The Car Care Tips You Need to Protect Your Car's Resale Value
Getting things done in life is all about the small things; and nowhere is this truer than with car maintenance. The Department of Transportation reckons that on average, the cars that run on American roads are about ten years old. On average, a car is not scrapped before it turns 13. This isn't as pathetic as it seems to sound. Cars these days are built to last; you usually wouldn't have to scrap a car before it hits 250,000 miles. And even then, it's usually scrapped only because the cars' incidental components, door handles, the seats, and such, begin to fail - not the car itself. We believe that if you could practice all the car care tips you ever read and keep it healthy and running for as long as all this, you could actually save a quarter of a million over your lifetime. You won't have to deal with car payments as much or high insurance costs either. And if you start saving for a new car early on, you could even have enough cash to buy a new car outright when the day comes around.
If you want to see if your car will last as long as all that, here are car care tips to start you on your way:
The first one, the granddaddy of all car care tips, would be to read the manual thoroughly and then stay in compliance with the maintenance schedule. Now this would seem pretty obvious, and barely worth mentioning; but people just can't seem to believe that what they can't see under the hood could actually matter at all. To begin with, not following the maintenance schedule can void the warranty on your car when it's new. If you need a little help with your maintenance schedule, try the maintenance feature on Edmunds.com that will map out all the maintenance milestones for your model of car, and tell you what it should cost. Remember, if you happen to like to use your car for towing purposes, for driving through dusty off-road routes, or for driving in really cold climate, you need to follow the severe use maintenance schedule they publish, which typically requires that you bring it in once every 3000 miles. It would help if you set aside $1000 each year for this.
A part of a responsible maintenance schedule would be to never let a chance go by for a free problem rectification - via a free recall. Most car care tips try to not overextend, and limit themselves to giving you tips on oil change and routine maintenance. But there is more to it than that. The way you use your car has a lot to do with what you need to get done, come maintenance time. Consider the kind of stress you place on the engine. When you first own a new car, the way you drive over first thousand miles or so is critical. That's the break-in or run-in period, and it's the time when all the brand-new parts of your engine really settle into one another's groove. You need to make sure that you drive below 55 miles an hour, that you don't pull any sudden acceleration moves, and that you expose the engine to a variety of driving speeds. If your car has a tow package, make sure you don't use it any more than you absolutely have to - to avoid the stress on your car.
You need to make sure you follow the maintenance schedule for oil changes; the usual is once every 3000 miles. If you don't drive all that much, you could probably get by on no more than one oil change a year; just make sure you use synthetic oil, and all should be well. Each time you drive your car in for an oil change, consider it your excuse to tighten the hoses, belts, fans and to take a look at all the fluids. The mechanic will probably go through all the basic points for an extra $10.
With enough car care tips, you could become a pretty fair mechanic yourself. And that is about the best way to care for your car. Have a routine: make sure your battery is clean and free of bulges or corrosion; check your tire pressure (you get a gauge for about $25), and learn how to hit all the points that need tightening. Learn your car's manner; walk around your car at least once a week to check for strange smells, and strange noises.
Not to leave out the exterior, make sure you wash off the road salt around the tires, and that you wax it up nice and good. It should protect your resale value for the day you need it.
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The Importance of Car Maintenance
Driving a car can be fun, but its maintenance can be a pain. No one really enjoys the task of auto maintenance. As long as the auto works fine, we are happy and don't always remember to get the maintenance of our motor done. Even if your vehicle works fine, getting the servicing and maintenance of your auto done regularly is necessary. General vehicle maintenance helps to keep your automobile in good condition and can save your trouble of repairing or changing major parts of your auto in the long run. Also remember, the lesser you claim on your insurance the lesser will be the premium you pay later on your motor.
Regular oil check and change is required and can be considered as one of the most important steps to maintain your car. Every auto owner never keeps track of when his or her engine needs an oil change. Old oil or insufficient oil in your engine will heat up the engine quickly and might lead to damage and other problems in your vehicle. To fix these problems you will have to pay quite a lot. To keep your automobile running efficiently and engine well maintained regular oil change is essential.
Good Tyres
Just changing your oil regularly is not sufficient. Along with the oil you should ensure that you rotate your car tyres regularly. Tyre rotation helps to balance your tyres and reduces the possibility of uneven wearing of the treads. Normally, when you have uneven treads your car might get pulled or leaned on one side and this can be dangerous. Your car runs on the road with the help of tyres and worn out tyres or tyres which are not well maintained can be a serious threat to the driver and passengers in the car.
