Cars

New Jersey Permit Practice Test

The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission will administer the permit practice test in New Jersey as well as all other parts of the process necessary to secure a New Jersey driver’s license. New Jersey has a graduated driver’s program, which allows teenagers to begin driving with restricted privileges, eventually becoming full fledge drivers once they reach a certain age threshold. Taking the practice permit test for New Jersey is essential for eventually receiving a driver’s license.

The permit practice test for New Jersey is available in a multitude of languages including an English and Spanish oral test for those who cannot complete a written test. Additionally, you may have an interpreter during the test, provided that interpreter meets certain strict requirements, as set by the NJ MVC. The test will consist of 50 questions, administered on a computer and you will need to answer 80% correctly in order to pass the test.

In order to help NJ residents pass the practice permit test for New Jersey, there is a sample knowledge test available at the MVC website. There are 20 questions that should give you a feel for the nature of the test and you can check your answers. Like other states, there is also the NJ Driver’s manual, which contains essential information about identification, testing and the content of the tests. Thoroughly studying the manual will help you immensely on the test.

permit practice test New Jersey/practice permit test New Jersey If you need legal advice and assistance, contact New Jersey lawyers.

New Mexico Permit Practice Test

The New Mexico Motor Vehicle Department will administer the practice permit test for New Mexico. New Mexico has a graduate licensing program that may being when an individual is 15 years old. To obtain a instruction permit, one must present one proof of identification number one proof of identity, two proofs or New Mexico residency. The MVD website will have a listing of acceptable forms of identification. Parental consent will also be required and the application form will be signed by them, certifying this action.

The permit practice test for New Mexico is optional only when the driver has completed a certified driver’s education program with an anti-DUI component. For persons in the graduated licensing program, they must have 50 hours of driving practice with hours at night as well as have a clean driving record and supervision by an adult 21 years and older who has had a license for three years.

Once these conditions have been met, a provisional license will be issued, again with parental consent, to teenagers older than 15 and a half. Unlike other states, the road skills exam is done not at the MVD but at a registered Driver Education School that will report the results to the state authority. Once the teenager turns 18, they may upgrade to a full, unrestricted license, without parental consent.

permit practice test New Mexico/practice permit test New Mexico

Everything to Know About RV Insurance

What is RV Insurance?

People who decide to use an RV can be very fulfilling, just like having any other vehicle, doing so will require RV Insurance. Owning an RV gives a person the chance to get out on the open road without having to be overly dependent on pit stops, and it allows for an easy life on the road without having to depend on hotels. If you are considering making a trip in an RV, you may want to consider purchasing RV insurance. Although you may not feel that RV insurance is entirely necessary when you own or rent an RV, it is very necessary for most individuals that wish to travel the roads. RV insurance is necessary for both renters and buyers, and it can cover many different types of issues and accidents that may come up as you travel in the RV.

RV insurance is a very specialized form of insurance for recreational vehicles. It has many similar ideas used and terms that are also used in a standard auto insurance policy, but RV insurance is more geared towards the necessities of driving an expensive and large vehicle. Although a standard auto insurance policy will usually cover certain amounts of repairs and damages, an RV insurance policy usually expands beyond that and will also pay for repairs to the different components of a RV that are simply not found in nearly all automobiles. Most RV drivers do need a to get a very specific RV insurance policy to help to properly insure their RV, so searching for the right company and the right qualified agent is very important in making sure that your RV is insured properly.

The Costs and Coverage of RV Insurance

RV Insurance, like typical auto insurance, has its cost and coverage closely linked. An inexpensive RV insurance policy will probably cover little more than general liability, meaning it will cover the damage caused to others by any accidents that are your fault. More common RV insurance policies will also provide a level of coverage for any accidental damage to the RV, whether it is a minor broken glass or much more major body damage caused from anything like a large deer or an uninsured vehicle. If you can find a good policy, it is still a good decision to consider what is the best deductible and premium for your situation. The RV insurance premium is the payment you will have to make every month. Your deductible is the amount of money that you will be required to spend before your insurer will contribute anything for RV repairs. The higher your deductible is, the lower your premium will usually be. Whatever amount is more is usually just personal preference and finances.

RV Insurance for Owners

If you are an RV owner, you should make sure that this status is listed on your RV insurance policy. The RV will most likely not be covered, or covered well, under your normal auto insurance plan, but you should still check whether it is possible to do so. It is more likely, that you have to get a specialized RV insurance plan to help keep the value of the RV safe in case it is involved in an accident. Be very careful with your daily driving in order to prevent your RV insurance rates from going higher. You should try to shop around for a long-term RV insurance policy that is affordable, and always check that the insurance company keeps up with any changes in your RV. As your RV gets older, you might find that it is better to have a lower deductible rather than a lower premium, particularly if you worry about the stability of the RV.

