Cars

Drivers Ed

Driver’s Ed for the Prospective Driver

In the United States, drivers licenses are not issued nationally but rather at the state level. Because of this, the regulations vary on a state by state basis. In the majority of states, a system of graduated licensing is put in place in order reduce the risks involved with young beginner drivers. It is here where driver’s ed plays its part.

The earliest known driver’s ed programs were created between 1910 and 1920, but they were not formally offered until the 1930’s. They became more popular due to the idea that proper driver’s ed would correlate to less crashes. In the United State today, the standard format of a driver’s ed course consists of 30 classroom hours as well as a minimum of six hours on the road. This format often makes it easier to fit in driver’s ed in a high school curriculum.

In graduated licensing systems, the first stage is normally a minimum supervised learner’s period. Here a permit is assigned to an individual after passing a written examination and/or the road test. Many driver’s ed courses teach the material required in order to pass these exams.

The 30 classroom hours of driver’s ed or the pre-driver licensing curriculum is made to provide the minimum training in skills and knowledge needed to pass a license test. The student is given information on basic vehicle controls, skills to reduce risky situations, emergency situations, environmental factors, and personal readiness.

The need for driver’s ed varies from state to state. For example, a student in California who is enrolled in a driver’s ed course can drive while the instructor supervises, while applicants who do not take the course must wait till 18 in order to obtain a license.

In other states such as Idaho, Louisiana, New York, and New Jersey, license applicants who are under the age of 17 must complete a driver’s ed course in order to obtain a license. A similar rule applies Delaware, California, Connecticut, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, and Wisconsin, but at the age of 18.

More recently, some states have begun to provide driver’s ed courses over the internet. This has been a very attractive feature to many young prospective drivers. These young drivers have grown up with computers very have become very apt at using it as a learning mechanism. Furthermore, holding online session eliminates the need for transportation to physical classrooms.

However, there is a concern that without students being proactive about finishing work, online courses are less motivating and rely too heavily on an honor system. Often, traditional students feel more satisfied with their courses and would prefer to same methods if repeated, while there is a lower satisfaction rate in online courses and lower inclination to repeat the same method.

While driver’s ed may not be necessary in all states, it is a useful tool for young individuals who are looking to obtain a license for the first time. Despite any flaws the program may have, the benefits of making students more aware of driving safety is a greater priority and is a valuable asset for all prospective drivers.

Suspended License

What is a Suspended License?

A suspended license is an act of a local government where an individual motorist’s driving privileges are temporarily prohibited. When a driver’s license is suspended or revoked, the individual holder is not legally permitted to operate a motor vehicle. Typically, suspended licenses result in habitual violations; a driver’s license will be suspended if the holder/motorist routinely violate the laws of the road or refuses to satisfy the penalties attached to the infractions.

Reinstatement of a suspended license is never automatic. If your license has been suspended, you must follow your state’s DMV reinstatement procedures and physically receive a license to regain your driving rights. Moreover, it is important to note: no state in the U.S. may issue a driver license if there is an active revocation or suspension in another state.

Types of License Suspensions or Revocations:

It is important to note that individual states will implement laws regarding license suspensions. Some states, for example, may suspend your license if you fail to pay a single parking ticket. Other states; however, will only suspend your license for aggressive or egregious violations of the law, such as driving while intoxicated. Regardless of the laws surrounding your jurisdiction, if your license gets suspended, you are legally not permitted to operate a motor vehicle. The following list provides examples of license suspensions in the state of Nevada:

• Point Suspension: States that utilize a point system (points are placed on an individual’s driving record for convicted traffic violations) will suspend a license if the driver accumulates a certain number of points. In the state of Nevada, license suspension will be enacted when a driver accumulates 12 or more demerit points against their license in a 12-month period. These benchmarks will fluctuate based on state law. To view your state’s particular thresholds, visit your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles website and view the implemented point system.

• Driving Under the Influence (DUI): All states in the U.S. impose strict penalties for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If you are convicted of a DUI your license may be suspended depending on your state’s laws. In the state of Nevada, if breath, urine or blood tests reveal a DUI your license will be suspended regardless of severity or a first-time offense.

• Collisions: States will suspend your license if you cause an accident or are habitually involved in car accidents. The amount and severity of the accident to trigger a suspended license will vary on state law. In Nevada, if you are found liable of causing a traffic accident with a pedestrian or bicycle rider, your license will be suspended. The state of Nevada places an emphasis on colliding with a bicyclist or pedestrian. Other states; however, will suspend your license solely for causing multiple accidents within a given timeframe.

