All owners are required by law to insure vehicles driven on public roads. Some provinces and territories offer public insurance while others have insurance sold privately. Here are some basic items to consider when buying vehicle insurance:
Liability insurance is mandatory, and is used as financial protection against loss or injury caused to others while operating your vehicle. The minimum amount of insurance required differs across jurisdictions but keep in mind that skimping on liability insurance may cost you in the long run. Minimum liability will not cover the cost of an accident resulting in the injury of several people, for example, particularly in circumstances where litigation is an option.
Vehicle damage insurance, unlike liability insurance, may be optional. Damage insurance, however, is still recommended for the simple reason that damages to a vehicle will quickly add up in the event of an accident where you are at fault. Not being able to recover any money will have serious ramifications on your bank account.
Some dealers or credit grantors may require that you take out other insurance such as life and/or disability insurance prior to agreeing to do business with you. Make sure that you fully read and understand any agreements that you are asked to sign and that you get a copy of the completed and signed agreement. Do not sign an agreement unless it is completed in full.
You should also do some comparison shopping on insurance prices and coverage prior to signing any agreement. Here are some items to consider in keeping your insurance rates to a minimum:
Accidents can increase your insurance costs, especially when you are at fault. Though it's easier said than done, staying out of accidents will save you money in more ways than one.
Statistics show that some vehicles are more likely than others to be involved in an accident. Insurance companies are aware of this and therefore charge more to insure high-risk vehicles. The make and model of the vehicle, its colour, and whether it's a two-door or four-door are all factors considered by your insurance company. Some cars are also more expensive to repair or are frequently pursued by thieves. Consider how important owning a high-profile vehicle is to you. Contact the Vehicle Information Centre of Canada (www.vicc.com) to find out which vehicles will cost you more to insure.
Where you live may affect what you pay for automobile insurance. Driving to work everyday, especially if it's a long commute, does not only mean extra gas and wear and tear on your vehicle but also the possibility of a higher insurance premium. Urban residents may have higher premiums than those living in rural areas.
Insurance companies reward those who are of low risk to them. Discounts might be offered for driver education, multiple vehicles, high academic achievement, anti-theft devices or abstinence from alcohol, among others. Have your insurance broker inquire about any of these types of discounts.
Sometimes it doesn't pay to be carrying collision or comprehensive insurance on an older vehicle if the total amount you are paying for the deductible plus the monthly premium is more then the entire worth of your vehicle.
Tuesday 18 November 2008
Watch those Speeding Tickets
Have you noticed more autos on the side of the road with an officer issuing the driver a speeding ticket? Have you seen more trucks surrounded by DOT transport police? I sure have. There are several reasons for this increased activity.
One is that after 9/11 many departments have increased patrols. The additional police presence is to assure the public that efforts are being taken to prevent terrorist attacks like the recent sniper killings. The other reason is that cities and states are faced with budget deficits in these tough economic times. Since traffic tickets are a politically correct form of taxation, many jurisdictions are increasing fines as a means of balancing the books.
A traffic officer will cost his department the average of $75,000 per year while he can be expected to issue between $150,000 to $200,000 in speeding ticket citations. There are few businesses that can equal that rate of return. Some towns like New Rome, Ohio and Waldo, Florida take in over 70% of their entire town budget through speeding tickets.
What does this mean to you, the safe driver who has not received a traffic citation in years? It means that you are now more likely than ever to see those dreaded blue lights flashing in your rear view. If that does happen you need to know that the true cost of a speeding ticket has changed drastically in the last few years.
Consider Mary, a successful sales representative who enjoys the perk of a company car. She travels extensively and has received four speeding tickets in the last three years. She considers herself a safe driver and in each instance was traveling with the flow of traffic on the interstate. She has 9 out of the 12 points on her driver’s license. Imagine her surprise when her company’s insurance carrier refused to allow Mary to drive a company car. The company obtained supplemental insurance but Mary had to pay the extra $1600.
Then there is Jeffrey, a CDL truck driver from Ohio who is an independent operator and owns his own truck. He drives 150,000 miles per year and has five tickets on his record, none a serious violation. He is unable to obtain insurance that he can afford. He is in the process of losing his truck to the finance company and does not know how he will support his family.
Families with teenagers may face an economic disaster if the teen driver receives a citation. One traffic ticket for rolling through a stop sign could cost as much as $3000 in increased premiums over the three years it remains on their record. The insurance industry considers young adults as teenagers until the age of 23.
The purpose of relating Mary and Jeffrey’s stories is not for you to feel sorry for them. It is to impress upon you the severe consequences that may result from a traffic ticket. It is important to obey all traffic laws, not just for your physical protection but also for the health of your pocketbook. I have found that many people are more concerned about their pocketbook than their personal safety.
One is that after 9/11 many departments have increased patrols. The additional police presence is to assure the public that efforts are being taken to prevent terrorist attacks like the recent sniper killings. The other reason is that cities and states are faced with budget deficits in these tough economic times. Since traffic tickets are a politically correct form of taxation, many jurisdictions are increasing fines as a means of balancing the books.
A traffic officer will cost his department the average of $75,000 per year while he can be expected to issue between $150,000 to $200,000 in speeding ticket citations. There are few businesses that can equal that rate of return. Some towns like New Rome, Ohio and Waldo, Florida take in over 70% of their entire town budget through speeding tickets.
What does this mean to you, the safe driver who has not received a traffic citation in years? It means that you are now more likely than ever to see those dreaded blue lights flashing in your rear view. If that does happen you need to know that the true cost of a speeding ticket has changed drastically in the last few years.
Consider Mary, a successful sales representative who enjoys the perk of a company car. She travels extensively and has received four speeding tickets in the last three years. She considers herself a safe driver and in each instance was traveling with the flow of traffic on the interstate. She has 9 out of the 12 points on her driver’s license. Imagine her surprise when her company’s insurance carrier refused to allow Mary to drive a company car. The company obtained supplemental insurance but Mary had to pay the extra $1600.
