge Street and then struck the side of a nearby business Saturday.
The SUV then struck the Safelite Auto Glass building at 515 Southbridge St., police said.
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Automation and the Age of the Self-Driving Data Center

With each new year, the automotive industry unveils another feature that leads us closer to an age of self-driving cars. New models already tell us when to change the oil, when to inflate our tires, when to stop, how to parallel park and how to stay in our lanes. And sooner than we realize, it’ll be second nature just to let the car take the wheel and drive us to our destinations. Continue reading

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Proposed Anti-Steering Amendment Clears Indiana State Senate

An Indiana bill designed to prohibit insurers and related entities from requiring an insured to use a specified auto repair shop has cleared the state Senate and is currently waiting to be heard in the House of Representatives. SB 164, … Continue reading

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Today’s Blog: Leadership Lessons – How Will You Be Remembered?

“Have you heard the phrase, “Find your why”? You can learn more about this on Simon Sinek’s Ted Talk, which has already garnered over 4.1 million views.” –Mark Liston Continue reading

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Campus Auto Repair Shop Gives TSTC Students Real-World Experience

Texas State Technical College students studying automotive technology put their skills to the test most Fridays, working on cars with real-world problems in a simulated auto repair shop. Continue reading

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Full Autonomy a Long Way Off

SAN FRANCISCO — Companies testing self-driving cars on California streets gave a peek into the inner workings of their real-world test drives last week. The big takeaway? Many are still a long way from letting drivers take their hands off the wheel. Continue reading

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GM Debuts Self-Driving Car with No Steering Wheel

General Motors is launching a new self-driving car without any of the manual controls drivers are used to. Continue reading

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Pilkington Announces Price Increase for all Auto Glass Products

Due to rising costs of OE-quality automotive products and services, Pilkington NSG announced it was driven to increase the price of all of its auto glass products by 7.5 percent, according to a recent release from the company. In the … Continue reading

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Today’s Blog: Technically Speaking – Subcontracting

Far be it for me to promote or criticize a particular business plan. I know a lot of business owners that are having great financial success as auto glass providers with a diverse number of different business types. However, I feel the need—for the sake of safety—to comment on the practice of subcontracting technicians. Continue reading

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Local Novus Auto Glass Owner Aids a Pair of Vail Valley Nonprofit Groups

EAGLE COUNTY — Steve Moore, owner of the local Novus Auto Glass business, and his wife, Dennie have lived in our valley for more than four decades. Every December, the Moores select a local nonprofit group with which to share the business’ profits. Continue reading

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GM Plans to Review Panoramic Sunroof Safety Amid Shatter Concerns

General Motors said it will look into the safety of its panoramic sunroofs following a report published by Consumer Reports last October that detailed how prevalent shattering sunroofs are. Continue reading

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We Were in an Accident During an Automated Driving Tech Demo

As a transportation reporter, I’ve been in a lot of cars using either autonomous or semi-automated Advanced Driver Assistance (ADAS) features, both on public and private roads, and yet I’d never been in an accident during a demonstration drive for any of these features before now. Continue reading

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More Employees Request to Join Lawsuit Against Fuyao Glass America

The number of current and former employees requesting to join the June 2017 lawsuit against Moraine, Ohio-based Fuyao Glass America (FGA) for alleged unpaid wages continues to grow. Six additional workers have filed a motion to join Julia Staggs as … Continue reading

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SCRS Video Features Former Shop Owner’s Lawsuit Story

A former regional MSO owner shared an account of his experience being sued over repair work, and fellow auto body professionals who missed the show have another chance to hear the powerful story with a new video released by SCRS. Continue reading

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The Best Auto Insurance Companies for 2018

Independent car insurance site Clearsurance recently ranked the best car insurance companies. The list is based on factors such as affordability, customer service, the scope of coverage and users’ likelihood to recommend their insurance to others or renew with the company.
Surprisingly, only two national insurance companies made the cut. The others were smaller and mid-size companies.
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Self-Driving Cars Need Humans Less and Less, California Data Shows

The robot cars test-driving on California roads seem to need their human overseers less and less. Continue reading

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Safety Concerns Grow for I-696 Drivers after Another Shattered Windshield

Safety concerns are growing for drivers who use Interstate 696 after another piece of concrete wreaked havoc during the morning commute. Continue reading

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PGW Auto Glass Acquires Wholesale Division of Mark’s Mobile Glass

PGW Auto Glass, an LKQ company, has acquired the wholesale division of Missouri-based Mark’s Mobile Glass for an undisclosed amount. According to a notice sent by Mark’s Mobile Wholesale Glass division, the acquisition was to allow its wholesale customers to … Continue reading

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Bay View Auto Shop Fixes Windows after Break-Ins Free of Charge

MILWAUKEE – Vandals struck in Bay View, breaking into cars all over the area late at night this week, but one auto shop is giving back to help out those victims in their community. Continue reading

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AASP-MN’s Automotive Scholarships Up For Grabs

Thanks to a successful fundraising drive within the Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of Minnesota (AASP-MN) membership, the association will be awarding scholarships to select students enrolled in post-secondary automotive (mechanical or collision) programs. Scholarship awards will be $1,000 per … Continue reading

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Belron’s Exceptional People Awards 2017 Winners Announced

Our new global recognition scheme – the Belron Exceptional People Awards – recognises, thanks and celebrates our people who are making a big difference for our customers or colleagues. Continue reading

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Senators Urge Action on Automated Cars

OTTAWA — A Senate committee is urging the federal Liberals to take control of the development and testing of self-driving cars on Canadian roads before governments fall too far behind the technological revolution. Continue reading

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Florida Insurer Windshield Inspection Bill Clears Another Senate Committee

Florida state Sen. Dorothy Hukill’s proposed amendment to current legislation that would require an insurer’s inspection prior to a windshield repair or replacement cleared another Senate committee hearing. “[Auto glass repair] companies have been lurking in parking lots, waiting by … Continue reading

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USA Replacement Auto Glass Celebrates 30 Years of Business Success

USA Replacement Auto Glass marks 30 years in business this February located in the Sacramento community. The Price family has been in the Sacramento Valley auto glass industry as a family owned business since 1971 with John Price operating the … Continue reading

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Lexus Fits Moulded Glass Panels to LS Sedan… Just Because

Due in Australia in April this year, the Lexus LS will be available with, not just, hand-pleated silk surfacing but also moulded glass panels. The use of glass to form a decorative surface in a car is a world-first – it features on the door panels. Continue reading

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It Turns Out One of the Biggest Challenges to Self-Driving Cars is People

We’re still a few years away from self-driving cars being part of the major traffic on roads.
For starters, there’s the technology. Companies across the world from carmakers like Peugeot, Tesla and GM are creating their own forms of autonomous vehicle technology, as well as tech firms like Apple and Samsung.
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Connected Cars in 2018 – Ready for the Fast Lane?

One of the most frequent predictions for significant growth in 2018 is the development of the connected car ecosystem. During the second half of 2017, there were workshops, proposed legislation and other guidance from the Department of Transportation and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Continue reading

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Proposed Arizona Bill Addresses Auto Glass Repair and Replacement Practices

Arizona state Senator David Farnsworth has introduced an amendment to the state’s current legislation that relates to auto glass repair and replacement practices. More specifically, it addresses how auto insurers and third party administrators (TPAs) should handle auto glass claims.  … Continue reading

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Ford Recalls Certain Vehicles for Power Window Defect

Ford Motor Company has issued a recall for certain 2018 Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The recall is for defective second row power windows that may not automatically reverse if obstructed by an object, increasing the risk of injury. … Continue reading

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TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons – Actual Costs

Last weekend Mary Kay and I flew to Portland, Ore., to celebrate her father’s 90th birthday. Her brother and her four sisters were there. It was a quick trip that produced a lifetime of memories.
On the plane, I read the January American Way magazine that is found in every seat on an American Airline’s flight. It included an article titled, “The Game Behind the Game.”
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Former Fuyao Worker Claims He Was Fired after Injury

A former Fuyao Glass America worker is suing the Moraine manufacturer, claiming the company fired him after he was injured off the job. Continue reading

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Adaptable Headlights Could Improve Road Safety by 2020

In the future, car headlights could automatically highlight pedestrians and other vulnerable road users to drivers, and even project crossings and warning signs on the road to help reduce accidents. Continue reading

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Verdict Pending: Driverless Car Crash to Challenge U.S. Laws

Last December, a Chevy Bolt was changing lanes on a California highway when it collided with a motorbike. Its rider Oscar Nilsson suffered neck and shoulder injuries and is now taking legal action. Nothing to write home about, you may say. And it’s true: Sadly, there are thousands of those kind of accidents every day. Except that in this case, the Chevy was operating in autonomous mode. Which means that General Motors is now facing one of the first lawsuits involving an accident with an autonomous vehicle. Continue reading

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November Travel on All Roads Surpasses Last Year’s Figures

Travel on all roads and streets experienced a slight uptick in November 2017, increasing 1.1 percent, or 2.8 billion vehicle miles, compared to November 2016, according to the latest figures from the Federal Highway Administration. Month-over-month miles driven dropped marginally … Continue reading

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Today’s Blog: Technically Speaking – Honda CRV Rain Sensor

“I received some interesting news recently about 2017-18 Honda CRVs equipped with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and a rain sensor (FW04540-41). Although I can’t confirm at this time if this glitch applies to all Honda models, if the Honda model you are working on has both ADAS and a rain sensor, then I suspect the following procedure will be necessary when replacing glass in those models as well.” –Bob Beranek Continue reading

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CES 2018: What Happens in Vegas, Stays Important for Driverless Tech

Ronda’s job is relatively simple. Essentially, she is no different to a normal taxi driver sitting in front of a steering wheel for 12 hours a day during the Consumer Electronics Show. However, while her colleagues actually have to take on the traffic in their colorful Toyota Prius vehicles, she spends most of her time with her hands in her lap. Continue reading

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Flying Cabbage Smashes the Windscreen of a BMW after Falling from a Farm Trailer

This is the bizarre moment a BMW driver was left with a cracked windscreen after his car was struck by a flying cabbage. Continue reading

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Florida Independent Auto Glass Shops to Combat Insurer Inspection Bill

Some Florida independent auto glass shops have come together to combat the proposed legislation that’s sitting in the state’s Senate Committee on Commerce and Tourism under the auspices of the Florida Independent Glass Association (FIGA), a not-for-profit organization which was … Continue reading

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It’s Crunch Time: Accidents are Up, Sending Body Shops into Busy Season

While this winter hasn’t produced record snowfalls so far, January accidents are on track to set a record in West Fargo, sending local body shops into overdrive. Continue reading

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Consumer Confidence in Self-Driving Technology Is Increasing, AAA Study Finds

U.S. drivers could be warming to the idea of letting their car drive for them, according to a new survey released by the American Automobile Association, but a majority still reported having serious doubts about using or sharing the road with the technology. Continue reading

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Ottawa Repair Shops Inundated with Broken Windshields

Auto repair shops across Ottawa have been inundated with broken windshields in the wake of this week’s freezing rain. Continue reading

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12 Peeks at the Future of Cars from the Detroit Auto Show