Checking air regularly and filling air in your tyre is another important task, which is often neglected by car owners. The pressure in the tyre goes down over a period of time, but due to some leak it might go down even sooner. Air in your tyre should be filled in correct proportion. If your tyre has insufficient air, the tyre will wear out faster. In the case of less air, the tyre touches the road and the rim of your car, which will spoil the treads of your tyre. Over filling your tyre without using a gauge might cause your tyre to burst and this can be very dangerous.
Tuning up your motor
Tuning your auto on a regular basis will save you from a sudden shock and expense if costly parts in your car fail. Regular check-up of your car will keep you updated on the performance of your car and car parts.
One more important aspect which you should never avoid is your car insurance. Adequate insurance for your car is essential as you never know when your car is damaged due to an accident. Protecting your-self, others and your car is important and thus, insurance of life and your car is necessary.
Maintenance tips to remember:
1. Periodic oil changes
2. Care for your tyres
3. Car tune-ups and check-ups
4. Adequate insurance for your car.
Chris has been writing articles for nearly four years now. Come and visit his latest website at http://www.carbatteriesprices.net/Cheap-Car-Batteries.html where you can find out all about Cheap Car Batteries or find out more with Car Battery Reviews A great topical resource.
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Labels: car maintenance
5 Steps to Lowering Your Overall Car Cost Insurance With Liability at Low Rates
Owning a car these days is much more about necessity than luxury. You pretty much need a car just to get anywhere these days. Apart from those few lucky souls who work at home or live near a bus stop that takes them directly to and from work, we all need a car.
Cars Are Expensive - Not To Mention The Cost Of Insurance
Car ownership is not cheap, either. There are the car payments to think of. Then, there is gas. Maintenance (such as oil changes), as well as the occasional more costly repair like the transmission or brakes. And, there is the auto insurance.
Auto insurance can be one of the most significant expenses in relation to car ownership that a person can make. Month in and month you, you have to make the payments. And, you cross your fingers than you will never need to actually call your insurance company to report an accident.
Adding Minimally To Car Cost: Insurance With Liability At Low Rates
In most states, there is at least a minimum type of coverage required: liability insurance. The need to buy liability insurance is simply a minimum requirement in every state that frankly adds to the total cost of car ownership.
Fortunately, you can limit the cost of liability insurance by buying low cost insurance. It is important to know the steps to getting there.
What Is Liability Insurance?
Liability insurance is a type of auto insurance coverage that pays the expenses of the other party should the accident be your fault. Liability coverage pays for their medical and property damage expenses after an accident.
Unfortunately, liability insurance does not cover the many other potential situations you can find yourself in after an accident. Other types of popular car insurance coverage include:
a. collision: covers your own vehicle damage expenses if you cause an accident
b. medical payments and/or personal injury protection insurance: covers your own medical expenses (or those of your party) if you cause an accident
c. uninsured motorist: covers your property and medical expenses if the other party causes the accident but they do not hold proper insurance
d. comprehensive: this one covers your property in the event of non-accident-related incidents such as fire, road damage or theft
You will ultimately want to consider buying multiple types of insurance coverage for your car.
5 Steps To Low Cost Car Insurance
Still, the need to keep the costs down is ever-present. Here are 5 steps to getting low cost car insurance:
1. Determine the minimum liability coverage in your state: Every state has a different level of minimum required liability coverage. Find out what it is for your state and write it down. Remember, you can be sued in civil court if your policy does not adequately cover the other party's expenses after an accident; consider buying more than the minimum required by law.
2. Figure out what other types of coverage you need: Read over the other types of coverage (see above) and decide which ones you will need.
3. Create a master list of coverage you plan to buy and leave room for insurance company names: To get the best deal on insurance, you are going to want to compare quotes from multiple companies. Write down the exact coverage you are shopping for so that you can get comparable quotes.
4. Be sure to add at least 5 auto insurance companies to your list: This is not the time to skimp on your research: getting a lower rate can save you hundreds or more per year. So, be sure to put together a list of at least 5 auto insurance companies.
5. Ask for car insurance quotes from all 5 companies: Remember, be sure to follow through and get multiple quotes.
If you follow these 5 steps, you should be in the position to lower your car costs through buying the best-priced liability insurance for your auto.
Get more helpful tips on how to buy the cheapest-possible car insurance at: Cheapest Car Insurance Quotes.
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Car Maintenance Tips tyre checks to be aware of
It is important to regularly check that your car tyres are in good working order. It can be dangerous to drive your car with very worn tyres and also when they are under inflated due to issues with grip and handling. Tyre pressure is very important so you should check your car manual for the recommended tyre pressure as this varies with different models of cars. The correct pressure can also often be found inside the petrol filler cap. Top up your tyres with air at least once a month and ensure that the spare tyres are checked as well and topped up to the right pressure so that they are ready if and when you should need them.