RV Insurance for Renters

RV renters may not be the owners, but they should still consider the importance of having RV insurance coverage. Many RV rental agencies will provide some sort of light coverage for the RV, but it is a good decision to obtain a temporary RV insurance policy that has more thorough coverage of your trip. Although your own auto insurance may provide some level of coverage, it is unlikely to be suitable for insuring an RV. If you plan on renting and RV, you should check with the rental agency as well as and a trusted RV insurance company in order to find out what kind of coverage is offered to a RV renter in your area. You may be surprised by the insurance rates, but it should be easy enough to find a policy that is both affordable and is useful while you are taking your trip.

Finding the Best RV Insurance Policy

One of the most difficult parts of finding RV insurance is getting a policy that actually fits your specific needs. While many may suggest a generic policy, a great RV insurance agent will help you to choose a policy that is very specific to your needs and will be the best deal for you. Some RV drivers prefer having higher deductibles and lower premiums, while other drivers would prefer to have higher monthly premiums in order to have a lower deductible and have the insurance company pay for an accident if it happens. Custom or expensive RVs may require certain amounts of coverage that a standard RV would not need not, while a classic RV unit may apply in a separate class. Inquiring with a good RV insurance agent is always a good decision when making any kind of choice regarding insurance, and an experienced agent who is familiar with RV insurance policies is worth the time to seek out. If you wish to get the right coverage that, you will always have to get some professional advice.

Whether you rent or own an RV, it is still very important to find the best RV insurance. You should make sure that your policy is always geared specifically to your recreational vehicle and that the policy is able to cover any potential dangers associated with operating an RV. An RV insurance policy is typically specialized, and you will have to look for an insurance company who provides such a policy along with an agent who can help you find the right coverage.

Reasons to Get RV Insurance Coverage

Your RV is much more than a normal vehicle or car, so your RV insurance should protect more than typical car insurance. Rather than putting your RV on your current auto policy, consider RV insurance coverage. You should consider the fact that there are many other situations which generally do not occur in standard vehicles, and thus are not covered under standard auto insurance policies:

• You keep valuables in an RV that you would not normally keep in a car, such as jewelry, clothing, DVD players, laptops, binoculars, cameras, camcorders, and outdoor gear.

• If you park your RV at a campsite, you might be liable for the surrounding area around your RV. If a person is injured, you might be responsible for their injuries.

• If your RV incurs damage while you are traveling in it, you will need to find a place to stay as well as a way to travel to there.

Since these scenarios are not covered, you could potentially find yourself with thousands of dollars in expenses. However, if you insure your RV with an RV insurance policy, you will be able to obtain a wide variety RV insurance coverage that can cover a variety of incidents.

Difference between RV Insurance and Normal Auto Insurance

An RV is considered a vehicle, so most insurance companies are more than happy to issue a policy for an RV. However, insuring an RV with a normal auto policy will result in significant coverage gaps. Because of this, RV’s should be insured with a specialized insurance that covers the qualities that an auto insurance policy would miss, such as:

Total loss replacement: This form of coverage is only applicable to new RV buyers in the first five model years. This replaces the RV with a comparable unit, even if the cost of replacement is more than the original. This coverage is very good protection against steep RV depreciation, in case of total loss.

Replacement cost of personal belongings: Auto insurance policies usually only cover a limited amount of content in a motor vehicle. RV policies provide you with the option to state a limit to include your personal belongings in the event that they are destroyed.

Emergency expenses: This coverage reimburses any expenses related to residing outside an RV while it is being repaired, if the covered loss occurs a specific number of miles away from your fixed residence. Common expenses are meals, the travel back home, and lodging.

Full-timer liability: This coverage is similar to homeowner’s insurance in the sense that when the RV is parked and is being used as a residence, it will provide coverage such as medical expenses and emergency treatment for others injured around or in your RV.

Campsite liability: This is similar to full-timer liability, except it is designed for short-term vacationers.

Higher liability limits: The liability limits in RV insurance policies are significantly higher than limits in auto insurance. Since most RV’s are larger than cars, they have a higher potential to cause a significant damage. Higher limits provide better financial protection after any unfortunate incidents.

Medium duty tow trucks: This coverage takes care of any trucks over one ton that are used to tow a fifth wheel or trailer.

Suspend collision coverage during storage: If the RV is in storage, you may suspend parts of your RV insurance policy that apply only while the RV is moving on the road, like collision coverage. This form of coverage is very cost effective since you are not actually paying for any unnecessary coverage.

RV Insurance Coverage Options

RV insurance is much more tailored to RVs as opposed to general auto insurance. You can buy many different forms of coverage in RV insurance. RV insurance can potentially cover collision, theft, property damage, roadside assistance, underinsured or uninsured drivers, vacation liability, towing and labor, custom equipment protection and medical payments.