Auto manufacturers displayed their best and brightest technology, ranging from long-range EVs to autonomous vehicle systems to concept cars with artificial intelligence, at the 2018 North American International Auto Show. Continue reading

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What Auto Glass Shops Say about TPAs in Recent Survey

Third-party administrators (TPAs), direct billing, etc.—pretty much anything related to insurance is always a hot topic, and this was the case when AGRR magazine surveyed its readers to see how the large TPAs and insurers stack up. Participants were asked … Continue reading

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Today’s Blog: Leadership Lessons–Apologizing

Today’s Blog: Leadership Lessons–Apologizing

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NOVUS Glass Expanding Throughout BC

NOVUS Glass BC will open at 1200 Lougheed Hwy., Coquitlam, BC, later this spring. Until the new location is ready, NOVUS Glass says it will use the space as a mobile hub, to better serve customers throughout the Greater Vancouver … Continue reading

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Granite State Glass Purchases Local Glass Service

Granite State Glass Purchases Local Glass Service

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A Flaming Superhero Car and Dieting Trucks at the 2018 Detroit Auto Show

A Flaming Superhero Car and Dieting Trucks at the 2018 Detroit Auto Show

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Six Auto Glass-Related Companies Make Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500 List

Entrepreneur Magazine has released its 39th annual list of top 500 franchises, and six companies related to the auto glass industry landed a spot this year—Matco Tools, MacTools, Ziebart, Glass Doctor, SuperGlass Windshield Repair and Novus Glass. No. 36 – … Continue reading

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Promutuel Insurance Signs Renewal Agreement with Uniban Canada

Uniban Canada announced the renewal of a 5-year agreement with Promutuel Insurance, a property damage insurer in Quebec, as a preferred partner for the management of automotive glass claims. “Promutuel Insurance has been using our claims management platform for more … Continue reading

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National Windscreens Appoints Colin McIntosh as Training and Compliance Manager in Scotland

National Windscreens has appointed Colin McIntosh as training and compliance manager in Scotland. He will be responsible for the development of training programs for new starters and existing staff, including ensuring employees achieve relevant Scottish Vocational Qualifications (SVQs). “Skills, training … Continue reading

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Future Cars Might be Mirrorless, Using Cameras and AI Tech to Navigate Instead

Self-driving cars are already asking people to put AI systems in control of their vehicles. Now, Mitsubishi wants to rid its new cars of one of the last relics of the past: the rear-view mirror. Continue reading

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These are the Five Leaders in the Self-Driving Car Race

Tech companies and auto companies are all racing to be the first to roll out self-driving cars onto the road. Continue reading

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Iowa Representatives Propose New Bill Concerning Auto Repair Facility Choice

The Iowa House of Representatives has introduced a bill that aims to add a section regarding automobile repair facility choice to the state’s law. However, the bill notes that “automobile repair business or location” does not apply to facilities that … Continue reading

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Daniels Close Monarch Glass

SELMA – It’s been nearly four decades since Kerry Daniel first stepped into the large, silver metal warehouse at 2044 Third St. in Selma. Continue reading

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Exploding Sunroof Cases Head to Court

Aaron Dunifon was driving his family of four home to Ohio from vacation last June in their 2015 Honda Odyssey when they were surprised by a loud “pop.” The sunroof glass had shattered for no apparent reason, Dunifon says. Although nobody was hurt, it was alarming. Continue reading

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Former NHTSA Head Grills Legislators on Self-Driving Bill

DETROIT — For safety advocates, the promise of expedited accident-prevention technology doesn’t justify relaxed standards. Continue reading

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Winter Weather Damaging Windshields

Several days of icy conditions across the Brazos Valley is taking a toll on our cars. Continue reading

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Proposal that Would Require Insurer Windshield Inspections Passes Florida Senate Committee

A proposed amendment to Florida legislation that would require an insurer’s inspection before a windshield is repaired or replaced has been cleared by a Senate committee. The bill, which is identical in language to the House bill proposed by Rep. … Continue reading

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TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons – Simple Expectations

“According to Statista.com, 9.3 million people read the New York Times every day.” –Mark Liston Continue reading

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Gerber Collision & Glass Opens Repair Location in Lawrenceville, Ga.

The Boyd Group Inc. announced the opening of a collision repair location in Lawrenceville, Ga. This brownfield development previously operated as a motorcycle and all-terrain vehicle repair shop. “This newly developed center is located eight miles east of our Duluth … Continue reading

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Hyperconvergence Paves Way to Safelite’s Digital Future

For many organizations, modernizing legacy IT is an essential first step toward digital transformation. Continue reading

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Chemically Strengthened Glass Finds a New Application

The glass most people deal with every day—as cups, jars, windows, and lightbulbs—shatters easily. But not all glass is fragile. Some types, like the bulletproof stuff produced for windows used in banks, embassies, and head-of-state limousines, are downright tough. Continue reading

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John Stanley Dawson, Jr., Former Owner of Novus Windshield Repair of Central Virginia, Passes

John Stanley Dawson, Jr., 82, of Rochelle and his wife, Margaret Anne Estes Dawson, both passed away on Friday, January 12, 2018, in an automobile accident in Rochelle, Va. Continue reading

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Jack Morris of Tenn.-Based Jack Morris Auto Glass Passes Away

John “Jack” Morris III, the man behind Tenn.-based Jack Morris Auto Glass, passed away on Friday at the age of 87. Morris was known throughout his hometown as a civic leader and businessman, always putting the happiness of those around … Continue reading

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TODAY’S BLOG: Technically Speaking – Noise Complaints

“I’m sure that many of you have noticed that there has been a higher number of noise complaints recently. Have you ever wondered why? The answer is exposed edge glass mounting. Since the popularity of exposed edge glass mounting came into being with the Saint Gobain’s Pre-Applied Adhesive System (PAAS), many other vehicle manufacturers have noticed the benefits of its design.” –Bob Beranek Continue reading

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Fuyao Workers Briefly Evacuated after Equipment Issue

MORAINE, Ohio (WDTN) — Workers at Fuyao Glass America spent a few minutes in the cold early Tuesday morning. Continue reading

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DOT Looks to Ease Path to Autonomous Vehicle Deployment with Updated Policy

Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao on Wednesday announced the U.S. DOT is seeking public input on policies to hasten the deployment of self-driving trucks, buses and passenger cars, including vehicles that require no human input to operate. Continue reading

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Brilliant New Headlights Use a Million Pixels to Talk to the World

For the most part, digital technology is all about dumping things that move. Continue reading

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BMW Hit with Lawsuit Over Alleged Shattering Sunroofs

A lawsuit has been filed against BMW alleging several of the company’s makes and models were designed with defective panoramic sunroofs and moonroofs that are prone to shattering. The lawsuit has been filed in the District of New Jersey and … Continue reading

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TODAY’S BLOG: Technically Speaking – The Evolution of Auto Glass Installation

“Since I started my career in the auto glass business, I have seen some serious changes over the years. Some of them we might label as good and others as bad. However, what do those definitions really mean?” –Bob Beranek Continue reading

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Automotive Glass Europe Announces Record Growth

Officials at Automotive Glass Europe, the partnership of automotive glass replacement and repair companies covering 18 European countries, says it has completed the largest ever number of repairs and replacements in 2017 with growth stimulated by increasing numbers of people … Continue reading

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Senior Citizens will Lead the Self-Driving Revolution

With 125,000 residents, over 54,000 homes, 32 square miles, 750 miles of road, and three distinct downtowns, The Villages in Florida is one of the largest retirement communities in the US. And starting soon, it will have another distinction to brag about: a fleet of robot taxis. Continue reading

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Black Cabs will Get Cameras Mounted on Windscreens for Driverless Cars

BLACK cabbies will have hi-tech cameras fitted to their taxis to create a virtual roadmap. Continue reading

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Insurance Group Say Florida Legislature Should Tackle Texting while Driving, Benefits Abuses

Assignment of benefits (AOB) abuse and outlawing texting while driving should be top priorities for the 2018 Florida State Legislature, according to the Property Casualty Insurers Association of America (PCI). Continue reading

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Things are Really Looking Up for Sunroofs

Rolls-Royce may offer a starlit headliner, but Harman is showing off a roof with different digital displays to match your mood. This is just one feature that the company is debuting at the Consumer Electronics Show this week. Continue reading

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What I Learned About Self-Driving Cars At CES (Psst… They’re — Almost — Here)

It’s tough to pull meaning from the crush and cacophony of CES, the sprawling tech extravaganza that’s curiously well-suited to the sensory overload experience that is Las Vegas. But here’s a big takeaway from the 2018 edition: the future of mobility has left the “gee, wouldn’t it be cool if…” phase. It’s now firmly in the “here’s how it starts” mode. Continue reading

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Alabama Picked to Host Huge Auto Plant

MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Japanese automakers Toyota and Mazda on Wednesday announced plans to build a huge, $1.6 billion joint-venture plant in Alabama that will eventually employ about 4,000 people. Continue reading

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Judge Rules in Favor of Geico in VIP Auto Glass Lawsuit

The legal battle between VIP Auto Glass and Geico General Insurance Company has come to an end. Judge Mary S. Scriven dismissed the October 2016 case against the insurer, which claimed the company violated Florida law by underpaying auto glass … Continue reading

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Sika Sees ‘Disproportionately High’ Profit Growth

Sika AG (SIK.EB) said Tuesday that its sales increased in 2017 and that it expects “disproportionately high” profit growth for the whole year. Continue reading

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Bill Aims to Add Insurer Inspection Prior to Windshield Repair in Florida

The proposed amendment to a current Florida legislation that would require an inspection of a windshield’s damage by an insurer before it is repaired or replaced has now been introduced to the state’s legislature. The proposed amendment reads, “A policy … Continue reading

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UPDATE: Names Released in Elkins Murder/Suicide at Auto Glass Shop

RANDOLPH COUNTY, W.Va. – West Virginia State Police have identified the two people involved in the apparent murder-suicide in Elkins Monday as Ricky Cooper, 36, of Randolph County, and Savanah Bays, 23, of Taylor County. Continue reading

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Smart Everything at Computer Electronics Show

LAS VEGAS — The new smart electronic gadgets on display at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas may help drive you into an increasingly connected future.
Other features include tiny cameras instead of side view mirrors, and seats that swivel to give the car a lounge-like feeling.
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Windshield Crack Aborts AI Flight

NEW DELHI: Dreamliner windshield cracks are back to haunt Air India. An AI Boeing 787 had to return to Delhi soon after taking off for Kolkata on Tuesday after the windshield cracked. Continue reading

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Partnering New Vehicle Trends with Steel Innovations

The automotive market is constantly evolving to keep up with consumer demands as well as government regulations. In addition, major automakers are competing for business globally. These factors create an environment for innovation, driving the latest industry trends in connected and autonomous vehicles. Continue reading

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Safety Gadgets Driving Up Insurers’ Auto Repair Costs

Safety gadgets mounted on today’s slick new vehicles are creating headaches for insurers when it comes to the severity of auto insurance physical damage claims. Continue reading

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The Ford Edge’s Headlights Struggle with Dark Winter Nights