Motorists can buy a tyre pressure gauge from motor supplies shops so you donât need to rely on going to the garage to check this. These are generally available at reasonable prices and they are very useful to check when your tyres are due for a replacement.
Check the tyres for wear and tear, including cuts or bulges. Also check that the correct tread depth is in place. This is generally 1.6mm across the central ¾ reserve of the tyre and around the outer circumference.
Many of us know how inconvenient it can be to change a tyre, especially if you do it yourself instead of calling your breakdown service. There are four items that you should carry with you to help make the experience of changing a tyre when you are on a journey as stress-free as possible. These include a pair of gloves to keep the hands warm and clean and a couple of old sheets of cloth. One of these sheets can be put down on the road to help keep your clothes clean and the other to wrap up the dirty tyre before putting it back into the boot. An anorak will also be handy if you end up having to change a tyre in the rain as well as a fully recharged or even re-chargeable torch in case you have to do it in the dark.
Other essential tools you should make sure you carry with you in the car include a wheel nut key to remove the security bolts fitted to some car tyres. Practice doing this process in your own driveway or garden as this is a better place to learn than in the dark or rain on a busy road side. This will help you to learn where all the main things are including the jacking points on the underside of your car.
Vehicle Maintenance is More than Just Under the Hood, Says AAA
When you say "vehicle maintenance," the first things that come to mind are oil changes, tune-ups and other routine vehicle checks. However, maintaining a vehicle - and its resale value - extends beyond what is under the hood. "You can prolong the life of the vehicle’s exterior and interior the same way you take care of its mechanical parts - through proper and routine upkeep," says Mike Coppola, general manager of the AAA Car Care Center in Springfield. "Cosmetic car care can not only reduce wear and tear, but help command a higher resale value."
AAA New Jersey recommends the following tips for cleaning your car:
Vehicle Interior
* Vacuum regularly and lightly shampoo carpets as needed. Dirt in the carpet greatly accelerates wear, but be careful not to soak carpets with too much moisture.
* Use floor mats. Carpeted floor mats collect dust and dirt and are best for warm, dry weather. Protective vinyl floor mats are recommended when it is wet and snowy.
* Wipe down dusty or soiled surfaces with a damp cloth and follow with a UV-protective coating on vinyl or rubber surfaces. To reduce reflections on the windshield, use a solution with a matte or semi-gloss finish on the dashboard. Do not apply petroleum-based products on plastic surfaces.
* Clean stains from seats and other interior surfaces promptly to prevent them from becoming set. Use a cleaner recommended by the vehicle manufacturer to prevent damage. Test any non-approved product in an inconspicuous spot before use to make sure it is safe.
* Tinted windows cut down on infrared rays that cause heat buildup and UV rays that can fade or damage interiors. To avoid compromising visibility, do not over-darken the windshield and front windows.
* Use protective flooring and seat covers when transporting pets or items with sharp edges that could gouge upholstery or carpeting.
Vehicle Exterior
* Wash your car every two weeks and wax it twice a year. Wash or wax more frequently depending on the weather and driving conditions. A good coat of wax protects the vehicle’s finish and helps reduce paint fading from the sun’s UV rays.
* Rinse wheel wells and accessible areas of the undercarriage when washing your car. This is especially important where salt is used on roads in the winter, as it will help prevent rust.
* Use care when removing bugs and tar to avoid damaging the clear coat or paint. Many auto stores carry specialty products that easily remove dirt and grime without damage. AAA members receive a 7% discount at NAPA Auto Parts stores when you show your membership card.
* Clean all glass inside and out to ensure good vision. Use a product that does not leave streaks or cause glare.
* Have small windshield chips repaired immediately to prevent them from becoming cracks that require complete windshield replacement.
* If your headlights have developed a frosted yellow surface, consider headlight restoration. This restores a clear finish to the lens, which improves both vehicle appearance and nighttime vision.
* Save all maintenance records, as this also improves the resale value. Keep records in organized in a file or just store them in the glove compartment. Being able to produce a record of proper maintenance and repairs can add hundreds of dollars to your vehicle’s sale price. Also, most repairs come with some form of warranty and documentation of the repair is needed to support any claim that might arise.
AAA New Jersey, headquartered in Florham Park, provides automotive, travel, insurance, financial and educational services to residents of Essex, Morris and Union Counties. Visit AAA on the Internet at www.AAA.com.
Labels: Vehicle Maintenance
Cheap Texas Car Insurance
In today’s advanced world of technology, the Internet has made it possible for us to shop for almost everything online. Car insurance is no exception, and drivers in California are able to purchase car insurance from the same auto insurance company used by drivers in West Virginia thanks to the Internet and the broad scope of advertising it provides.
