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CHEVROLET INDYCAR AT THE INDIANAPOLIS 500: NOLAN SIEGEL AVAILABILITY

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NTT INDYCAR SERIES News Conference
Thursday May 22, 2025
Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
Nolan Siegel – Arrow McLaren
Starts 24th

THE MODERATOR: The weather looks good. Nolan, for you, same story? The difference of the balance, the feel in the car between qualifying and the race?

NOLAN SIEGEL: I definitely feel the same as Kyle where qualifying was, I think, tough for everyone. It was a bit weird, I would say, how strong we felt on Monday relative to kind of the opposite on Saturday, which I guess is a good thing, but it’s been a bit confusing for us.

We’ve, I feel like, been really strong at some points and then weaker at other points. And qualifying day we weren’t as good as we thought we were going to be, and Monday we came back, and the car is fast and we’re really competitive in traffic.

Hopefully that stays that way, but it’s been very up and down. It’s been interesting. It’s been interesting.

Q. Nolan, for you as well, and we’ll just call you Kirk too. Your thoughts? First 500. As we mentioned, there’s a bunch of veterans in and around you. Is your mindset, great, I’m going to go in front of them right away? Or is it do I play it safe, learn from them, and then attack? What’s the mindset?

NOLAN SIEGEL: It depends how it plays out. No, I feel — starting where I am, I feel a lot better that I’m starting around great people that are also going to be moving their way forward. Yeah, I couldn’t ask for better people to be around.

If I can slot in behind Helio and follow him through the pack, then that’s going to be a great learning experience for me. Obviously he knows how to get around here.

Yeah, it’s definitely — starting where I am, it’s not where I would want to be starting, but it’s kind of the best-case scenario being where I am. So we’ll see. I’m going to do what I can. I’m going to try to be smart for the first part, but I think you can’t just sit around in INDYCAR. There’s no INDYCAR race where you sit around and wait, things just come to you. You kind of have to go get it.

I’ll try to move my way forward and be smart about it at the same time.

Q. Nolan, take me back to Sunday. You were watching Jacob Abel and trying to make the field, and it was the situation that you were in a year before. I’m sure you were relieved you weren’t in the cockpit at that time. Did it bring back some emotions? Did you have any opportunity to talk to Jabel and discuss, hey, I know the exact feeling, and maybe you and him might be the only two in the last two years that have felt that?

NOLAN SIEGEL: I have spoken to Jacob, and I stood out on pit lane with Jack Harvey, who was there with me through it all last year. It’s just hard. Someone has to go home, but no matter what, there’s no one in the field that you want to see go home. It’s just hard.

I know exactly what Jacob was going through. I have a lot of respect for Jacob. We’ve raced against each other for a long time, known each other for a long time, all through the Road to Indy.

Yeah, it definitely brought back some memories from last year. While I was happy to not be doing that on Sunday, it was hard not to feel for him and feel for the whole team. Like everyone there has put in so much work to be here in the first place, and to see a group of people go home with nothing, it’s hard.

Q. Nolan, your famous quote last year was “I wasn’t going to go home because I lifted.” Is there a part of you that is amazed at the path your life has taken over the past 12 and 13 months since that day?

NOLAN SIEGEL: Yeah, definitely. I feel very, very lucky to be here. While I feel settled and obviously I’ve been in the same spot for long enough now for it to kind of feel normal, it is cool being here and looking back one year and thinking about all that’s happened.

I feel very grateful to be in the position that I’m in, and a lot of great things have happened in the past year. I just want to make the most of all the opportunities that I’ve been given. That’s my goal here.

Yeah, grateful to have another shot at this race obviously, and it’s been my goal for a long time to be full-time in INDYCAR, and to do it with a team like Arrow McLaren is really special. Yeah, I just want to make the most of that amazing opportunity.

About General Motors

General Motors (NYSE:GM) is driving the future of transportation, leveraging advanced technology to build safer, smarter, and lower emission cars, trucks, and SUVs. GM’s Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC brands offer a broad portfolio of innovative gasoline-powered vehicles and the industry’s widest range of EVs, as we move to an all-electric future. Learn more at GM.com.

INDYCAR AT THE INDIANAPOLIS 500: RYAN HUNTER-REAY AVAILABILITY

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NTT INDYCAR SERIES News Conference
Thursday May 22, 2025
Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
Ryan Hunter-Reay – Dreyer & Reinbold Racing
Starts 25th

THE MODERATOR: Ryan, do you care to introduce your guest?

RYAN HUNTER-REAY: Yeah, this is Ryden over here. He just is graduating from fifth grade and missing his last week of school to be here because he would rather be nowhere else, so that’s what we’re doing.

THE MODERATOR: Your thoughts about missing your last week of school? Grab the microphone. What’s it like to miss the last week of school for this?

RYDEN HUNTER-REAY: I think it’s better than going to school. Way better.

THE MODERATOR: We agree. We’ll open it up for questions for all three, or four, for that matter.

Q. You guys are staying across the street. You get to come and watch your dad race. That’s pretty cool. Your friends get into it? What’s this week like staying so close to the track and having this place as your playground?

RYDEN HUNTER-REAY: It’s really cool because we get to kind of scooter everywhere. Yeah, really fun.

RYAN HUNTER-REAY: Like his own little playground here. Tough life.

Q. This is for both Ryan and Jack. I’m curious how your approach and preparation for this race has changed from when you were racing full-time to this year where it’s your only INDYCAR race on the schedule, especially when driving for a team that’s also done a one-off?

RYAN HUNTER-REAY: Yeah, it’s different for sure. It’s a lot to get on top of because you have a whole — you have a massive group of people coming together that need to operate and execute as efficiently as possible in a very short amount of time. There’s a lot more to be on top of, which it kind of comes a little bit more natural when you are running the whole season because you’ve been working with those folks, and you’re kind of in your rhythm.

But with that said, from a driving perspective, Indy is so unique. Indy is Indy, so there’s nothing different on that side of it. It’s more just trying to get that large group of people together and make sure that everything is kind of as you need it.

With all the new scenarios and protocols with the hybrid and trying to get — and it’s our first weekend with that as well. It’s our first, I should say, race with that. Yeah, it’s just a lot to manage on that side, but this group does a great job with that every year. It’s a fun group to work with. It’s not so bad having Jack there either.

JACK HARVEY: That’s the nicest thing you’ve said to me.

RYAN HUNTER-REAY: We’ve been working really well together. It’s been fun.

JACK HARVEY: Been getting choked out by your kids and RKO’d, and now a Ryan compliment. This week is pretty much complete, I think, at this point.

RYAN HUNTER-REAY: They nicknamed him Muffin Man.