Then there is Jeffrey, a CDL truck driver from Ohio who is an independent operator and owns his own truck. He drives 150,000 miles per year and has five tickets on his record, none a serious violation. He is unable to obtain insurance that he can afford. He is in the process of losing his truck to the finance company and does not know how he will support his family.
Families with teenagers may face an economic disaster if the teen driver receives a citation. One traffic ticket for rolling through a stop sign could cost as much as $3000 in increased premiums over the three years it remains on their record. The insurance industry considers young adults as teenagers until the age of 23.
The purpose of relating Mary and Jeffrey’s stories is not for you to feel sorry for them. It is to impress upon you the severe consequences that may result from a traffic ticket. It is important to obey all traffic laws, not just for your physical protection but also for the health of your pocketbook. I have found that many people are more concerned about their pocketbook than their personal safety.
Tuesday 4 November 2008
Repairs and caring for your wallet
Unless you're a mechanic, taking your car into the repair shop can be a scary and mysterious experience. Your car goes behind the doors and minutes later, you're presented with a list of problems, and possibly a large bill. Even if you aren't a car expert, there are things you can look out for to make sure your car repair is honest and necessary.
Brakes are a common area where repair estimates can be inflated. Calipers are the devices that push the brake pads against the disc. They can last up to 100,000 miles; so if the mechanic says they need replacing, ask if you can see how they aren't working properly or where the brake pads are wearing.
An oil change is a fairly simple task, but it can sometimes end up costing you more than you intended. This is because there can be hidden fees, such as disposal fees, extra services included, or extra parts, such as new air filters or wiper blades, added on. Make sure you know what's included in the price of your oil change. Mechanics typically recommend an oil change every 3,000 miles, but many car manufacturers recommend only twice a year or every 7,000 miles. Somewhere in the middle may work for you.
Surprisingly, if your battery is weak or dead, it may not be the battery. Instead of automatically purchasing a new battery, it may be cheaper in the long run to have a reputable mechanic run an alternator and voltage regulator test. This will tell if your car's electrical charge system is working. If there's a problem, it may cost a few hundred dollars to fix, but it will save you hundreds in constantly buying new batteries while the problem goes unchecked.
When you go in for a new muffler, you may also be told you need new exhaust pipes, tail pipes, even a new catalytic converter. Make sure the mechanic shows you the damages on your pipes before paying out. Federal law requires cars built before 1995 to have catalytic converter warranties of five years or 50,000 miles. Cars built after 1995 have warranties of eight years or 80,000. If you're satisfied the work needs to be done, get the estimate and shop around for the best price.
The old standby, the tune-up, is an old-fashioned term these days. Yesterday's tune-ups included carburetor and ignition system adjustments. Today's computerized systems take car of that for you. All you may really need checked are the spark plugs, which should last about 30,000 and cost around £20 to replace. If your car is running rough and you've noticed your fuel efficiency is down, explain the specific problem to your mechanic rather than just asking for a "tune-up."
Getting bodywork done can be extremely expensive - especially if the repair shop puts on used parts and charges you for new. You could also be charged for replacement parts when your old parts were simply repaired. If you suspect this might be done, tell the mechanic you'd like to see your old parts and the packaging and documentation that comes with new parts.
The most important thing to remember is to find a reputable mechanic that you can trust and don't be afraid to ask questions. It's your car and your checkbook, and you have a right to protect them both.
Brakes are a common area where repair estimates can be inflated. Calipers are the devices that push the brake pads against the disc. They can last up to 100,000 miles; so if the mechanic says they need replacing, ask if you can see how they aren't working properly or where the brake pads are wearing.
An oil change is a fairly simple task, but it can sometimes end up costing you more than you intended. This is because there can be hidden fees, such as disposal fees, extra services included, or extra parts, such as new air filters or wiper blades, added on. Make sure you know what's included in the price of your oil change. Mechanics typically recommend an oil change every 3,000 miles, but many car manufacturers recommend only twice a year or every 7,000 miles. Somewhere in the middle may work for you.
Surprisingly, if your battery is weak or dead, it may not be the battery. Instead of automatically purchasing a new battery, it may be cheaper in the long run to have a reputable mechanic run an alternator and voltage regulator test. This will tell if your car's electrical charge system is working. If there's a problem, it may cost a few hundred dollars to fix, but it will save you hundreds in constantly buying new batteries while the problem goes unchecked.
When you go in for a new muffler, you may also be told you need new exhaust pipes, tail pipes, even a new catalytic converter. Make sure the mechanic shows you the damages on your pipes before paying out. Federal law requires cars built before 1995 to have catalytic converter warranties of five years or 50,000 miles. Cars built after 1995 have warranties of eight years or 80,000. If you're satisfied the work needs to be done, get the estimate and shop around for the best price.
The old standby, the tune-up, is an old-fashioned term these days. Yesterday's tune-ups included carburetor and ignition system adjustments. Today's computerized systems take car of that for you. All you may really need checked are the spark plugs, which should last about 30,000 and cost around £20 to replace. If your car is running rough and you've noticed your fuel efficiency is down, explain the specific problem to your mechanic rather than just asking for a "tune-up."
Getting bodywork done can be extremely expensive - especially if the repair shop puts on used parts and charges you for new. You could also be charged for replacement parts when your old parts were simply repaired. If you suspect this might be done, tell the mechanic you'd like to see your old parts and the packaging and documentation that comes with new parts.
The most important thing to remember is to find a reputable mechanic that you can trust and don't be afraid to ask questions. It's your car and your checkbook, and you have a right to protect them both.
An easy routine for car maintenance
Autumn is already here and in a short time, winter will be upon us. As you gear up for the colder temperatures, now is a good time to take preventive measures to care for your vehicle.
Maintain Your Car's Value and Appearance
Regular professional washing and waxing will help maintain your car's appearance as well as its value.
