How to Sell a Car in Texas
If you are planning on selling a vehicle in Texas, you will have to fill out some paperwork. Sweat the subtleties of the transaction now and you won’t have to deal with them down the road. Let’s look at the paperwork that must be submitted to the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles to officially transfer ownership of your vehicle. We’ll also touch on additional documents necessary to sell a vehicle in Texas.
Title Transfer
The state of Texas requires that your vehicle’s title be transferred to the new owner. To make this transfer, you must fill out the title assignment found on the back of your vehicle’s official title certificate. If you fail to perform a legal title transfer when selling your car, there will be consequences. As an example, it is possible that you will be held responsible for subsequent crimes and violations committed in the vehicle. It is prudent to go to the nearest county tax office with the vehicle buyer to guarantee that the application for the new vehicle title is filed. If you need a certified copy of your automobile’s title from the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles, fill out the VTR-34 form. You can download this form from the DMV’s online library of forms.
Additional Documents Necessary to Sell a Car in Texas
As a seller of a vehicle, you must provide specific documents to the buyer. These documents include the bill of sale, a valid vehicle title, the completed title assignment with signature and odometer disclosure. Be sure to make copies of these documents to store in your records. You never know if any technical or legal challenges will pop up in the future. At this point, it is the buyer’s responsibility to complete the remainder of the required documents and pay the fee necessary to register the vehicle in his name in the state of Texas.
Supplemental Material That Will Help You Sell Your Vehicle in Texas
Texas has nuanced laws concerning vehicle efficiency and safety. Therefore, most vehicle buyers ask sellers for an in-depth vehicle history report before agreeing to a sale. Such a report provides information about the vehicle ranging from prior accidents to major repairs, odometer alteration and/or instances of theft. If you have endured any sort of accident, consider enrolling in a TX driving safety course. This course will enhance your defensive driving skills. Such a course might reduce your automobile insurance rate. It is even possible that this course will remove points from your driving record after a speeding ticket or other violation. Have your vehicle history report on-hand so you can show it to the buyer immediately after he requests it. Furthermore, having the vehicle history report on-hand makes it that much easier to market your vehicle and ask the highest possible price.
Transfer the License Plates
You must remove the license plates from your vehicle before the buyer accepts the keys and drives off. It is possible to transfer these license plates to another vehicle you own. Reach out to your nearest county tax assessor collector’s office for details on such a transfer.
Don’t Forget the Bill of Sale!
It is necessary to document the actual sale of your vehicle. The transaction is recorded on a “bill of sale”. This document should include all essential information about the seller, the buyer, the automobile and the agreed sale price. Sign and date the bill of sale and request that the buyer does the same. Make copies for yourself and the buyer. Keep this document in your records as it is proof of the vehicle sale transaction.
What Kind of Car Should I Get?
If you are in the market for a new or used vehicle, you might feel overwhelmed by the number of options. Don’t be paralyzed by the seemingly endless amount of information to sort through. The best way to figure out the perfect type of vehicle for your needs and desires is to spend some time reviewing what you require in an automobile and how it will be used.
Think About What You Need the Vehicle For
The type of vehicle you select should suit your specific automotive needs. Be practical with this decision. Always opt for function over form. Think about what you will use the vehicle for. Maybe you have a large family or own a business and need ample space to transport people/cargo. Consider the road conditions of your area and the places where you will venture for road trips. These conditions will partially determine whether you should purchase a vehicle with all-wheel drive. If you have an especially long commute to work or school, fuel efficiency should be a top priority.
If you have been injured in an accident in the past or if you are transporting youngsters, you should key in on vehicles with top-notch safety features. If you plan on taking the vehicle off-road or using it for towing, don’t opt for a diminutive sports car or sedan. You can whittle down the field to sport utility vehicles and trucks if you plan on embarking on off-road adventures or performing tows. Finally, consider the amount of space available on your property for parking. If you have a small garage or an especially narrow driveway, purchasing a monster sport utility vehicle, van or truck might not be prudent.
Vehicle Entrance and Exit
Sweat the small stuff when it comes to vehicle entry and exit. Think about who will ride in your vehicle. If you transport senior citizens or especially tall individuals, they will have difficulties entering a large sport utility vehicle or truck that requires the use of a stepladder for entrance. These individuals will also find it difficult to enter a low-slung sports vehicle.
Vehicle Handling
It is important to get a gauge of a vehicle’s handling before committing to a purchase or lease. If you have driven a specific style of car for most of your life, it is time to test drive other types of vehicles. Take a sports car, coupe, sedan, truck, sport utility vehicle and/or van for a ride. Get a feel for how each handles. You might find those midsize sedans you have been driving your entire life handle somewhat similar to crossover sport utility vehicles. If you end up getting a vehicle with crisp handling and rapid acceleration, don’t let the extra power result in a speeding ticket. If you are ticketed, enroll in a defensive driving course so you don’t end up with points on your driving record and a higher insurance rate.
Be sure to pick the salesman’s mind before, during and after your test drive. He will educate you about the ins and outs of each particular vehicle to help you decide on the perfect automobile for your unique needs. The salesman can also point you in the direction of a specific style of vehicle that suits your idiosyncratic requirements for handling, power etc.
Think About What You Desire in a Vehicle
Though automotive needs should always trump desires, this does not mean you should select a vehicle simply because it provides superior utility. After all, a minivan might suit your needs yet disappoint in the looks department. Find the right balance between utility and style, performance and high-tech niceties. Keep in mind that a practical vehicle with an attractive exterior, precise handling and an array of features will likely fetch a better price when the time comes to sell.
What are Riders in NY Insurance?