However, when you are looking for cheap Texas car insurance, you should not overlook the option of purchasing the insurance from a Texas car insurance company. Purchasing cheap Texas car insurance from a Texas car insurance company does not mean purchasing the insurance from a company that is merely licensed to do insurance business in Texas. A Texas car insurance company is one that specializes in selling car insurance to Texas drivers and car owners.
Texas-based car insurance companies are able to sell cheap Texas car insurance because they are aware of any special factors that should go into car insurance in Texas. Rather than simply having policyholders in Texas, they have owners and agents in the area.
A Texas car insurance company will ask Texas drivers and car owners the same kinds of questions asked by any other car insurance company. The insurance company will want to know contact information about you, such as your name, your address, your telephone number, and your email address, as well as more personal information such as your marital status, gender, age, employment, and credit rating. The insurance company will also want to know information about your current Texas car insurance, information about your vehicle such as make, model, year, and vehicle identification number (VIN), and information about the people who also drive your car.
To begin your search for cheap Texas car insurance, start at home. Look at your newspapers, local television commercials, and telephone listings, and talk with your family members, friends, and co-workers about the Texas car insurance companies they use.
To get free quotes and learn more about insurance please visit the following recommended sites.
Cheap Texas Car Insurance
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Labels: car maintenance, Cheap Texas Car Insurance
Cheapest Car Insurance - Tips For Getting It Online
If you are looking for cheapest car insurance and more information or doing that little bit of extra research online before purchasing a cheapest car insurance policy, then you're in the right place. While the web can be a time-saving tool in the search for the online cheapest car insurance quote, it is important to be aware of some of the pitfalls found in the world of online cheapest car insurance. Because generally cheap car insurance is for insuring safe drivers, therefore cheapest car insurance is for motorists with four years or more no claims discount. You should check the cheapest insurance group of a new car before you buys. Whatever your budget, car insurance is something you don't want to waste extra your pennies on it. Keeping a car on the road can be an expensive business, so cheapest car insurance is one way of trimming the overall cost of motoring.
Insurance
The lower the group, the cheaper your car insurance quotes. When shopping for cheapest car insurance there is a danger of being dazzled by the array of discounts on offer. If you have a claim-free driving history, you will be entitled to a no claims discount, which could result in a cheapest car insurance quote. Cheapest car insurance is available online, but again motorists need to beware of attention-grabbing headlines and prices that mask inadequate protection in car insurance policy. There are so may car insurance companies online that provides cheapest car insurance with a range of benefits including discounts and fast approval on valid claims.
Conclusion For Cheapest Car Insurance
Therefore it is advisable to search maximum car insurance companies online for cheapest car insurance.
Do not tempted by high claims and enticing offers but instead go in details of terms and conditions.
Do remember to mention your past no claims or good track record because that you will entitle you for cheapest car insurance.
For more tips visit http://information-get.com/carinsurance
Here are tips for getting cheapest car insurance online
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Labels: car insurance, Cheapest Car Insurance
Getting Car Insurance for Your Antique Collectors Car
Getting car insurance for your antique collector’s car is not the same as buying insurance for your everyday car. The insurance for collector’s cars is different than other auto insurance. Every antique car collector should know a few things about antique car insurance.
First, your state is going to have specific laws as to how old your car has to be to qualify for antique car insurance. The age is usually at least fifteen years. Also, in order to qualify for antique car insurance you must have another car that you use as your regular car, and a garage to park your antique in.
Collector’s policies are important because of the different types of coverage offered. Traditional car insurance pays the actual cash value of the vehicle. Actual cash value is the cost of replacing the car minus the cost of depreciation. This is a poor choice for antique car owners, because it does not incorporate the appreciation of a collector’s item.
Another form of traditional car insurance covers the stated value of the car. In this type of coverage, the insurance company pays what the car is stated to be worth.
Antique car insurance is a specialty insurance that pays the agreed value of the car. This way the owner will receive the full value of the car as a collector’s item. And, antique car insurance usually costs less than traditional car insurance. It’s a win-win situation for the car collector! A little education can save the antique car owner a lot of money and frustration when purchasing car insurance for their collectible.
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Car Maintenance Warranty - How It Can Potentially Save You Money
The overall cost of a car during its lifetime can be an intimidating figure to look at. When considering purchasing a new car you need to take a look at how much gas will cost, maintenance for the car, and potential breakdown cost to get a true idea of how much the call will cost over the lifetime of the car. Many people can eliminate the cost of breakdowns and maintenance by purchasing a car maintenance warranty.