Most car owners understand the value of changing motor oil regularly to protect the engine. But if they forget and instead choose to replace the engine, the car could still be as good as new. However, a car with oxidized paint and a rusted-out body can never be economically restored. The best prevention is regular washing and waxing at a professional car wash.
With more than 22,000 professional car washes around the world offering a wide range of services to protect a car's finish from detoriating rusting, there's no excuse not to keep your vehicle in great shape. Car washes offer basic to extensive operations to suit all your car care needs.
For starters, try an exterior tunnel wash to automatically provide protective waxes and undercarriage treatment. Also, consider detailing or custom polishing for more extensive protection. By applying and buffing a premium polish, you can restore the shine of your car. On the detail side, you can vacuum everything from the rugs in the trunk to the air conditioner vents.
A Quick Fix
If you are running short on time but need your car professionally cleaned, try a self-service car wash that provides a variety of effective, self-cleaning services to choose from. For best results, follow the step-by-step instructions posted in the self-serve bay that call for starting with a pre-soak to loosen road grime. Next comes the high-pressure soap wash. For gentle scrubbing, use the foaming brush next, followed by the fresh water rinse. Also, remember to take advantage of special tire and wheel cleaners. For maximum protection and shine, the wax application is a must. Finally, many self-serve washes offer a spot-free rinse. All the solutions are specially formulated to clean tough road dirt and protect you car's shine.
Protect Your Car from Winter's Hazards
To get a jumpstart on protecting your car from winter's effects, remember that the most damaging thing you can do to your car during this time is nothing! Don't worry about your car freezing -- washing salt, slush and mud off your car in cold weather is vital.
The best thing you can do this winter is to wash your vehicle frequently at a professional car wash, even every few days if the temperature rises and falls from freezing and you've been driving on salted roads. Washing also should include an undercarriage rinse (available at most professional car washes) to remove salt from hard-to-reach areas that are likely to rust, such as the bumpers and in the wheel wells.
Now is the time to get your car in gear for the winter season with the preventive maintenance measure of having your car professionally washed -- you and your wallet will be glad you did.
Maintain Your Car's Value and Appearance
Regular professional washing and waxing will help maintain your car's appearance as well as its value.
Most car owners understand the value of changing motor oil regularly to protect the engine. But if they forget and instead choose to replace the engine, the car could still be as good as new. However, a car with oxidized paint and a rusted-out body can never be economically restored. The best prevention is regular washing and waxing at a professional car wash.
With more than 22,000 professional car washes around the world offering a wide range of services to protect a car's finish from detoriating rusting, there's no excuse not to keep your vehicle in great shape. Car washes offer basic to extensive operations to suit all your car care needs.
For starters, try an exterior tunnel wash to automatically provide protective waxes and undercarriage treatment. Also, consider detailing or custom polishing for more extensive protection. By applying and buffing a premium polish, you can restore the shine of your car. On the detail side, you can vacuum everything from the rugs in the trunk to the air conditioner vents.
A Quick Fix
If you are running short on time but need your car professionally cleaned, try a self-service car wash that provides a variety of effective, self-cleaning services to choose from. For best results, follow the step-by-step instructions posted in the self-serve bay that call for starting with a pre-soak to loosen road grime. Next comes the high-pressure soap wash. For gentle scrubbing, use the foaming brush next, followed by the fresh water rinse. Also, remember to take advantage of special tire and wheel cleaners. For maximum protection and shine, the wax application is a must. Finally, many self-serve washes offer a spot-free rinse. All the solutions are specially formulated to clean tough road dirt and protect you car's shine.
Protect Your Car from Winter's Hazards
To get a jumpstart on protecting your car from winter's effects, remember that the most damaging thing you can do to your car during this time is nothing! Don't worry about your car freezing -- washing salt, slush and mud off your car in cold weather is vital.
The best thing you can do this winter is to wash your vehicle frequently at a professional car wash, even every few days if the temperature rises and falls from freezing and you've been driving on salted roads. Washing also should include an undercarriage rinse (available at most professional car washes) to remove salt from hard-to-reach areas that are likely to rust, such as the bumpers and in the wheel wells.
Now is the time to get your car in gear for the winter season with the preventive maintenance measure of having your car professionally washed -- you and your wallet will be glad you did.
Sunday 2 November 2008
Caring for that high mileage car
Americans are keeping their vehicles longer and driving farther than ever before. Today, the average age of vehicles on the road is greater than nine years and more than 68 percent of vehicles have more than 75,000 miles.
As a vehicle's engine ages, its performance decreases and oil starts to break down at a faster rate. Over time, seals begin to deteriorate, gaskets become brittle and oil consumption increases -- all leading to a reduction in engine performance.
Treating your high-mileage vehicle with a little TLC and consistently following the 10 rules for high-mileage vehicle maintenance will help ensure it will go the distance. Using premium motor oil specially formulated for higher-mileage cars -- such as Castrol GTX High Mileage Formulation --will also help a higher-mileage car feel young again.
Rule #1 -- Make sure you change your oil every three months or 3,000 miles -- whichever comes first. No exceptions. Think of your engine as the heart of your car and motor oil as the lifeblood of the engine. One can't function without the other, so stay on top of your oil-change schedule.
Rule #2 -- Find a good mechanic. If you don't do your own maintenance, find a shop staffed by ASE-certified mechanics (that's the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence). A good mechanic will listen to your questions and explain procedures clearly.
Rule #3 -- Have your tire pressure checked at least once a month. It's the best way to prevent unexpected flats. A service station attendant can quickly and easily perform the check. Also make sure to rotate your tires and check their alignment as part of a regular tune-up (or with every other oil change).