Like every other motorist, you must have NY insurance. There is no way around it. If caught driving without auto insurance, well, you do not even want to know that will happen. It is bad!
So, you have your insurance. But, does the policy really suit you. Did you ask for the agent to personalize things?
Many people do not know that almost every single insurance policy can be modified. You can add terms that will make the policy more beneficial. And, why not? You are the one who is paying. You are who will need the insurance payouts when things go wrong.
Always remember that when the company writes its standard policies, they are thinking about their own risk. The contract is in their best interests. You need to be smart and add riders, which are special terms, to the policy.
Sit down with your insurance company representative and discuss your specific needs. Then add these special conditions.
Following are some of the more popular auto insurance riders in NY.
Rental Car
What if your car breaks down or is destroyed in an accident? You will have to rent a car while things get fixed. One or two days is not all that bad. But, what about a few weeks? Those payments can prove financially draining.
Adding a rental car rider to your insurance can be a smart move. Most likely, the insurance company will want to set a predefined time period, for example, three weeks, in which they will pay for a rental car. Hopefully, you have your car back within the agreed upon timeframe.
Safe Driver
You can also add a safe driver rider. If you go without any major traffic infractions or accidents for a lengthy period, your insurance rate would be lowered.
Fortunately, you already have a de facto safe driver rider. If you complete a defensive driving NY course, you get an automatic 10 percent auto insurance rate discount for the next three years. Classes are held both online and in-person for your convenience.
One Accident
Everyone makes mistakes. You might do so while driving and cause an accident.
If you are at fault to any extent, even partly, in general, your insurance rate increases. You can prevent this from happening by adding a one-accident rider. It is a freebie for the first time “offender,” so to speak.
Roadside Assistance
This rider allows you to call for emergency assistance at any time without having to pay.
These riders are great deals because you never know just when your car will leave you stranded. When it happens, the last thing you want to worry about is whether you have the extra cash to pay for a tow truck or mechanic.
Vehicle Depreciation
This rider gets you a promise that the insurance company will not take any depreciation of car value into consideration for a certain agreed upon period.
Car Theft
Good for those who reside in high crime areas. For example, you can get a promise not to consider your high-crime location if you park your car in a secured location, such as a private garage.
Also, you can get this rider if you can prove that your neighborhood is changing. Perhaps the insurance provider will not raise your policy so long as the crime rate continues to decline in the area.
Time to Get the Policy You Deserve
No need to accept a boilerplate insurance contract. Ask for reasonable riders, those insurance terms that are of specific benefit to you.
What County is Clifton Park NY in?
Are you planning to relocate and looking for a nice community? Perhaps you are raising a family? Or, maybe, you are a hi-tech worker with their own lucrative startup company. If so, you probably want to look at Clifton Park, NY. This residential suburb in upstate New York has a lot to offer.
Now, do not make the mistake of many wannabe transplants. They somehow have the idea that the town is within the Greater New York City metro area. Sorry, that is just wrong. If you are wondering what county Clifton Park, NY is in, the wait is over. The town sits in the southern portion of Saratoga County, about 12-miles north of the capital, Albany.
Population
About 40,000, residents call Clifton Park home. These households enjoy a relatively high income when compared to the rest of the national. At $83,000, the average income makes the suburb one of the more so-after locales in the state. Less than three percent of the population lives below the poverty line.
Demographics
In general, Clifton Park is not as diverse as many would like. Almost everyone has well-paying jobs. Nevertheless, it goes without saying that the friendly neighbors go out of their way to make all feel at home.
Traffic Conditions
Though having only 40,000, people, Clifton Park is a very busy place. Workers are up early each morning rushing to their jobs. Students are off to attend the award-winning local schools. As a result, the area witnesses its fair share road accidents. After all, this is New York. Officers issue a fair number of traffic citations.
Fortunately, anyone who wants to become a safe driver can take a NY defensive driving course. These days, the classes can even be done online. This option proves even more convenient because students can access the course material over the various platforms, including mobile devices.
Best of all, after course completion, drivers can have any outstanding traffic tickets erased and the state awards a mandatory 10 percent auto insurance discount for three years.
Economics
It may not be Silicon Valley, but Clifton Park sits in the heart of the New York Tech Valley. Some of the most educated and talented technology professionals call the area home.
To further facilitate growth, the town government has been buying up property. As of now, over 1000-acres has been purchased for development. The goal is to make Clifton Park the place where top hi-tech firms want to relocate.
Things to Do
Residents love spending time in the local parks watching kids play sports. There are football, hockey, soccer and lacrosse leagues, to name just a few. Not to be left out, baseball is very popular here. In fact, the Boys Babe Ruth World Series is often played right in town.
Getting There
Motorists can reach Clifton Park from New York City via Interstate-87. The three-hour drive is picturesque as the area is dotted by green spaces and Erie Canal hamlets.
The train from Manhattan takes about four and a half hours, the same as the bus.
So, where is Clifton Park?
As shown here, Clifton Park is located in a prime spot in upstate New York. Residents and visitors can easily get to Albany or Manhattan for day trips or to conduct business.
A quiet suburban community, Clifton Park is ideal for those who want to enjoy the simple life, while not forging modern amenities. Give the town a chance. You may never want to live anywhere else.
How Much is A Speeding Ticket in Arizona?
Speeding Tickets in Different States:
The state of Arizona makes use of several unique methods to nab speeders. Arizona drivers must be aware of stationary traffic cameras, officer radar guns, unmarked police cars and beyond. If you are pulled over for speeding, you will likely receive a fine as well as points on your driving record/license.
It is important to note that specific speeding fines differ by city and county. As an example, someone caught speeding in Flagstaff will not face the same fine as someone who is nabbed speeding in Tucson. Additionally, those who have not been caught speeding in the past will likely face less of a fine than those who have received multiple speeding tickets.
