MCLEAN, Va.--For creating a safety tool for drivers, dealers Rick and Rita Case earned the USA Today Dealer Innovation Award. The National Automobile Dealers Association and USA Today presented the award to them April 7 at the New York International Auto Show.

The owners of Rick Case Honda, Acura and Hyundai in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., wanted to help bring down the high number of drowning deaths in Florida resulting from car accidents in water. To that end, they designed and produced an emergency escape hammer. It is mounted in the car near the driver for easy reach. With it, the driver can break the window glass and also cut the seat belt to aid in escape. The Cases distribute the hammer for free through their South Florida dealerships.

The USA Today Dealer Innovation Award recognizes auto dealers who have innovated ideas and practices to better serve their customers, employees and communities. The 2003 award specifically recognized dealers who led the way with community safety initiatives.

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