A car maintenance warranty will cover your car for the cost of potential expenses associated with worn parts, oil changes, and other to unknown factors that come with the cars expenses. When you get a car maintenance warranty you have the peace of mind knowing that if your car breaks down the warranty company will be responsible for replacing the parts and fixing your car. This can save people a lot of money on the overall life of their car.
There are many things you need to consider before purchasing a car maintenance warranty such as will the warranty actually save you money? Before purchasing a car maintenance warranty get several quotes and find out how much it will cost if you plan to keep the car for five years or more. On a separate sheet of paper sit down and figure out expenses that you know you will have to pay without a warranty. You will also want to add many unexpected expenses such as breakdowns, possible transmission problems, and roadside assistance and towing.
You also want to make sure that you will be dealing with a reputable company that will be around for quite awhile. The last thing you want is to pay for a warranty and have the company disappear or go out of business. There are many companies that have been in the business for a long time that will be willing to give you a free quote and references of customers.
Consider the type of car that you have and a do little to research on the lifespan of that car. Certain cars tend to have a longer lifespan and have a lower overall cost of ownership. If you have a car and the parts are expensive and repair is costly you may want to strongly consider a car maintenance warranty.
As with any purchasing decision you should make sure that you do your research before you enter into any agreement. The first step to getting a car maintenance warranty is to get a quote from several companies. There are many companies you can find on the internet that will give you instant quote.
An extended car warranty is designed to save the car owner money from car repairs. To get a quote which can save you as much as 50% on your warranty go to http://www.proautowarranty.info for a free quote.
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Labels: Car Maintenance Warranty, How It Can Potentially Save You Money
Car Maintenance Schedule
Good service history of a car showcases it in a positive light. It also speaks highly about the owner who had taken good care of his car. Auto manufacturers usually provide a user manual, to help car owners in following the maintenance schedule. There are plenty websites, offering car maintenance tips and who have been around for some time in Canada. They provide useful guidance and advice for keeping the car in good shape. They have been instrumental in creating awareness about the importance of car maintenance.
For many years, car manufacturers have applied the concept of 'regular service', for the car maintenance schedule. It has been observed that usage of a car largely determines the maintenance schedule of that particular car. The user manual provides specific guidelines, regarding the schedule that needs to be followed by the owner for car maintenance. It is just meant give you an outline and should not be followed religiously. Maintenance schedule is a function of car usage and hence will vary from one vehicle to another.. There are websites that provide you useful inputs and tips on car maintenance. Some websites even provide Online organizers to help track your car maintenance schedule. Listed below are few tips that would help you in keeping your car in an immaculate condition.
* 3000 Miles Maintenance: Changing engine oil and filter is recommended after 3000 miles. Brake fluids, air filters, tyres, hoses and fan belt should be checked regularly.
* 5000-10,000 Miles Maintenance: Tyre rotation and wheel balancing should be done every five to ten thousand miles. This will ensure a even wear and tear of tyres and prolong their life.
* 15,000 Miles Maintenance: Changing air filters every 15,000 miles, will improve the fuel efficiency of your car. Brake pads and fluid should be checked and replaced if needed.
* 30,000 Miles Maintenance: Checking the transmission fluid level is recommended at this stage is recommended. The owner's manual will have directions of how to drain and replace the fluid.
* 50,000 Miles Maintenance: Examining the coolant overflow tank to check if it needs top up.
Adhering to the tips mentioned above will guarantee you a smooth and safe ride.
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Labels: Car Maintenance Schedule
Important Car Battery Maintenance for Uninterrupted Rides
If you are amongst those who have opted for ‘maintenance free’ car batteries just to avoid the hassles of car battery maintenance, then it is high time that you gave a second thought to the issue! Considering the number of times you had to suffer from deep discharge (dead battery) failures, it would be far wiser on your part to go for a low maintenance car battery and religiously perform the car battery maintenance rites. Remember, following the right Car Battery Maintenance Tips not only extends your car battery’s life it also ensures smooth, uninterrupted rides for you.
Truly speaking, car battery maintenance is not a messy affair. A little cleaning and some electrolyte level checking wrap up your job. Sulfuric acid present in the electrolyte requires some precautionary measures like proper ventilation, protective wears (gloves and safety glasses), etc. Car Battery Maintenance Tips coming from the manufacturer will surely help you.
Once equipped with proper car battery cleaning stuff like some Baking Soda, waterproof greasing, Wrenches, etc. get to work. Firstly, loosen the cable clamps and remove the battery from the vehicle. Thereafter, clean the top surface of the battery with baking soda and water. Remove all rust from the clamp surfaces with the help of the #535 brass brush. Everything accomplished, place back the battery in the vehicle battery holder and tighten the clamps. Finally, cover the clamp joints with grease.