Start Your Online Course Now to Dismiss Your Ticket
The table below displays the top 5 counties Arizona drivers get caught speeding in. Traffic school prices differ based on individual court diversion fees. Take a look at the ultimate savings here:
Maricopa |
|
|
|
|
10-14 mph |
$250 |
$203.95 – $265.95 |
|
15-19 m.p.h. |
$300 |
$203.95 – $265.95 |
|
20+ mph |
$350-$450 |
$203.95 – $265.95 |
|
Traffic Camera |
$165-$200 |
$203.95 – $265.95 |
Cochise |
|
|
|
|
10-14 mph |
$250 |
$103.95 – $253.95 |
|
15-19 m.p.h. |
$300 |
$103.95 – $253.95 |
|
20+ mph |
$350-$450 |
$103.95 – $253.95 |
|
Traffic Camera |
$165-$200 |
$103.95 – $253.95 |
Mohave |
|
|
|
|
10-14 mph |
$250 |
$103.95 – $228.95 |
|
15-19 m.p.h. |
$300 |
$103.95 – $228.95 |
|
20+ mph |
$350-$450 |
$103.95 – $228.95 |
|
Traffic Camera |
$165-$200 |
$103.95 – $228.95 |
Pima |
|
|
|
|
10-14 mph |
$250 |
$103.95 – $233.95 |
|
15-19 m.p.h. |
$300 |
$103.95 – $233.95 |
|
20+ mph |
$350-$450 |
$103.95 – $233.95 |
|
Traffic Camera |
$165-$200 |
$103.95 – $233.95 |
Pinal |
|
|
|
|
10-14 mph |
$250 |
$103.95 – $233.95 |
|
15-19 m.p.h. |
$300 |
$103.95 – $233.95 |
|
20+ mph |
$350-$450 |
$103.95 – $233.95 |
|
Traffic Camera |
$165-$200 |
$103.95 – $233.95 |
For complete list of AZ Court Diversion Fees: Click Here
Show Arizona the Money
Police officers are required to follow nuanced guidelines when determining the value of a speeding ticket. However, in some instances, the officer will consider the driver’s level of resistance/compliance when determining the cost of the speeding ticket. In other instances, the officer will follow the specific formula that determines the cost of a speeding ticket. If it is determined that you were driving more than 10 miles per hour beyond the speed limit, the financial penalty for your ticket will rise quite dramatically.
A speeding ticket for driving 10 miles per hour beyond the speed limit runs $250. This cost increases $50 for every 5 miles per hour beyond 10 miles per hour above the speed limit.
A speeding ticket for driving 20 miles per hour over the posted speed limit can be increased by $200 more than the initial $250 fee. Driving at such a fast rate of speed can also result in the suspension of the driver’s license. It is even possible for the license to be revoked when the traffic stop occurs.
The amount of the speeding ticket can be changed according to whether the driver was nabbed speeding by one of the state’s stationary traffic cameras. This style of speeding ticket is sent through the mail. It requires the driver to pay a set cost of $165 along with an additional $30 in fees and surcharges.
Show Traffic School the Money – It’s CHEAPER!
It is usually less expensive to take and pay for AZ defensive driving course, not have any points added to your driving record and avoid having your insurance rates up than to pay your ticket, have points added to your record and have your auto rates increase dramatically.
Eligibility and More
Arizona allows residents to enroll in traffic school once every 12 months. When you take the course, it will only dismiss one traffic related offense. Be sure to look up fines and points for all violations (if you received more than one) before you tell the Traffic School which offense you want the school to dismiss.
Top violations:
Speeding: 3 points
Running a red light or stop sign: 4 points
Failure to yield: 4 points
Criminal Speeding
Speeding at an excessive rate, known as “criminal speeding”, can result in upwards of 30 days in jail and a $500 fine. Additional penalties for criminal speeding include paying to have the vehicle retrieved from the space it was towed to. Criminal speeding occurs when a driver goes 85 miles per hour or more anywhere in Arizona. A driver exceeding 35 miles per hour near a school crossing can also be found guilty of criminal speeding.
A driver who exceeds the posted speed limit by 20 miles per hour in a residential or business area can also be found guilty of criminal driving. If no speed is posted in a residential or business area, one driving 45 miles per hour or more beyond the speed limit will face the possibility of a criminal speeding charge. Aside from fines and possible jail time, such a charge can also impact one’s ability to legally operate a motor vehicle.
Were Car Radios Ever Illegal? Should They Be?
These days, we can’t imagine driving even to the corner store without listening to either a channel on the AM/FM signal that comes through our car’s antenna or the bevy of satellite radio channels that are available.
But car radios weren’t always such a luxury. In fact, when car radios first hit the scene in the 1920s, they weren’t only expensive, but they were somewhat of an inconvenience. Yes, the first car radios appeared in Chevrolet cars – and they were so big that they barely even fit into the car when you accounted for the size of their speakers, antennas and batteries.
My how things have changed.
Despite their initial awkwardness, radio technology advanced over the next decade to where they became smaller and more easily integrated into vehicles for drive-time entertainment. Around the time radios became more widely accepted, however, they were also met with some ire. In fact, many legislators believed that car radios caused a distraction – so much so that legislation was introduced in many states to fine drivers listening to car radios.
Government gets involved.
Specifically, in Minnesota and Missouri, legislation was introduced to completely ban car radios. Other states like New York, New Jersey, Ohio and Illinois introduced legislation that would fine drivers found to be operating while listening to their car radios. None of the legislation ever became law – but it wasn’t for the lack of vocal support for such bills.