Most cars that we test come with excellent lighting, many with one of my favourite new pieces of technology: adaptive full beam. So I didn’t expect to find the Edge’s headlights so poor. With the clocks going back and my daily commute taking me through the darkness of the New Forest and all its wild ponies, good headlights are important and, well, the Edge’s just don’t cut it. Continue reading

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Takata Air Bags Recall Expands to 3.3 Million Vehicles

DETROIT — Japanese air bag maker Takata is recalling an additional 3.3 million faulty air bag inflators as it expands the largest automotive recall in U.S. history. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the phased recalls began in May 2016 stemming from previous Takata air bag incidents, and will continue through December 2019. Continue reading

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Uptick in Domestic Auto Sales; Vehicle Repair and Insurance Prices Also Increase

Domestic sales for new autos experienced an uptick November to December. According to the latest figures from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), U.S. automotive unit retail sales increased by 6 percent, or 20,900 units, on a month-over-month basis. Year … Continue reading

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TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons – Leader Made Simple

“As we start 2018, I thought I’d make the word “leader” simple to remember what it really means.” –Mark Liston Continue reading

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Police Say Bodies Found in Auto Glass Shop are of an Employee and His Girlfriend

RANDOLPH COUNTY, W.Va. – According to West Virginia State Police, the bodies found at Novus Glass in Randolph County belonged to a male employee and a female that he was believed to have been in a relationship with. Continue reading

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Update: Proposed New Hampshire Bill Submitted to House Committee

The proposed amendment to a previously pre-filed bill in New Hampshire has been submitted to the House Committee on Commerce and Consumer Affairs. The amendment would require auto insurers to reimburse independent repair shops—including glass companies—similarly to auto dealerships. If … Continue reading

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UBI Creates Chance for Insurers to Partner with Automakers

UBI creates chance for insurers to partner with automakers Lots of new cars now come equipped with connected features or advanced driver-assisted systems (ADAS) – and this is changing the way auto insurers handle policies. Continue reading

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Driverless Car ‘Guidelines’ Allegedly Aren’t Working

Auto safety organization, Consumer Watchdog, says self-driving car companies are taking advantage of the government’s hands-off approach to matters of safety by failing to provide reports about the safety of the technology. Continue reading

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What’s the Cost of Doing Business?

Not getting paid in full for parts, time and labor is easily one of auto glass shops’ biggest grievances when it comes to working with insurers and Third Party Administrators (TPAs). This, at least, is according to a recent survey … Continue reading

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TODAY’S BLOG: Technically Speaking – New Year Wish List

“It’s the end of the year and most of us have already dealt with Christmas wish lists from our friends and family. I thought I would make a New Year’s wish list for our industry.” –Bob Beranek Continue reading

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Red Eagle the King

The “Red Eagle Head” logo placed on original automotive glass, along with other related products, has been a symbol of an enduring brand for more than 65 years now. Continue reading

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Telematics CEO: 5 Trends to Watch in 2018 in Auto Insurance

Auto insurance is experiencing its most seismic shift since it began over 100 years ago. If 2017 shook up the industry with an increasing number of carriers adopting mobile telematics programs for UBI, 2018 will break the mold. Continue reading

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Man Tries for Years to Get Airbag Fixed

PUNTA GORDA, Fla. – Anthony Freeman loves his car; a scarlet Lincoln MKZ. He’s had it since 2008 and up until now, he didn’t have any problems. Three years ago he got a notice in the mail telling him he needed a defective part replaced on his passenger airbag. Continue reading

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TechnaGlass Acquires Harmon AutoGlass

Salt Lake City, Utah-based TechnaGlass has announced the acquisition of Harmon AutoGlass in Minnesota for an undisclosed amount. The company will initially operate six stores in the greater Minneapolis area under the Harmon AutoGlass Brand and only includes those locations, … Continue reading

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CARSTAR Brampton West Opens in Ontario

CARSTAR Collision & Glass Service has added Brampton West to its North American network. The network’s second Brampton location is owned in partnership with John and Diana Vella and Frank Sottile. Sottile, who also owns CARSTAR Brampton, is an industry veteran with more than 30 years of collision repair experience and is also deeply involved in his community. Continue reading

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Administration Releases Proposal to Allow Workers to Band Together for Health Insurance

The Department of Labor released a proposed rule to allow workers to band together to receive health insurance. Continue reading

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‘It Sounded Like a Shotgun’: Sunroof in Toronto Woman’s Vehicle Explodes

Aimee Roy thought she was under attack.
The Toronto woman was driving past the Yorkdale Shopping Mall along Highway 401 on Boxing Day with her husband and two dogs when it happened.
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Take Precautions to Prevent Your Windshield from Shattering in Bitter Cold

HARTFORD, CT — In this brutally cold weather, cranking the heat in the car is something we all do, but you could cause some damage to the windshield if you’re not careful. Continue reading

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Fuyao Glass America and Mr. Cho Respond to Former Exec.’s Complaint

Shortly after having their motion to dismiss denied by a U.S. district court judge, Fuyao Glass America (FGA) and its chairman Cho Tak Wong (Mr. Cho) have officially filed their responses to the complaints made against them by former executive … Continue reading

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TODAY’S BLOG: Just Sayin’ – Using Data as Actionable Information

“Does your company provide customers with amazing reporting that presents them actionable or unique information derived from your analysis of their data? If you don’t you’re missing a great opportunity to highlight the value that your organization can bring by presenting data they either haven’t thought about or don’t access to help improve performance.” -David Rohlfing Continue reading

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OSHA Penalties Up to Adjust for Inflation

OSHA is beginning the New Year with higher penalties. Effective today, civil penalties for violations of OSHA standards and regulations increased to adjust for inflation. Continue reading

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GM to Use Pedestrian Protection Airbag

General Motors has been granted a US patent for an exterior airbag designed to protect pedestrians during a crash.
The airbag pops out of the A-pillar and covers the windshield. It is expelled from a fender flap to cushion the windshield wipers and other sharp pieces toward the front of the vehicle, Automotive News reported.
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Watch Hyundai’s Panoramic Sunroof Airbag in Action: Video

Compared to even just 10 years ago, modern automobiles are ludicrously, unbelievably safe. With a slew of new safety technologies, both passive and active, higher crash standards, and advanced airbag systems covering just about possible impact angle, your odds of walking away from a crash are pretty good these days. Continue reading

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The IIHS is Hoping for a Bright Future When it Comes to Headlights

Even though headlights have evolved from uniform circles illuminating the roadway in largely the same way to diverse units that look and function very differently, their overall performance has improved immensely. Nobody is going to jump from a 1955 DeSoto to a 2018 Dodge and think “Wow, these headlamps are just terrible.” Continue reading

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Why Experts Believe Cheaper, Better Lidar is Right around the Corner

On November 3, 2007, six vehicles made history by successfully navigating a simulated urban environment—and complying with California traffic laws—without a driver behind the wheel. Five of the six were sporting a revolutionary new type of lidar sensor that had recently been introduced by an audio equipment maker called Velodyne. Continue reading

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Honda: Common Repairs Call for Recalibration; Third-Party Tools Not Yet Approved

Even common repairs on a Honda vehicle require a recalibration of its Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), and, so far, only the auto manufacturer’s tool has been approved for the procedure—something every auto glass technician would be interested in. This … Continue reading

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TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons: Goals – Not Resolutions

“Do you want to have an amazing year?” –Mark Liston Continue reading

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AGC Automotive Czech to Invest CZK 350M

The manufacturer of automotive glazing and auxiliary components AGC Automotive Czech will invest approximately CZK 350m in the year 2018, in automation and robotisation of production, modernisation of windscreen production and further improvement of the social background for employees. Continue reading

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How IoT Will Transform the Auto Insurance Industry

Automobile Insurance as an industry works on traditional methods. These methods are tried, tested and used by multiple insurers. They eventually get the same result – Time-consuming claim settlement process and fraudulent claims! Low levels of accuracy and manual processes are the main culprits for an automobile insurer. In this article let’s understand how IoT will transform Auto Insurance Industry for the better. Continue reading

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Looking at Blue-Collar Factory Jobs in the Rearview Mirror

INDIANAPOLIS — During the first week in December, I took my ninth trip of the year to Indianapolis, where I’d been following a group of steelworkers at the Rexnord bearing plant whose jobs were moving to Monterrey, Mexico. This was a chance to check in on how they’ve been doing since the factory closed. Continue reading

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Happy New Year: A Look at the Top Stories of 2017

Before we head into the New Year, let’s have a look at the stories that generated the most traffic on glassBYTEs.com™ throughout 2017. Customer Allegedly Finds Safelite Technician in Compromising Situation This year’s most read story involved a Florida resident … Continue reading

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TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons – Consistency and Expectations

“Good Leadership is all about consistency. This brings up the question: How consistent are you? Do your people feel you are consistent? What I’ve learned over the years is that if you aren’t consistent as a leader, you really aren’t a good leader.” –Mark Liston Continue reading

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Fuyao Spent Nearly $800K with Consultant in Union Battle

Fuyao Glass America paid $747,410 to an Oklahoma-based consulting firm that boasts of helping companies in the art of “union avoidance,” according to a document filed with the U.S. Department of Labor. Continue reading

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Bryant Promoted at Guaranty Glass

Guaranty Glass and Mirror Co. of Spencer has promoted Eric Bryant to vice president, the company reported.
Guaranty Glass was founded in 1993 and is a full-service glass shop specializing in commercial storefronts, glass repair, auto glass installation and custom shower enclosures.
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Demand for Glass Repair Grows after Widespread Milwaukee Car Break-Ins

It’s not the gift anyone wanted this Christmas: shattered glass.
The work has been constant at Safe Auto Glass on South 27th Street. It’s waiting room became a holiday gathering space for the Kniep sisters. The younger – Kathryn – was staying downtown with her older sister Tara.
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A Down Year: Low Auto Sales Par for the Course, Data Show

Auto sales for new vehicles in Bell County are down around 1,500 compared to last year’s sales numbers, and the dip in sales fits with the current nationwide trend. Continue reading

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How Auto Glass Companies are Using Social Media during the Holiday Season

The holiday season is upon us, and auto glass companies all over are using this time to interact and engage with their customers through social media. If you’re looking for some holiday inspiration, here’s what others in the industry are … Continue reading

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Federated National Leaving Auto Insurance Business, Taking Full Control of Monarch

The Sunrise-based parent of Federated National Insurance — a top 5 Florida property and casualty insurer — announced plans to drop its auto insurance line next year and to sell $25 million in debt to finance purchase of a majority stake in Monarch National Insurance Co. from its equity partners. Continue reading

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United Auto Workers President Gives Year-End Review

The president of the United Auto Workers reassured the rank and file — and the public at large — on Wednesday that a recent scandal at the Fiat Chrysler-United Auto Workers joint training center was a one-off case and not an indictment of the union’s credibility. Continue reading

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Erin Harris Receives Award for Extraordinary Service to Key Communications

Erin Harris, advertising coordinator of Key Communications Inc., received the company’s 2017 Award for Extraordinary Service. Key Communications is the parent company of AGRR™ magazine and glassBYTEs.com™. The honor is presented annually and was named after vice president of media … Continue reading

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Belron Enters an Agreement to Acquire the Assets and Operations of Laser Group in Australia and New Zealand