Rule #4 -- Pay attention to warning signs. Of course, not every little thump or ping you hear spells disaster. Cars, like people, have their peculiarities, and you are sure to quickly learn what is normal for yours. With a high-mileage vehicle, however, it's best to check out any symptom --- be it a sound, smell or feeling -- that seems the slightest bit abnormal. Remember: an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
Rule #5 -- Pay attention to outward signs. If your car is leaking fluids, it can mean serious trouble. Keep an eye on the conditions of your driveway or regular parking space for stains or spots that can warn you of possible leaks. Castrol's GTX High Mileage Formulation motor oil contains special conditioners that help protect and maintain seals, thereby helping to reduce leakage -- a common problem in older, higher-mileage engines.
Rule #6 -- Schedule regular tune-ups. Even if your high-mileage car seems fine, that's no guarantee it is. Use tune-ups to ensure your car's major components are running smoothly and that they stay that way. Your oil should be changed, tires checked and rotated if necessary, belts checked and replaced, brake lines inspected, spark plugs and air filter checked and replaced, and fuel injector checked. A good way to top off a tune-up is an overall analysis of your car's engine, and undercar, safety and computer systems.
Rule #7 -- Prepare your car for the seasons. If you live in a sunny climate all year round, you can skip this step. For the rest of us, visit the "Ask the Expert" feature for a checklist of seasonal maintenance practices for your high-mileage vehicle. Preparing your high-mileage car to defend against the elements will lessen its chances of needing repairs and save you money in the long run.
Rule #8 -- Check your fluids regularly. It's dangerous for your high-mileage car to get dehydrated, so be sure to keep an eye on its vital fluids. Simply lift the hood and perform a quick visual check. Use the dipstick to check the oil level; a quick glance at the coolant reservoir will let you know if you need more cooling fluid.
Rule #9 -- Store it properly. Storing your vehicle in a dry, temperate location when it is not in use will prevent disastrous wear and tear on both its interior and exterior. Garage your car whenever possible to protect its looks.
Rule #10 -- Stay on top of safety features. Nothing is more important than your car's ability to protect both you and your passengers. Air bags, antilock breaks and any other additional safety features that you may have added to your car should be carefully checked on a regular basis (when your car has a tune-up) to ensure that in the event of an accident, they will perform their vital, lifesaving functions.
As a vehicle's engine ages, its performance decreases and oil starts to break down at a faster rate. Over time, seals begin to deteriorate, gaskets become brittle and oil consumption increases -- all leading to a reduction in engine performance.
Treating your high-mileage vehicle with a little TLC and consistently following the 10 rules for high-mileage vehicle maintenance will help ensure it will go the distance. Using premium motor oil specially formulated for higher-mileage cars -- such as Castrol GTX High Mileage Formulation --will also help a higher-mileage car feel young again.
Rule #1 -- Make sure you change your oil every three months or 3,000 miles -- whichever comes first. No exceptions. Think of your engine as the heart of your car and motor oil as the lifeblood of the engine. One can't function without the other, so stay on top of your oil-change schedule.
Rule #2 -- Find a good mechanic. If you don't do your own maintenance, find a shop staffed by ASE-certified mechanics (that's the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence). A good mechanic will listen to your questions and explain procedures clearly.
Rule #3 -- Have your tire pressure checked at least once a month. It's the best way to prevent unexpected flats. A service station attendant can quickly and easily perform the check. Also make sure to rotate your tires and check their alignment as part of a regular tune-up (or with every other oil change).
Rule #4 -- Pay attention to warning signs. Of course, not every little thump or ping you hear spells disaster. Cars, like people, have their peculiarities, and you are sure to quickly learn what is normal for yours. With a high-mileage vehicle, however, it's best to check out any symptom --- be it a sound, smell or feeling -- that seems the slightest bit abnormal. Remember: an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
Rule #5 -- Pay attention to outward signs. If your car is leaking fluids, it can mean serious trouble. Keep an eye on the conditions of your driveway or regular parking space for stains or spots that can warn you of possible leaks. Castrol's GTX High Mileage Formulation motor oil contains special conditioners that help protect and maintain seals, thereby helping to reduce leakage -- a common problem in older, higher-mileage engines.
Rule #6 -- Schedule regular tune-ups. Even if your high-mileage car seems fine, that's no guarantee it is. Use tune-ups to ensure your car's major components are running smoothly and that they stay that way. Your oil should be changed, tires checked and rotated if necessary, belts checked and replaced, brake lines inspected, spark plugs and air filter checked and replaced, and fuel injector checked. A good way to top off a tune-up is an overall analysis of your car's engine, and undercar, safety and computer systems.
Rule #7 -- Prepare your car for the seasons. If you live in a sunny climate all year round, you can skip this step. For the rest of us, visit the "Ask the Expert" feature for a checklist of seasonal maintenance practices for your high-mileage vehicle. Preparing your high-mileage car to defend against the elements will lessen its chances of needing repairs and save you money in the long run.
Rule #8 -- Check your fluids regularly. It's dangerous for your high-mileage car to get dehydrated, so be sure to keep an eye on its vital fluids. Simply lift the hood and perform a quick visual check. Use the dipstick to check the oil level; a quick glance at the coolant reservoir will let you know if you need more cooling fluid.
Rule #9 -- Store it properly. Storing your vehicle in a dry, temperate location when it is not in use will prevent disastrous wear and tear on both its interior and exterior. Garage your car whenever possible to protect its looks.
Rule #10 -- Stay on top of safety features. Nothing is more important than your car's ability to protect both you and your passengers. Air bags, antilock breaks and any other additional safety features that you may have added to your car should be carefully checked on a regular basis (when your car has a tune-up) to ensure that in the event of an accident, they will perform their vital, lifesaving functions.
Car Accidents, Some Facts
Accidents, personal injuries and insurance claims are here to stay. No matter how far into the 21st Century American’s elect to drive (unless by the beginning of the 22nd Century we’re all zipping around in our own personal space ship) motor vehicle accidents will continue to pile up; with no end in sight!