The other car battery maintenance tip that ensures extended life for the battery requires you to check the battery's electrolyte level before charging it. The electrolyte should ideally touch the bottom of the vent splash band. If it lies lower, you will have to add some distilled water to raise the level. This will prevent the drying out of the battery plate.
Some battery recharge guidelines like slow and routine charging (recharging after each use) guarantees longevity to your car battery. The other car battery maintenance secrets are the use of a fitting battery charger and never overcharging the car battery.
If this detailing fails to deter you from picking up the automotive batteries, then you may do so. In that case, you will have to remember that proper car maintenance is synonymous with automotive car battery maintenance – the smooth functioning of the various engine components ensure controlled draining of battery power.
David Maillie is a chemist with over 12 years experience in biochemical research and clynical analysis. He is an alumni of Cornell University and specializes in biochemical synthesis for public, private, and governmental interests. He holds numerous patents including his recently awarded patent for headlight repair, cleaner, and restorer. He can be reached at M.D. Wholesale: http://www.mdwholesale.com
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Labels: car battery, car maintenance, Important Car Battery Maintenance
Car Insurance for College Grads - How to Get the Best Rate
As a college student, you are typically insured on your parents’ policy, but once you graduate you need to buy your own. Here's how to get the best car insurance rate if you're a college grad.
Shop Around for Coverage
The first thing you need to do is to compare rate quotes by going to an insurance comparison website that will let you compare quotes from multiple insurance companies. This will save you time and money, plus the best insurance comparison websites have insurance professionals on hand to answer your car insurance questions. (See link below.)
Make sure that you compare the coverages, deductibles, and fees on every quote you get and that you read everything before you sign any paperwork.
Car Insurance Tips
To help you get the best rate on your car insurance, follow these tips:
* Ask if the insurance company offers a college grad discount. This is usually a 10-15% discount for people under age 30 who are college graduates.
* Ask about any other discounts you may qualify for. Some discounts include having a burglar alarm, anti-theft device, or anti-lock brakes installed on your car. Others include taking a drivers ed course or having a three-year accident free driving record.
* If you’re buying a new car, find out what the insurance costs will be for the models you're interested in. Your insurer can give you quotes so that you can choose a vehicle with insurance rates you can afford.
* Keep your credit history clean. Pay your bills on time and don’t accumulate too many credit cards. A poor credit score means higher car insurance rates.
* Skip the comprehensive and collision coverage on your vehicle if it's more than five years old
How to Get Cheap Portland Car Insurance
Cheap Portland car insurance is easy to get when you purchase only the minimum liability auto insurance requirements in Oregon. When it comes to minimum car insurance requirements, Oregon leaves very little out. Portland drivers must have person bodily injury, property damage liability, a “per crash” bodily injury, a “per crash” property damage, personal injury protection (to cover the cost of any medical treatment to the injured party up to one year after the accident), and uninsured motorist coverage.
With so much Portland car insurance, you may feel you don’t need full-coverage auto insurance in Oregon.
The minimum required Portland car insurance amounts are as follows:
• $10,000 per crash for property damage
• $15,000 personal injury protection
• $25,000 per person bodily injury and property damage liability
• $50,000 per crash for bodily injury to others
• $25,000 per person and $50,000 per crash for bodily injury of Oregon uninsured motorist coverage
Of course, not all Oregon drivers can get cheap Portland car insurance by purchasing the minimum liability auto insurance requirements. Why? Not all drivers are eligible to purchase only the minimum requirements. Sometimes lenders and/or Oregon car insurance companies require drivers with cars they don’t own outright to purchase full-coverage auto insurance. Perhaps a driver has had his or her license suspended or revoked and has been ordered by the courts to purchase more than the minimum liability auto insurance requirements in Oregon.
Whatever the reason, these Oregon drivers must find other ways to get cheap Portland car insurance. Satisfying the orders of the courts, as well as working to repair the driving record, is one way to lower the cost of auto insurance; so is purchasing a car with – or adding – safety features. You can also take safety precautions such as parking your car in well-lit areas such as private parking lots to further protect your vehicle and lower your Portland car insurance premiums.
Truck Accidents: Could A Lower Speed Limit Be the Answer?
Think the speed limit for big, commercial trucks is too high? The American Trucking Association agrees that it is. A 68mph speed limit for trucks is being proposed by not everyday car passengers but by a group of trucking companies that make up the American Trucking Association.