In alignment with its service extension strategy, Belron, parent company to Safelite AutoGlass, has entered into an agreement to acquire Laser Plumbing and Electrical Group ANZ (Laser Group). The company is a provider of plumbing and electrical services to both … Continue reading

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Gerber Collision & Glass Opens Repair Locations in Ohio

The Boyd Group Inc. announced the opening of three collision repair centers in the west side suburbs of Cleveland, Ohio. The centers were previously operated as Suburban Collision Centers and are located in North Olmstead and Berea, two suburbs in … Continue reading

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Honda: Many Common Body Shop Situations Require ADAS Recalibration

Honda’s advanced driver assistance systems require calibration after many everyday collision repair procedures, including some instances you might not have realized. Continue reading

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Schoenburg: Rauner Says Nobody will Buy Auto Plant that State Helped Sell

Gov. Bruce Rauner was making his case in a radio interview last week about the need for a better business climate in Illinois, but an example he used was at odds with his own visit to Normal last spring. Continue reading

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20th Death Attributed to Takata Airbag

A driver killed in a crash in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, on July 10 was the victim of a faulty Takata airbag, Honda has confirmed. Continue reading

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Senate Autonomous Vehicle Bill Poses Implications for Aftermarket Industry

The American Vision for Safer Transportation through Advancement of Revolutionary Technologies (AV START), the autonomous vehicle (AV) bill passed by the Senate in October, may have implications for the automotive aftermarket industry. “The aftermarket’s role in the deployment of level … Continue reading

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Dwyer Group Celebrates Record Global Growth in 2017

The Dwyer Group Inc., parent company of Glass Doctor, celebrated a record year of global growth in 2017 and expanded the network to an all-time high around the world, according to the company. “This was another historic year for our … Continue reading

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Tracy: Crash Test of 2013 Honda Fit with Aftermarket Parts ‘Monumental’

Tracy: Crash Test of 2013 Honda Fit with Aftermarket Parts ‘Monumental’

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How is Your Company Celebrating the Holidays?

Is your company celebrating the holidays in a special way or getting involved in a philanthropic initiative? If so, we’d love to hear from you!

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PPI: Prices for Materials Used in the Auto Glass Industry Increased

Prices for materials used in the auto glass industry increased in November, according to recently released Producer Price Index (PPI) data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The monthly PPI for specialty glass, which includes auto glass, in the … Continue reading

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Man Who Lost Kids in Fire 25 Years Ago Donates to Family Displaced by Fire

A Franklin County businessman has been accepting donations for a family that lost everything in a recent fire.
Daniel Hanks, owner of Daniel’s Auto Glass in the Bassett area, heard about a family who lost everything in a fire through Facebook and immediately wanted to help.
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Did Insurer Pressure Lead to $42 Million Verdict?

To Dallas lawyer Todd Tracy, a $42 million jury verdict for substandard repair work on a 2010 Honda Fit should sound a clarion call to dealerships, insurers and automakers. Continue reading

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Shop Strategies: NJ Body Shop Stands up to Insurance Companies

“I saw that high-end vehicles were not getting repaired the way that I thought they could be repaired back to OEM manufacturers’ standards,” said Lake. “There was a big gap between a quality repair and a non-quality repair going on in the industry.” Continue reading

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Guilty: Todd Kendhammer Faces Life in Prison for Killing His Wife

Todd Kendhammer faces a life sentence after a jury convicted him of murdering his wife last year.
The evidence shows that Kendhammer inflicted Barb’s head injuries outside the car on Bergum Coulee Road, took the pipe from the trunk of the car and drove it into the windshield while Barb was on the ground, dying. In the minutes before emergency responders arrived, a passerby on Bergum Coulee Road saw the Camry in the ditch, its windshield intact, while Kendhammer was smothering his wife in the ditch, Gruenke said.
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Looking for a Laugh? Enjoy Our Staff’s 2017 Video Outtakes

As we head into 2018, glassBYTEs.com and AGRR™ magazine would like to leave you with some laughter. Check out our team’s annual holiday tradition—the never-before seen outtakes of 2017. Continue reading

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TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons – Setting an Example

“This week is the 50th anniversary of my father’s death.” –Mark Liston Continue reading

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Fuyao Creates ‘Hardship Fund’ for Employees

Fuyao Glass America has created a relief fund for employees, making available grants of up to $3,000 to employees who find themselves in need due to sudden emergencies. Continue reading

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Gerber Collision & Glass Opens Repair Location in Glenwood Springs, Colo.

The Boyd Group Inc. announced the acquisition of a second collision repair center in Glenwood Springs, Colo., which previously operated as Professional Auto Body & Frame. This shop has serviced the Glenwood community, the largest city in Garfield County, for … Continue reading

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Wood County’s Proposed Horse-Buggy Rules will Drive out Amish, Expert Says

WISCONSIN RAPIDS – Horse-drawn vehicles would need windshields, seat belts, child car seats and rear-view mirrors if the Wood County Board passes an ordinance it will consider Tuesday. Continue reading

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Judge Denies Fuyao and Chairman’s Motion to Dismiss Former Exec’s Lawsuit

U.S. District Court Judge Thomas Rose has set a pre-trial hearing for the case against Fuyao Glass America and its chairman Cho Tak Wong (Cho), shortly after denying the defendants’ motion to dismiss the lawsuit. Dave Burrows, a former executive … Continue reading

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Rick Montani Named President and CEO, Sika Corporation

Richard (Rick) Montani has been named President and CEO of Sika Corporation (USA), effective January 1, 2018. A veteran leader for Sika for over 29 years in the United States, Rick has played a decisive role in the development of Sika’s Construction materials business over his distinguished career with the company. Continue reading

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Honda ‘Looking at Solutions’ on Recalibration Space Requirements

Acknowledging the size of the open, flat space necessary for a proper ADAS recalibration, a Honda collision expert said Thursday the OEM was “looking at solutions” to the issue. Continue reading

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Volvo is Reportedly Scaling Back Its Ambitious Self-Driving Car Experiment

It’s been awhile since we heard anything about Volvo’s audacious experiment to deliver 100 self-driving cars to regular people in Sweden for testing. The program, called Drive Me, was supposed to kick off in 2017, but now the company says it’s pushing the date to 2021. Moreover, Volvo is scaling back the number of cars involved, according to Automotive News. Continue reading

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Hyundai and Kia Recall 500,000 Cars Over Faulty Brake Light

Hyundai and Kia are recalling a total of approximately half a million compact cars over a brake light issue. Specifically, the recall affects 363,932 Hyundai Elantras from model years 2013-2014 and 134,366 Kia Fortes (Koup variety included) from model years 2012-2014. Continue reading

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Belron Continues Start-up Accelerator Program

Belron, parent company of Safelite, in partnership with L Marks, announced recently that it plans to run its “Drive with Belron” startup accelerator program for a third year. The program, which accepts applicants from six continents including North America, is … Continue reading

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LKQ Corporation Announces Agreement to Acquire Stahlgruber GmbH

LKQ Corporation has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Stahlgruber GmbH (Stahlgruber) from Stahlgruber Otto Gruber AG for an enterprise value of approximately $1.7 billion USD (1.5 billion EUR). Headquartered in Germany, Stahlgruber is a European wholesale distributor of aftermarket … Continue reading

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Nordic Capital Acquires a Majority Stake in Ryds Bilglas

Ryds Bilglas is one of the leading vehicle glass repair and replacement companies in Sweden and is also active in the Norwegian market. The company was founded in Sundsvall, Sweden by the Ryd family in 1947, has annual revenues of c. SEK 700 mn and has more than 100 workshops with over 350 employees. The market for vehicle glass repair and replacement is attractive and growing. Ryds Bilglas holds a strong market position in Sweden, with a robust platform catering for high customer satisfaction. Nordic Capital will support the Company’s continued growth strategy through further investments to strengthen its commercial excellence work, operational improvements and initiatives in digitalisation. Continue reading

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The Future of the Automobile is Autonomous, and Your Business is Likely to Feel the Effect

The epochal era of owning and driving an automobile — more than a century old — is about to get smaller and smaller in America’s rearview mirror and, eventually, fade into a new era of mobility.
Unfortunately, if you’re making auto glass, body paint or metal stampings, you might be out of a job. The same holds true for many mechanics, unfortunately, because cars in the future will consist, essentially, of a battery on a chassis with some modular add-ons. No need will exist for expensive engine maintenance and transmission repairs.
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Electrician Fined $75,000 for Windscreen Damage

An electrician was yesterday fined $75,000 after pleading guilty to damaging a windscreen. Continue reading

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Unsure about Social Media Marketing? Tiny & Sons Offers Advice

In this day and age, having a social media presence can have a significant impact on generating sales leads. Just ask Peter Brown, owner of the auto glass shop Tiny & Sons in Pembroke, Mass., whose Facebook, Twitter and Instagram … Continue reading

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Driver Says Her F-150 Window Spontaneously Shattered

HOUSTON — Patricia Jones loves her truck.
“That’s my favorite car of all of the cars I’ve had,” she said of the bright red Ford F-150 parked in her driveway.
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Ontario Unveils New Automobile Insurance Plan Aimed at Reducing Costs, Fraud

Ontario has released a plan to make automobile insurance more affordable by addressing fraud and providing better access to care, but observers say there needs to be some fundamental changes in the system to ensure it works to maximize the benefit for all consumers. Continue reading

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GM’s Mary Barra: Driver-Owned Vehicles Not Going Away

General Motors CEO and chairwoman Mary Barra believes that even with the move to ride-sharing and mobility services, there’s still a future for driver-owned vehicles. Speaking at an Automotive Press Association event in Detroit, Barra said that there isn’t an industry that technology isn’t disrupting and that dealers need to adapt to changes happening in the automotive sector. However, driver-owned models will be still be the core part of GM’s business in the near future despite the growth of ride-sharing. Continue reading

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U.S. Marine Helicopter in Okinawa Loses Windshield over School

A 10-year-old boy at a school in Okinawa was slightly injured when a transport helicopter from a nearby U.S. Marine Corps base lost a windshield as it flew overhead. Continue reading

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Insurer Inspections Costing One Auto Glass Repair Company More than $35 K

Less than a year after its inception, Houston-based Safe Tech Auto Glass implemented a proprietary software system that streamlined every aspect of the business, allowing its technicians to service more vehicles in a day. The company’s six locations, all in … Continue reading

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Gerber Collision & Glass Opens Repair Location in Tumwater, Wash.