There are more than 200,000,000 licensed drivers in the United States. (As of 2008 we’re close to a yearly 7 million motor vehicle accidents, involving well over 3.5 million injuries).
Car accident crashes cost society an estimated $4,900 per second. That’s about $25,000 in the time it took to read this fact.
Current records show that most American driver’s will have a near motor vehicle accident 1 to 3 times per month and will be in a collision of some type on the average of every 5 to 8 years plus these records also indicate that licensed teenagers are 22 more times likely to get a speeding ticket than those who are 65 years of age or older.
In 1896 there were only four cars registered in all the United States. Two of them collided with each other in St. Louis.
By the year 2025 there will be 33 million people 70 years or older in America. This segment of the population will be growing 2.5 as fast as the total population. They will make up the largest percentage of the “turning left” and “rear end” accidents. Slowly but surely Senior Citizens have developed a higher accident ratio than teenagers. (This will, in time, seriously impact the typical Senior Citizen’s pocketbook). And also, by 2025, the total costs for motor vehicle accidents in the United States will exceed 450 billion dollars.
The world’s most solitary tree is located at an oasis in the Tenere Desert in Central Africa. There’s not one other standing tree within 31 miles. In 1960, it was smashed into by a truck.
Up-to-date statistics clearly reflect that 1 out of every 5 Americans are involved in an alcohol-related car crash at some time in their lives and the day in which motor vehicle accident injuries occur most often is Saturday. Sunday is second.
FIVE CRUCIAL MEDICAL DEVELOPMENTS THAT HAVE SLOWLY BUT SURELY COME TO PASS. THESE WILL SERIOUSLY (AND FOREVER) IMPACT THE VALUE OF PERSONAL INJURY CLAIMS IN THE YEARS TO COME:
Records prove that a motor vehicle accident of as little speed as 5 MPH can produce a “whiplash-type” injury.
The symptoms arising from an injury sustained in a motor vehicle accident do not necessarily present themselves immediately following an accident.
Medical research and clinical experience have accumulated enough information to demonstrate that the delay of an injury symptom is the norm.
Studies have established that the delay of a symptom does not eliminate the possibility of severe injury.
It’s been proven that individuals can continue to be symptomatic for many months (even years!) after a motor vehicle accident. In addition approximately 75% of them remain symptomatic for a minimum of 6 months after the accident. (And current up-to-date statistics reveal that between the first and second year after an accident has occurred over 20% of those injured actually have their symptoms worsen).
There are more than 200,000,000 licensed drivers in the United States. (As of 2008 we’re close to a yearly 7 million motor vehicle accidents, involving well over 3.5 million injuries).
Car accident crashes cost society an estimated $4,900 per second. That’s about $25,000 in the time it took to read this fact.
Current records show that most American driver’s will have a near motor vehicle accident 1 to 3 times per month and will be in a collision of some type on the average of every 5 to 8 years plus these records also indicate that licensed teenagers are 22 more times likely to get a speeding ticket than those who are 65 years of age or older.
In 1896 there were only four cars registered in all the United States. Two of them collided with each other in St. Louis.
By the year 2025 there will be 33 million people 70 years or older in America. This segment of the population will be growing 2.5 as fast as the total population. They will make up the largest percentage of the “turning left” and “rear end” accidents. Slowly but surely Senior Citizens have developed a higher accident ratio than teenagers. (This will, in time, seriously impact the typical Senior Citizen’s pocketbook). And also, by 2025, the total costs for motor vehicle accidents in the United States will exceed 450 billion dollars.
The world’s most solitary tree is located at an oasis in the Tenere Desert in Central Africa. There’s not one other standing tree within 31 miles. In 1960, it was smashed into by a truck.
Up-to-date statistics clearly reflect that 1 out of every 5 Americans are involved in an alcohol-related car crash at some time in their lives and the day in which motor vehicle accident injuries occur most often is Saturday. Sunday is second.
FIVE CRUCIAL MEDICAL DEVELOPMENTS THAT HAVE SLOWLY BUT SURELY COME TO PASS. THESE WILL SERIOUSLY (AND FOREVER) IMPACT THE VALUE OF PERSONAL INJURY CLAIMS IN THE YEARS TO COME:
Records prove that a motor vehicle accident of as little speed as 5 MPH can produce a “whiplash-type” injury.
The symptoms arising from an injury sustained in a motor vehicle accident do not necessarily present themselves immediately following an accident.
Medical research and clinical experience have accumulated enough information to demonstrate that the delay of an injury symptom is the norm.
Studies have established that the delay of a symptom does not eliminate the possibility of severe injury.
It’s been proven that individuals can continue to be symptomatic for many months (even years!) after a motor vehicle accident. In addition approximately 75% of them remain symptomatic for a minimum of 6 months after the accident. (And current up-to-date statistics reveal that between the first and second year after an accident has occurred over 20% of those injured actually have their symptoms worsen).
Buying That Car Privately
Many people buy cars privately rather than through dealers. You can often save money going this route, however, keep in mind that if you have problems with the vehicle it may be difficult, if not impossible, to get any assistance or compensation from the vendor. Here are some more tips on how to get the best deal when buying a used car:
It's "buyer-beware" when purchasing a used car, so, be sure to take it to your mechanic for an inspection before handing over any money. If he (or she) finds the vehicle unsafe and/or in need of repairs, determine who will pay for them beforehand and include this in your written purchase agreement.
Check for liens against the vehicle. A lien means that money is owed on the vehicle and although the vendor is in possession of the vehicle, its legal claim belongs to someone else, such as a bank. If you buy a vehicle with a lien against it, you might be held responsible for future payment. Legislation differs across jurisdictions on the consequences of buying a vehicle with a lien. It is possible that the new owner may be required to pay the money owed or alternately you may risk having the vehicle seized. Contact your provincial or territorial office of consumer affairs for information specific to your jurisdiction or to find the organization in your jurisdiction responsible for conducting lien checks.