Some of the standard types of coverage found in RV insurance (aside from those listed above) include the following:

Bodily Injury & Property Damage Liability Coverage: If you, permissive users, or your resident relatives are found legally liable for causing property damage or even bodily injury to others arising out of the use, maintenance, or ownership of a covered recreational vehicle accident, this form of coverage would protect you, subject to the policy conditions and terms. This liability coverage for guest passengers is also often included in policy without any additional charges. Some things that this coverage will cover includes the cost to replace or repair damaged property, lost wages of injured parties, any medical bills incurred but the injured parties, or other damages that you are obligated to pay by law as a result of the accident.

Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist Coverage: If you and your RV are involved in an accident that includes an uninsured or underinsured driver and you are unable to collect the money for your claims, this coverage will cover your losses, depending on local availability, policy terms and conditions, applicable law, and individual qualification. If the expenses for your injury exceed the liability limits of the at-fault party, you can use this coverage to pay for the amount that is not covered by that person’s insurance.

Personal Injury Protection and Medical Payments Coverage: If you, permitted passengers, or your resident relatives are injured in an RV accident, this form of coverage will take care of the medical, surgical, ambulance, dental, and hospital expenses that are incurred regardless of who is at fault. This coverage is usually limited to any medical treatment received within the first 3 years after an RV accident and is limited to a certain dollar amount. In some states, this only applies after any other medical insurance is exhausted.

Comprehensive and Collision Coverage: Your comprehensive and collision insurance coverage can be used to cover the cost to replace or repair an RV if it is damaged in an accident or stolen, regardless of the party at fault. For these forms of coverage, you usually choose a deductible for each form of coverage, and after the deductible is met, your insurance company pays for any remaining damage. For collision coverage, your insurance company specifically pays for any damage to your RV if you collide with another object or vehicle. If you hit a pole, nonliving object, or another car, your collision coverage will apply and coverage the damages. For comprehensive coverage, your insurer pays for any damage to your RV as a result of an event other than a collision, such as theft, vandalism, falling objects, or a fire. For example, if you hit an animal or if your vehicle is stolen, comprehensive coverage will cover the repairs or replacement. You can choose to insure your RV against the market value of the RV, the agreed value, or the total loss replacement cost.

Roadside Assistance Coverage: Your roadside assistance coverage provides towing for your RV to the nearest qualified repair facility and will pay for the necessary labor at the location and time of disablement when the RV was first disabled due to battery failure, electrical or mechanical breakdown, insufficient fluids like water or oil, lockout, flat tire, or entrapment in water, snow, sand, or mud within 100 feet of the road.

Emergency Expense Coverage: This is sometimes included within your comprehensive and collision coverage. A certain amount can be used to pay for transportation expenses, temporary living facilities, and the expense of returning the RV if it is disabled at least 50 miles away from the insured’s main residence. Additional emergency expense insurance can be purchased. For individuals who use their RV as their primary residence, this coverage will pay up to the specified limits for any reasonable transportation expenses and temporary living facilities if the RV is disabled due to a covered loss.

Replacement Cost Coverage: This form of coverage is available to when you already have comprehensive coverage selected. Replacement cost coverage pays up to specific replacement cost limits for damage to or loss of any RV contents that are typically used in conjunction with having an RV, such as cameras and camera equipment, clothing, portable mp3 players and CD players, travel tickets, manuscripts, and passports. Damage to, or loss of, certain specific items outside the RV is also covered. This is not always available in all states or areas.

Legal Defense Coverage: If you are sued in relation to your ownership or operation of you RV, the insurer can cover your legal fees under this coverage. Your insurance company may also provide reimbursement for up to $200 a day for any lost wages if you attend a trial or hearing.

Pet Injury coverage: Pets are also part of your family, and they deserve to be covered under your RV insurance policy. If you already have comprehensive and collision coverage, you may also qualify for pet injury coverage, if it is available from your insurance company. If your cat or dog is injured during an accident in your RV, or during a theft or fire, the insurance company will help cover any medicine or veterinary bills. This coverage can also be used to cover your relatives’ pets as well.

Finding RV Insurance Discounts

If you are considering purchasing RV insurance, but you are looking for a cost effective policy, you should consider whether there are any discounts that you can qualify for. Some discounts that are available include the following:

RV Association Discount: If you are a member of an RV association such has the Family Motor Coach Association, the Good Sam Club, or others, you may qualify for an organization discount on your RV insurance. You should ask your RV insurance agent and compare quotes and see which companies provide this discount.

Specific Safety Feature Discounts: If your RV has specific safety features, either those that were factory-installed or ones that you added on later, you could get a discount on your RV insurance. For example, features such as supplemental braking systems provide extra safety to your RV and because of this, insurance companies will usually provide some discounts on your RV insurance.

Lay-Up or Downtime Discounts: If you do not use your RV throughout the entire year, and you keep it secured in a storage facility the rest of the year, you may be eligible for a discount for this period.