The Boyd Group has announced the acquisition of a collision repair center in Tumwater, Wash., which previously operated as Bernie’s Custom Paint and Collision Repair and has served the community for 43 years. The center is located one mile south … Continue reading

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Christmas Comes Early for Nanaimo Mom after Repeated Car Break-ins

NANAIMO — It was an extraordinary ending to a standard break-in for a Nanaimo woman after her car was robbed outside her downtown home.
Responding officers decided to cover the cost of her window’s deductible, while Speedy Auto Glass waived all remaining fees after hearing her story. Officers also bought the inspiring mom a turkey with fixings and gifts for her son.
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Cadillac SRX Dim Headlights Cause Lawsuit

Cadillac SRX dim headlights allegedly cause drivers to fear driving at night, so says a proposed class-action lawsuit filed in Florida. Continue reading

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The Problem with IIHS Headlight Testing

Starting in 2016, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety began testing headlights and incorporating their performance into the coveted Top Safety Pick ratings. Headlight performance coined Good or Acceptable was required to even be a contender for Top Safety Pick+, the highest rating IIHS awards. Numerous cars lost out on the top rating due to headlight performance alone. While Good or Acceptable headlights used to be enough for the top slot, only cars with Good headlights are eligible in 2018 models. This, plus the addition of a passenger-side small offset frontal crash test, dwindled the Top Safety Pick+ list to just 15. Continue reading

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Eleventh Circuit Reversal of Anti-Trust Lawsuit Encourages Progression of Similar Cases

The reinstatement of a lawsuit by five auto repair shops against insurers for violating antitrust laws has spurred more auto shops whose lawsuits have been stagnant since 2015 to follow suit. In September, the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals reversed … Continue reading

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TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons – Your Word is Your Bond

“As a young boy my parents drilled something in my head that has stayed with me forever—the phrase, ‘Your word is your bond.’ Of course, I had no idea what that meant in the 1960s, but, as I got older, I could still hear their words.” –Mark Liston Continue reading

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Aguila Glass Opens 25th Outlet in Olongapo

Aguila Glass, a brand which has carved itself into a household auto glass name, caps its 65th anniversary year with the opening of their 25th outlet along Rizal Avenue in Olongapo City, Zambales. Continue reading

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Crime Lab Witness in Kendhammer Case Says Windshield Damaged before Pipe Broke Through

The glass fracture pattern on Todd Kendhammer’s windshield revealed that an object struck the exterior of the glass before a pipe broke through, shattering his version of the freak car crash he said killed his wife, according to testimony Friday in his trial. Continue reading

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CCC: Photo Estimating 3.9% of Appraisals, Cuts Cycle Time

Photo estimating has spiked from 0.9 percent of estimates in 2016 to 3.9 percent of the market by Sept. 31, CCC reported in the information provider’s latest industry trends video. Continue reading

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DMVs Find a Way to Boost Recall Repair Rates

Recall compliance rates quadrupled this year in Vermont and nearly doubled in the District of Columbia after they started listing unrepaired defects on residents’ annual vehicle inspection reports, a study commissioned by American Honda found. Continue reading

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Auto Glass Companies Ranked Among Top Franchises for Veterans

Entrepreneur released its 2017 Top Franchises for Veterans list recently, which is comprised of 150 franchises that offer incentives to veterans looking to become franchisees, and two auto glass repair and replacement companies were among them. Companies representing the auto … Continue reading

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TODAY’S BLOG: Technically Speaking – Realizing the Benefits of our Industry

“At Thanksgiving this year, I began to think of what I was thankful for as an auto glass professional. It wasn’t easy. I read and contribute to a lot of auto glass forums and discussion groups, and frankly, they are sometimes pretty demoralizing. But then I began to really look at my profession and came up with a few things I like about it.” –Bob Beranek Continue reading

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Eric’s Windshield Repairs & Replacement Passes Audit by Auto Glass Safety Council™

Eric’s Windshield Repairs & Replacement of Rosedale, N.Y., recently passed as compliant on an on-site random safety audit by the Auto Glass Safety Council (AGSC) by undergoing a third-party validation process required by all Registered Members of the AGSC. Continue reading

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Auto Correct Opens on Bear River Drive

Shawn Saban has been operating Auto Correct since April 2014. His business focuses on keeping vehicles looking sharp with upholstery repair, detailing, repairing windshield chips, fixing scratches in the paint and a host of other services that could help maintain the value of residents’ vehicles. Continue reading

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IIHS Releases Its 2018 ‘Top Safety Pick’ Vehicles

Only fifteen 2018 vehicles qualify for the Top Safety Pick+ award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, after the requirements were strengthened to include good-rated headlights and good or acceptable passenger-side protection in front crashes. Continue reading

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Wisconsin Windshield Repairer on Trial for the Murder of His Wife

Todd Kendhammer, a West Salem, Wis., man who repaired windshields as a side job, is on trial for first degree intentional homicide in La Crosse County Circuit Court for the  2016 death of his wife, Barbara. On September 16, 2016, … Continue reading

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Auto Windscreens Introduces CitNOW to Bolster Transparency with Partners

As part of the Auto Windscreens End of Year Innovation Conference, the automotive glass repair and replacement provider announced it plans to adopt CitNOW technology to enhance and aid transparency with its insurance partners. Taking place at the business’s newest … Continue reading

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Drive with Belron Accelerator 2018 Launches

Drive with Belron, powered by investor and innovation partner L Marks, is back, launching a ten-week startup accelerator running from 30 April to 10 July 2018. Belron and L Marks will make available a fund of £200,000 to invest in winning startups. Continue reading

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Production Up 68 Percent at Morelos Parts Plant

A 1-billion-peso investment (over US $53 million) by the Japanese firm Sekisui Chemical in its Jiutepec, Morelos, plant will bump its production capacity by 68%.
The addition of a third production line has increased the workforce by 44% and its production of automobile windshields and high-strength laminated glass.
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State Inspection Stickers Set to Slide Over

RICHMOND – State inspection stickers will no longer be placed in the bottom center of vehicle windows because of technological advances, state police announced Wednesday.
State police said the relocation was needed because automobile manufacturers now offer crash avoidance technology in many of their vehicles, and the new technology utilizes the center of the windshield, according to a press release. Placing items in the center area, including stickers, could prevent crash avoidance systems from operating properly.
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List of Safety Picks Dings Some Cars for a Failure to Illuminate

Car buyers who put a premium on safety will find they’ll need much less time to peruse the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s list of top picks for 2018. Continue reading

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PCI Urges Florida Senate to Pass Windshield Inspection Bill

The Property Casualty Insurers Association of America (PCI) is urging the Florida Senate Banking and Insurance Committee to pass Senate Bill 396, which would require insurers to inspect a damaged windshield prior to it being repaired or replaced—an effort, the … Continue reading

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Uniban Canada Acquires Majority Share of Neuromage

Earlier this year, Uniban Canada acquired the trademarks and the franchise networks Star Auto Glass and Go Glass and Accessories, primarily located in Ontario. The company has now announced it has acquired the majority shares of Neuromage, holders of the … Continue reading

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Service King Opens 36th Dallas-Fort Worth Repair Center

Service King Collision Repair Centers announced the opening of its 36th Dallas Fort-Worth location. The new facility is located at 1780 E. Interstate 30 in Rockwall. “This is another proud moment for the Service King family as we open the … Continue reading

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David C. Andrews Passes Away

David C. Andrews, age 71, passed away peacefully November 30, 2017 surrounded by family and friends at his Federal Way, Washington home following a long illness. David was born May 11, 1946 to Bernard L. and Leone M. (Lewis) Andrews in Rochester, New York. He attended school in Albion, NY, assisted his parents at the Silver Horseshoe Restaurant in Brockport, NY, served in the Army during Vietnam, and owned businesses in Marina Del Ray, CA, Denver, CO and Wichita Falls, TX.
Dave and Mindy were residents of Burien, WA for 30 years and owned and operated Superior Auto Glass before retiring to Federal Way, Washington.
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Senate to Consider Pavements and Driverless Cars

The Senate is preparing consideration of a bill to improve roadway safety and autonomous vehicles (S. 1885). The House passed a similar bill (H.R. 3388) earlier in the year.
If enacted into law, the bills may result in new road standards to ensure optimization of pavement materials and markings.
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Skidmore Group Announces Acquisition; Fifth NOVUS Glass Location in BC

Skidmore Group announced that it has acquired Crown Glass Ltd., an auto, residential and commercial glass shop, located in the Kitsalano neighborhood of Vancouver, BC. This acquisition marks the company’s fifth NOVUS Glass location in BC, with the other locations … Continue reading

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Sika Shareholder Could Extend Saint-Gobain Agreement as Legal Battle Drags On

The largest shareholder in Swiss specialty chemical maker Sika raised the possibility on Friday that a takeover agreement with France’s Saint-Gobain could be extended as a legal dispute over the 2014 deal drags on. Continue reading

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PPG Invests $1.4M in French Sealants Facility

PPG has completed upgrades to a facility in France that makes automotive adhesives and sealants. Continue reading

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State Auto Extends CEO’s Contract

State Auto has extended President and CEO Mike LaRocco’s contract by three years. Continue reading

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No Data to Support that Telematics Reduces Losses: Regulator

Canadian auto insurers have been using telematics to gather data on driving behaviour for years, with one insurer having billions of miles’ worth of data, but it remains debatable whether pay-as-you-drive technology actually reduces insured losses. Continue reading

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Self-Driving Costs Could Drop 90 Percent by 2025, Delphi CEO Says

DETROIT – Delphi Automotive Plc, which is changing its name to Aptiv Inc, wants to cut the cost of self-driving cars by more than 90 percent to around $5,000 by 2025, according to Chief Executive Officer Kevin Clark. Continue reading

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Proposed Florida Bill Aims to Add Insurer Inspection Prior to Windshield Repair

Florida Rep. Rene Plasencia has proposed an amendment to current legislation that would require an inspection of a windshield’s damage by an insurer before it is repaired or replaced. The bill has been pre-filed in the Florida state legislature, and, … Continue reading

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Colorado Division of Insurance Recovered $8.5 Million for Consumers in 12 Months

Consumers pocketed $8.5 million rightfully owed them by their insurance companies between July 2016 and June of this year thanks to investigations performed by the Colorado Division of Insurance’s consumer services team.
The $8,517,970 recovered for consumers is $358,868 more than the previous year, the report says. The money comes in the form of additional claim payments, overturned benefit denials or refunds. The two coverage areas where investigators recovered the largest sums were auto insurance ($2.9 million) and health insurance ($2.1 million).
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TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons – A Military Thanksgiving, Continued

“Last week I wrote about the Spirit of a Hero foundation (SOAH) and all they are accomplishing with severely wounded vets. Specifically, how they helped Travis Mills in 2012. The organization holds an annual motorcycle rally to raise funds for injured veterans through pledges from the riders.” –Mark Liston Continue reading

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California Axes Self-Driving Car Rule Limiting Liability for Crashes

California has been happy to tweak the rules to get more self-driving cars on the road, but it still has its limits. The state’s DMV has eliminated a planned rule (suggested by GM) that would have let companies avoid liability for an autonomous vehicle crash if the machine hadn’t been maintained to manufacturer specs. In other words, they could have been let off the hook if your car’s sensors were muddy, even if an accident was really due to bad code. Continue reading

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Recall Process Still Waiting for Repair

WASHINGTON — When Mark Rosekind became the nation’s top vehicle safety regulator in 2014, massive recalls of General Motors ignition switches and Takata airbags underscored the difficulty of notifying millions of consumers about dangerous defects and getting their vehicles fixed quickly. Continue reading

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Domestic Auto Sales Drop; Vehicle Repair and Insurance Prices Increase

Domestic sales for new autos experienced a decline September to October. According to the latest figures from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), U.S. automotive unit retail sales dropped by 15 percent, or 61,500 units, on a month-over-month basis. Year … Continue reading