• Failure to Appear in Traffic Court/Failure to Pay Fines Associated with Traffic Tickets: If you are pulled over for speeding or any other traffic violation, you will most likely be given a ticket. If you fight the charges and the court finds that your ticket was unfairly administered you will be relieved from having to satisfy the associated fine. However, if you plead guilty to the violation or the court does not rule in your favor, you will be required to pay the attached fine. Failing to pay the attached fine will lead to additional penalties, and in some jurisdictions, a suspension of your driver’s license. Some jurisdictions in the United States will administer a suspension or revocation for failing to pay speeding or parking tickets. The state of Nevada for instance, will suspend a driver’s license if an individual fails to appear before the court for a traffic violation.

• Security Deposits: Some jurisdictions in the U.S. will enforce a suspension of a license if an accident occurs with more than a certain amount of money in damage (property damage or personal injury) and the driver involved in the accident does not have liability insurance. In these instances, the driver’s license and his/her vehicle registration will be suspended. In the state of Nevada, a license suspension will be imposed if an accident occurs in excess of $750 in damage.

• Operating a Motor Vehicle Without Insurance: All operators of motor vehicles in the United States are required to possess an active insurance policy. If you are pulled over for a traffic violation or are involved in a collision and are unable to provide proof of insurance you will be susceptible to having your license suspended. Moreover, if you have repeated lapses in vehicle insurance coverage your license will be suspended. These laws are somewhat universal throughout the nation.

• Child Support Payments: If you are in arrears in court-ordered support payments your license may be suspended. These suspensions are initiated by local courts and will therefore vary based on circumstance.

• Street Racing: The state of Nevada will suspend your license if you are caught participating in a street race. Moreover, if you are found to be organizing these contests on public highways your license will be suspended. Other municipalities around the nation will suspend licenses for egregious violations in the speed limit.

• Drug and Alcohol Use: Typically these laws surround young drivers; juveniles found guilty of drinking, buying or possessing alcohol will be susceptible to a license suspension. Moreover, using, possessing, selling or distributing controlled substances may also lead to a license suspension.

Other states will suspend a driver’s license for the following infractions/criminal violations: Lying on any state application, failing to install a court-ordered ignition interlock system, abandoning a vehicle, committing a hit-and-run and/or loaning your driver’s license.

How do I Reinstate My License?

If your license has been suspended you must immediately comply with your municipality’s laws regarding reinstatement. Again, because these laws are administered on a local level, the procedure required for reinstatement will vary based on jurisdiction.

In all jurisdictions in the United States, your driving privileges will remain revoked or suspended indefinitely until you comply with all the reinstatement requirements enforced by the community in which your license was initially suspended. In most areas, there is no statute of limitations regarding revocations or suspensions.

In most areas, if your license is suspended because you failed to appear before a court, you must first resolve all of the penalties or criminal charges attained before your license may reinstated. After you have fulfilled the initial penalties, you must then follow your state’s DMV’s reinstatement procedures and requirements.

In general there are two types of reinstatements: immediate and delayed. An immediate reinstatement will be offered to individuals who had their licenses suspended because of a failure to pay parking or traffic tickets. In these instances, the driver is required to first satisfy the penalties associated with the tickets, before reinstating their license. The delayed reinstatement refers to instances where the driver’s license is suspended because of criminal violations or egregious infractions of traffic law. In these instances, you will not be able to simply satisfy fees to reinstate your license. Instead, you will be required to wait a certain period of time before applying for reinstatement. During this waiting period your license will remain suspended.

When your license is suspended you will be mailed a letter from your local DMV informing you of the suspension. This letter will serve as the formal notification regarding your suspension. Your Department of Motor Vehicle Association will not notify drivers when a suspension or revocation period has ended. The notice of suspension will inform you when the suspension first takes place and how long it is active for. Drivers with multiple suspensions are required to wait for all periods to end before applying for reinstatement. Remember, each state and each case is different. Depending on your infraction, a license suspension can last from 30 days to a decade. This variance attaches different reinstatement procedures as well. Consulting with a legal professional, especially if you are facing a lengthy reinstatement process, is highly advised.

Your notification letter will provide detailed instructions concerning reinstatement. In most instances, you will be required to pay multiple fines (including a reinstatement fine) following the end of your suspension period.