JACK HARVEY: The bad nicknames, that’s become my thing. Then I came into Ryan’s RV the other day and “Pirates of the Caribbean” was on, and I said, Well, you could call me Captain Jack. And then that’s low-key pivot into Captain Muffin. I don’t know. Maybe I’m just an easy target for bad names.

I think one thing, only doing the 500 this year, you hear all the drivers say, oh, I enjoy the month of May, but I don’t think all the drivers do enjoy the month of May because they’ve been busy up to May. The season is going good for some people. It’s going bad for others. Everyone else, apart from us, really, is going straight to Detroit.

When I say I’ve enjoyed everything this May, I mean that. Every media availability that we’ve had, I haven’t done anything other than totally willingly, every sponsor dinner that we’ve been to, because I’m grateful to be here, knowing this is, as is stands right now, the only time I’m going to wear my helmet this year. Even on some off days where in other years I wouldn’t come to the track, I wouldn’t — I would take that time for myself, where right now I’ve just been here taking it all in.

Having Ryan as a teammate who has been great when we’re on track, and his feedback to the team is huge. Dreyer & Reinbold Racing, they know this disco dance. They get prepared for it as a single event every year anyway. I think they probably help us both navigate some of that. Also, from a timing perspective, when it’s time to ramp up, et cetera, I really think I’ve just enjoyed the month.

Q. My question is to all three drivers. May is the Mental Health Awareness Month for INDYCAR. It brings a lot of excitement and a lot of pressure as well to perform. How have you guys been coping with that pressure as you prepare for the race?

RYAN HUNTER-REAY: Yeah, I think qualifying day, really Saturday is probably the longest day of the whole year for anybody involved in this business and especially from behind the wheel. It’s extremely stressful, but I think over time over the years you just learn to kind of deal with that.

It never gets old, though. It’s not like it becomes less stressful. You just deal with it in a different way, and you manage that a bit more. Yeah, it’s always come with a lot of pressure and obviously consequences on the racetrack and all that stuff. It’s part of the job.

Q. Then for Ryan, you’re a former winner here at the 500, so you know what it takes to finish up front here. What’s one thing that the rookies or the younger drivers don’t realize about this race until they’re, like, deep into it?

RYAN HUNTER-REAY: It’s a long race really. Like kind of Colton said, you can’t really just focus on I have to get to the front now. It’s several cars at a time. Get some on the track. Get some in the pit lane. Work through it methodically that way.

You know, I think just knowing when to take the lunge and when not to, I think maybe the experienced guys have an upper hand on that, with it being all about keeping the momentum up. It’s tough now, though, with the cars how they are and the current specs, everybody is very desperate for every pass.

There’s a lot of blocking going on.

It’s definitely a bit of a different approach than it’s been maybe, I don’t know, ten years ago, but we all adapt to that and drive accordingly.

THE MODERATOR: Ryden, who is going to win on Sunday?

RYDEN HUNTER-REAY: My dad.

RYAN HUNTER-REAY: There it is.

THE MODERATOR: Right answer. Guys, thanks for coming up.

About General Motors

General Motors (NYSE:GM) is driving the future of transportation, leveraging advanced technology to build safer, smarter, and lower emission cars, trucks, and SUVs. GM’s Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC brands offer a broad portfolio of innovative gasoline-powered vehicles and the industry’s widest range of EVs, as we move to an all-electric future. Learn more at GM.com.

CHEVROLET IN INDYCAR AT THE INDIANAPOLIS 500: JACK HARVEY AVAILABILITY

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NTT INDYCAR SERIES News Conference
Thursday May 22, 2025
Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
Jack Harvey – Dreyer & Reinbold Racing
Starts – 26th

THE MODERATOR: Jack, rising TV star at FOX Sports, putting that aside for at least a week. How much are you looking forward to Carb Day tomorrow and then obviously on race day?

JACK HARVEY: I think with all the drivers it’s always a privilege to get to compete in the Indy 500. Probably like a lot of people, we felt good on Monday, so we’re hoping that just translates to Friday and the race.

Q. Jack, for you, race car looked pretty good. How much is it patience and how much is it wanting to go forward because there could be a lot of potential we’ll see? Restarts are going to be key here. How do you methodically work your way up knowing you have a good race car underneath you?

JACK HARVEY: I think patience is probably the right word. It’s obviously a super long race. We really just need to be there from halfway to the end. I think feels like a pretty fast row, at least from what I observed on Monday. So I think we’re all probably hoping that if one of us is going to the front, that we all just kind of as a convoy go to the front as well.

One thing that has been really cool with working with everyone at Dreyer & Reinbold and Cusick Motorsports is the emphasis they put on the pit stops and the preparation they’ve done. So far the stops have looked really great in practice. So I think that’s going to be more of an asset to us than a hindrance, which I think for a part-time or single-race team, it’s a really huge thing.

If the car is good and balance is good and everything is ticking away nicely, then hopefully we’ll have a great day.

Q. This is for both Ryan and Jack. I’m curious how your approach and preparation for this race has changed from when you were racing full-time to this year where it’s your only INDYCAR race on the schedule, especially when driving for a team that’s also done a one-off?

RYAN HUNTER-REAY: Yeah, it’s different for sure. It’s a lot to get on top of because you have a whole — you have a massive group of people coming together that need to operate and execute as efficiently as possible in a very short amount of time. There’s a lot more to be on top of, which it kind of comes a little bit more natural when you are running the whole season because you’ve been working with those folks, and you’re kind of in your rhythm.

But with that said, from a driving perspective, Indy is so unique. Indy is Indy, so there’s nothing different on that side of it. It’s more just trying to get that large group of people together and make sure that everything is kind of as you need it.

With all the new scenarios and protocols with the hybrid and trying to get — and it’s our first weekend with that as well. It’s our first, I should say, race with that. Yeah, it’s just a lot to manage on that side, but this group does a great job with that every year. It’s a fun group to work with. It’s not so bad having Jack there either.

JACK HARVEY: That’s the nicest thing you’ve said to me.

RYAN HUNTER-REAY: We’ve been working really well together. It’s been fun.

JACK HARVEY: Been getting choked out by your kids and RKO’d, and now a Ryan compliment. This week is pretty much complete, I think, at this point.

RYAN HUNTER-REAY: They nicknamed him Muffin Man.

JACK HARVEY: The bad nicknames, that’s become my thing. Then I came into Ryan’s RV the other day and “Pirates of the Caribbean” was on, and I said, Well, you could call me Captain Jack. And then that’s low-key pivot into Captain Muffin. I don’t know. Maybe I’m just an easy target for bad names.