The American Trucking Association along with Road Safe America has proposed a 68 miles per hour maximum speed limit for trucks weighing at least 26,000 pounds or 13 tons gross vehicular weight. The 3 mph over 65 mph speed limits is given for increased speed needed when passing.
Most of these trucks already have computer-enforced systems called speed governors, but no law exists that requires them to be activated. Speed governors are attached to a vehicle’s engine to limit their maximum speed. Proponents of the proposal believe that many lives could be saved as excessive speed is a factor in many fatal crashes. Truckers face pressures to go as fast as they can to get all deliveries done, make up for road construction and other delays, satisfy customers who have zero-tolerance late arrival policies, and make expensive payments if they’re independent.
The above factors combined with the sheer size of a truck make accidents not only possible, but also more likely to be fatal if they do occur. Should you be involved in an accident, make sure to:
* Promptly report the accident.
* Think about it if the insurance company asks you if they can record the conversation. If injuries exist or if you think the insurance company will say you're not covered, you may want to contact a law firm first.
* Get details of the accident, like pictures and names and phone numbers of witnesses.
* Get insurance details of other people involved in the accident.
* Keep a written record of conversations with the insurance company.
* Save bills and receipts for vehicle repair work and medical costs associated with the accident.
* Be honest with insurance investigators so your claim is not denied.
* See if you have more than one insurance policy that provides coverage for the accident or injury to use.
How To Get Through the Accident Process With Insurance Companies
* Don't admit fault. Have the insurance investigators determine liability.
* Don't let time limits to file your insurance claim expire. Be sure to file on time.
* Don't take what insurance companies say as the final word. Insurance companies give you low estimated losses.
* Don't sign a release or waiver.
* Don't accept a check as a final payment unless you are sure it's a fair compensation for your losses.
Truck accidents differ from car accidents in their limited visibility as well as the extent of damages and injuries due to a truck’s size. Areas beside and behind a commercial truck exist where the driver has limited or zero visibility. Trucks also take longer distances to stop than passenger vehicles do. Because these trucks tend to do greater damage in accidents than cars do, truckers must carry more insurance than other drivers.
How Truck Insurance Differs From Car Insurance
* Minimum liability coverage of $750,000 is required for vehicles weighing more than 10,000 pounds and hauling non-hazardous materials
* Minimum liability coverage of $1,000,000 for hazardous materials and oil
* Minimum liability coverage of $5,000,000 for passenger trucks, trucks operating portable tanks, and capacity over 3,500 gallons
Some believe that with a new, lowered maximum speed limit of 68 mph, fewer truck accidents will take place. Others, though, believe the new proposal will hardly make a difference and that it will in fact, multiply other problems. Many worry that with truck speed controls in place, other cars will try to pass trucks more often, which is a major cause of car-truck accidents. Others say the proposed speed will cause traffic flow problems. If trucks stay in the right lane because of the lower-imposed speed, cars could have trouble getting on the Interstate or getting over to the right lane to exit.
The petition to lower truck speeds, closed for public comment after March 27, is proposed to make the roads safer for everyone. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which studied the proposal in 1991 and said it was not necessary, will have the final say on what happens with the proposal.
Car Insurance Tips That Will Save You Big Bucks
The average cost for car insurance in the United States these days is more than $1,000 a year. But you can save on your car insurance by following these car insurance tips ...
Get All the Discounts You Can
Discounts are the best way to save on car insurance because you lower your premium without sacrificing coverage. Common car insurance discounts include:
* Discounts for purchasing your home and auto insurance through the same company.
* Discounts for being a good student discount.
* Discounts for safety features such as automatic seat belts, airbags, and anti-lock brakes.
* Discounts for having taken a defensive driving course.
* Discounts for being accident free for a certain number of years, usually three years.
* Discounts for anti-theft devices such as auto alarms and electronic disabling devices.
* Discounts for being in law enforcement or in the military.
Ask your insurer if there are any other discounts you might be eligible for and be sure to include them in your policy.
Keep Your Coverages Low and Your Deductibles High
Your state has certain minimum liability coverages you need to have in order to drive your car. Your premium will be lowest if you buy just the minimum coverages, but keep in mind that you may not have enough protection in case of an accident.
In addition to liability coverages, you can choose whether to purchase collision and comprehensive coverage. Collision coverage pays for physical damage to your car caused by an accident. Comprehensive coverage pays for physical damage to your car caused by ... well, just about everything else, such as fire, hail, vandalism, storms, etc.
If you buy collision and comprehensive coverage, set your deductibles as high as you can afford. The higher your deductibles, the lower your premium. Raising your deductible from $250 to $1,000 can save you up to 50% on your yearly insurance cost.