Much like how texting and driving and cell phone use is associated with an uptick in auto accidents, many at the time believed that car radios led to more accidents on the road. Those in support of car radios argued the opposite, and that listening to car radios kept drivers more engaged on the road. Those in support of car radios were eventually found to be correct in their belief, as no formal study ever connected listening to the radio in a car with an increase in auto accidents.
Should Car Radios be Banned?
There was no scientific data to suggest that car radios led to more auto accidents back in the 1930s when the issue was being seriously debated – and there’s no evidence to suggest that things have changed in the present day.
Yes, drivers aren’t without distractions these days – perhaps more now than ever when you take smart phones into consideration. But the car radio doesn’t just serve as an entertainment medium while drivers are commuting from Point A to Point B, it also serves a much larger purpose:
Informational
Radio helps drivers learn of accidents and weather conditions while they’re on the road, helping them to better navigate routes and plan. Drivers can also catch up on the latest local, national and world headlines as they commute.
Employment
The car radio has also led to a whole new entertainment industry. Radio stations these days are big business, and it is largely those that listen while they’re in the car that drive ratings, advertising dollars and success for said stations.
Entertainment
Just because it’s worth mentioning again, radio also helps entertain drivers while they’re on the go. In their cars, they can listen to the baseball game, their favorite pop, rock or country stations, or their favorite news station. With the variety of radio stations available today – not to mention the options that satellite radio also provides – it’s hard for drivers to not be entertained while they’re on the go.
Let’s Keep ’Em Legal!
We take car radios for granted today, but they were once nearly outlawed in some states. Yes, they can be a distraction – but so can just about anything in the car if not treated responsibly. For more information on minimizing distraction while you’re behind the wheel, contact our
defensive driving course today.
Answering common NJ & NY defensive driving course questions.
So, you are thinking about taking a defensive driving course but do not know where to turn? Relax, many out there have been in your situation. They know that attending so-called traffic school is good for them. However, they have no idea where to get NY or NJ defensive driving answers.
To help you make your decision about whether to take one, following are the top questions and answers about the these somewhat feared programs.
Can I find the answers to my defensive driving course online?
Once you begin your course you may find the questions harder than you thought. True, the instructors are there to help you pass. However, they will not just hand the certificate to you. Instead, they expect you to do some work.
Do not get too worried! The answers are always available to you. For example, if you are taking an online course, the answers are in the school’s online material. You can also search the state DMV website. The department usually lists the pertinent rules of the road and any recent changes to the laws.
You will also want to re-read the course material. Perhaps you missed the answer while reading a little too quickly.
If the class is in-person or taken as a group, you can ask the other students where they located the answers.
Last, but certainly not least, ask your instructor or the school staff. They will be more than willing to help. Just be sure that you have really tried to complete the assignment before making a request.
Can I complete my defensive driving course online?
In the past, you had to attend NY defensive driving school in person. Today, you can go to the school or complete the course online. This fact has made attending traffic school a no-brainer. Everyone in New York and New Jersey should take one of these courses to become a safer driver.
One benefit of the online course is that you can enroll with a group. Many workplaces and households sign up this way. They take classes online at their convenience.
Check to see if your chosen school offers a group enrollment discount!
What if I fail my defensive driving course?
The only way to fail the NY or NJ defensive driving course is if you don’t finish it. As long as you put in the minimum required time (six hours total), you will pass and receive your credits!
Are the instructors teaching the online defensive driving course difficult?
You might imagine a Defensive Driving classroom instructor as being some hardcore DMV staffer who is out to fail students. Perhaps you think they will be a former Marine drill instructor who still thinks they are in the Corps.
In reality, some instructors are retired DMV workers and veterans! Yet, you can relax. Their job is not to punish you for mistakes but to ensure that you learn from them.
Does completing a defensive driving course dismiss a traffic ticket in NJ or NY?
Unlike some states, taking a NY or NJ defensive driving will not dismiss a traffic ticket. Rather, it may help you combat points being added to your record. Check with the traffic court first before you begin the course. They will be able to advise you when you should complete the course for the best results.
Do I earn an auto insurance discount after completing my defensive driving course?
Can I complete assignments for my defensive driving course on my phone/other mobile device?
The best schools offer many ways to access the course material, including mobile platforms. Always check with the admissions office about accessibility and compatibility prior to enrolling.
It’s time to enroll in your defensive driving course!
Now that you know the top NY and NJ defensive driving course answers, you are ready to enroll! Get started right away while you are still highly motivated to succeed.
Best of luck!
Can I Travel with My Driver License?
One of the biggest and best benefits of having a driver’s license is the independence that it brings. Once you have acquired your driver license, you’re basically free to go wherever you please. But there are some caveats to consider. Your driver license will only get you so far. In some cases, you may have to have other documentation to travel. So, can you travel with your driver license? Yes and no.
Traveling in the United States with Your Driver License
The way that the United States is set up, you can travel anyplace you want to go with just your driver license. The U.S. doesn’t even have border restrictions between states. So, if you want to travel between Ohio and Michigan, for example, you can do so. You won’t have to stop to display your driver license at the border between Ohio and Michigan. If for some reason you’re stopped by a police office in Michigan, you can show him your Ohio driver license and that be fine. With a driver license, you’re legally entitled to drive anywhere in the United States. You will need a REAL ID, however, for traveling by plane starting October 2020.
Driving a Vehicle in the United States
Now, driving a vehicle in the United States requires different credentials, depending on where you’re driving. Even if you’ve passed a defensive driving class, there might be other rules. Depending on which state you’re driving in, you may be required to carry auto insurance. Only a handful of states allow you to drive without auto insurance. Remember, even if you’re just driving through, you may be required to show proof of auto insurance if you’re pulled over for any reason.