I think one thing, only doing the 500 this year, you hear all the drivers say, oh, I enjoy the month of May, but I don’t think all the drivers do enjoy the month of May because they’ve been busy up to May. The season is going good for some people. It’s going bad for others. Everyone else, apart from us, really, is going straight to Detroit.

When I say I’ve enjoyed everything this May, I mean that. Every media availability that we’ve had, I haven’t done anything other than totally willingly, every sponsor dinner that we’ve been to, because I’m grateful to be here, knowing this is, as is stands right now, the only time I’m going to wear my helmet this year. Even on some off days where in other years I wouldn’t come to the track, I wouldn’t — I would take that time for myself, where right now I’ve just been here taking it all in.

Having Ryan as a teammate who has been great when we’re on track, and his feedback to the team is huge. Dreyer & Reinbold Racing, they know this disco dance. They get prepared for it as a single event every year anyway. I think they probably help us both navigate some of that. Also, from a timing perspective, when it’s time to ramp up, et cetera, I really think I’ve just enjoyed the month.

Q. First of all, Jack, you’re a lad from Lincolnshire. How on earth have you acquired the nickname Hollywood? It seems like you’ve been forced to embrace it now it seems?

JACK HARVEY: That’s a pretty accurate observation, I would say. I think it started by — well, it definitely — I know it started by Will Buxton. I see Kevin. He was a culprit in this too. So between the booth and Kevin, and I low-key think Georgia was involved. I can’t remember exactly how Hollywood Harvey came up.

Just for context, the village that I grew up in is like 1,000 people in a small town in a small part of the United Kingdom two hours north of London. This is a rural place, guys. The fact that Hollywood Harvey is my nickname, I have my friends who didn’t get to see the build-up to it. They’re, like, Oh, big-time now, you’re on TV. I’m, like, I know it’s going to come across that way. Even these hooligans, they all heckle me now saying Hollywood and stuff. Kind of been forced to embrace it.

I

‘ve had worse. Muffin Man is worse, I have to admit. So maybe we’ll make a game out of just bad nicknames, but if it was an Olympic sport, I think I would be gold medalist right now.

RYAN HUNTER-REAY: — got a very explicit British vocabulary now.

JACK HARVEY: Ryan has been watching some TV shows, and his vocabulary has rapidly improved.

THE MODERATOR: For instance?

RYAN HUNTER-REAY: We can’t give that out.

Q. This question is for Hollywood. I’m just kind of curious. You have driven Honda your entire career. This is the first time you’ve ever had Chevy. I’m kind of curious what the differences you’ve noticed with the power band pounding laps around Indy.

JACK HARVEY: Nothing crazy, honestly. I would say, too, just top-tier organizations. My time with Chevy so far has been really good. I think probably some of what I hear other people talking about is the drivability of the car, on throttle application. That probably shows up more so on a street circuit and then road course and then probably least affected at the oval.

Yeah, my time with Chevy so far has been really great. Yeah, first race weekend not in a Honda, but that’s fine. It would be pretty cool if I can’t win it, to see Ryan win it, and then just a Chevy driver after that really.

Q. My question is to all three drivers. May is the Mental Health Awareness Month for INDYCAR. It brings a lot of excitement and a lot of pressure as well to perform. How have you guys been coping with that pressure as you prepare for the race?

JACK HARVEY: I set boundaries with people from the team, sponsors, myself, et cetera. We do what is absolutely required, but after that if it’s 10 o’clock at night, if it’s urgent, you can call me. If it’s not urgent, let me have that moment to myself and unwind.

One thing I did this month, which hopefully you guys will do too, is watch “Andor Star Wars,” but I paced it out. I watched an episode a day because I used that as my time to unwind and do something I actually enjoyed.

Not taking on more than I could feasibly do and having boundaries I think was the best thing that I implemented this month of May.

RYAN HUNTER-REAY: So I’m working on my vocabulary. You are watching “Star Wars.”

THE MODERATOR: How was it?

JACK HARVEY: It was excellent. It’s like top tier “Star Wars,” Dave.

Q. This question is for Jack. Jack, obviously you’ve got your new role with Fox, but what has it been like switching off from that for the month of May and being on track back in the car?

JACK HARVEY: It’s been pretty easy, honestly. I would say the opportunities that Fox has been given to me this year have been brilliant. It’s kept me in the paddock amongst all my pals and in an environment and a community that I like to be a part of.

Only getting to race once a year, I knew we had a lot of free time. Finally when I got the call from them, I was just really happy. That’s an area I still have to work on. It’s not totally my comfort zone. I feel like we’re making progress on it. Wearing the helmet, putting the suit back on, that’s still a place where I feel the most at ease, the most confident. It’s been if un.

Actually one thing I’ll share, both FOX Sports and Dreyer & Reinbold Racing with Cusick Motorsports, both organizations — I guess three organizations there, haven’t really overlapped. Everyone has been very respectful when it’s been time to be a pit reporter and then announce the NXT races and then also when it’s time to be driver.

The mutual respect between everybody has probably allowed me to focus on both jobs that I have this year to 100%. I’m very appreciative of that. When we’ve been able to maybe speak to the guys when I’m in the car, that’s just a fun bonus, but it’s come at a time that’s convenient to the team, convenient for the booth.

So, yeah, I feel like I’m living a pretty awesome life, honestly.

Q. Just a quick one on Dennis and Don. What’s it been like working with those two guys?

JACK HARVEY: They’re awesome, honestly. A lot of respect for everybody at Dreyer & Reinbold Racing and Cusick Motorsports. It takes a village to be competitive at this. We all know that. We’ve had a great team of people right at the very top. It’s hard to get that message across.

What the team, both sets of teams, stand for and how they want to be, they radiate all the time. And they set the tone, and it trickles down through the entire — well, through both organizations. I think me and Ryan are lucky that as a single-race entry that we’re with both of those teams.

Q. Then for Jack, you’ve been in the pit lane all season as a reporter, like you mentioned earlier. How has seeing the sport from the broadcast side changed your perspective as a driver coming back for this 500 run?

JACK HARVEY: It’s probably just appreciation for what goes into actually a good show and a good presentation of the INDYCAR SERIES, whether it’s TV, radio. So much more goes on than I think drivers are typically exposed to. That’s not necessarily a bad thing. It’s just everyone is doing their jobs.

More so just some appreciation and respect and gratitude for how hard so many people work just to try and make this a great product that people can come watch.

About General Motors

General Motors (NYSE:GM) is driving the future of transportation, leveraging advanced technology to build safer, smarter, and lower emission cars, trucks, and SUVs. GM’s Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC brands offer a broad portfolio of innovative gasoline-powered vehicles and the industry’s widest range of EVs, as we move to an all-electric future. Learn more at GM.com.