Safe Driving Course Discounts: If you have taken any accredited driver safety courses, for example like those offered by AARP, state AAA offices, or organizations that cater to senior drivers, you most likely qualify for a discount on your RV insurance. Certain states require companies to give a discount to drivers who have taken take the course.

Multi-vehicle Discounts: If you get auto insurance for your car or truck as along with RV (plus other vehicles you might own) with the same insurance company, you may be qualified for a multi-vehicle discount, depending on your insurance company. Adding an ATV, snowmobile, or motorcycle will usually also qualify you for a discount.

Commercial Driver’s License Discount: If you have got a Commercial Driver’s License you should make sure to mention this to your RV insurance agent. Many insurance companies provide automatic discounts on RV insurance with a CDL.

Security Features Discounts: In the same way a car alarm is discounted with auto insurance, an audible alarm may lower your RV insurance premiums. Other anti-theft devices, such as tracking systems, may also qualify you for discounts to your insurance.

Claims-Free Renewal Discounts: You may be qualified for a discount on your RV insurance if you avoid any no-fault accidents in your previous insurance policy period.

Original Owner Discounts: If you already have comprehensive and collision coverage, you may also be qualified for this discount. Some insurance companies provide discounts for being the only person to have owned the RV.

Paid in Full Discounts: If you can pay your entire RV insurance premium amount each month, your insurance company may reward you with a discount on your RV insurance.

Prompt Payer Discounts: If you pay your RV insurance premiums on time for a year, you may receive a discount on your policy after the next renewal.

Responsible Driver Discounts: If any of the drivers on your policy have not had any violations or accidents during the last three years, you may be able to get a discount or reduction on your RV insurance.

New York Permit Practice Test

The New York DMV issues the practice permit test for New York and will license first time drivers through this series of tests. New York has a graduated license program that will allow teenagers as young as 16 to become licensed drivers. The requirements to receive a junior license have gone up to include a six month waiting period between the issuance of a permit and license, 50 hours of supervised driving, 15 of which, must be at night and a limitation on the number of non-family passengers.

You do not have to take the practice permit test in New York if you have completed a certified driver’s education course and have a certificate to prove it. All others should consult the Driver’s Manual, available both online and in print at DMV locations. The NY DMV provides an online study guide, in addition to the manual that contains a practice permit test for New York. The individual chapters can also be downloaded for convenience. The practice permit test will consist of 20 questions and you must answer 14 questions correctly in order to continue to the road test at a later time.

In addition to the written test, you will need to pass the vision test, demonstrating that you have 20/40 vision with or without glasses. You will also need to present proof of identity and date of birth when applying for a learner’s permit.

permit practice test New York/practice permit test New York

Understanding Right of Way When Driving

Motor vehicles often come into conflict with each other as well as in conflict with pedestrians due to intersections of their intended courses of travel, and by doing so can potentially interfere with each other’s routes. The general idea of right of way is that it establishes which party has the right of way to go first, or they have priority on the road. Right of way establishes who has the can use the conflicting part of the road first and who must wait until the party does so. Often, there are no explicit laws regarding right of way, but rather there are certain procedures that have to be followed in order to pretend accidents.

Signs, markings, signals and other features are used very to explicitly mark priority. Some markings or signs, such as a stop sign, are almost entirely universal. When there are no expressed signs or markings, there are different rules depending on the location which are observed. These default rules about right of way can vary between different countries, and can even differ within a country. However, more recent trends push toward uniformity as exemplified by the Vienna Convention on signals and road signs, which sets standardized traffic control devices such as signals, markings, and signs in order to establish right of way when needed.

Uncontrolled vehicular traffic sometimes comes in the absence of any lane markings or traffic control signals. On roads that do not have marked lanes, drivers will usually keep to the appropriate side of the road if the road has the appropriate width. However, drivers can overtake others frequently or can deal with obstructions while driving, both which can affect right of way.

Intersections that do not have any signs or signals, and a specific road at a very busy intersection can be more dominant based on its traffic flows, until there is a break in traffic which can allow the dominance of traffic to shifts to the other street where vehicles are currently waiting. At the intersection of the two perpendicular streets, a traffic jam can result if all four vehicles face each other. Traffic on a public street usually has right of way over other traffic, like the traffic coming from private property. However, there are exceptions to this, such as at rail crossings or drawbridges.

Right of Way at Stop Signs

You must yield the right of way to all other vehicles and pedestrians when you are at a stop sign. You can only move forward if the road is clear. For four-way intersections with stop signs on all sides, the first vehicle to stop is usually the first to move. If two motor vehicles meet at the intersection at the same time, the driver on the left side yields to the one on the right.

Right of Way at Open Intersections

An open intersection is an intersection that does not have any traffic control signs or traffic signals. When you enter an open intersection, you have to yield the right of way in the following circumstances:

• There is another vehicle already in the intersection.