Traveling Abroad with Your Driver License
You won’t be able to travel abroad with just your driver license. Other countries require a passport to get in, and you’ll need your own U.S. passport to return to the United States. In addition, you might need a visa to get into some countries, in addition to your passport. Now, your driver license will help you travel abroad, though. You’ll be able to use it as proof of your identity to get your passport.
Driving Abroad with Your Driver License
Your driver license entitles you to drive in your state and throughout the U.S. It also entitles you to hire a rental car, even outside the U.S. Rental companies oversees have agreements with insurance companies that will cover drivers from other countries. But if you want to buy a car and drive it in another country, that’s another story.
You won’t be able to drive abroad with your driver license if you own the car. You’ll have to have an international driver license, in addition to an insurance policy that will cover you for the country you intend to drive in. Bottom line is: if you want to buy a car to drive in another country, be sure you can afford to pay for the insurance and any other additional license you may need. But if you just want to rent a car to drive overseas, the good news is that your U.S. driver license will probably be sufficient!
Driving a Motor-home or Trailer in the U.S.
Do you have dreams of driving a motor home across the U.S.? You may think that you can only drive one of these if you have a commercial truck license. But you’re entitled to travel in the U.S. with a motor home with only your regular driver license. If you can show proof of insurance, you’ll be able to rent a motorhome or trailer and travel throughout the entire U.S.
Do you have the defensive driving skills necessary to travel safely with your driver license? If so, you can use your driver license to travel anywhere in the U.S., and to rent vehicles while traveling abroad. Bon voyage!
What is a Space Cushion?
A space cushion. This is something they tell you about in defensive driving class. What is a space cushion? It sounds top secret. Like something, NASA and the government need to keep hidden in order to protect us from beings from outer space. That’s right. Space beings. Aliens. Martians from a distant planet, maybe Mars, who have entered our atmosphere and are looking for a way to relax. After all, space travel must be exhausting. Imagine sitting there, in your UFO spacecraft seat, for millions of miles. Completely tiring. No wonder those men from Mars need a space cushion. A place to lay down their big brainy heads for a little cat nap.
No, sorry, that’s not what a space cushion is. Although, that is a novel idea. So, what exactly is a space cushion?
What is a Space Cushion?
A space cushion is an area around your vehicle that is just empty space. No other vehicles are in that space. The space cushion area includes the space in front of, behind, and on both sides of your car.
Why Have a Space Cushion?
A space cushion gives you time and opportunity to avoid collision with another vehicle. If you don’t have a space cushion, then any sudden movements by other vehicles can catch you with no way out of the situation. In fact, with no space cushion around your vehicle, you have limited options if you yourself have a sudden emergency or a sudden movement. Consider this: Imagine you’re driving in your car, and one of your tires blows. The sudden drop in tire pressure will likely cause your vehicle to swerve dramatically to one side. You obviously won’t know which side your car will swerve on, because it came out of the blue. You could swerve right into another car, or even a pedestrian. This is why you want to have a space cushion.
How to Make a Space Cushion
First, you don’t need sewing lessons to make a space cushion. We thought we cleared up all that nonsense about aliens needing naps about two paragraphs ago. So please put away the needle and thread. And the thimble. Okay, let’s get down to the business of defensive driving by making a space cushion.
First, you want to have at least a three-second delay from the rear end of the vehicle in front of you to the front of your car. This is the easiest part of the space cushion to make. As you’re driving, pay attention to the signs on the side of the road. If you’re on the freeway, you can use the signs overhead. As the car in front passes by the sign, count to three (yes, you can use Mississippi). Your car shouldn’t pass that same sign before you’ve reached three. If it has, you’re following too closely. Slow down, Speed Racer.
Second, you want the car behind you to slow down so there’s a three-second delay between you. Now, you can’t tell that driver how to drive. But you can let that driver pass if he insists on tailgating you, (maybe he has to get to a bathroom or something. Who knows)? Anyway, just let him go by.
Finally, you don’t want any cars next to you. How do you manage this? By adjusting your speed either up or down so that you aren’t riding along with James Dean’s style in some kind of misconceived road race on the highway.
Now that you know what a space cushion in, why it’s necessary, and how to make one, you’d best be on your way. Leave plenty of time between your departure and your arrival so you’re never the one tailgating.
How to Drive in Every State
Almost every kid yearns for the day when they can be old enough to learn how to drive. Getting that driver’s license is a rite of passage that carries so much meaning. For most young drivers, learning how to drive symbolizes freedom and responsibility. It’s a giant leap away from childhood and a small step toward adulthood. Once you learn how to drive, you can go places without your parents, run errands for your parents, get a job that’s beyond walking or bicycling distance, and go on real dates. It’s an amazing time in life that happens only once.
Drivers Ed
How you learn to drive depends on where you live and what your situation is. If you go to a school where they offer Drivers Ed, you might learn how to drive with a bunch of your friends sitting in the back seat, which is simultaneously a blast and intimidating. If driving school is affordable, you might learn about defensive driving from a stranger. Your last – and sometimes preferable option – is to learn how to drive from your parents or a family friend. However, you officially learn about defensive driving, there’s probably a bunch of stuff you didn’t learn. But don’t worry. We’re here to fill in the gaps. Here’s the guide on how to drive that you’ll never hear from anyone else.
Watch Other Drivers’ Faces
When you watch driving videos, they always tell you to “look out for other cars.” But defensive driving requires more than that. You can get a whole lot of information about what a car is going to do by watching the driver’s face. Say you’re coming up on an intersection. The driver of the car at the stop sign is laughing and talking to his buddy. Every now and then his car creeps forward. He can’t wait to zip out. Does he see you coming? Keep an eye on that driver to make sure he looks at you. If he doesn’t, there’s a good chance he might pull out right in front of you. To be on the safe side, slow down or move to the next inside lane.
