Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: FRIDAY, May 11, 1990 TAG: 9005110661
SECTION: EDITORIAL PAGE: A10 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE:
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
We love automobiles; each of us wants something a little different out of our own. That is one reason the imports as well as the domestics are guilty of producing some less-than-safe cars, as well as some vehicles with tremendous structural integrity.
Price-point consumerism is one reason for less-safe cars. It costs money to be safe. Ask a race driver; better yet, ask an automotive salesperson. Instead of spending days negotiating a $50 saving on the purchase of a new car, let - no, demand that - the salesperson show you the safety features as well as the colors and options.
Another reason people find themselves in less-than-safe situations is that they do not know how to drive, at least not under adverse conditions. The trial-and-error method proves most costly here.
Like Jerry Stone (Opinion From Elsewhere April 19), I am a car enthusiast who lives in Roanoke. I am also employed in the aftermarket automotive field. The automobile business is changing for the good. People today sell better, safer products and are better-trained.
Next time you go looking for a new car, give a salesperson your priority list and let him show you the car you ask for, not the car your eye wants. Then go to a driving school and learn how to drive your new car. You'll have fun and be a safer driver. You also might want to purchase your next car with anti-lock brakes. It's a great product; ask your insurance agent.
\ DONALD H. SALISBURY\ ROANOKE
by CNB