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10 Ways to Save Money on Gas During the Summer
With summer road trips, vacations, and higher car gas prices often hitting simultaneously, many drivers feel the pinch at the pump. Fortunately, there are several easy and effective ways to stretch your fuel dollars during the hotter months. Here are 10 practical tips to help you save money on gas this summer. 1. Drive Smoothly and Avoid Rapid Acceleration Sudden starts and hard braking waste fuel. Accelerate gradually and try to anticipate traffic conditions to avoid unnecessary stops. Smooth driving can improve fuel efficiency by as much as 30% on the highway and 10% in city traffic. 2. Keep Your Tires Properly Inflated Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, requiring your…
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What to Do After a Fender Bender: Car Insurance Tips to Keep in Mind
Even the most cautious drivers can find themselves in a fender bender. While minor accidents might not result in serious injuries, they can still be stressful and confusing, especially when handling insurance. Knowing what steps to take immediately after a minor collision can make a big difference in ensuring your safety, protecting your rights, and speeding up the claims process. Here are essential tips on what to do after a fender bender. 1. Stay Calm and Check for Injuries after a fender bender First and foremost, stay calm. Take a deep breath and assess the situation. Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately.…
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What Happens When You Have a Lapse in Car Insurance?
A lapse in car insurance occurs when there is a period of time—whether it’s a day or several months—during which your auto insurance coverage is not active. This gap in coverage can have serious legal, financial, and personal consequences, depending on the duration and the circumstances. Here’s a breakdown of what happens when your car insurance lapses and why it’s important to avoid it. Legal Consequences Most states in the U.S. require drivers to carry a minimum amount of car insurance coverage, typically liability insurance. If your insurance policy lapses and you are caught driving without coverage, you could face penalties such as fines, license suspension, and vehicle registration revocation.…
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Is It Safe to Drive a Compact Car?
Thinking of buying a compact car? Compact cars are popular for their affordability, fuel efficiency, and maneuverability, especially in urban environments. However, one common concern among drivers is whether compact cars are as safe as larger vehicles. The answer depends on multiple factors, including crash safety ratings, modern safety features, and driving conditions. Compact Car – Crash Safety and Size Considerations One of the main safety concerns with compact cars is their smaller size and lighter weight. In collisions with larger vehicles, compact cars may be disadvantaged due to physics—larger vehicles typically absorb impact better and provide more crumple space. However, modern compact cars have significantly improved in crashworthiness. Many…
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Car fires – Does car insurance cover them?
Car fires are rare but devastating, causing significant damage or total loss. If your car catches fire, you may wonder whether your car insurance will cover the damage. The answer depends on the type of insurance coverage you have and the cause of the fire. Car Fires And Care Insurance Comprehensive Coverage If you have comprehensive insurance, your car is covered against fire damage, regardless of how the fire started. Comprehensive insurance is optional but is typically required if you have a loan or lease on your car. It covers a variety of non-collision incidents, including theft, vandalism, natural disasters, and fires. Collision Coverage Collision insurance covers damages to your…
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5 Factors That Influence the Cost of Car Repairs
Car repairs are one of those unavoidable expenses that can catch you off guard. Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a more serious accident, the cost to fix your vehicle can vary widely. So, what actually determines how much you’ll pay when your car is in the shop? Here are five key factors that impact the cost of car repairs: 1. Make and Model of the Vehicle One of the biggest determinants is the type of car you drive. Luxury brands like BMW, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz tend to have higher repair costs because they often require specialized parts and expert technicians. Even within the same brand, newer or more…
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Does Central Oregon Car Insurance Cover Medical Expenses?
Does car insurance also cover medical expenses? This is a top question that every driver has. It’s an essential safeguard for drivers in Central Oregon, but many people are unclear about whether their policy covers medical expenses in the event of an accident. The answer depends on your coverage type, Oregon’s insurance laws, and the specifics of your policy. Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions about your auto insurance coverage and ensure you’re adequately protected in an accident. Understanding Personal Injury Protection (PIP) in Oregon Oregon is a fault-based state for car accidents, meaning that the driver responsible for the accident is typically required to pay for…
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Does Car Insurance Cover Scratches and Dents? Learn More Here!
Scratches and dents are unfortunate for car owners, whether caused by minor accidents, shopping carts, or even acts of vandalism. But does car insurance cover these types of damages? The answer depends on your policy and how the damage occurred. Comprehensive and Collision Coverage If you have comprehensive or collision coverage, your insurance may cover the repair costs for scratches and dents. Collision coverage applies when the damage is caused by an accident with another vehicle or an object, such as a fence or pole. Comprehensive coverage protects against non-collision incidents like vandalism, falling objects, or weather-related damage. When Insurance Won’t Cover Scratches and Dents If you only have liability…
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Is It Safe to Drive a Compact Car?
Safety is one of the most critical factors for drivers when choosing a vehicle. Compact cars, known for their fuel efficiency, affordability, and ease of parking, remain popular choices. However, many prospective buyers wonder: Is it safe to drive a compact car? The answer is more complex than a simple yes or no. While compact cars offer various safety features, their overall safety depends on multiple factors, including design, technology, and driving conditions. Crash Safety and Vehicle Size One of the most common concerns about compact cars is their size and weight compared to larger vehicles such as SUVs or trucks. Physics plays a role in crash safety—generally, more extensive…
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How to Know If You’re Overpaying for Central Oregon Car Insurance
Car insurance is essential for every driver, but how can you tell if you’re overpaying? In Central Oregon, where the cost of living and insurance premiums vary, understanding what’s reasonable can save you money while ensuring proper coverage. Compare Rates Frequently Insurance companies evaluate risk differently, leading to varied rates for the same coverage. Use online tools or consult local agents to compare premiums annually. Central Oregon’s unique conditions—such as rural driving, winter weather, and wildlife risks—mean rates might differ significantly from urban areas like Portland. Check Your Coverage Needs Evaluate if your policy includes extras you don’t need. For instance, do you need full coverage on an older car,…