Don’t Double Pedal
Your right foot is for driving, and your left foot is for the clutch if you have a manual transmission. Don’t double pedal with your left foot hovering over the brake and your right foot hovering over the accelerator. This is a bad habit that can lead to a) overuse of brakes, b) an accident. Just don’t do it.
Don’t Eat in the Car
Yes, your mom’s car is full of Burger King wrappers. You grew up at the drive-thru. That’s what drive-thrus are for, right? We’ve heard it all before. But eating in the car is a bad, bad idea. First, you could choke, and trying to maneuver your car out of traffic and danger is a lot harder when you’re also trying to not choke to death. Second, if you’re eating, you’re not holding the wheel with both hands. Third, eating in the car is messy business. You’ll end up trashing your car, getting stains on your clothes and not paying attention to the task at hand, which is, ahem, driving. Eating in the car puts your life at risk. Burger King won’t tell you that, but we will.
Drive Safe!
So now that you know the real secrets to knowing how to drive, we feel confident you’re ready for adulthood. Learning how to drive is something that almost everyone hopes to accomplish one day. But do you want to know the best part of learning how to drive? It’s learning how to drive safely.
Answering common traffic school questions
Are you enrolled in traffic school and feeling a bit nervous about the expectations? If so, you are not alone. Most people experience some degree of anxiety. It is quite normal.
However, you should calm down. The goal of traffic school is to make you a safer driver. The curriculum is not set up for you to fail. Instead, quite the opposite is true. The institution wants you to comprehend the material as fully as possible. Your success is their success.
This all sounds well and good, but you also know that in the end you have to complete a certain amount of work with a passing score. Keep reading below to find out just where to turn for answers to your traffic school assignments.
Use this information to help get a passing score. Then, enjoy the safe driver record and dismissal of tickets. And, of course, do not forget the mandatory insurance discount.
I’m struggling with my online traffic school course, what should I do?
You would be surprised at how easy things can be when you use a little common sense. Just stop trying to make traffic school so difficult and all will be smooth sailing.
When things get tough, just sit back and relax. You have been a driver for some time now. The answer is probably the one that seems right to you. Use your intuition.
For example, the rules of the road exist to protect motorists and pedestrians. You already know this. So, use this knowledge to help you figure out the answers to your traffic school questions. If a choice does not help keep people safe on the road, then you can discard it.
Can I ask friends & family for help with my online traffic school?
The people around you, such as family and friends, are excellent sources of information on traffic laws. Many of them have been driving for decades and know all the rules in your state. Be sure to ask them for help when trying to complete your course.
It may be best to rely on more than one person for the answers. You will want a variety of opinions. Listen to what everyone has to say, check your course material again and then choose the best answer.
How can I use the internet as a source for answers with my traffic school online?
You should search the internet for relevant driving websites. Your state motor vehicle department will have the current rules of the road available online. Likewise, the state insurance department can provide you with information on auto insurance requirements.
Last, the state court website can explain what will happen if you break the laws while behind the wheel.
What about the instructor of the online traffic school course, can I ask them for help?
If truly stuck with nowhere to turn, then ask your instructor for help. Now, you should always be sure to have attempted to find the answer yourself first. Quite often, wayward students will skip the reading material or fail to follow instructions and then expect the instructor to bail them out.
Truly attempt the assignment before asking for the instructor to explain it to you. Doing so will make their explanation that much more comprehensible.
Traffic school success is right around the corner!
You are now prepared to complete your traffic school with flying colors. Just take things easy and you will succeed in becoming an acknowledged safe driver in your state.
Can You Test Drive for Fun?
Where would we be without the test drive?
Probably more unsatisfied customers – new owners may discover that a vehicle that looked great and had good reviews didn’t “feel right” once he or she got behind the wheel. This could lead to more buyer’s remorse and owners either changing their minds right away, or hanging onto it unhappily for years, vowing never to return to that dealer again.
Good for Sales
Either way is bad news for the salesperson, since it’s their job to find the right car for the right owner and hopefully build strong relationships that last for multiple vehicles. Making prospective buyers comfortable by letting them try before they buy goes a long way in making purchases happen.
Certainly some enjoy driving several types of vehicles before finding something that appeals to them, or spend the weekend just doing test drives – and that’s OK with most dealership employees, especially if they eventually end up making a purchase.
Good for You
Some people may even visit a dealership or dealerships with the intent of test driving only, not buying. That’s OK too. The biggest challenge for a dealership is getting people to the lot, and once they’re there, it’s potentially much easier to talk them into a super deal.
Though some lot visitors are obvious browsers, they still should be given the same attention as any other shopper even if the pay-off may come later rather than sooner. Most salespeople need to always be focusing on their numbers, and taking time for a ride with another looky-loo can sometimes cut into time helping more serious customers. But from a customer service point of view, you never know which drive will switch a tester into a buyer.
Here’s why test drives are important to the buyer and seller:
1. Buyers remain educated.
Want to learn more about a particular make or model? The best way is to give one a spin and see how it performs. It’s one thing to read the specs online, but more satisfying to feel it, and then remember the experience when it’s time for shopping.
2. One drive may not be enough.
If you’re serious about a particular auto but don’t need to rush, you can test drive multiple occasions. Try it on rainy and sunny days, in daylight or night, or even on daily errands or heavy traffic so more defensive driving skills are required. This gives you more time to learn about other costs, such as different insurance premiums or discounts.