CHEVROLET IN INDYCAR AT THE INDIANAPOLIS 500: WILL POWER AVAILABILITY

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NTT INDYCAR SERIES News Conference
Thursday May 22, 2025
Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
Will Power – Team Penske
Starts 33rd

THE MODERATOR: Starting 33rd, he was the winner of the 2018 Indianapolis 500, driver of the No. 12 Verizon Team Penske Chevrolet, good morning, Will Power.

Will, start off for you. Obviously you’re looking forward to getting out on the racetrack tomorrow. A couple of hours of practice before the race on Sunday. How crucial will those two hours be for you?

WILL POWER: I think because of the temperature it will be interesting. I think it’s going to matter. It certainly changes the car a lot. It’s very sensitive around this place to wind and temperature. It will be interesting to see how that feels.

I kind of feel like it helps everyone. It’s a bit more grip for everyone, a bit more downforce, less tire deg. I feel like it will be a race similar to last year where the cool track temps created a lot of close racing and epic restarts and so on.

Q. Will, you’ve been with Tim Cindric, Ron, and Kyle for a long time. Roger had to make the decision that he made, but for you personally these were more than just people you worked with. They were your friends. They’ve been to your house, up at the lake. Just how sad is it for you to see that these great careers now have this happen to them?

WILL POWER: Yeah, it’s kind of a shock and a pity. They’re all extremely good at their job. Yeah, it was just the pressure from outside. I guess Roger had to make a tough decision, but I can tell you these were very credible people. They really were. As you know, the infraction was very minor. It wasn’t a performance gain. Yeah.

I called Ron. Obviously he’s on my car. I didn’t get him. But yeah, I feel bad for everyone involved in that situation. I really do. It’s just a tough — I don’t know what else to say. They’re all extremely good people, great at their job, won a lot of races, championships, created an incredible team.

Yeah, a real pity.

Q. Talking to Rick Mears the other night, he said you can win the Indy 500 from any seat in the house, so obviously that’s the mindset you both have. If you could just describe how challenging it’s going to be to have a fast car coming up from the back?

WILL POWER: Yeah, it’s certainly tougher these days with the very tight field, but absolutely possible. Obviously depending on where yellows fall and so on, you can certainly find yourself in a really good spot.

The car is good. The car is fast. It feels like it’s good in traffic. I have started back there before. Yeah, so looking for a very, very clean, good day. Good, solid day.

Q. Will, did you have any input, or did you lobby for anybody to be your strategist for this weekend and/or are you going to lobby for anyone specific going forward?

WILL POWER: Have they —

Q. They’ve announced it.

WILL POWER: Roger asked what he would like, and he asked my engineer and all the engineers, What’s the best way to do this? They’re all very capable people on each car. I think it wouldn’t have mattered who they went with. I got Jonathan Diuguid, who is extremely experienced and has been an engineer and run INDYCARs before.

I think between Dave and Jonathan, those two guys are incredibly smart and understand strategy, everything. It’s a very strong group for all three cars.

Q. Obviously when things were going on on Sunday, there seemed to be other teams telling INDYCAR about what you all were doing. There was a lot of talk about did they tip off INDYCAR? Are you angry at other teams? Are you upset? Do you come in here with a kind of chip on your shoulder after what happened on Sunday?

WILL POWER: Yeah, no, I don’t know what I’m allowed to say, but I know what happened. Obviously, yeah, you want to — I just want to do a good job for all the guys on the team on Sunday. That’s sort of the main — I’m just very focused on the race. Not really out to get anyone.

It’s the circumstance that it is, and we’re all very motivated to have a good day, sort of try to put this stuff behind us. Yeah, you know, news cycles move pretty quick, so if you can throw a win in there, that would certainly be a good way to move forward, yeah.

Q. Will, I know we all learned about this yesterday morning at about 10:40 via email. How did you find out about the news and the decisions that Roger had made?

WILL POWER: Yeah, I was called in to see Roger at RP1 there. Yeah, that’s how I found out. Jonathan and Bud in there as well, and spoke to the drivers, yeah.

Q. You said, I think, in your initial comments — you said you felt like Roger either was forced to make this or had external pressures to make this. How did your — I know it’s a private conversation, but how did your conversation with Roger go, and what did he say to you to explain why he felt like he was having to make these moves?

WILL POWER: I know it was very tough for him. He said that. It’s obviously a very tough decision to make. He said he didn’t sleep the night before because he had to make a very hard decision.

I feel bad for him. He’s in a very tough spot in that situation. Yeah, it wasn’t really a long conversation with us. He just explained what happened. You could tell it was heavy on him. Tough, tough for him to have to do that.

Q. Will, is it hard for you being swept up in this, in something that you didn’t do that to the car?

WILL POWER: Yeah, I mean, man, I’ve been around long enough to shut that stuff out and still focus on the thing that you’re here to do, and that’s to get the absolute most out of the car. You still have to do your homework. You can’t be distracted by all this. My main focus is Sunday, and that’s true. I’m not too swept up in it. I’ve got plenty of time after the race to think about that, but we’re coming up on the biggest race of the year for us.

Yeah, I think everyone — I feel like everyone on the team is positive and very motivated. I think being the driver you need to show that this is not affecting you, and you’re very focused on the job at hand, and I am. I am. I haven’t allowed too much emotional stress to take away energy that I need on Sunday.

Tough situation, but we still got a job to do.

Q. You touched a little bit on how it felt like it was heavy for Roger. What kind of impact do you think this could have on him? Obviously he cares a lot about his integrity and credibility.

WILL POWER: I think Roger moves forward very quickly. I know him over the years, he makes decisions. He moves forward. Doesn’t dwell on it. Starts looking at what is absolutely best for the team and everyone to move forward. That’s Roger. That’s why he’s so successful.

He’s not going to sit and spend a month worrying about what happened. I think he’s how can we fix this and let’s move forward and make sure it doesn’t happen again.

Q. I don’t know if there is such a thing as being extra motivated because I know how highly motivated you guys always are, but is there any sense of that this weekend, that you guys have to really pull together and that this is an opportunity to rise like you never have before?

WILL POWER: I think it just kind of makes you lock in. You know, yeah, I think everyone is just locked in on the job. People have to step up now because we’re missing some key individuals, and that can be motivating for people. Like, all right, I’ve got to take on more work and responsibility. You know, that’s all of us in the team right now.

I think you get the best out of people in those situations. No one is ever ready for that. That’s why competition is so good. I think that’s what always gets the best out of me is tough situations. You see how good you really are.

Q. Will, we know you can be an emotional guy. How quickly did you kind of get over this and start looking forward? What is the driver’s reaction? I know Monday we were out here for the photo. What’s been the other competitors that you go up against — what’s been their reaction to this?

