Changing Wiper Blades Can Help Drivers 'See More'

Groundhog Day to Serve as Annual Safety Reminders for Drivers

HOUSTON, Jan. 14 -- Vision is a critical factor of driving safety, with 90 percent of driving decisions based solely on vision(1). According to a recent report from Aftermarket Business, it is estimated that more than 46 million individuals are driving with impaired vision during stormy weather. In fact, according to a recent survey released by Rain-X(R)(2), 78 percent of motorists only change their wiper blades after the blades themselves begin to impair their visibility and have become a potential safety hazard.

To raise awareness around the issue of clear vision and safe driving, Rain-X is teaming up with automotive expert Barbara Terry to activate the third annual 'Seemore Safety Campaign'. On February 2nd, a day when most drivers are tuned in to the weather, the iconic symbol of the campaign -- Seemore the Safety Groundhog -- will emerge from his den to spread his message of safety and remind motorists to change their wiper blades.

"Many drivers consider their wiper blades a service replacement item, when in fact they are a vital component of a vehicle's safety features," says Barbara Terry. "A simple way to improve driving safety visibility is to clean the windshield every time when filling the gasoline tank and carefully inspect the blades. In most cases, wiper blades are not difficult to replace and for those who are not certain of the procedure, most major auto retailers offer free blade installation with purchase."

During this unpredictable weather period, it is also important for motorists to ready their vehicles with items to help them prepare for inclement weather patterns. In fact, 60 percent of those surveyed keep at least three essential poor weather items in their vehicles at all times. The most common items included an ice scraper (71 percent), a flashlight (63 percent), gloves or a hat (48 percent) and a blanket (45 percent).

"In addition to keeping those weather items handy, drivers should also keep additional safety items in their vehicle including flares and a tire inflator," continues Terry. "Drivers should also regularly walk around their vehicle to check if all lights and signals work and pay extra attention to the vehicle's tires by routinely inspecting them for adequate tire tread, and proper tire pressure. Using Groundhog Day as a reminder for changing a vehicle's wiper blades and safety checks can help keep us all safer on the roads."

The survey also found that one out of every three drivers on the road fail to change their blades according to the recommended frequency of once a year.

For additional information on automotive safety or wiper blades please visit Barbara Terry's website at www.barbaraterry.com or www.rainx.com.

  (1) AAA
  (2) A total of 1,010 interviews were completed among licensed drivers 18
      years and older.  Results are based on the total sample of 1,010
      adults, at 95% confidence.