• You leave an unpaved road and enter a paved road.

• You cross or enter a state highway from a secondary road.

• You plan to make a left turn, but a vehicle is approaching towards you from the opposite direction.

If two cars enter an open intersection at the very same time, the driver on the left has to yield to the driver on the right. Failure to yield to right of way in an open intersection is one of the most common causes of accidents on the road. When an individual does not yield to the driver that arrives first at an intersection, or the driver on the right, they can potentially confuse the other driver and cause an auto accident. They can also potentially face serious consequences like traffic points, fines, or other penalties.

Right of Way at Roundabouts

Roundabouts are a fairly new type of intersection that is becoming more common in the United States. Roundabouts improve traffic flow and help reduce traffic crashes. Many roundabouts do not require any stopping, which allows motor vehicles to continuously move through intersections at the same low speed. Roundabouts are set up to move all traffic in a counterclockwise direction. Any vehicles that approach the roundabout must yield to circulating traffic. There is a right of way that is observed at a yield sign. Here, a driver must slow down or stop to yield to any to any traffic that is approaching from the left. You should not merge into any lanes, but rather choose the appropriate lane that will take you where you want to go. When there are any emergency vehicles in a roundabout, the emergency vehicle has right of way and other drivers should exist is possible, and if not, immediately pull over.

Right of Way at Pedestrian Crossings

Crosswalks are very common in populated areas, and can indicate that pedestrians have right of way over vehicular traffic. In many modern cities, a traffic signal is used to set up right of way on a busy street. The main purpose of these signals is to provide each road a specific period of time where traffic may can the intersection in a specific organized way. The intervals of time set up for each road can be adjusted in order to take into account different factors such as the needs of pedestrians, the volume of traffic, and other traffic signals. Pedestrian crossings can be located near other different traffic control devices. If those devices are not regulated somehow, vehicles have to give right of way to them while in use.

When to Stop While Driving

There are many different reasons to temporarily stop while driving. Failure to stop can result in traffic citations, driving points, accidents, or even serious personal injury or damage to property. All states have different traffic laws that require obedience specifically to traffic control devices and signals, meaning that drivers have to observe and obey them when operating vehicles. Here are some signals and devices that require a driver to stop while driving. Failure to stop appropriately can result in different moving violations.

Stop Sign

A stop sign is a type of traffic sign that notifies drivers that have to stop before proceeding. In the United States, a stop sign is 75 centimeters across opposite flats of the red octagon, and it has a 20 millimeter white border. The uppercase white letters that say “STOP” are 25 centimeters tall. Larger stop signs of are 90 centimeters tall with a 30 centimeter word and 25 millimeter border are usually placed on expressways with many lanes. Regulatory provisions for exist for extra-large stop signs with 120 centimeter signs with 40 centimeter legend and a 30 millimeter border that are used when reaction distance or sign visibility are limited, while the smallest stop sign size permissible for normal usage is 60 centimeters with a 20 centimeters legend and 15 millimeter border.

Stop signs are used all over the world. However, many countries see less stop signs than in North America, because all-way stops are rarely used and can often be legally prohibited. Stop signs are usually used in North America to manage conflicting traffic movements at intersections that are not busy enough to have a traffic signal or roundabout installed. The stop sign is not intended to be used as a way to calm traffic, but rather, to provide safety and assign right-of-way in these intersections.

Stop signs are often also placed as a safety measure in residential areas and near areas where children walk or play, like school yards, or areas that are often experience automobile accidents. Stop signs can be placed on all intersecting roads, making three- and four-way stops.

Stop signs are also found attached to pivoting arm on North American school buses. The stop sign stays flat on the left side of the school bus. When deployed by the bus driver while dropping off or picking up passengers, the stop sign pivots out in order to warn drivers against passing the bus illegally. Some buses have two of these stop sign arms, one near the front of the bus and one near the back. The stop sign is retro-reflective and is equipped with red blinking lights, or with the word being illuminated by LEDs.

Stop lights

Stop lights, which are also known as traffic lights, traffic signals, traffic lamps, robots, signal lights, or semaphore, are signaling devices that are positioned at pedestrian crossings, road intersections, and other locations in order to control competing flows of traffic on a road. Stop lights were first set up in London in 1868, and are installed today in nearly all cities globally. Stop lights alternate the right of way by displaying standard color lights (red indicates stopping).

There are multiple types of stop lights or traffic lights that be used. Aside from those that change between red, amber, and green, there are only have a single color or a pair of colored lights that acts as a warning in an intersection with shared right of way. If there is a flashing red light, the stop light should be treated as the same thing as a stop sign or as an indication of a closed road. Flashing amber indicates that a driver does not have to stop, but should be cautious when crossing the road because of some hazard up a head.