3. It can be fun.
Even if the dealership can offer nice financing and your budget could stretch a little, you might prefer to not take on new debt right now. But testing different cars and doing your homework can still be entertaining, even if the gratification is delayed. You can also try something outside of your price range, just for the experience.
4. It encourages the salesperson to try harder.
As a consumer, you’re likely to want to work with a salesman or saleswoman who you know and trust. And someone who has been patient with your browsing habits is definitely appealing. The better salespeople can even keep an eye out for certain vehicles that may interest you.
5. You can win things.
As a way to get more people visiting, some dealerships offer no-obligation incentives for people who test drive, such as event tickets, gift cards or small appliances. The sales staff is encouraged to work their magic to convert all test drivers into buyers, but legally the promised prize is yours if you satisfy certain conditions like join a mailing list.
The Pros & Cons of Manual vs. Automatic Transmission
Most people do not consider the purchase or lease of a vehicle with a manual transmission. Also known as a “stick shift,” the manual transmission is becoming increasingly rare. However, there are some advantages to driving a vehicle equipped with a manual transmission. Let’s look at the positives and negatives of manual vs. automatic transmissions to help you select the style that is best for your particular needs and desires.
The Benefits of a Manual Transmission
One of the primary benefits of a stick shift is improved fuel economy. Most vehicles equipped with a manual transmission achieve higher mpg than vehicles with an automatic transmission. Furthermore, vehicles equipped with a stick shift tend to cost less than vehicles with an automatic. Another key advantage to owning or leasing a vehicle with a manual transmission is that it is comparably secure. If your vehicle is broken into, the odds of the thief knowing how to drive a stick shift are fairly low. A manual transmission really is an anti-theft device in and of itself.
Yet the primary motivation for selecting a vehicle with a stick is feel. Controlling the shifts between gears makes one feel as though he is a race car driver. It is a ton of fun to upshift and downshift while traversing the roads. If you get a vehicle with a manual transmission, you will likely be tempted to get to fourth or fifth gear as quickly as possible and drive at a high rate of speed. It could result in a speeding ticket. If you are nabbed speeding, enroll in defensive driving for an auto insurance discount. You can also enroll in traffic school to have your ticket dismissed or reduced.
The Drawbacks of a Manual Transmission
The main drawback of a stick shift is the learning curve. Most people do not want to invest the time and effort required to learn this style of driving. Furthermore, constantly shifting between gears is somewhat tedious. If you aren’t particularly skilled at operating a stick, you might make a mistake that leads to an accident or a traffic ticket. Those who lack coordination might find it difficult to use both arms and legs in unison on the steering wheel, stick shift, gas and clutch pedals. Another problem with the manual transmission is that few people know how to operate it. If you have one too many drinks, feel sick or are injured, the odds of someone in your group being able to operate a stick shift are low.
The Benefits of an Automatic Transmission
The beauty of an automatic transmission is that the vehicle shifts through the gears on your behalf. There is no need to divert your attention to a clutch pedal or stick shift. You can keep both hands on the steering wheel at all times and consequently, reduce the odds of an accident. Also, consider a situation in which you can’t drive your vehicle due to an injury or sickness. If you have a friend or family member with you, this individual can drive your vehicle on your behalf. Another advantage of the automatic transmission is that it makes stop-and-go traffic tolerable. The same cannot be said of a vehicle with a manual transmission that requires a constant pressing of the clutch and shifting between gears to go from a complete stop to forward movement repeatedly during heavy traffic.
The Negatives of an Automatic Transmission
Automatic transmissions cost more than the manual variety. Automatic transmissions also provide less miles per gallon than manuals as they use a torque converter to alternate between gears. Automatic transmissions typically require more maintenance than manuals due to their comparably complex engineering. Thieves are much more likely to steal a vehicle with an automatic transmission as it does not require any sort of specialized knowledge or skill to operate.
How to Choose the Right Helmet
Choosing your motorcycle helmet can almost be as important as choosing the right motorcycle. Because there are so many styles and different types of helmets to consider, we wanted to help you narrow the field! How to choose the right helmet:
Type
There are hemispherical shaped helmets that are designed to protect the head from the ears up and helmets that cover the entire head from just below the chin line. There are also helmets that look like football helmets.
Outer Shell
The outer shell is designed to absorb most of the impact in an accident, lessening the amount of force that will reach your skull. When considering the geometry of the helmet (sphere-like) any impact will be distributed throughout the helmet. In a perfect sphere, an impact (a force) will be evenly distributed. This is the case in a motorcycle helmet, except we ought to understand that the helmet is not a perfect sphere.
Liner
The next level of protection is found in the liner of the helmet. This unit of protective layer is an impact-absorbing liner. This liner will absorb residual forces not absorbed by the outer shell. While the liner is also shaped like a sphere, forces will be, ideally, distributed evenly. The material of the inner liner is usually made of Styrofoam, a material not as hard and impact resistance as the outer-liner.
Padding
The third section of a helmet is called the comfort padding. It functions as what its name indicates. It provides comfort, mainly. The comfort padding also ensures that the helmet fits snuggly on the head. A loose, or ill fitting helmet will not absorb as much of the forces as a well-fitting, snug helmet.
Retention System
The fourth component of the called the retention system, more commonly referred to as the chin strap. Obvious to many, the chin strap helps to ensure that the helmet stays on your head in the event of a crash. The other elements of the retention system are the devices that attach the chin strap to the helmet. A loose chin strip reduces the effective safety designs of the entire helmet.
DOT
Regardless of the type chosen, make sure that they are rated by the Department of Transportation (DOT). Of the four basic components, the most important element is the outer section of the helmet, called the outer shell. Modern technologies have found plastics and fiber reinforced composites that allow for high strength, light weight outer shells.