WILL POWER: I actually haven’t seen any of them. Yeah, I haven’t really talked to them. Everyone kind of goes home for a couple of days.

Man, I’ve been focused on the job, just doing all the homework I need to do. Obviously my engineer is more busy now. He has more obligations. But, you know, we have to be very good with finding time to sit down and make sure we don’t weaken the program or our potential for this weekend.

Yeah, everyone is positive in the team. They understand this is the biggest race of the year, and we want to have a great result. Yeah, it’s just an incredible number of circumstances that just you would never have dreamed of would play out like this. It’s just crazy. That’s Indianapolis. You just never know, man.

Look, PREMA turns up first year on pole and two of our cars are on the back row. Scotty crashed in practice with probably the car for pole. That’s Indy. A lot of pressure. So much effort goes in, and these sort of things happen, you know?

In some ways, having been around so long, it’s not that shocking. Like, oh, my God. These things happen. Strange things — like the year we almost didn’t make the field. Just things you wouldn’t think. This place just throws real curveballs at you. That’s just the way it is. It’s a very daunting, tough race to win, and the consequences are big when you make a mistake on and off the track.

Yeah, I guess that’s what makes it so special.

About General Motors

General Motors (NYSE:GM) is driving the future of transportation, leveraging advanced technology to build safer, smarter, and lower emission cars, trucks, and SUVs. GM’s Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC brands offer a broad portfolio of innovative gasoline-powered vehicles and the industry’s widest range of EVs, as we move to an all-electric future. Learn more at GM.com.

Team Penske reveals new personnel lineup for 2025 Indy 500

By
Andrew Kim
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Photo by Paul Hurley (Penske Entertainment).

Team Penske revealed its personnel changes and new team member lineup for its three-car field ahead of this year’s 109th running of the Indianapolis 500 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway on Thursday, May 22.

Luke Mason and Raul Prados will assume the roles of strategist and lead engineer, respectively, for Josef Newgarden and the No. 2 Team Penske Dallara-Chevrolet team.

Ben Bretzman and Malcolm Finch will serve as strategist and lead engineer, respectively, for Scott McLaughlin and the No. 3 Team Penske Dallara-Chevrolet team.

Lastly, Jonathan Diuguid and David Faustino will work as strategist and lead engineer, respectively, for Will Power and the No. 12 Team Penske Dallara-Chevrolet team.

The news comes a day after Team Penske announced the departure of three management staff: Tim Cindric, Team Penske’s president; Ron Ruzewski, Penske’s NTT IndyCar Series’ managing director; and Kyle Moyer, Penske’s IndyCar general manager.

The departures of the trio were due to Penske’s Nos. 2 and 12 entries violating a rule in the IndyCar rule book that pertained to an unapproved body fit on the rear attenuator of the cars. The discovery was made during the second day of the PPG presents the Armed Forces Qualifying session ahead of this year’s Indy 500 this past Sunday, May 18. Initially, INDYCAR officials did not note any issues with Power’s No. 12 entry, but noted inquires on Newgarden’s No. 2 entry. Ultimately, the Penske organization opted to withdraw both entries from qualifying.

Since both the Nos. 2 and 12 entries had transferred to the Top 12 qualifying session, they were due to start 11th and 12th, respectively. During this past Monday, May 19, they were moved to the rear of the field in 32nd and 33rd. In addition, the entries were fined $100,000, their respective strategists were suspended for the Indy 500 and their qualification points were revoked.

The lone Penske entry to not be penalized was the No. 3 entry piloted by McLaughlin, the reigning Indy 500 pole winner, after the latter was involved in an airborne accident while practicing prior to the Top 12 qualifying session. Because McLaughlin had transferred to the Top 12 session prior to wrecking, he will line up in 10th place for this year’s Indy 500.

Following the departures of three staff, Roger Penske, owner of both Team Penske and Indianapolis Motor Speedway, released the following statement:

“Nothing is more important than the integrity of our sport and our race teams. We have had organizational failures during the last two years, and we had to make necessary changes. I apologize to our fans, our partners and our organization for letting them down.”

The 2025 season marks McLaughlin’s fifth Indy 500 career start as he attempts to win the event for the first time in his career. Meanwhile, Power and Newgarden are former Indy 500 champions. Power is set to make his 18th start in the Greatest Spectacle in Racing this year as he attempts to become the 22nd competitor to win multiple Indy 500s. Meanwhile, Newgarden is striving to become the first-ever competitor to three-peat in the Indy 500.

The 2025 Indianapolis 500, which is set to mark the 109th running of the Greatest Spectacle in Racing at Indianapolis Motor Speedway, is scheduled to occur next Sunday, May 25. The event’s pre-race coverage is slated to air at 10 a.m. ET on FOX and the drop of the green flag is slated to occur at 12:45 p.m. ET.

Major League Reunion for Dale Earnhardt Jr., Budweiser, and MLB

By
Official Release
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NASCAR Hall of Famer and Budweiser debut 2001 MLB All-Star Game inspired paint scheme, updated to feature the 2025 MLB Speedway Classic logo

MOORESVILLE, N.C. (May 22, 2025) – In celebration of Major League Baseball’s 2025 jewel event, the MLB Speedway Classic presented by BuildSubmarines.com in Bristol, TN, Dale Earnhardt Jr., Budweiser and MLB are teaming up to bring a NASCAR Hall of Famer, American beer and America’s favorite pastime to fans by recreating and paying homage to the iconic No. 8 Budweiser / MLB All-Star Game paint scheme. The legendary scheme will be showcased at the MLB Speedway Classic on August 2 and will be raced by Earnhardt Jr. in the zMAX CARS Tour event at Anderson (S.C.) Motor Speedway on August 16.

In July 2001, the original Budweiser / MLB All-Star Game paint scheme cemented its place in racing history when Earnhardt Jr. raced the red and white No. 8 design to an emotional victory in his first trip to Daytona International Speedway following the tragic loss of his father at the track earlier that year.

“It is an incredible opportunity to reunite with Budweiser and Major League Baseball,” said Earnhardt Jr. “I’ve watched that July 2001 race at Daytona so many times. It’s such a great memory for me. I am excited that we have this chance to collaborate with Bud and MLB to bring that scheme back again because of what it means to me and so many others.”

This partnership follows Budweiser and Earnhardt Jr.’s reunion last November when they brought back one of the most recognizable paint schemes in racing history, the red Bud No. 8 made famous by Earnhardt Jr. from 1999 to 2007.

