Fort Smith Motorcycle-SUV Collision: Injuries Reported, Traffic Delays Expected

Collision Overview

A recent motorcycle and SUV accident on Riverfront Drive in Fort Smith has resulted in injuries whose severity is yet to be fully determined. The Fort Smith Police Department has reported the incident, urging the public to brace for possible delays in the area. They also advise motorists to seek alternative routes to avoid the affected stretch of road.

Traffic Advisory

In light of the accident, authorities recommend expecting significant traffic disruptions around Riverfront Drive. Drivers are encouraged to plan their journeys with potential delays in mind and consider detours to bypass the scene. Staying informed about traffic updates can help mitigate the impact on daily commutes.

Updated SUV Definition to Clarify Taxation Rules, Say Experts

Enhanced Definition for Greater Tax Clarity

In a move to streamline taxation on utility vehicles, industry experts have welcomed a refined definition of SUVs by the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council. The updated criteria specify that an SUV must now meet three key parameters: a length of at least 4 meters, an engine capacity exceeding 1,500 cc, and an unladen ground clearance of 170 mm or more. This adjustment aims to eliminate ambiguity in the tax structure, providing a more precise basis for applying additional cess over the standard GST rate.

Implications for Vehicle Pricing and Industry Impact

The revised definition is expected to impact vehicle pricing, as the maximum cess of 22% will be uniformly applied to all SUVs meeting the new standards. This change clarifies that the high cess rate applies to vehicles fitting the updated criteria, irrespective of the manufacturer’s classification. Although companies like Maruti Suzuki may adjust their pricing strategies in response, the industry anticipates that the clear definition will enhance consistency and transparency in the tax system.

Tragic SUV Plunge Claims Life in Rancho Palos Verdes

Fatal Accident on Cliffside Road

A devastating accident occurred in Rancho Palos Verdes Tuesday afternoon when an SUV plunged off a cliff, resulting in one fatality. The incident was reported around 3:30 p.m. by the Los Angeles County Fire Department, who arrived at the scene near Palos Verdes Drive and Calle Entradero. The vehicle fell about 150 feet down the rugged hillside, leaving the scene in a state of wreckage.

Rescue and Recovery Efforts

Emergency responders confirmed that one person lost their life in the crash, although details about the victim or the number of occupants remain unclear. Images from the scene revealed the SUV’s front end severely damaged, with fire crews meticulously examining the debris. As the investigation continues, authorities are working to piece together the circumstances of this tragic event and will provide updates as more information becomes available.

Weird crash: SUV gets skewered by guardrail in Roosevelt

ROOSEVELT−An SUV traveling on Route 571 in the borough drifted off the road Sunday and caught the sharp end a guardrail that skewered the vehicle, but left whoever was in it uninjured, authorities said.

The crash happened about 4:30 p.m. on what’s also known as North Rochdale Avenue, said Sgt. Philip Curry of the New Jersey State Police.

The crash involved only one vehicle and no injuries, Curry said.

After striking the barrier lengthwise, the SUV continued along the same path, ending in what appears to be in the middle of the section of guardrail, based on photos from the Millstone Township Fire Department. About 20 feet of the guardrail was left sticking out of the rear of the car.

No further information was released about the driver, possible passengers or whether any tickets were issued.

Ford SUV Doors Under Scrutiny for Potential Safety Hazard

Investigation Details

Ford is facing a fresh probe from U.S. auto safety regulators due to reports that the front doors of certain Ford Escape models may unexpectedly open while driving. This investigation follows a recent recall and involves 118 complaints concerning 2020 and 2021 Ford Escape vehicles. The issue seems linked to potential failures in the door’s check arm bracket, which could result in the doors either not closing properly or opening unintentionally during operation.

Impact and Current Status

The investigation has flagged about 346,071 Ford Escape vehicles that might be affected by this problem, with 25 complaints reporting injuries and one instance of minor property damage. While Ford has yet to address the issue publicly, it’s clear that the malfunction could pose significant safety risks. This development adds to ongoing concerns about the safety and reliability of Ford’s recent vehicle models, following a previous recall due to engine defects.

Rise in Vehicle Thefts: Unlocked SUV with Keys Inside Stolen

A Preventable Theft in Bloomfield Township

The Bloomfield Township Police Department is actively investigating a recent incident where a 2014 GMC Yukon was stolen from a residential driveway on Peabody Drive. Reported on July 8, the theft occurred during the night, with the SUV notably left unlocked and the keys inside, making it an easy target for thieves. This oversight underscores the importance of securing vehicles, even when parked at home.

Call for Public Assistance and Preventative Measures

Authorities are seeking assistance from the public to gather any information that could lead to the recovery of the stolen vehicle. Residents with any relevant details are urged to contact the Bloomfield Township Police Department at their non-emergency line, 248-433-7755. In response to this incident, police are emphasizing the critical need for residents to lock their vehicles, secure or remove valuables, and ensure that keys are never left inside, to prevent similar occurrences.