The DOT sticker and the Snell Memorial Foundation run thorough tests on motorcycle helmets for:
Impact—The helmet’s shock absorbing capacity
Penetration—The helmet’s ability to withstand the penetration a sharp object
Retention—The ability of the retention system to fastened to the helmet
Peripheral vision—The helmet’s ability to allow side vision of no less than 105 degrees on each side.
Regardless or the style of helmet or how seasoned you are as a motorcyclist (okay, biker) it is important to check your helmet for the safety features designed to protect you from breaking your head.
SAFETY
No doubt, wearing a helmet while operating or riding on a motorcycle is necessary to reduce the probability of death or life-long debilitating injuries. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) studies have determined that deadly accidents are a higher probability when helmets are not worn.
No matter how macho you want to be, wearing a helmet is the thing to do.
How Precise Is an Online Auto Loan Calculator?
If you are thinking about buying a new or used automobile, you may be looking at online auto loan calculator to determine what you can afford to pay. These types of loans will help you calculate your auto loan payments based on the amount of loan and estimated APR you think you can get on your interest rate, giving you a general idea as to how much car you can afford. But, you may have many questions about basing a loan using these types of systems. Here is some information you will need to know.
Can You Trust an Online Auto Loan Calculator?
Yes and no. An online auto loan calculator is a great way to determine approximately how much car you can afford. If a car is $10,000 and you think you can get approved at 5.9 percent APR, the auto loan calculator will tell you what your payment will be if you take the loan out for three years, four years or five years. However, in reality, your car may be slightly lower or higher than the numbers you ran, you may get a higher or lower APR, your payments may not last a full three or five years or you may not include taxes, fees and licensing into your calculations. As you may learn in
traffic school or a defensive driving course, they are a great tool but they are not perfect.
What Factors Cause the Online Auto Loan Calculator to Vary?
As was mentioned above, there are many factors that can cause the online auto loan to vary. The largest is that there is no way to determine how much money you will need to pay for taxes, fees and licensing. As such, there is no way to include this information. This can be a couple of thousands of dollars, depending on the state you live in, and is typically rolled up into your payments. This can drastically affect your monthly payment and the interest you pay.
Another factor is your down payment. You may not include your down payment into the equation when doing one of these calculators. However, it should be. It affects how much you will have to pay over the life of the loan and the interest rate.
Lastly, the features you are guessing on cause the auto loan calculator to vary. When you are using this tool, you often put in whole numbers. You may put in $20,000 for a car, but in actuality, the car may be $21,999 or $18,599. These factors can cause the amount you are shown on the calculator to vary.
How Much Do Payments Usually Change in Reality?
Payment calculators are great at giving you an estimated amount that you will pay for a car. But they don’t give you an exact amount. The exact amount can vary heavily if you over or underestimate the amount of interest you are paying on a car or the amount the car will cost. However, if your numbers are relatively close, you can expect that the payment will be within $100 of the amount you are quoted on the screen. If your estimates are extremely off, your payment can vary more than this. Talk with a dealer to get an exact number if money is your primary concern.
If you are looking to obtain an auto loan, you may play around with an online auto loan calculator to get an idea as to how much car you can afford. However, these calculators should be taken with a grain of salt. They can give you a rough estimate as to how much you can expect to pay, but they can’t give you an exact amount. There are too many variables that can change and affect your exact monthly price.
Do defensive driving courses reduce DMV points in NY & NJ?
If you have received a traffic ticket or were at-fault in an accident, the Department of Motor vehicles issues you a certain number of points. Different infractions and reasons for accidents are assigned different point values. If you reach a certain level of points, your driver’s license may be suspended. However, signing up for a defensive driving course may reduce the number of points you have on your driving record.
This is important because insurance companies look at the number of points you have when deciding how much you will pay for insurance, and reducing your points helps to prevent your license from being suspended. Here is some more information you will want to know about defensive driving courses and point reduction in both New York and New Jersey.
How many DMV points can I remove by completing a defensive driving course in New York?
In the state of New York, you can take a defensive driving course once every 18 months to reduce the number of points on your driving record. Participating in one of these courses can reduce up to four points from your record toward a license suspension. However, taking this course will only reduce active points or points accumulated in the last 18 months.
To have the points taken off, you must enroll in a New York approved DMV defensive driving course. If you take a course that is not DMV approved, your points will not fall off. Upon completion, the school will notify DMV and they will take the points off your record. You will also receive a certificate of completion from the school. It is up to you to mail a copy of this certificate to your auto insurer. By law, your auto insurer is required to give you a ten percent auto insurance discount off your liability, no fault and collision premiums for three years after taking this course.
How many DMV points can I remove by completing a defensive driving course in New Jersey?
In the state of New Jersey, you can take a defensive driving course once every 5 (five) years to reduce up to two points from your driving record. You can take this course anytime you have points on your record if you have not had points removed in the past three years. The infractions do not need to be recent. To receive this discount, you must enroll in a course approved by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission.
Just like in the state of New York, you automatically qualify for a ten percent discount on your liability, no-fault and collision premiums for three years after taking this course. You will need to submit the certificate of completion to your insurance company to qualify for this discount.
If you have received a ticket or were involved in an accident for which you were found at fault, the state-licensing department in your state will issue points against your driving record. Your auto insurer will then see those points and increase your auto insurance rates. Fortunately, the states realize that everyone makes a mistake and a single traffic infraction does not make you a bad driver.
As such, both New York and New Jersey will allow you to take part in a defensive driving course to remove a certain number of points from your record and receive a discount on your auto insurance premiums. This is a great way to improve your driving, while also ensuring you are not punished for a prolonged period of time due to one driving mistake.