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TODAY’S BLOG: Technically Speaking — Cutting Lamination

“In the past, I have discussed the art of laminated glass fabrication. We covered a number of subjects such as the equipment required and the mechanics of scoring, breaking the score, radius corners and finishing. Although there are various ways of separating the lamination, today I want to explain why care must be taken in using alcohol and heat.” –Bob Beranek Continue reading

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Spike in Car and Home Break-Ins Causing a Glass Shortage in the South Bay

The continuous spike of vehicle and residential break-ins is creating a familiar problem in the South Bay: A shortage of glass to replace lost windows and doors.
For Bill Donovan, owner of Auto Glass Masters in San Jose, spike in business is not necessarily a bad thing. But the reason he’s getting the constant stream of customers is an issue.
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Portland Auto Repair Shop Warns of Car Break-Ins during Holiday Season

PORTLAND — An auto repair shop in Portland says people are more at risk this holiday season for car prowlers. And according to police, car burglaries are up this year. Continue reading

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GM and Cruise on Track to Field a Self-Driving Ride Hailing service by 2019

GM and Cruise have articulated more specifically when they want to put their self-driving service on the roads, at today’s investor call for the company from San Francisco. GM said that they can make it happen within two years, with a fleet ready to go to work by 2019 based on the company’s current rate of progress. The commercial launch was previously revealed to happen within “quarters, not years” according to GM President Dan Ammann, but this is the closest they’ve come to putting a specific launch date out there. Continue reading

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LYNX Now Requires Proof of Successful Recalibration

Third party administrator (TPA) LYNX Services, a Solera company, recently sent a notice to some auto glass repair shops and dealerships stating that it will now require documentation of a successful recalibration, which has to be accepted, prior to payment … Continue reading

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Fire Destroys Miramichi Auto Glass Business

The Miramichi Fire Department battled a fire Tuesday night at an auto glass shop in the downtown area in the former town of Chatham, N.B.
The fire at Speedy Auto Glass, located on the corner of Duke and King Street was reported at 5:45 p.m. said Sgt. Ed Arbeau of the Miramichi Police Force.
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GM and Cruise Finally Give a Peek behind the Curtain of Their Automated-Driving Program

General Motors has noodled with the idea of automated vehicles since at least the mid-1950s, when the company produced a film with its Firebird II concept car that showed a family cruising down a highway autonomously. Now, more than six decades later, GM claims to be getting close to making its first highly automated vehicles a commercial reality. Continue reading

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New Mercedes Auto Supplier Will Bring 170 Jobs

According to a Wednesday news release from the Tuscaloosa County Industrial Development Authority, SAS Automotive Systems has announced its intention to build a plant that will supply the next generation of Mercedes-Benz SUVs assembled at their plant in Vance. Continue reading

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Velodyne’s Latest LIDAR Lets Driverless Cars Handle High-Speed Situations

Self-driving cars from Alphabet’s Waymo are currently cruising the streets of suburban Arizona, navigating around with no human at the ready to take the wheel should something go wrong. It’s some of the most advanced testing we’ve seen so far, reaching what’s known as Level 4 autonomy. These cars can operate without any human input, but only under certain conditions and on certain roads. Continue reading

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September’s Miles Driven Drops Month-Over-Month

Travel on all roads and streets increased slightly in September 2017, increasing .3 percent, or .8 billion vehicle miles, compared to September 2016, according to the latest figures from the Federal Highway Administration. Month-over-month miles driven decreased by 7.3 percent.  … Continue reading

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Mr. Auto Glass Becomes AGSC Registered Member Company

Mr. Auto Glass of Palm Harbor, Fla., has joined the list of safety-conscious auto glass companies by becoming an accredited Registered Member Company of the prestigious Auto Glass Safety Council™ (AGSC). Continue reading

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SNL Pulls Creepy Safelite AutoGlass Sketch from Reruns and YouTube

If you happened to watch Saturday’s SNL rerun with your extended family (consensus: Parents love Pete Davidson!), you may or may not have noticed a slight change to the running order of the episode, which first aired October 7 and featured Gal Gadot as host. Continue reading

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State Auto’s Extension of CEO LaRocco’s Contract a Vote of Confidence in Turnaround Strategy

Mike LaRocco, who took over president and CEO of State Automobile Mutual Insurance Co. in May 2015, has won the support of the company’s board of directors for an extension of his contract until Dec. 31, 2021. Continue reading

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Northland High School Automotive Trades Academy Steers Students to Trades

Tikipunga High School’s Automotive Trades Academy is aiming to provide a solution to a skill shortage and is seeing increasing enrolments of female students on its course. Continue reading

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Shared Self-Driving Cars Could Slash Demand for U.S. Sedans: Study

DETROIT – Ride services using self-driving vehicles could slash by more than half demand for owner-driven sedans in the United States by 2030, according to a study released Monday by consulting firm KPMG that used cellphone data to map commuter travel in three large U.S. cities. Continue reading

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Clayton, Dubilier & Rice Sign Definitive Agreement with D’Ieteren

D’Ieteren announced it has signed a definitive agreement with Clayton, Dubilier & Rice (CD&R) regarding a partnership investment in Belron, parent company of Safelite AutoGlass. Under the agreement, CD&R will acquire 40-percent ownership interest in the Belron group, and D’Ieteren … Continue reading

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Sika Acquires Leading Automotive Supplier in Acoustics

Sika has agreed to acquire Faist ChemTec Group, a manufacturer of high-performance engineered, structure-borne acoustic solutions for the automotive industry. Headquartered in Worms, Germany, the company generates annual sales of CHF 190 million and employs 840 people worldwide. The transaction … Continue reading

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Autoglass and Belron Grow Partnership with QBE Insurance

Autoglass and QBE Insurance have announced an expanded three-year partnership. Continue reading

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Bill Protects U.S. Jobs from Foreign Investment

U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown (D., Ohio) said Monday that he is co-sponsoring bipartisan legislation that would give the Commerce Department the ability to review foreign purchases of — or investment in — U.S. industries to determine if they are in the best economic interest of American workers.
Rich Rankin, UAW Region 2-B director, said the UAW currently is concerned about Fuyao Glass in Dayton, which is Ohio’s largest Chinese-owned auto glass manufacturing operation. The company, whose workers rejected UAW representation earlier this month, pays workers $10 to $14 an hour, Mr. Rankin said. Continue reading

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Waymo’s Self-Driving Cars Rack Up 4 Million Miles on Public Roads

Self-driving cars are still very much a technology of the future, however their presence in the here and now is growing. Alphabet’s Waymo is among the pioneers pushing self-driving vehicles out into real-world testing, and it has just revealed that its cars have passed the milestone of driving more than 4 million miles on public roads. The speed at which Waymo is accumulating its driving experience is accelerating nicely: the last million miles took six months, whereas the first million required a year and a half. Continue reading

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SNL Removes All Traces of Safelite Parody in Episode Reruns

Saturday Night Live (SNL) re-ran its controversial October 7th show, which featured a parody of Safelite AutoGlass’s television ads, over the Thanksgiving weekend. However, the Safelite spoof was removed from the airing and replaced with another skit. The original skit … Continue reading

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TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons – A Military Thanksgiving

“This week, and next, I’m going to share with you a beautiful Thanksgiving story. It is a story about giving thanks, giving back and changing people’s lives.” –Mark Liston Continue reading

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Why an Insurer Invites Mandatory Fraud Reporting

Insurers in Canada should have no choice but to report to fraud to law enforcement and to industry peers, be it is claims for healthcare services that were not provided or bills for repairs that were never done, an Aviva Canada official suggested Thursday. Continue reading

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Hyundai Mobis Touts Its New Air Bag for Sunroofs

SEOUL — Hyundai Mobis, a major car parts maker affiliated with South Korea’s Hyundai Motor, has developed an airbag for sunroofs. Continue reading

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Virginia Tech Tapped to Reimagine Industry Standards for Self-Driving Future

BLACKSBURG—If cars of the future drive themselves, will they need headlights? How about windows, steering wheels or turn signals? Will seats still need to face forward, or can we redesign interiors to look more like a living room than a stuffy car? Continue reading

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Auto Glass Companies Look Forward to Family Time this Thanksgiving

While most auto glass repair and replacement companies will likely be closed Thanksgiving day, several have opted to let their employees choose whether or not to take off Black Friday. Jeremy Driscoll, owner of JRD Auto Glass in Austin, Texas, … Continue reading

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When It Comes to Self-Driving Cars, What’s Safe Enough?

Self-driving vehicles passed a major milestone in November when Waymo’s minivans hit the streets of Phoenix without backup human drivers — reportedly making them the first fleet of fully autonomous cars on public roadways. Over the next few months, people will get a chance to take these streetwise vehicles for a free spin as the company tries to drum up excitement — and a customer base — for its launch of a driverless taxi service. Continue reading

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Plea Deals for Faulty Headlamps Deny Justice for Victims

Plea Deals for Faulty Headlamps Deny Justice for Victims

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Mitsubishi Motors North America Recalls More Than 83,000 Vehicles

Mitsubishi Motors North America has issued a recall for certain 2014-2018 Mirage vehicles. The recall is for defective airbags which may not deploy as designed in the event of an accident. The company issued the recall on October 30, and … Continue reading

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Dallara Stradale Sports Car Lacks Doors and Windshield

Dallara Stradale Sports Car Lacks Doors and Windshield

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Thanksgiving Set to See Highest Travel Volume in 12 Years

This Thanksgiving is on track to see the highest volume of travel since 2005, with an estimated 50.9 million Americans traveling at least 50 miles away from their home, according to AAA. That’s 1.6 million more travelers compared to last … Continue reading

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Where is Disbarred Bubba Attorney Now? Still Tied to Courtroom, Suing Over Assignment of Benefits

In the months Adam Filthaut spent delaying his disbarment for setting up a rival attorney on a DUI charge years earlier, the disgraced lawyer was also busy setting up his next controversial career.
Filthaut started a glass-replacement company and began filing assignment-of-benefits lawsuits almost immediately, including both before and after his disbarment.
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Jerry’s ABRA Auto Body & Glass Donates Car to Mother of Four

Jerry’s ABRA Auto Body & Glass donated a car to Shannon Pierce on Monday and the gift left her speechless. Continue reading

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Ohio TV Station WCMH Warns Consumers about Failing to Do Scans

A Columbus, Ohio, television network has warned consumers about a possible threat to their warranty should they forgo a diagnostic scan of their vehicle. Continue reading

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Car Labor Charges Affected by Brexit

The Institute of the Motor Industry said small independent motor businesses were at risk if the European Union’s ‘Right to Repair’ scheme isn’t protected. The EU regulation means all car manufacturers are obliged to share information on parts and repair processes for all their new models, which secures a fair market for independent businesses to operate in. Continue reading

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Volkswagen Recalls Tiguan for Insufficient Back-Up Lighting

Volkswagen Group of America has issued a recall for certain 2018 Tiguan vehicles. The recall is for the vehicle’s back-up lights which may not be bright enough, increasing the risk of an accident. The company issued the recall on October … Continue reading

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D’Ieteren and Clayton, Dubilier & Rice Enter Exclusive Discussions Regarding Partnership Investment in Belron

D’Ieteren and Clayton, Dubilier & Rice (CD&R), a global private investment firm, announced that they have entered into exclusive discussions under which CD&R-managed funds would acquire a 40-percent ownership interest in the Belron group. Under the proposed agreement, D’Ieteren and … Continue reading

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TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons – Giving Thanks

https://liston.agrrmag.com/2017/11/20/leadership-lessons-giving-thanks/ Continue reading

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Gerber Collision & Glass Opens Repair Location in Panama City

The Boyd Group Inc. announced the opening of a second collision repair location in Bay County, Fla. This brownfield development is located in Panama City, less than two miles north and south of the major Florida highways U.S. 98 and … Continue reading

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Department of Commerce Commissioner Steps Down

Gov. Mark Dayton announced Friday that Department of Commerce Commissioner Mike Rothman would step down immediately after more than six years on the job. He’ll be replaced by Jessica Looman, who has served as a deputy commissioner with the Department of Labor and Industry since 2014.