Dual aspect stop lights are often found at railway crossing, some street intersections, and areas with emergency department driveways. These stop lights will flash amber if cross traffic is not expected, but will turn red to stop traffic when necessary.

Stopping For Pedestrians

Many jurisdictions require drivers to yield for pedestrians, but not necessarily stop. However there are some that do require it. Pedestrians are usually free to cross the street in accordance to local traffic laws at crosswalks. In most states, drivers must stop and wait only until the pedestrian has crossed at least half of the crosswalk before the driver can continue. However, in other states, such as Utah, drivers require the driver to stop and wait the full time, for example in a school zone when the lights flashing are on, before he or she can proceed.

Some pedestrian crossings also have a stop signal or traffic signal that makes vehicles stop at regular intervals so that pedestrians can cross the street. Others have “intelligent” signals, where pedestrians can press a special button, and the stop signal will schedule a stop so that pedestrians can cross. Pedestrian crossings that do not have traffic signals are also quite common. In this situation, the laws usually dictate that pedestrians have the right of way, and that motor vehicles have to stop in order to allow the pedestrian to cross.

Pedestrians are also instructed to stop and go at specific interviews. In North America, this is typically done through signs that tell pedestrians to walk and don’t walk that are synchronized with the stop lights designated for vehicles.

Stopping for School Buses

Many jurisdictions in the United States (including various overseas territories) and Canada have both adopted different school bus stop laws which require vehicles to stop and wait for a school bus loading that has stopped to load or unload children in order to protect them. Usually, if a stopped school bus is has flashing, alternating red lamps displayed, a driver of a motor vehicle overtaking or meeting the stopped bus from either the front or back direction has to stop and wait until the bus begins to move again or the bus driver turns off the red stop lights. School crossing guards, school bus drivers, and police officers all have the power to wave traffic on, even if the red light is flashing.

On many divided highways, nearly all American jurisdictions do not require drivers to stop if they on the opposite side of the street from the school bus that is stopped. However, some motor vehicles are required to stop, including the following:

• Mississippi

• New York State

• Arkansas, if the divider is less than 20 feet in width

• West Virginia in a non-controlled-access highway

• American Samoa

• Guam

American jurisdictions have tried to deter illegal passing of stopped school buses by increasing the enforcement of these stop laws and setting up heavy penalties, such as fines, points against a driver’s license, and even license suspension in the most severe cases. Nevertheless, violations of these stop laws are very common. A law enforcement officer must actually witness the violation, and even if citations are issued, it is difficult to receive citations due to lack of evidence or reduction of charges.

There are some states that do not have this law in place. Drivers in the state of Washington do not have any requirements by law to stop for a stopped school bus on any road that has three or more lanes if they are traveling in the opposite direction of the stopped bus. This rule has been interpreted to suggest that when approaching a school bus on a normal road with a turn lane from the opposite direction, or a street with two lanes in each direction, a vehicle is not required to stop. While this is an unusual law, it can arguably leads to a more safety for children, since they must be dropped on the same side of the street as the school bus exit on for roads with two lanes. The state of Ohio has a similar exception in the law for vehicles stopping for buses, but rather than it being for roads with two lanes, it applies to roads that have at least four lanes.

Emergency Vehicles

While you do not necessarily have to stop, emergency vehicles such as fire trucks, law enforcement vehicles, tow trucks, paramedic vans always have right of way on a street. If you hear or see an emergency vehicle approaching, you must give them right of way, usually by moving to the far side of the road and either slowing down or stopping there in order to allow the vehicle to go through.

Alabama Permit Practice Test

Drivers licenses and permits in Alabama are issued by the Alabama Department of Public Safety and this agency will also administer the permit practice test in Alabama. To obtain a learner’s permit is Alabama you must present a valid photo ID and social security card. Three forms of non-picture ID may be substituted for a picture ID. Those under the age of 19 must show proof of school enrollment or graduation when applying for the first time for the permit practice test in Alabama.

The applicable fees related to the permit practice test include a $5 fee to take the test and a $23.50 fee to purchase the license. You may not pay these fees via checks. Those over 18 that wish to apply for a license outright must have a inspected vehicle, proof of car insurance and another licensed driver.

A learner license is available to 15 year olds in Alabama and carried the same fees as the learner license available to older teenagers. In addition to proof of school enrollment, a social security card and US birth certificate are required for this license to be issued.

The permit practice test in Alabama consists of 40 multiple choice questions and 32 out of 40 correct answers are required to earn a passing grade. Each question has four possible answers, but only one is correct. This test will be based on the Alabama Driver’s Handbook, which is readily available to Alabama residents. Passing this test and paying the required fees will earn you a temporary license while your photo ID is prepared.

