All In A Days Work

Buying your very first car is an exciting time in the life of anyone from young people just starting out in life to those who are getting their driving licence later on after years of taking public transport. However, if you are just learning to drive because you are financially in a position to buy a vehicle, it is important that you learn the rules of the road well and get in plenty of practice – both in theory as well as in driving.

When preparing to get your driving licence, take extra time to learn the theory and take as many practice tests as you can before going in to take the written test. Not only will this enable you to pass more easily but you will also have a strong foundation in actual situations you may encounter that you didn’t encounter whilst practicing behind the wheel.

1. Safety Is Always Your Main Concern

Some new drivers have always dreamed of owning a sports car that they have been wanting for years. As each new model comes out by the year, their desire for that particular car grows and grows. Unfortunately, the looks of the car may not be what you should be focusing on. Does it hold the road well, especially at higher speeds and around corners? Are there any safety issues which have hit the news such as faulty air bags or seat belts? These are all important considerations when buying a new vehicle and perhaps you need to step back from your dream for a moment in light of what you learn about potential safety issues.

2. Economy – Is It an Issue?

If you have been saving up for any length of time for a new car then chances are your finances aren’t unlimited. When this is the case, look for an economy car that is easy on petrol yet large enough to transport you and any family or friends who will be riding with you often. Technology is getting more and more advanced by the day which might lead you to a car that is dual fuel or bio-fuel. Choose an economy car before your ‘dream car’ if you have any hopes of driving it as much as you’d like.

3. Don’t Forget Emissions

The UK, like all developed nations, is cracking down on vehicles that don’t pass emissions control. Some vehicles will be taxed heavily if they don’t meet certain requirements so take the time to understand the new laws on reducing emissions and the cars that meet with these standards. Save yourself a huge headache by doing your homework in advance.

Yes, buying your very first car is fun and exciting but only if you get a car that will be fuel efficient enough to afford regular driving and safe enough to handle the roads you will be travelling. Also, be mindful of the emissions regulations and what it could cost you if you don’t operate a vehicle within certain standards as defined by the government. The key to buying the perfect car is to be prepared and educated on which type meets all of these important issues. After that, your choices are probably unlimited so enjoy shopping and above all – be safe!

Are you a car owner or planning to purchase a car soon? The following are eight free services that can make life easier and more affordable for car owners:

1. Insurance quote-comparison websites

Many car owners do not shop around for car insurance once they have purchased a policy. A recent study by Consumer Reports showed that more than 75 percent had not shopped for car insurance in the past 12 months. The same study found that insurance companies revised their pricing every 6 to 12 months. This means that many long-term customers end up paying higher rates simply because they fail to compare rates.

Use online services like CoverHound to obtain a free online auto insurance quote from at least three insurance providers every two to three years. This will ensure that you get the best deal possible and keep your premiums low.

2. Insurance company policy vetting

Have you found a great deal from an insurance provider? Before you purchase the policy, be sure to check the company out. Check with federal and state agencies as well as with the National Association of Insurance Commissioners and A.M. Best for information and ratings on insurance providers. You may also want to check out what other consumers have to say about the insurance provider on review websites or with consumer protection organizations such as the Better Business Bureau.

3. Online insurance calculators

Various factors are taken into consideration when determining what you pay as an insurance premium. Many of these factors change as your life progresses (e.g. getting married, having kids or changing jobs). You can determine how these factors will affect your insurance premiums by using free online insurance calculators.

Although these calculators won’t give you an accurate figure for what your rate will be, they allow you to approximate the effect of various factors on your premiums and therefore allow you to plan better.

4. Online license renewal

A recent report by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety showed that one in five fatal car accidents in the U.S. involves a driver whose driver’s license status is either invalid or a mystery to law enforcement. The same report revealed that over 8,400 people die daily in accidents involving unlicensed drivers.

Driving without a license is a criminal offense. You could face jail time or hefty fines if caught. You could also face hiked rates in insurance premiums. It is therefore important to renew your license before it expires and avoid these and other problems.

5. Online car markets

Are you looking to upgrade your car? You can do so for free on online car markets like ebay, Cars.com and even Craigslist. Sell your car or buy a new one for a reasonable rate. Be sure to have the car inspected by an independent party (not the seller’s mechanic) before you make the purchase.

6. Online car reports

Before you purchase that dream car, be sure to check out what the experts say about it. Read free online reports from consumer protection agencies such as the Federal Trade Commission and other authorities in the industry to be sure of your choice.

7. Online vehicle history checks

Are you planning to buy a used car? You should check the car’s history (i.e. CarFax to find out if it has ever been involved in an accident, it’s maintenance history and who it is registered to.

8. Recalls look up services

Has your car been recalled? You may not have received a notification in the mail but you can check online to see if your car needs to be taken to the dealer for service.

There are many other free online services available today. Taking advantage of these services will allow you to stay on top of your expenses and obligations.