Ensure that the person you buy the car from is its registered owner. Remember to ask for repair bills and maintenance records.
If you decide to buy a vehicle from a private seller understand that he or she could be in the business of reselling poor-quality, stolen and/or rebuilt vehicles. Some of these people, frequently referred to as "curbers" or "curbsiders," may be involved with any number of other scams, such as tampering with the odometer or selling vehicles with liens against them.
The risk of curbsider scams makes it especially important that you get the used vehicle checked by a mechanic. You may want to question a mechanic you know and trust to see if the odometer has been rolled back. They can often tell by comparing wear and tear with the odometer reading.
Remember that you don't have the right to change your mind after a sale such as this. If you have problems with the vehicle it will most likely be impossible to get any assistance or compensation from the vendor. Litigation may be your only option.
As with any large ticket purchase, there's a lot to know in order to get the deal that's right for you. The sources of information about buying cars are limitless. It can be quite frustrating, and time consuming to get what you need.
It's "buyer-beware" when purchasing a used car, so, be sure to take it to your mechanic for an inspection before handing over any money. If he (or she) finds the vehicle unsafe and/or in need of repairs, determine who will pay for them beforehand and include this in your written purchase agreement.
Check for liens against the vehicle. A lien means that money is owed on the vehicle and although the vendor is in possession of the vehicle, its legal claim belongs to someone else, such as a bank. If you buy a vehicle with a lien against it, you might be held responsible for future payment. Legislation differs across jurisdictions on the consequences of buying a vehicle with a lien. It is possible that the new owner may be required to pay the money owed or alternately you may risk having the vehicle seized. Contact your provincial or territorial office of consumer affairs for information specific to your jurisdiction or to find the organization in your jurisdiction responsible for conducting lien checks.
Ensure that the person you buy the car from is its registered owner. Remember to ask for repair bills and maintenance records.
If you decide to buy a vehicle from a private seller understand that he or she could be in the business of reselling poor-quality, stolen and/or rebuilt vehicles. Some of these people, frequently referred to as "curbers" or "curbsiders," may be involved with any number of other scams, such as tampering with the odometer or selling vehicles with liens against them.
The risk of curbsider scams makes it especially important that you get the used vehicle checked by a mechanic. You may want to question a mechanic you know and trust to see if the odometer has been rolled back. They can often tell by comparing wear and tear with the odometer reading.
Remember that you don't have the right to change your mind after a sale such as this. If you have problems with the vehicle it will most likely be impossible to get any assistance or compensation from the vendor. Litigation may be your only option.
As with any large ticket purchase, there's a lot to know in order to get the deal that's right for you. The sources of information about buying cars are limitless. It can be quite frustrating, and time consuming to get what you need.
Saturday 1 November 2008
Car Purchase, some basic tips
For many Americans, a car is the second largest purchase they make. Advertisers devote millions of dollars to convince us that we deserve to own the hottest set of wheels. The same people who used to yell, "I want my MTV!" are now shouting, "I want my SUV!"
But step inside a dealership, and confident car shoppers are like deer in headlights when confronted by aggressive sales people, confusing financing decisions and a fear of buying more than they can afford.
Infinity Car finance, the Web site for many people who hate financial planning, can help sort out the financial aspects of buying and leasing cars. While you crave an SUV, you may discover that the cost of insuring it and filling its huge gas tank will blow your budget off the road.
Infinity offers the following tips to make sure you don't get caught in the headlights:
Get Your Records Straight
One of the first steps in financing a car is to get a grip on your credit rating. Unless you intend to pay with cash, you will have no secrets from the car dealership, finance company or auto insurer. A poor credit history can result in a higher interest rate or even loan disqualification. Also, bad marks on your credit could flag you as an insurance risk, translating into higher premiums.
Cut Your Premiums Down To Size
Before you buy a car, find out what it will cost to insure it. Get car insurance quotes and calculate your insurance needs on the Internet. Each has different requirements when it comes to auto insurance, and we'll leave it up to you to learn what your area requires.
To Buy Or Lease, That Is The Question
When you lease, you're paying to use a car. Your payments cover the cost of the vehicle's depreciation while you drive it, rather than its purchase price. If driving a new car is more important to your lifestyle than owning one, leasing is definitely for you. However, if you put a lot of miles on a car every year, it may end up being smarter for you to buy. Consider your personal expectations and financial situation when reviewing the pros and cons of each:
Buying Offers:
A chance to trade in that old clunker.
Ownership and equity in the car.
Control of your wheels. If you want to add eight speakers or take out the backseat, go ahead.
No penalties if you don't hold up your end of the maintenance agreement, although you will want to service your car to enhance both its service to you and your ability to sell it in the future.
No mileage limits.
Payments based on the value of the car, not its depreciation. That may mean higher monthly payments than with a lease.
Leasing Offers:
A cost-effective alternative to buying a car every few years.
An affordable way to drive a car that you may not be able to afford to buy. Monthly lease payments are generally less than financing payments.
A maintenance contract that requires you to keep the car in good shape and not make any alterations to it.
A factory warranty that almost always covers the car for your entire lease, so major maintenance isn't your financial responsibility.
Annual mileage limits (about 12,000 to 15,000) with significant penalties if you put more miles on it than the lease stipulates.
Payments that may be income tax deductible if you're leasing the car for business. Ask a tax advisor for details.
Penalties if you terminate the lease earlier than agreed. Charges vary.
Financing Is The Next Step
Whether you buy or lease, be prepared to walk away from the deal if you aren't convinced you're being offered a fair price. Do some homework before you walk in. Car salespeople are amateur psychologists who'll get inside your head if you let them, all in the name of making a buck.
"If they see you drool over a leather interior or if you don't know the Kelley Blue Book value of your trade, they've got you right where they want you.
Don't get emotionally attached to your car, salesperson or you will end up paying over the odds for that new vehicle you want.