Shop Around
Insurance premiums vary widely from one insurance company to another. You need to get quotes from several companies in order to get the best rate. Fortunately, the Internet makes this job easy. You just go to an insurance comparison website and type in your insurance information. You'll then receive quotes from multiple A-rated insurance companies.
On the best insurance comparison websites, you can even talk with insurance professionals and get more tips on saving money on your car insurance (see link below).
How and Where to Find Cheap Car Insurance in New York
There are many factors that help determine what your car insurance rates will be all over the country. By taking advantage of, or eventually altering, these factors, you can find cheap car insurance in New York.
Take a look at where you live. Car insurance companies determine the cost of a car insurance policy based on underlying costs. In other words, the car insurance company will look at the number of claims filed in a particular area, as well as how harsh the losses of each claim were. If you happen to live in an area with a high rate of claims and losses, you may pay more for your car insurance in New York.
Use every discount you can. It may sound desperate now, but since New York car insurance companies offer so many discounts it would be pointless not to take advantage of them. Just a few of the discounts offered by car insurance companies in New York include classes and programs such as accident prevention, driver training, and the Combat Auto Theft Program; vehicle components such as anti-lock brakes, air bags, automatic safety belts, and anti-theft systems; special company discounts for drivers who are accident free or considered “careful drivers;” and regular car insurance discounts such as those gained by purchasing more than one policy from the same New York insurance company or having more than one car on your car insurance policy.
Raise your deductible. This means you will pay more out-of-pocket in the event you have an accident, but if you’re considered “accident free” or a “careful driver” you aren’t at a high risk for accidents anyway.
Of course, you can always find cheap car insurance in New York by working on your driving record and waiting until you get a bit older and are considered less of a risk. These options for cheap car insurance in New York apply to the here and now
How and Where to Find Cheap Car Insurance in New York
There are many factors that help determine what your car insurance rates will be all over the country. By taking advantage of, or eventually altering, these factors, you can find cheap car insurance in New York.
Take a look at where you live. Car insurance companies determine the cost of a car insurance policy based on underlying costs. In other words, the car insurance company will look at the number of claims filed in a particular area, as well as how harsh the losses of each claim were. If you happen to live in an area with a high rate of claims and losses, you may pay more for your car insurance in New York.
Use every discount you can. It may sound desperate now, but since New York car insurance companies offer so many discounts it would be pointless not to take advantage of them. Just a few of the discounts offered by car insurance companies in New York include classes and programs such as accident prevention, driver training, and the Combat Auto Theft Program; vehicle components such as anti-lock brakes, air bags, automatic safety belts, and anti-theft systems; special company discounts for drivers who are accident free or considered “careful drivers;” and regular car insurance discounts such as those gained by purchasing more than one policy from the same New York insurance company or having more than one car on your car insurance policy.
Raise your deductible. This means you will pay more out-of-pocket in the event you have an accident, but if you’re considered “accident free” or a “careful driver” you aren’t at a high risk for accidents anyway.
Of course, you can always find cheap car insurance in New York by working on your driving record and waiting until you get a bit older and are considered less of a risk. These options for cheap car insurance in New York apply to the here and now
How to Get Very Cheap Car Insurance In Dallas Texas
Cheap Dallas car insurance can be obtained through the same basic ways you can find any affordable Texas insurance policy: shop around, ask about all discounts, and choose the policy that best meets your coverage and financial needs. However, this search method isn’t so easy for Dallas drivers who have had a few tickets, don’t have a great credit history, or have gone with out Texas car insurance for a long period of time. Each of these factors can make it difficult to not only find cheap Dallas car insurance, but they can also make it difficult to find Texas car insurance – period.
If you’re a Texas driver having trouble finding cheap Dallas car insurance, there are a couple of suggestions that may work for you. First, take a year to gather yourself. You can repair your credit history – at least to the satisfaction of an auto insurance company – by paying off outstanding debts, always making current bill payments on time, and making sure your credit report is accurate. Any inaccuracies can affect your credit rating negatively; if you find incorrect credit information, move to have it corrected or at least the chance to explain the situation.
As you’re working on your credit report, work on your driving record. Find out how you can remove points on your record. Sometimes the court will allow you to attend a special class to have points removed. Other times you may simply need to pay a fine, or wait a certain time period.
In the meantime, you’re going to need Dallas car insurance – it’s a requirement in Texas. If you own your car outright, you may want to purchase the minimum liability car insurance required; minimum liability car insurance policies are generally cheaper than full-coverage auto insurance. In Texas, the minimum requirements are $15,000 to cover damages an accident causes other property; $20,000 to cover any bodily injury or death of one person per accident; and $40,000 to cover any bodily injury or death of two or more persons per accident.