Furthermore, as the longest-tenured sponsor of Major League Baseball, Budweiser has been a staple in the sport’s traditions and gameday experience for 21+ fans for decades. This August, Budweiser, MLB and Earnhardt Jr. are helping fans celebrate another historic milestone by promoting the MLB Speedway Classic that will be held at Bristol Motor Speedway. One of NASCAR’s most popular tracks will host a special regular season contest between the Atlanta Braves and the Cincinnati Reds, marking the very first Major League game to be played in the state of Tennessee. Attending fans can also view the No. 8 Budweiser / MLB Speedway Classic show car at the event.

“The incredible fan response to Budweiser’s reunion with Dale Jr. last November reminded us just how special this partnership is to racing fans,” said Todd Allen, SVP of Marketing at Budweiser and Bud Light. “This No. 8 Budweiser / MLB All-Star Game-inspired paint scheme pays tribute to one of the most iconic moments in the storied history of Dale Jr. and Budweiser’s partnership. The MLB Speedway Classic is the perfect stage to revive this fan-favorite design, uniting an American racing icon and American beer at a first-of-its-kind MLB event.”

In addition to enjoying the action at the MLB Speedway Classic and Anderson Motor Speedway, fans can commemorate the return of this iconic paint scheme with limited-edition merchandise available now on shopjrnation.com and coming soon to additional select retail locations.

Anheuser-Busch has proudly supported and elevated NASCAR through Budweiser, Busch and Busch Light for more than 40 years. Its long-standing commitment to the motorsports industry has included driver partnerships – notably as the primary sponsor of Earnhardt Jr. for nine seasons – key event sponsorships and media investments in motorsports.

Follow along on Budweiser’s social channels for more details about its partnership with Earnhardt Jr. and programming at MLB Speedway Classic in Bristol, and stay up to date on the racing events at the JRM X account or watch the Anderson Motor Speedway race on www.FloRacing.com.

ABOUT BUDWEISER

Budweiser, an American-style lager, was introduced in 1876 when company founder Adolphus Busch set out to create the United States’ first truly national beer brand –brewed to be universally popular and transcend regional tastes. Each batch of Budweiser stays true to the same family recipe used by five generations of Busch family brewmasters. Budweiser is a medium-bodied, flavorful, crisp beer with layers of premium American hop aromas, brewed for the perfect balance of flavor and refreshment. Budweiser is made using time-honored methods including “kraeusening” for natural carbonation and Beechwood aging, which results in unparalleled balance and character.

ABOUT ANHEUSER-BUSCH

At Anheuser-Busch, our purpose is to create a future with more cheers. For more than 165 years, we have delivered a legacy of brewing great-tasting, high-quality beers that have satisfied beer drinkers for generations. As a leading American manufacturer and the nation’s top brewer, we drive economic prosperity nationwide through investments in our people, facilities, and communities. We are the only brewer that invests in the U.S. at this scale.

We are home to the nation’s most iconic beer and beyond beer brands, including Michelob ULTRA, Busch Light, Budweiser, Bud Light, Stella Artois, and Cutwater, as well as industry-leading regional craft brands. From our longstanding efforts to support American farmers, military, veterans, and first responders, to emergency drinking water donations and responsible drinking programs, we are guided by our commitment to the communities we call home and the 65,000 hardworking Americans who bring our beer to life. That’s who we are. For more information, visit www.anheuser-busch.com or follow Anheuser-Busch on LinkedIn, X, Facebook, and Instagram.

ABOUT JR MOTORSPORTS

JR Motorsports is the racing operation co-owned by NASCAR Hall of Fame member and 15-time Most Popular Driver Dale Earnhardt Jr., Kelley Earnhardt Miller and NASCAR Hall of Famer Rick Hendrick. Now in its 24th year of overall competition, JR Motorsports competes in multiple divisions, including the NASCAR Xfinity Series where it currently fields four full-time teams and earned championships in 2014, 2017, 2018 and 2024. The company also owns seven titles in regional Late Model divisions with consecutive championships in 2022-23 and a prized national title in 2020. To learn more about the organization, its drivers and its sponsorship opportunities, visit www.jrmracing.com.

ABOUT MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL (MLB)

Major League Baseball (MLB) is the most historic professional sports league in the United States and consists of 30 member clubs in the U.S. and Canada, representing the highest level of professional baseball. Led by Commissioner Robert D. Manfred, Jr., MLB has achieved back-to-back attendance gains for the first time in 12 years with an overall increase of +11% and 80% of Clubs welcoming more fans over the last two seasons following extensive rule changes that have improved the quality of play on the field. With the 2024 season featuring the best time of game in 40 years and the most stolen bases in 109 years, MLB viewership increased across all its national media partners, grew international viewership by +18%, set another record for MLB.TV streaming with more than 14 billion minutes watched and earned League of the Year honors from Sports Business Journal and the CLIOS. As the league increased its marketing efforts and promotion of star players like 2024 NL MVP Shohei Ohtani and 2024 AL MVP Aaron Judge, MLB has significantly increased its younger fan base as evidenced through viewership, social media, ticket purchasing, and participation metrics. Through its MLB Together social responsibility efforts, MLB remains committed to making a positive impact in the communities of the U.S., Canada and throughout the world. With the continued success of MLB Network, MLB digital platforms and local media production and distribution, MLB continues to find innovative ways for its fans to enjoy America’s National Pastime and a truly global game. To learn more about MLB, please visit www.mlb.com.

Coca-Cola Consolidated Partners with 23XI Racing

By
Official Release
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Deal includes branding on Bubba Wallace’s No. 23 Toyota Camry and engagements with Carolina-area universities

Huntersville, N.C. (May 22, 2025) – 23XI Racing announced today that Coca-Cola Consolidated has joined the team as an official sponsor and the official soft drink partner of Bubba Wallace and the No. 23 team. Based in Charlotte, N.C., Coca-Cola Consolidated is the largest Coca-Cola bottler in the United States, operating in 14 states and the District of Columbia.

The full-season associate partnership will include Coca-Cola Consolidated branding on Wallace’s No. 23 Toyota Camry XSE, engagement opportunities on and off the track and events at several universities in the Carolinas that will feature Wallace and members of the 23XI pit crew. The school events with Coca-Cola Consolidated’s university partners will provide younger sports fans and STEM students a unique insight into NASCAR through behind-the-scenes tours at Airspeed, 23XI’s state-of-the-art headquarters, and on-campus engagements with student-athletes.

“We’re excited to welcome Coca-Cola Consolidated to the 23XI family,” said team president Steve Lauletta. “For decades, Coca-Cola Consolidated has had a significant impact in the communities they serve, and we look forward to collaborating with them on meaningful programs that give college students a behind-the-scenes look at how our team operates. We also look forward to creating special moments for 23XI fans to meet Bubba at select races.”