But step inside a dealership, and confident car shoppers are like deer in headlights when confronted by aggressive sales people, confusing financing decisions and a fear of buying more than they can afford.
Infinity Car finance, the Web site for many people who hate financial planning, can help sort out the financial aspects of buying and leasing cars. While you crave an SUV, you may discover that the cost of insuring it and filling its huge gas tank will blow your budget off the road.
Infinity offers the following tips to make sure you don't get caught in the headlights:
Get Your Records Straight
One of the first steps in financing a car is to get a grip on your credit rating. Unless you intend to pay with cash, you will have no secrets from the car dealership, finance company or auto insurer. A poor credit history can result in a higher interest rate or even loan disqualification. Also, bad marks on your credit could flag you as an insurance risk, translating into higher premiums.
Cut Your Premiums Down To Size
Before you buy a car, find out what it will cost to insure it. Get car insurance quotes and calculate your insurance needs on the Internet. Each has different requirements when it comes to auto insurance, and we'll leave it up to you to learn what your area requires.
To Buy Or Lease, That Is The Question
When you lease, you're paying to use a car. Your payments cover the cost of the vehicle's depreciation while you drive it, rather than its purchase price. If driving a new car is more important to your lifestyle than owning one, leasing is definitely for you. However, if you put a lot of miles on a car every year, it may end up being smarter for you to buy. Consider your personal expectations and financial situation when reviewing the pros and cons of each:
Buying Offers:
A chance to trade in that old clunker.
Ownership and equity in the car.
Control of your wheels. If you want to add eight speakers or take out the backseat, go ahead.
No penalties if you don't hold up your end of the maintenance agreement, although you will want to service your car to enhance both its service to you and your ability to sell it in the future.
No mileage limits.
Payments based on the value of the car, not its depreciation. That may mean higher monthly payments than with a lease.
Leasing Offers:
A cost-effective alternative to buying a car every few years.
An affordable way to drive a car that you may not be able to afford to buy. Monthly lease payments are generally less than financing payments.
A maintenance contract that requires you to keep the car in good shape and not make any alterations to it.
A factory warranty that almost always covers the car for your entire lease, so major maintenance isn't your financial responsibility.
Annual mileage limits (about 12,000 to 15,000) with significant penalties if you put more miles on it than the lease stipulates.
Payments that may be income tax deductible if you're leasing the car for business. Ask a tax advisor for details.
Penalties if you terminate the lease earlier than agreed. Charges vary.
Financing Is The Next Step
Whether you buy or lease, be prepared to walk away from the deal if you aren't convinced you're being offered a fair price. Do some homework before you walk in. Car salespeople are amateur psychologists who'll get inside your head if you let them, all in the name of making a buck.
"If they see you drool over a leather interior or if you don't know the Kelley Blue Book value of your trade, they've got you right where they want you.
Don't get emotionally attached to your car, salesperson or you will end up paying over the odds for that new vehicle you want.
Additional Insurance Claim Opportunities
There are quite a few insurance claim possibilities which will increase the financial amount awarded you in the settlement of your personal injury insurance claim. Some of them rarely see the light of day but some do. The six I’ve listed below are crucial for you to be aware of as you prepare to go to war with Adjuster Henry Hard-Nose regarding the value of your loss. They are:
(1) When it comes to placing a financial value on the “Emotional Reaction” of an injury one enters into an area where most individuals, even experienced claims adjuster’s and Legal people, are at a loss.
Often ignored “Characteristic Symptoms” can be: Confusion, Anxiety, Depression and Denial. (“Denial”, that is, regarding the seriousness of your injury and the constant pain you feel. This usually comes to pass when one refuses to complain anything is seriously wrong, convincing themselves it will work itself out).
If any of the emotional reactions (which are a direct result of “Characteristic Symptoms“) becomes a reality it would be wise for you to see a Doctor. Maybe you won’t immediately identify this as something you need to have checked out but the person you climb into bed with probably will. When she tells you you‘re not functioning (between your ears) all that well, listen up! If that’s what you’re told you should swallow hard and obtain an expert’s opinion. You may consider yourself a muscular "Power To Be Reckoned With" but you’re not Superman so, talk to a specialist, explain what’s happening, and let it all hang out.
Once you’ve been discharged, get that specialist’s written Medical Report and hand it to Hard-Nose, along with the medical bills for your treatment. Is that legit? The answer is absolutely, yes! Can he refuse to accept them and suggest they add no value to your claim? The answer is absolutely, no!
(2) Emotional distress is legitimate "Pain and Suffering" and you should be compensated for it. For example, problems that may develop over the effects of an accident within the area of your work or business, or perhaps interfere with your sex life! Whatever it is that’s causing you problems you should see a specialist. Keep going back to see him for as long as it takes to return to normal. At the end of his treatment, when he's finally discharged you, ask for and obtain his written report. Present that to Adjuster Henry Hard-Nose along with the specialist’s bill for their services.
This is a legitimate expense and it positively gives your personal injury more value !
(3) If your injuries caused you to miss some special training you had arranged to take advantage of, you'll probably, at some point, want to make that time up. The difficulty you may experience in making up that missed time (or perhaps never again being able to obtain it) has the potential to increase the value of your settlement. To achieve this you must obtain written proof and present it to Adjuster Hard-Nose.
Also to be taken into consideration is a vacation you may have been unable to take, or some recreational event’s in which you could not participate in and/or a missed special event, like a wedding or a reunion, etc. All of these, properly documented, add value to your claim because they are specific examples of the inconvenience and discomfort you've endured as a direct result of your injury.
(4) In the evaluation of an individuals "Pain and Suffering", age is always a factor because the older you are the longer the periods of Total or Partial Disability will be. This will affect the course of treatment plus the length of time of the "pain killers" you’ve been ordered to take. For example: Over age 50 disability is about 10% to 15% longer, over age 60 disability is about 20% to 30% longer, over 70 disability can be 35% to 45% longer and over 75 disability can often be 50% and longer.