The news comes as the Office of the Legislative Auditor confirmed it had been asked to investigate actions taken by various DOC officials in connection to an investigation into an auto glass company a federal judge ruled was ‘unjustified.’
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Locals Note Rock Chipped Windshields Common in RGV

MCALLEN – If you drive in the Rio Grande Valley, you’re probably familiar with rock chipped windows. Continue reading

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Auto Recalls Reach All-Time High, but 30 Percent Go Unrepaired

Vehicle recalls are regularly in the news, warning of inadvertent air-bag deployments, faulty door latches, even risks of fire, as well as the ongoing Takata air-bag recall that dwarfs all others. Continue reading

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PPI: Auto Glass Prices Rise as Year Nears End

Prices for materials used in the auto glass industry increased notably in October after months of stagnation, according to recently released Producer Price Index (PPI) data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The monthly PPI for specialty glass, which … Continue reading

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Fuyao’s Restaurant Holds Grand Opening

Fuyao held a grand opening today for Taste of the World, which opened outside the Moraine plant. Continue reading

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Exploding Sunroofs: Proposed Class-Action Suit Started Against Hyundai Canada

Hyundai is the target of a proposed class-action lawsuit related to alleged issues with vehicle sunroofs, Global News has learned. Continue reading

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After Decades of Pushing Bachelor’s Degrees, U.S. Needs More Tradespeople

FONTANA, Calif. — At a steel factory dwarfed by the adjacent Auto Club Speedway, Fernando Esparza is working toward his next promotion. Continue reading

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Texas Instruments Aims to Make Car HUDs Bigger and Brighter

If you get into a new Lincoln Continental or Navigator, its optional head-up display (HUD) may surprise you with its brightness, clarity and visibility through polarized glasses. Those qualities come courtesy of a fundamentally different technology than used by other automakers. Instead of an LCD image reflected onto the windshield, Lincoln uses a Digital Light Processing chip (DLP) from Texas Instruments, which actively projects its imagery to the windshield. Continue reading

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PGW’s Oldest Auto Glass Plant Will Shut Down in June 2018

Following a month of uncertainty, Pittsburgh Glass Works (PGW) officially announced it will close its oldest auto glass manufacturing plant in Creighton, Pa. The phased close-out of production at the facility is anticipated to take place in June 2018. In … Continue reading

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Autoglass Specialist Becomes Exclusive Glass Provider to TCR UK

Autoglass’s specialist glazing team has signed a three-year national agreement with TCR UK, the UK’s leading provider of ground support equipment, covering all major airports across the UK. Continue reading

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Ore. Shop Sues GEICO, Claims DRP Creating Antitrust Conditions

A Portland, Ore-area collision repairer sued GEICO Tuesday on Sherman Antitrust Act grounds, alleging the carrier is conspiring with its Auto Damage Xpress direct repair program auto body shops to fix prices and boycott the plaintiff. Continue reading

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All but One Local Lawmaker Voted Against Auto Insurance Reform

In a vote that surprised few, all of the local State Reps. voted no on the recent automobile insurance reform bill, except for one. Continue reading

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Food Bank in Urgent Need of Thanksgiving Turkeys

STOCKTON — By this time last year, people had donated 648 turkeys to the Emergency Food Bank.
San Joaquin County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce members Rosa Lopez, owner and operator of Steele Insurance in Lodi, and Henry Peralta with Stockton Auto Glass are volunteering this week to pick up donations from people or groups and deliver them to the Emergency Food Bank. The Food Bank needs help and they want to make it easier for people to come to the organization’s aid, Lopez said.
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Proposed New Hampshire Bill Aims to Reform Auto Glass Repair Reimbursement

A proposed amendment to current legislation has been submitted to the New Hampshire state legislature that would require auto insurers to reimburse independent repair shops—including glass companies—similarly to auto dealerships. If passed, the law could have implications for the auto … Continue reading

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Local Group Will Use Generous Gift to Provide Homes for Families in Need

DAVENPORT, Iowa — An organization that helps those struggling with poverty and addiction got a huge lift today.
One Eighty, a group that helps with in-school food pantries, clothing, and supplying furniture to families in the Davenport School District, was gifted $25,000 by the Safelite AutoGlass Foundation.
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Nissan’s Intelligent Rear View Mirror Displays Backup Camera Images

Nissan has launched its Intelligent Rear View Mirror (I-RMV) backup camera designed to promote safety, according to a blog post by Jones Junction. Continue reading

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Bob Lutz: Kiss the Good Times Goodbye

It saddens me to say it, but we are approaching the end of the automotive era. Continue reading

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Stephen Hawking Says Autonomous Technology Could Destroy Us

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), automakers and other companies are working together to get fully computerized driverless cars on the roads, but the artificial intelligence (AI) involved has some very smart people worried about who will be controlling what. Continue reading

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The Two Components of Assignment of Benefits

Assignment of benefits (AOBs) has been a controversial topic recently, as insurers allege some auto glass shops, primarily in Florida and Arizona as well as other states with a zero-deductible for auto glass, are committing fraud and entering litigation arbitrarily. … Continue reading

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Aftermarket ADAS: A Huge Growth Projected in Recent Study

“The aftermarket segment for ADAS systems in the United States currently is approximately a $976-million opportunity, growing to $1.51 billion at a 9-10-percent compound annual growth rate (CAGR) in 2021,” a recent study produced by Ducker Research for the Specialty … Continue reading

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Metro Detroit High School Unveils State-of-the-Art Auto Technology Lab

TROY, Mich. – Troy High School unveiled a new auto technology lab that aims to inspire kids. The school district says it is part of a one-of-a-kind program where students can become certified mechanics while in high school. Continue reading

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Feds Take Hands-Off Approach to Driverless Tech, Worrying Consumer Groups

Most Americans aren’t ready to trust self-driving vehicles. If that’s going to change as automated travel nears, consumer advocates say that federal regulators responsible for protecting the motoring public must set and enforce rigorous safety standards for the fledgling technology. But there are growing concerns the government is doing little to ensure autonomous vehicles are ready for the road—and that recent revisions to the Federal Automated Vehicles Policy have undercut the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s role as a safety watchdog Continue reading

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U.S. Launches Pilot Program Aimed at Alerting Drivers about Unfixed Recalls

With an estimated 30 percent of cars on the road operating with unfixed recalls, the U.S. government has launched a pilot program in the northeast aimed at alerting owners with open recalls. Continue reading

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Vehicle Sales to Drop as Ride-Hailing Booms — IHS Markit Study

DETROIT — Global vehicle sales will decline over the next two decades as consumers embrace on-demand ride services such as Uber, according to a study by IHS Markit. Continue reading

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New Products Abound at SEMA 2017

The 2017 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show wrapped up its four-day run at the Las Vegas Convention Center on November 3, and while the show is primarily focused on automotive restyling, a few companies from the auto glass industry … Continue reading

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UAW Defeated in Bid to Organize Ohio Glass Facility

The United Auto Workers failed to organize workers at Fuyao Glass America Inc. in Ohio because of “anti-labor tactics and intimidation by management,” the union said. Continue reading

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TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons – Building a Team

“Last Friday, Mary Kay and I attended our first Texas high school football game. We’ve been talking about doing this since we moved here in 2010. The high school stadium that is closest to our home seats 9,000. In Texas, however, this is a small stadium! There are some that hold more than 20,000 fans.” –Mark Liston Continue reading

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Price Hikes Fuel Best Allstate Profit in Years

Allstate has profited more on each car insurance policy this year than it has in nearly a decade, thanks to a relentless three-year rate-hike campaign combined with a somewhat surprising leveling off in the number of policyholder accidents. Through the first nine months of 2017, Allstate’s underlying profitability on its name-brand auto insurance business is 8.4 percent, nearly 5 percentage points better than 3.5 percent in 2016. That’s far and away Allstate’s most dramatic one-year improvement in the last decade. Continue reading

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Safety Probe Coming for Vegas Self-Driving Shuttle Accident

The recent accident involving an autonomous NAVYA Arma electric shuttle in Las Vegas just moments after its official launch, has now became the subject of U.S. National Transportation Safety Board investigation. Continue reading

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Honda Will Recall Improperly Installed Replacement Airbag Inflators, Again

Honda Motor Co. is planning to install another round of replacement airbag inflators that have been improperly installed under an earlier recall. Unsurprisingly, these are Takata units and represent an expansion of an earlier recall from September that had also been incorrectly fixed. In both cases, the issue only affects passenger-side airbags. Continue reading

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Sika Industry Announces Price Increase

Sika Corporation, Industry Division has announced price increases between 3 –5 percent on all products, effective January 1, 2018. Instead of a blanket percentage increase, the company has adjusted products differently based on the added material and production costs associated … Continue reading

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Tulsa Man Starts Mobile Oil Change Business

A Tulsa man recently launched an onsite oil change service.
Mike Sotelo launched The Mobile Oiler, which offers on-site oil change service that includes vehicle maintenance and minor mechanical service along with windshield repair and replacement, paintless dent repair and wash and detail. He serves consumers or companies with a fleet of vehicles in the Tulsa area.
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Professional Driving’s Coming Automation Crisis

As of today, the trucking industry is facing a severe shortage of workers. The digital economy has created a boom in the shipping industry, and it is having a hard time keeping up with the heavy demand for qualified personnel.
And it’s not just 18-wheelers that are lacking for drivers. Uber, Lyft, cab companies and delivery companies are all reporting trouble keeping their staffing rolls sufficiently stocked to handle the sudden upswing in demand to keep people and things on the road and on the go.
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Crash & Click: The Rise of Car Damage Photo Claims

WEST MONROE, La. – Your first move after getting in a car wreck is critical, but your next move could save you a lot of time and effort.
“Insurance companies have found that apps can provide a much easier way of doing an initial estimate on what the costs of damage can be from a car,” Loretta Worters with the Insurance Information Institute, said.
However, people are questioning if this quicker option is the best option.
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Belron has Allocated Its New Term Loans of $1.5 Billion USD

Belron, parent of Safelite AutoGlass, announced it has allocated its Term Loan B (TLB) of $1.5 billion USD (1.3 billion EUR) equivalent and refinanced its revolving credit with a new facility of $324.6 million USD (280 million EUR) (the “financing”). … Continue reading