As stated earlier, reinstatement will vary with regards to the offense committed. For information regarding your state or municipality’s rules concerning reinstatement, please visit your Department of Motor Vehicle’s website or contact the closest office in your county.

After you re-activate your license, you must expect higher insurance rates. Because of these increased rates, it is advisable to compare several quotes.

License Suspension in All States:

The majority of states in the U.S. participate in the National Driver Register—a national database that collects and shares information on motorists with suspended licenses. This system is set in place to prevent drivers from applying for new licenses in other states when their current license is suspended in another state.

The Driver License Compact, which is another national database, also gathers and regurgitates license information. Unlike the National Driver Register; however, the DLC monitors all out-of-state violations. So, if your driver’s license is suspended while driving in another state, the NDR will notify the MVC and subject you to either your home state’s laws or the state which you are currently driving in.

Texas Driving Record

What is a Texas Driving Record?

All state Departments of Motor Vehicles in the United States maintain and provide driving records in some fashion. These driving records are fundamental pieces of public information that document an individual’s driving habits and history. A driving record will provide a formal listing of all violations, suspensions and other details concerning an individual’s driving history. Because the driving record lists all infractions procured by a motorist, the document is used as a guideline to record points and determines an individual’s insurance rate.

A resident of Texas may order a Texas driving record online, directly from the state government or the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. Also, 3rd party advertisers will offer Texas driving records to those interested. Regardless of the supplier, all orders for Texas driving records will cost a fee.

Texas Driving records may be attained by the driver himself as a means to check their driving history or may be secured by a business to cross-reference the individual’s application and view his/her driving history. Businesses aligned with deliveries or that utilize automobiles will typically order driving records for prospective workers.

How do I Order My Texas Driving Record?

In general, there are two types of Texas driving records: online driving records and certified driving records. Also referred to as Motor Vehicle Records, a certified driving record will provide a detailed list of all convicted traffic infractions and violations. Individuals may order these public records through the state or through independent vendors. The two types of driving records mentioned above will provide uniform information; the only difference between the two documents is how they are delivered to the individual—the online driving record is appropriately delivered via electronic mail while the certified driving record, which is typically sent by the state, will be delivered via traditional mail.

To request your Texas driving record by mail, submit a completed DR-1 Application for Copy of Driver Record or a DR-36 Request for a Certified Abstract of an Operating Record and Fees to the following address:

Texas Department of Public Safety

Attn: D.R.B/Certified Abstract

P.O. Box 15999

Austin, Texas 78761-5999

In addition to ordering your own driving record, you may also the driving record of someone else. To obtain a driver license record of someone other than yourself or to obtain multiple driving records (you will need an approved contract with the state’s Department of Public Safety), contact the Texas Driver Bureau.

Reasons for Obtaining Texas Driving Records:

As stated above, there are two primary reasons why someone would order a Texas driving record: for employment purposes or to keep track of your driving points.

Similar to an individual’s credit rating, a Texas driver may order their driving record to view and keep track of their listed infractions or driving violations. It is important to view your driving record because the presence of unpaid tickets or multiple infractions will increase your insurance premium and land you one step closer to a license suspension. It is also important to check your driving record to ensure legal driving; checking to see whether your license has been suspended or revoked will help avoid serious problems in the future.

Similar to credit profiles, mis-reporting is possible on driving records. Because of this and the penalties associated with the latent information, it is suggested that you observe your Texas driving record once every few years.

Employers—typically those aligned with the delivery industry—will request Texas driving records to ensure that a prospective employee’s driving history is clean. Also, auto insurance companies will constantly review the information latent in the public record to calculate insurance premiums. The driving record, thus, serves as the fundamental tool to evaluate and forecast an individual’s driving habits.

Most commonly, a motorist will secure a driving record to accomplish the following:

• Check driver’s license status and license suspension

• Check driver’s violation codes and license points

• Check all traffic tickets, violations and attached fines that you have accumulated over a certain period of time

• Provide a history of all traffic accidents that you have been involved in

• Observe your license classification and any or all attached endorsements

How Will My Driving History Affect My Insurance Rates?

A car insurance company will factor in your driving history when calculating your insurance premium. If your driving record reflects a number of traffic tickets, accidents or a DUI conviction, the insurance company will consider you a high-risk driver. This classification will inevitably be met with increased insurance premiums.