“We’re honored to partner with 23XI Racing,” said Heather Hucks, Vice President of Consumer Connections at Coca-Cola Consolidated. “We appreciate the passion and enthusiasm of race fans and look forward to creating iconic memories.” 

In addition to 23XI, Coca-Cola Consolidated has additional partnerships in the NFL, NBA, NHL, NASCAR and other professional sports.

About Coca-Cola Consolidated

Headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., Coca-Cola Consolidated (NASDAQ: COKE) is the largest Coca-Cola bottler in the United States. We make, sell and distribute beverages of The Coca-Cola Company, and other partner companies, in more than 300 brands and flavors across 14 states and the District of Columbia, to approximately 60 million consumers.

For over 123 years, we have been deeply committed to the consumers, customers and communities we serve and passionate about the broad portfolio of beverages and services we offer. Our Purpose is to honor God in all we do, to serve others, to pursue excellence and to grow profitably.

More information about the Company is available at www.cokeconsolidated.com. Follow Coca-Cola Consolidated on Facebook, X, Instagram and LinkedIn.

About 23XI Racing

23XI Racing – pronounced twenty-three eleven – was founded by NBA legend Michael Jordan and three-time Daytona 500 winner Denny Hamlin in 2020. With rising NASCAR star Bubba Wallace selected to drive the No. 23 Toyota Camry, the team made its NASCAR Cup Series debut in the 2021 Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway. Wallace made history on October 4, 2021, when he captured his first career Cup Series win, becoming just the second African American to win in the Cup Series, and earning 23XI its first-ever victory. 23XI expanded to a two-car organization in 2022 with Cup Series Champion Kurt Busch driving the No. 45 Toyota Camry. With a win at Kansas Speedway in May of 2022, Busch earned 23XI the team’s first-ever playoff berth. In 2024, Tyler Reddick won the Regular Season Championship and raced to a spot in the Championship 4, a first for both the team and Reddick. 23XI currently features the lineup of Bubba Wallace in the No. 23 Toyota Camry XSE, Tyler Reddick in the No. 45 Toyota Camry XSE, Riley Herbst in the No. 35 Toyota Camry XSE and Corey Heim as the team’s development driver. The team operates out of Airspeed, a state-of-the-art facility in Huntersville, N.C. that opened in January of 2024.

Keeping Your Wheels Turning On and Off the Track

By
SM
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Photo by BestPhotoStudio at https://depositphotos.com/

Whether you’re a weekend racer or simply passionate about your vehicle’s performance, keeping your wheels turning—both literally and metaphorically—means staying prepared for every scenario. From tuning your engine for optimal performance to knowing how to move your car across states efficiently, it’s all part of the lifestyle. Here’s how to keep your momentum going, both on the racetrack and beyond.

Performance Prep Starts at Home

Before you even hit the track, the key to a smooth ride lies in maintenance. This includes oil changes, brake checks, tire pressure monitoring, and regular alignment adjustments. Even if you’re not a professional driver, the benefits of routine upkeep are undeniable. A well-maintained car delivers better fuel efficiency, improved handling, and greater safety.

For motorsport enthusiasts, preparing for the track also means paying attention to specifics like suspension tuning, weight distribution, and tire compounds. Every detail counts when shaving seconds off lap times. Investing in the right tools and understanding your vehicle’s limits is what separates the casual drivers from the serious contenders.

Life Beyond the Finish Line

Of course, there’s more to owning a car than high-speed laps and tight corners. Whether you’re relocating, selling a prized vehicle, or simply heading to a new racetrack in another state, transporting your car efficiently and safely is essential.

For those on the East Coast, particularly in the smallest state in the U.S., using a trusted Rhode Island car shipping service can take the stress out of moving your vehicle. Rather than racking up miles and risking wear and tear, shipping ensures that your car arrives in top condition, ready for whatever lies ahead—whether it’s a car show, a race, or a new garage.

Off-Track Adventures Still Require Precision

Car enthusiasts often treat their vehicles with the same care off the track as they do during competitions. That means protecting them from weather, ensuring proper storage, and having a solid insurance plan. For many, this also includes investing in custom upgrades or aesthetic modifications that reflect personal style.

Your vehicle can be a form of expression, and for some, it’s a lifestyle centerpiece. Whether you’re showing off at meets or road-tripping across the country, staying organized and proactive is crucial. Keep a toolkit in the trunk, carry spare fluids, and know how to troubleshoot common issues. The more prepared you are, the less likely you are to be sidelined.

Community Keeps the Wheels Spinning

One often overlooked aspect of car culture—both racing and recreational—is the community. Connecting with fellow drivers, joining local clubs, and attending events can make a huge difference. The knowledge sharing, support, and camaraderie are as important as the cars themselves.

Forums, track days, and social media groups are full of tips on everything from DIY repairs to finding the best transportation services when you need to move your vehicle long-distance. These connections can often lead you to reputable solutions and save you money in the long run.

Stay Driven, Wherever You Are

Keeping your wheels turning is about more than just the mechanics—it’s a mindset. It’s about staying curious, passionate, and ready for the next challenge. Whether you’re tearing up the track, cruising along scenic highways, or planning your next move, your car is more than just a machine, it’s an extension of your drive and determination.

So, take the time to maintain it, protect it, and plan for its future. Whether that means a new set of tires or shipping it across state lines, each decision keeps you rolling forward—on and off the track.

How to Navigate the Claims Process After a Car Accident

By
SM
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Photo by Artyom Kulakov at pexels.com

Have you ever felt overwhelmed after getting into a car accident? You’re not alone. Whether it’s a small bump or a serious crash, the aftermath can feel confusing and stressful. There are forms to fill out, phone calls to make, and decisions to handle, all while you’re trying to recover. For many people in the U.S., especially in places like Florida, figuring out how to deal with insurance companies and legal steps after an accident adds even more pressure.

In this blog, we will share a clear and helpful guide on how to navigate the claims process after a car accident so you can focus on what matters most—getting your life back on track.

Check for Injuries and Call for Help Right Away

The first thing you should always do after a car accident is check if you or anyone else is hurt. Even if the accident seems minor, injuries can still occur. Some might not show up right away. It’s important to move slowly and carefully when checking for injuries. If someone seems seriously hurt, call 911 immediately. Emergency help can make a big difference in recovery.

Once you’ve checked for injuries and made the call, try to move your vehicle to a safe spot if you can. If it’s not safe to move it, turn on your hazard lights and stay where you are. This is where you might need to get some roadside assistance to help tow your vehicle out of the way.

Get the Police Involved and Gather Important Information

No matter how small the accident seems, calling the police is usually a smart move. Getting a police report can be helpful later when you have to file your insurance claim. The officer will ask questions, talk to everyone involved, and write down what happened. This report can help show who was at fault, which matters during the claims process. Be honest with the officer, but don’t guess if you’re unsure about something.