Massachusetts Permit Practice Test

The Massachusetts registry of motor vehicles is responsible for licensing drivers in Massachusetts as well as administering the practice permit test for Massachusetts. To assist persons that want to apply for a learner’s permit the RMV website will have an interactive questionnaire that will determine if you are eligible for a learner’s permit and what items you will need to bring to the RMV in order to obtain a learner’s permit. When you have completed the questionnaire, you may bring it with you to the RMV to expedite the process and help you take the practice permit test for Massachusetts quicker.

You will pay a fee of $20 for the learner’s permit and this will include the cost of the road test. The Driver’s Manual, which is available in both English and Spanish, can be downloaded in full or by section at the RMV website. The print version of this manual will cost $5. The sections covered in the manual include essential information for the written test as well as detailed instruction on how to obtain your license.

The age limitation to drive in Massachusetts is 16 years of age, regardless of if the individual may drive in another state. You may however apply for the instructional permit at the age of 16. Any persons under 18 that applies for a permit or license will need to do so with the consent of a parent or guardian. If you need legal advice and assistance, contact Massachusetts lawyers.

CARFAX

What is CARFAX?

CARFAX is a commercial online service that supplies vehicle history reports to businesses and individuals. CARFAX reports, which in essence are simply vehicle history reports, are offered on a vast number of used cars and light trucks for the Canadian and American marketplaces.

CARFAX does not offer free full-fledged vehicle history reports. The service instead offers four free vehicle research services: Lemon Check, Recall Check, Problem Car and Record Check services are all provided by CARFAX. Although these services will prove helpful to prospective buyers and sellers of used cars, the reports offered by CARFAX will not contain all of the information provided in a full history report. To access an extensive vehicle history report through CARFAZ a prospective buyer or seller of used cars must pay a fee.

CARFAX generates vehicle history reports through unique 17-character vehicle identification number.

A Sample CARFAX Report:

A sample CARFAX report is broken-down into six different sections: Vehicle History Report, Vehicle Highlights, SmartBuyer Checklist, Warranty Check, Safety & Reliability Report and Buyback Guarantee are the reflected sections in the CARFAX report.

The Vehicle History Report will first list the basic information of the car including the make, model and year of the vehicle as well as its VIN and basic specifications. This portion of the CARFAX report will also elucidate the year the vehicle was purchased, the type of owner, the estimated length of ownership, the locations where it was owned, the estimated number of miles driven per year and the last reported odometer reading. Following this information the CARFAX report will provide statistics concerning the vehicle’s total loss, structural damage, airbag deployments, manufacturer recalls and information dealing with the vehicle’s warranty.

This information is then summarized to reflect the total impact on the resale price of the vehicle. CARFAX provides a space for the user to enter the retail book value of the automobile; when this figure is entered the report will generate a figure above or below this number based on the history report.

The Vehicle highlights section of the CARFAX report provides the most fundamental statistics of the automobile. This information is provided in an easy-to-view and easy-to-manage profile.

The SmartBuyer Checklist portion of the CARFAX vehicle history report provides the prospective buyer or seller with fundamental questions. These inquiries must be posed before finalizing the transaction. Examples of questions include:

• Is the car still under manufacturer warranty or is a warranty available at the time of purchase?

• Turn on the ignition without starting the vehicle—do all the warning lights and gauges work?

• Is the odometer consistent with the latest reading of 39,500 on the CARFAX summary report?

• Are the tires in good shape or do they appear worn?

• Test all internal controls—do the turn signals, lights, windows and the heater/air conditioner work properly?

• Does the safety equipment, including the brakes, work properly?

• Does the vehicle appear to have been handled with care?

The warranty section of the CARFAX report provides information concerning the active lives of the vehicle’s warranties. Typically, a vehicle will have had one or multiple of the following warranties: basic, drivetrain, emissions, corrosion, roadside assistance, specific components and safety belt & inflatable restraint systems. CARFAX vehicle history reports will illuminate on whether these warranties are active and if so, the remainder of coverage provided.

The safety & reliability report listed on CARFAX provides the prospective buyer or seller with a series of safety ratings including: frontal crash, side crash and rollover resistance ratings.

Lastly, the Buyback guarantee provides a warranty—CARFAX will purchase the underlying vehicle—if any of the information provided in the report proves to be grossly incorrect.

Defensive Driving

What is Defensive Driving?

The National Safety Council defines defensive driving as “driving to save lives, money and time, in spite of the conditions around you and the actions of others.” This definition derives from the National Safety council’s Defensive Driving Program, which teaches drivers proper driving techniques and dispositions. Defensive driving, therefore, is a form of training for drivers that stretches beyond simply understanding the laws of the road and the basic mechanical functions of driving. The overall aim of defensive driving is to reduce the presence of aggressive or reckless drivers on the road. Defensive driving courses preach caution and awareness; drivers must be attentive not only to the rules of the road, but also to their fellow motorists.

Defensive driving courses ultimately reduce the risks associated with driving by anticipating dangerous situations, despite adverse driving conditions or mistakes made by other drivers on the road. These goals are achieved through adherence to several rules, along with the practice of specific driving techniques.