Practice Permit Test

Using a Practice Permit Test to Prepare for a Driving Test

Permit tests are the written portion of the exam that tests for general knowledge, road signs, and road rules. All the information needed to successfully pass a permit test is found in the driver’s manual that many state department of motor vehicles provide. One of the most effective ways of passing the permit test is by studying and reviewing the material.

In order to see just how prepared you are and how well you know the material, you can try to take a practice permit test. A practice permit test can be obtained through both private companies as well as the local department of motor vehicles.

The best way to get a free practice permit test is to check your local DMV’s website to see if any are available online. Many states do provide this service for no charge. It is possible to look at other state’s sites as well, but it is important to keep in mind that the questions and answers of the practice permit tests can vary due to different state laws about driving.

When looking at a practice permit test, you will often notice certain types of questions are very common.

• Appropriate responses to certain signals or signs

• Restrictions placed on permits or provisional licenses

• Driving in bad weather conditions

• Traffic and parking laws

• Knowing the color, shape, and meaning of a traffic sign

• Sharing the road

• Driving Procedures

• Alcohol laws

Here are a few different examples of things you may see on practice permit test or even the actual test. Note that the actual questions from a practice permit test or actual written exam will be multiple choice.

• What is the term for the amount of alcohol in the blood?

• Why do new solo drivers have a higher risk of getting involved in a crash?

• What is an appropriate response to having your breaks fail?

• What is the left lane used for on a multiple-lane road?

• What should you do when meeting a stopped school bus?

• How far away should you signal when making a turn?

• What should you do at stop sign?

• If your cell phone rings while you are driving, what should you do?

• What is the correct response to a yellow X lane signal

• What does rear-wheel-only ABS do?

• What is the minimum BAC for someone under 21 years of age?

• What should you do when an emergency vehicle is behind you while driving?

• What activities can cause suspension of a license?

• How does scanning the road ahead for hazards help the driver?

• Who has the right of way at a railroad crossing?

After reading the driver’s manual and taking a practice permit test, be confident in your abilities and go get a permit!

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.

Leasing vs. Buying a Car

The Basic Question: Should I Buy or Lease a Car?

One of the most fundamental questions attached to the car-purchasing process revolves around buying vs. leasing. Granted the answer to this question will vary based on individual circumstance. However, knowing the basic features of each transaction will illuminate the better route.

Conventional wisdom dictates that if you lease a vehicle you will have nothing to show for the money you put in when your term expires. This basic principle; however, ignores the opportunity costs inherent in financing or buying an automobile: the funds you pay up front for the vehicle could be used for something else that makes you happy.

Advantages to Leasing a Car:

Low Down Payments: You undoubtedly see at all the time on commercials and in periodicals: leasing provides you with better deals regarding the amount you actually pay out of pocket per month. In addition, these deals may or may not be offered without a down payment. This is a considerable advantage for some deciding whether to buy or lease a car—all financing packages (all individuals who buy a car) are required to put a minimum percentage down. The lack of down payment offers an individual the ability to withhold a considerable amount of funds at the time of purchase/lease.

Lack of Commitment: Leasing is synonymous with renting a vehicle. When you lease a vehicle you are not committed to owning it long-term—typically leases last between 2 and 4 years. When the lease ends, you will have the option to either purchase the car or walk away. This option gives you the ability to either stick with your car or search for a new one. You will not be stuck into a commitment that you do not want.

Low Monthly Payments: Because you are only paying off the depreciation of the vehicle in a lease contract and not its full value your monthly payments will be much lower than if you choose to finance the purchase of the entire car. Lower monthly payments are also realized in a lease agreement because you are only paying for a portion of the car over the same timeframe as a financing contract.

Easy Turnover: Assuming the vehicle is in good shape, when your two to four year lease ends, you can just go to the dealer, hand them the keys and drive out with a brand new car under a new lease agreement. With a lease, you do not have to bother with selling the vehicle or haggling with the dealer over its trade-in-value. In summation, a lease arrangement offers you flexibility and convenience. Financially; however, it isn’t the wisest decision.

Disadvantages Associated with Leasing a Car:

No Equity: This is easily the biggest advantage when deciding whether to lease or buy a car. Leasing a car is like renting an apartment; when the lease is over, you don’t own anything. Dissimilar to financing, you can’t look forward to owning the car when you have fulfilled the loan obligation. The residuals may prove costly; the flexibility and lower monthly and down payments are met with a lack of ownership once the lease ends.