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LKQ Corporation Posts Strong Earnings for Quarter Three

LKQ Corporation, parent company of PGW Auto Glass, had a strong third quarter. The company reported an 11.7-percent revenue increase in comparison to 2016’s third quarter, totaling $2.47 billion. These figures are according to the company’s latest financial statement. “We … Continue reading

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TODAY’S BLOG: Technically Speaking – Quarter and Vent Glass R&Rs

“Those of you who attended the recent Auto Glass Technician Competitions (the “Olympics”) in West Palm Beach may have noticed that we threw our competitors a little curve this year. Instead of having the competitors replace a windshield in their first heat, we had them remove and reinstall (R&R) a quarter glass.” –Bob Beranek Continue reading

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Hundreds Demonstrate Outside Fuyao

MORAINE, Ohio – Hundreds lined up outside Fuyao Glass America chanting: “We are the union! The mighty, might union!” Continue reading

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Workshop Offers Lifestyle and Health Resources for Men

Mark Borchin of Mokelumne Hill is the picture of health – blessed with low blood pressure and a high metabolism. To keep it that way he is an active runner, plays basketball every week and hikes with his wife. But he is always aware that stress looms as a big health threat.
For Borchin, stress was building as he took his business from a windshield repair shop in his garage to ABC Auto Glass, a regional enterprise with three locations that he turned into a Glass Doctor franchise about 11 years ago.
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Tesla Owners Launch Class Action Over Elon Musk’s Full Self Driving Claims

A year ago, Tesla set up a hastily organised conference call between Elon Musk and reporters. Tesla had something big to announce — big enough for the chief executive to open the floor to questions. That doesn’t happen very often. Continue reading

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House Panel OKs Bill to Reduce all Michigan Auto Insurance Rates

Legislation reining in Michigan’s medical costs in auto insurance was amended Thursday by a House committee to include guaranteed reductions in premiums for all drivers. Continue reading

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Geico Motions for Entry Default Judgement against VIP Auto Glass

Geico General Insurance Company has asked the U.S. District Court Middle District of Florida Tampa Division to enter default judgment in its favor in the October 2016 lawsuit filed by VIP Auto Glass (VIP). The auto glass shop was seeking … Continue reading

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High-Tech Cars Helping to Push Up Auto Insurance Rates

NEW YORK — New technology means cars are now safer than ever but auto insurance rates are on the rise. Continue reading

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Exploding Sunroof Complaints Rise in Canada

An increasing number of motorists have reported that the sunroofs of their cars have suddenly exploded for seemingly no reason.
Data from Transport Canada showed that the number of such complaints went from zero in 2007 to more than 110 in 2016. As of October 16, 103 incidents of exploding sunroofs had been recorded this year.
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Hyundai Motor Joins Auto-Driving Research Project in U.S.

Hyundai Motor Group has secured partnerships with Ford, Toyota and AT&T to build a large-scale research complex for the testing of fully automated driving technologies in Michigan, the United States. The Korean automaker aims to push forward with its efforts to increase a technology-based partnership with global peers, for which Hyundai’s passive approach has been criticized, and develop technologies for automated vehicles. Continue reading

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First White-Box Testing Model Finds Thousands of Errors in Self-Driving Cars

How do you find errors in a system that exists in a black box?
That is one of the challenges behind perfecting deep learning systems like self-driving cars. Deep learning systems are based on artificial neural networks that are modeled after the human brain, with neurons connected together in layers like a web. This web-like neural structure enables machines to process data with a non-linear approach–essentially teaching itself to analyze information through what is known as training data.
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J.D. Power Finds Insureds Slow to Accept Digital Claims Reporting

Auto insureds have been slow to accept digital claims reporting despite insurers’ push toward using mobile apps and digital channels to purchase insurance, according to J.D. Power’s 2017 U.S. Auto Claims Satisfaction study. The report noted that the results were … Continue reading

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Union Vote Set for Fuyao Glass America Workers

Representatives of Fuyao Glass America and the United Auto Workers came to agreement on the details of an upcoming vote on whether to accept union representation at Fuyao’s Moraine plant. Continue reading

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‘Who Pays?’: Insurers’ Reimbursement Not Consistent for Procedures Likely Needed Every Time

The latest “Who Pays for What?” survey found some operations which logic and best practices dictate should be done on every relevant repair aren’t receiving universal payment from the nation’s Top 8 insurers. Continue reading

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Delphi Acquires nuTonomy for $450M, Advancing Push for Automated Driving

Over the past half-decade, countless startups have appeared on the landscape with the hope of disrupting the more-than-century-old automotive industry with automated driving. Increasingly, those small players are getting gobbled up by the incumbents in the industry. The latest is Boston-based nuTonomy, which is joining Delphi Automotive in a $450 million acquisition. Continue reading

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Detroit Isn’t the Only City with Outsized Auto Insurance Rates

Motorists in Detroit and much of the metro area — as well as those in the Flint area — are charged substantially more for car insurance because of where they live. All insurers, based on claims histories, opt to charge motorists more for most types of coverage. But in Detroit, costs for personal injury protection — which in Michigan has no dollar cap, unlike all other states — generates the biggest extra charges. Continue reading

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2018 Ford F-150 Receives Top Safety Pick; Headlights Disappoint

The Ford F-150 has retained its Top Safety Pick rating for the 2018 model year, thanks to a new automatic emergency braking (AEB) system.
The pickup would have joined the Top Safety Pick+ club, however its headlights are among the worst in the segment. Continue reading

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LKQ Corporation to Acquire Aftermarket Business of Warn Industries Inc.

LKQ Corporation, parent company of PGW Auto Glass, announced that its Specialty Segment, Keystone Automotive Operations Inc. (Keystone), has agreed to acquire the aftermarket business of Warn Industries Inc., a designer, manufacturer and marketer of high performance vehicle equipment and … Continue reading

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State Lawmakers Pick Sides on UAW Efforts at Fuyao

Public officials are choosing sides in the United Auto Workers’ efforts to unionize the Fuyao Glass America Plant in Moraine. Continue reading

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Data Shows Shattered Sunroofs Affect at Least 208 Models

SAN ANTONIO – For Steven Kaufman, a leisurely drive two years ago in his brand new Hyundai Elantra GT took an unexpected turn. Continue reading

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Philadelphia Police Unveil Cars with Bullet-Resistant Windows

PHILADELPHIA — Philadelphia police have 150 new patrol cars on the way with a feature that no other major municipality has: bulletproof [sic] windows. Continue reading

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Transparent Solar Panels Could Harvest Energy from Windows and Eventually Replace Fossil Fuels

A new generation of see-through solar cell technology could soon be used to harvest the massive energy potential of building and car windows, cell phones as well as other objects with a transparent surface. Continue reading

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More Employees Expected to Join Lawsuit against Fuyao Glass America

The June lawsuit against Fuyao Glass America for alleged unpaid wages just got bigger. Two more former employees have requested to join seven others as plaintiffs in the lawsuit against the auto glass manufacturer for alleged unpaid wages and unpaid … Continue reading

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TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons – Providing Support

TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons — Providing Support

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These Two Scientists Say the Time Has Come to Redefine ‘Glass’

“Glass is an amorphous solid that flows like a liquid,” you’d probably say if you were asked to define the stuff. Is that true, though? What if I told you, for example, that the old myth, that old windows are thicker at the bottom because the glass has flowed a little bit, was false? Glass is an incredibly complex physical idea that avoids easy definition. Continue reading

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Man Says Sunroof Spontaneously Shattered While Driving

BATON ROUGE, LA – About two weeks ago, a man says he experienced the unthinkable. “I swerved, but I caught the car. I was trying to keep myself from panicking. I thank the Lord because it could’ve been worse.” Continue reading

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Regulator Blasts Wells Fargo for Deceptive Auto Insurance Program

A federal regulator criticized Wells Fargo for engaging in unfair and deceptive practices and failing to manage risks, and said it had not set aside enough money to pay back the customers it harmed. Continue reading

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Mitsubishi Electric Just Beat Google to One of Self-Driving Cars’ Most Significant Hurdles

In the drive to get autonomous cars on the road, one major hurdle remains – snow.
In 2015, Google admitted that despite the myriad, highly accurate sensors on its self-driving cars, one of its biggest challenges in mapping roads in real time is navigating changing weather conditions. To overcome rain, Google’s Waymo team fitted windscreen wipers to its cameras, but it’s still yet to fully master mapping the terrain in snow. Step up, Mitsubishi Electric.
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Former Safelite Technician Joins Alleged “Forty Hour Plan” Lawsuit

Another former Safelite technician has joined two other plaintiffs in the lawsuit against the company for alleged unpaid wages due to the company’s purported “Forty Hour Plan.” The plaintiffs are seeking $500,000. Quincy Williams has joined plaintiffs Lamar Mackall and … Continue reading

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Tech Talk: Windshield Replacements in the Modern Age

Toronto, Ontario — We all know that repair costs have risen. We also know why. The simple fact of the matter is that modern cars are much more complicated than in years past. The manufacturers have introduced new materials, and ultra-high strength steels are now commonplace. Also, electronics and sensor systems have continued to proliferate. All of this means a higher cost of repair when it goes wrong. Continue reading

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Competing, Starkly Different Bills Face Uphill Battle to Reduce Car Insurance Premiums

A fight in Lansing over car insurance reform is once again pitting concerns over affordability against concerns about coverage for catastrophic car crashes. Continue reading

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De Blasio Crusades Against Self-Driving Car Initiative

Mayor de Blasio is pledging to slam the brakes on Gov. Cuomo’s plan to let General Motors test self-driving cars on city streets — but Cuomo’s office says the state is in the driver’s seat and de Blasio is out of luck. Continue reading

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IIHS Crash Test: 2017 Jeep Compass Fails to Earn Top Safety Pick+ Rating

Recently put to the test by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the 2017 Jeep Compass didn’t get the top rating because of the poor-performing headlights. By “marginal,” the Insurance Institute refers to the optional HID headlights with high-beam assist technology. Go for the standard halogen headlights, and all the IIHS can give the all-new Compass is a measly “poor.” Continue reading

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Belron Enters the Home Repair Market in Europe

Belron has announced the acquisition of 80 percent of the shares of Maisoning Group, a French company providing home repair services (repair, renovation and emergency repairs) to both B2C and B2B customers. This acquisition is fully aligned to Belron’s service … Continue reading

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‘Who Pays?’: OEM Procedures Still Not Being Consulted Every Time

Though usage has again ticked up since the prior year, the number of shops reporting consistently consulting OEM procedures still remains far lower than where it ought to be, the most recent “Who Pays for What?” survey concluded. Continue reading

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Intel Develops a System Making Self-Driving Vehicles Blameless in Accidents

Intel has developed a system it says ensures that self-driving vehicles can’t cause accidents when they are at fault, an effort to reassure a skeptical public and help speed adoption of driverless cars on the road. Continue reading

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Hyundai Mobis Introduces World’s First Panorama Sunroof Airbag

Hyundai Mobis said Wednesday it has successfully developed the world’s first panorama sunroof airbag that is deployed from the vehicle’s ceiling to protect passengers in case of accidents. Continue reading