A number of government agencies, private schools and nonprofit organizations have launched defensive driving courses to improve the public’s driving skills. In addition to improve a person’s driving skills, the bulk of U.S. states provide incentives for completing an approved defensive driving course by offering insurance discounts or ways to mask tickets from one’s driving record. In some jurisdictions, these courses are labeled traffic schools or defensive driving programs. States that offer the biggest incentives to drives are Arizona, California, Florida, New Jersey and New York.

Why is Defensive Driving is Important?

Defensive driving is paramount because more than 40,000 people die in motor vehicle accidents each year in the United States. To lessen this blow, a number of states now require defensive driving courses for individuals who have accumulated too many points on their driving records or have previously had their driving privileges suspended.

Defensive driving courses are required for drivers who are deemed at risk of getting in accidents or who display immature or reckless behavior behind the wheel. The intent of these courses is to teach these drivers how to be cautious and maintain an awareness of their surroundings. Experienced instructors will teach these individuals the current rules of the road and the latest techniques in motor vehicle handling. Overall, the skills taught in defensive driving courses promote prudence behind the wheel and help reduce accidents across the board.

The specific tactics of a defensive driving course and the mandatory participation in said courses will vary based on jurisdiction. Some states in the U.S. will require participation to those drivers who have accumulated a certain number of points, while other states will simply suggest the course to all young drivers. Regardless of administration or the participants involved, defensive driving courses promote safety through understanding and mature driving habits.

Benefits offered by a Defensive Driving Program:

In addition to the obvious benefits (becoming a better driver/reducing risks associating with driving) participation in a defensive driving program offers point reduction in states that utilize a point system. States, such as New Jersey, will allow drivers to participate in defensive driving programs once every five years to achieve a two point reduction from a driving record. That being said, states implement special rules regarding what types of points may be reduced. For instance, New Jersey will not dismiss traffic tickets regardless of participation in safe driving courses.

Defensive Driving Techniques:

As mentioned above, each state in the U.S. will focus on different areas of safe driving within their programs. That being said, there are some universal techniques that all drivers should practice to mitigate the dangers associated with driving. The New York Department of Motor Vehicles, through their Driver’s Manual, devotes a chapter to defensive driving and lists the following as the basic methods:

• Always be prepared when driving; look ahead and look at all your mirrors every 5-10 seconds

• Maintain proper speed; do not drive too slow or too fast. Monitoring your speed is essential.

• Always signal when changing lanes or turning.

• Leave enough distance and time between you and your fellow motorists.

• Always wear your seat belt.

• Never drive if you are tired, medicated or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

• Maintain control of your vehicle at all times.

When you employ the above techniques and driving methods you will minimize the number of risks you face. You will become a better, safer and smarter driver; one who is more equipped to handle all the hazards and dangers that the road presents.

Examples of Defensive Driving Schools in the United States:

The below example represents the state of New Jersey’s rules, laws and administration process regarding a defensive driving school:

As mentioned above, New Jersey offers safe driving courses as a means to reduce the number of points on your driving record. For drivers 50 years of age and older, New Jersey, through the AARP, offers the “55 Alive” driving course as a refresher. This senior driver’s program provides a minimum 5% discount on your auto insurance premium. The “55 Alive” program is only offered in select cities and towns throughout the state.

In addition to these optional driving programs, the state implements a mandatory training program as part of a sentencing provision for drivers with certain traffic violations on their record. This mandatory program, which is offered by the Motor Vehicle Commission, aims to improve reckless or immature driver habits.

The mandatory programs are offered to individuals who are in danger of losing their license. After an individual has racked up 12-14 points on their record, the “driver improvement program” can eliminate up to three points on a driving record. Additionally, when a driver passes this course, their license will not be suspended. Information regarding these programs will be mailed to qualifying drivers (individuals who have accumulated 12-14 points on their driving record) by the state.

New drivers—individuals who have had their license for two years or less—will be assigned to Probationary Driver Schools if they are convicted of multiple violations that total more than four points in that two-year timeframe. The cost of this program is $100. The state of New Jersey will inform qualified drivers if they are required to fulfill this course. After the individual has passed this court, a maximum of three points will be reduced from their record. However, the driver will still face a one-year probation period. If the driver accumulates more violations during this timeframe, their driving privileges will be suspended indefinitely.

If a driver has been convicted of any drug or alcohol-related violation, they will be required to attend an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center program. These programs will include mandatory defensive driving classes related to Alcohol use. Moreover, the Highway Safety Education program will evaluate participant’s individual drug and alcohol problems and offer rehabilitation or treatment programs if necessary. Successful completion of these programs will help a driver get their license reinstated. Refusal to participate in these programs; however, could lead to jail time or a longer license suspension. These courses range in price from $350 to $500.