(5) Also pre-existing conditions are factor’s that must be considered: For example: Arthritis, Sugar Diabetes, Pervious Injuries and/or Previous Operations that have left you with on-going problems, etc.
Whatever that pre-existing situation may be you should look to your attending physician for advice. Don't avoid discussing this with him. If any doubt exists you should insist your doctor refer you to a specialist for consultation. If your physician is legit he'll agree. If he doesn't than kiss that goodie-two-shoes "goodbye" and go dig up a specialist on your own. It's your body and there's only one to a customer!
(6) ONE THING YOU SHOULD NEVER FORGET IS THAT THE VISIBLE DAMAGES TO YOUR MOTOR VEHICLE CAN VERY OFTEN PROFOUNDLY AFFECT THE AMOUNT OF MONEY YOU'RE EVENTUALLY PAID.
If your vehicle was badly smashed, that goes a long way proving that your injuries were severe and therefore painful. You must snap photographs of your motor vehicle. Shoot a couple rolls of colored and also black and white (black and white because in some instances colored photographs cannot be entered as evidence in a court of law).Take them from different angles and various distances. Like for example, 30 feet away, then 15, then right up close.
Make two sets. One for you and one for Hard-Nose. Blow them up into glossies and present them to him. Both the size of your repair bill and those photographs will go a long way towards proving two important points: First, that you know what you're doing and second, that the injuries you received from that god-awful impact (and the long period of pain, suffering and discomfort you‘ve had to deal with) - - if and when viewed by a judge or jury - - are proof positive of what your injury caused your body to endure.
(1) When it comes to placing a financial value on the “Emotional Reaction” of an injury one enters into an area where most individuals, even experienced claims adjuster’s and Legal people, are at a loss.
Often ignored “Characteristic Symptoms” can be: Confusion, Anxiety, Depression and Denial. (“Denial”, that is, regarding the seriousness of your injury and the constant pain you feel. This usually comes to pass when one refuses to complain anything is seriously wrong, convincing themselves it will work itself out).
If any of the emotional reactions (which are a direct result of “Characteristic Symptoms“) becomes a reality it would be wise for you to see a Doctor. Maybe you won’t immediately identify this as something you need to have checked out but the person you climb into bed with probably will. When she tells you you‘re not functioning (between your ears) all that well, listen up! If that’s what you’re told you should swallow hard and obtain an expert’s opinion. You may consider yourself a muscular "Power To Be Reckoned With" but you’re not Superman so, talk to a specialist, explain what’s happening, and let it all hang out.
Once you’ve been discharged, get that specialist’s written Medical Report and hand it to Hard-Nose, along with the medical bills for your treatment. Is that legit? The answer is absolutely, yes! Can he refuse to accept them and suggest they add no value to your claim? The answer is absolutely, no!
(2) Emotional distress is legitimate "Pain and Suffering" and you should be compensated for it. For example, problems that may develop over the effects of an accident within the area of your work or business, or perhaps interfere with your sex life! Whatever it is that’s causing you problems you should see a specialist. Keep going back to see him for as long as it takes to return to normal. At the end of his treatment, when he's finally discharged you, ask for and obtain his written report. Present that to Adjuster Henry Hard-Nose along with the specialist’s bill for their services.
This is a legitimate expense and it positively gives your personal injury more value !
(3) If your injuries caused you to miss some special training you had arranged to take advantage of, you'll probably, at some point, want to make that time up. The difficulty you may experience in making up that missed time (or perhaps never again being able to obtain it) has the potential to increase the value of your settlement. To achieve this you must obtain written proof and present it to Adjuster Hard-Nose.
Also to be taken into consideration is a vacation you may have been unable to take, or some recreational event’s in which you could not participate in and/or a missed special event, like a wedding or a reunion, etc. All of these, properly documented, add value to your claim because they are specific examples of the inconvenience and discomfort you've endured as a direct result of your injury.
(4) In the evaluation of an individuals "Pain and Suffering", age is always a factor because the older you are the longer the periods of Total or Partial Disability will be. This will affect the course of treatment plus the length of time of the "pain killers" you’ve been ordered to take. For example: Over age 50 disability is about 10% to 15% longer, over age 60 disability is about 20% to 30% longer, over 70 disability can be 35% to 45% longer and over 75 disability can often be 50% and longer.
(5) Also pre-existing conditions are factor’s that must be considered: For example: Arthritis, Sugar Diabetes, Pervious Injuries and/or Previous Operations that have left you with on-going problems, etc.
Whatever that pre-existing situation may be you should look to your attending physician for advice. Don't avoid discussing this with him. If any doubt exists you should insist your doctor refer you to a specialist for consultation. If your physician is legit he'll agree. If he doesn't than kiss that goodie-two-shoes "goodbye" and go dig up a specialist on your own. It's your body and there's only one to a customer!
(6) ONE THING YOU SHOULD NEVER FORGET IS THAT THE VISIBLE DAMAGES TO YOUR MOTOR VEHICLE CAN VERY OFTEN PROFOUNDLY AFFECT THE AMOUNT OF MONEY YOU'RE EVENTUALLY PAID.
If your vehicle was badly smashed, that goes a long way proving that your injuries were severe and therefore painful. You must snap photographs of your motor vehicle. Shoot a couple rolls of colored and also black and white (black and white because in some instances colored photographs cannot be entered as evidence in a court of law).Take them from different angles and various distances. Like for example, 30 feet away, then 15, then right up close.
Make two sets. One for you and one for Hard-Nose. Blow them up into glossies and present them to him. Both the size of your repair bill and those photographs will go a long way towards proving two important points: First, that you know what you're doing and second, that the injuries you received from that god-awful impact (and the long period of pain, suffering and discomfort you‘ve had to deal with) - - if and when viewed by a judge or jury - - are proof positive of what your injury caused your body to endure.
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