The problem
When a passenger is trapped in a vehicle following a collision, medical attention can’t even begin until first responders can get to the injured occupant. Auto extrication is the process of removing all or part of a vehicle from around a person trapped inside.
State Farm impact
State Farm gives some vehicles that have been declared total losses to local fire departments for extrication training purposes. This allows them to test techniques for extricating passengers from vehicles, including vehicles with newer technology and hybrid and electric models.
The problem
To adequately insure restored and collectors’ cars, insurance companies must properly assess value. This requires understanding the type of each car and its condition.
State Farm involvement
To demonstrate these differences, experts from the State Farm Vehicle Research Facility (VRF) turned a 1968 Camaro RS convertible deemed a total loss into a training aid. The VRF restored half of the Camaro to its original specifications. The other half was restored with modifications. The car became known as the Split Camaro.
The impact
Displayed at venues across the United States, the Split Camaro helps State Farm share its understanding of different types of restoration with organizations in the insurance and auto repair industries.
The problem
Each year, more than six million police-reported automobile crashes occur in the United States. Many of these result in insurance claims, requiring repairs. Given the rapid pace of change in vehicle technology, materials, design, and repair procedures, it’s important to have a deep, technical understanding of all facets to ensure quality repairs are made.
State Farm involvement
The team at the State Farm Vehicle Research Facility (VRF) conducts vehicle design reviews to determine the impact of car manufacturers’ decisions before a vehicle is released to the public. The VRF team investigates repair and suspected defect issues. It is trained and industry-certified in disciplines such as body repair, electrical and mechanical diagnosis, and windshield replacement and repair.
The impact
The State Farm VRF team advances the science of vehicle repair. Its technical expertise is often sought by industry organizations and auto makers. The team has developed or refined a broad range of procedures, such as glass and paintless dent repair. Additionally, it has become an industry leader in the repair of modern materials, such as carbon fiber.