While you wait for the police or right after speaking with them, gather as much information as you can. Get the names, contact details, and insurance info of everyone involved. Also, take pictures of the damage, the cars, the road, and anything else that might be important. This kind of information can really help your Tampa car accident lawyer later, especially if there are any questions about who was responsible or how much damage occurred.

Tell Your Insurance Company as Soon as Possible

It’s important to contact your insurance company quickly after the accident. Most insurers want you to report a crash within a short time frame, sometimes even within 24 hours. When you call, have your information ready—like the date and location of the accident, who was involved, and any photos or police reports you’ve gathered. This will help the claims process go more smoothly from the start.

You don’t have to give every single detail right away, especially if you’re still waiting on the police report. Just give the basic facts. If the other driver’s insurance company contacts you, be careful with what you say. You don’t need to answer all of their questions. It’s okay to let them know that you’re still gathering information. Talking to your own insurance provider first is always the safest option.

Understand What Your Insurance Policy Covers

Before you move too far into the claims process, it helps to know what your car insurance actually covers. Take a little time to look over your policy or ask your agent to explain it. You want to know which parts of the accident are covered, like damage to your car, injuries, or even rental car costs. Understanding your coverage helps you avoid surprises later when it’s time to repair your car or pay medical bills. If you find your policy confusing or need help interpreting your coverage, a car accident lawyer can provide valuable guidance to ensure your rights are protected.

Some policies have special rules about where and how you can get repairs, or how much they’ll cover for a rental. Others may have deductibles, which means you’ll have to pay part of the cost out of your own pocket. When you know these details, you’ll feel more in control of the process. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Insurance language can be confusing, and it’s okay to ask for clear answers in plain terms.

Know When to Consult a Vehicle Accident Attorney

If your case involves serious injuries, disputed fault, or a lowball offer, the process gets complex. Consulting with a vehicle accident attorney in Florida or your area can be crucial in these situations. A qualified local attorney understands the specific laws and insurance regulations that apply to your case.

They can handle negotiations with insurers, protect you from saying anything that could harm your claim, and ensure you receive fair compensation for repairs, medical bills, and other losses. This allows you to focus fully on your recovery.

Start the Claims Process with Your Insurance Company

Once you’ve reported the accident and understand your policy, you can start the claims process. This usually means filling out a claims form, either online or by phone, and sharing all the details and documents you’ve collected. You might need to send photos, the police report, or receipts for any expenses. Your insurance company will assign someone to your case—called an adjuster—who will review everything and figure out what they’ll cover.

Stay in touch with your adjuster throughout the process. They could ask you more questions or need more documents. Being honest and quick with your replies can help move things along faster. Keep a record of every phone call and email in case you need to refer back to anything. If you feel unsure about something the adjuster tells you, ask for it in writing. That way, there’s no confusion later on.

Fixing Your Car and Dealing with Repairs

After the adjuster reviews your claim, they will let you know how much your insurance will pay for repairs. Some insurance companies will suggest repair shops, but you usually have the right to choose your own. Ask about warranties if you use one of their recommended shops. That can give you some peace of mind in case problems come up later.

Before fixing your car, ensure you understand if you must pay a deductible. You agree to pay that before your insurance covers the rest. If your car is badly damaged and costs more to fix than it’s worth, the insurance company might declare it totaled. In that case, they’ll pay you the car’s value instead of fixing it. Knowing this ahead of time helps you decide what to do next.

In conclusion, getting into a car accident can shake you up. However, knowing how to handle the claims process gives you a sense of control in a tough situation. From calling for help to talking to your insurance company, each step matters. Being prepared and keeping good records can make the process smoother. And when things get tricky, don’t be afraid to ask questions or seek legal advice. The road after an accident may feel long, but you don’t have to walk it alone. With the right knowledge and support, you can move forward with more confidence and less worry.

Driving in Florida – What You Need to Know

By
SM
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With over 260,000 miles of public roads and highways, driving is an essential part of getting around in the Sunshine State. Florida boasts some of the nation’s most extensive road infrastructure, including multi-lane highways, bridges, interchanges, and a vast network of surface streets. Understanding the state’s traffic laws, licensing requirements and safety issues is key for both residents and visitors. This guide covers everything you need to know before hitting the open road in Florida.

Florida Licensing Rules and Car Regulations

Nick Norden, an experienced car accident lawyer in Melbourne, FL,  mentions that to legally operate a motor vehicle in Florida, you must have a valid driver’s license issued by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV). On July 31, 2024, FLHSMV implemented new license number requirements to improve security. The updated licenses include at least four randomly generated numbers, replacing the old numbering formula. Both new applicants and renewals will receive licenses with the new randomized numbers. 

Florida’s Traffic and Car Accident Statistics

With its sprawling urban areas and vast countryside, Florida sees heavy traffic volumes. However, the large road network also contributes to accidents. Florida saw 14.9 deaths from motor vehicle crashes per 100,000 people, in 2023, which is higher than the national average. Motor vehicle crashes are one of the most common causes of death in the U.S. for people aged 1-54, according to the CDC. Practicing safe driving and being aware of hazards can help reduce your risk.

Dealing with Car Accidents in Florida

Even the most careful drivers can become involved in wrecks caused by others. If you are in an accident, stop immediately and alert the police so an official report can be filed. Avoid discussing fault and exchange your insurance information with other drivers. Seek medical care if you are injured. Photograph the damage and collect witness contact details. If the accident was another driver’s fault, contact a car accident attorney to help recover damages for injuries, lost wages, car repairs, and other costs. Nearly 40% of Florida drivers are under-insured, so an attorney can assist if claims exceed coverage limits.

Florida Road Rules and Driver Safety

Florida uses a no-fault insurance system, so your own insurer will cover medical expenses and lost income up to the policy limit, regardless of who caused the accident. Florida is a comparative negligence state, meaning damages are reduced by your own percentage of fault if you share blame for the crash.

The state also has a primary seat belt law, which means the police can stop and ticket you just for not wearing a seat belt. Florida’s open container law means drivers and passengers are not allowed to be in possession of open containers of alcohol in the passenger area. The state also bans texting and handheld cell phone use while driving.

Some key defensive driving tips include:

  • Maintaining a safe following distance
  • Scanning for hazards and blind spots
  • Avoiding distractions like mobile devices
  • Adjusting speed for road conditions
  • Signaling turns well in advance
  • Allowing extra stopping distance in wet weather

By following Florida’s traffic rules, driving defensively, and staying alert behind the wheel, you can help reduce crash risk and arrive safely at your destination. Safe travels on Florida’s scenic highways and byways!

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