Huge Penalties Associated With Opting Out: If you wish to opt out of the lease agreement before the full term you can expect to get hit with a massive penalty. Bailing out of the agreement may cost you up to six extra months of payments depending on your lease agreement.

Extra Payments towards Miles: A lease agreement is attached with special clauses that charge you for going over a certain number of miles per year. The majority of lease arrangements will charge an additional 12 to 15 cents for each mile you drive over a certain limit. Typically, the agreement will grant you 12,000 to 15,000 miles per year. So, if you take a 3-year lease with 15,000 miles per year and return the car at the end of the arrangement with 52,000 miles you will be docked for the 7,000 miles you went over. Also, you will be forced to pay for any damage to the car beyond normal wear and tear when you turn it in. Although you will be given the opportunity to purchase more miles at a reduced rate up front, these additional penalties can prove disastrous. Remember, you don’t own the car when the lease is up so any damage or excess driving will prove costly.

Problems with Insurance: If you get in a severe car crash or your vehicle gets stolen, your insurance coverage will only reimburse you for the market value of the car. This figure may not cover what you still owe on your lease. You may buy extra “gap coverage” to protect against this instance.

Questions You Must Ask Yourself When Deciding Whether to Buy or Lease a Car?

How Badly Do You Need Your Cash?

Leasing makes sense if you need cash. A lease arrangement requires a fraction of the money down than financing a vehicle—in many cases a dealer will not require a down payment for a lease. A typical lease will only require between $1,000 and $2,000 for fees, the first month’s payment and a refundable security deposit.

When deciding whether to buy or lease a car, remember that a dealer wants you to lease the automobile—they would rather rent out their assets and then flip them when they are returned. Because of this, the dealer will often work with you when negotiating the terms of a lease.

When you finance a car you could easily be forced to put 10% down and then pay an additional 6% to 8% sales tax—you are forced to pay more for the equity of the vehicle. Therefore, if you need the cash, you should lease the vehicle. If you are a prudent long-term buyer you should finance the vehicle.

How Often Will You Want a New Car?

Leasing is particularly attractive for buyers who want a new car every three years or so. Leasing saves you the hassle of selling a car, which in turn, allows you to seamlessly move from vehicle to vehicle with lower monthly and down payment obligations. Therefore, when deciding whether to lease or buy a car, you must forecast your wants over the next few years—if you stick with a car or really like a specific car you should finance; if you like updating your vehicles you should lease.

How Often do You Drive?

This question must be asked when deciding whether to buy or lease a car. Always check your odometer; an ideal lease customer will drive roughly 15,000 miles a year and keep good care of their automobile. If you drive less than this, you will be paying for depreciation that you are not causing. In this instance, you should opt for purchasing the vehicle. In turn, if you drive substantially and prefer to lease, you must negotiate the cost of the additional miles before affirming the arrangement. Remember, all dealerships will charge for over-the-cap miles, so be prudent when driving and be smart when negotiating for more miles.

Will Your Car Be Used For Business Purposes?

If your car is being used for business reasons, you may deduct a portion of the vehicle’s depreciation from your taxes—you will be able to deduct more if you lease. Interest paid towards loans to purchase a vehicle is not deductible.

Do You Care About Resale Value?

If you use your car a lot, if it is susceptible to a lot of wear and tear, leasing may not be best for you. By Contrast, if you take exceptional care of your car, you should also consider buying it, to maximize the equity and take advantage of selling it. If you want to recoup some of the money you invested into the vehicle, you must finance the automobile.

Vehicle History Report

What is a Vehicle History Report?

In the United States, a vehicle history report contains vital information concerning a motor vehicle’s past. These reports are fundamental for vehicle transactions, for they will reveal the title records from each state’s Department of Motor Vehicles, along with full accident records and insurance total loss records. This information is critical if you are looking to purchase a used car from a private seller, a third party or directly from a dealership.

Vehicle history reports reveal what the car has been through in its past. Although vehicles may look shiny and new, a prospective consumer can never know the true safety and value of the automobile without first observing its vehicle history report. Additional information reflected in the vehicle history report will include: ownership changes and details concerning the Vehicle Identification Numbers such as the year, make, model and odometer history of the vehicle.

How do I Get a Vehicle History Report?

Vehicle history reports are available from several sources, including popular online sites, such as autocheck.com, instaVIN.com and carfax.com. Vehicle history reports will be made available for the majority of automobiles, including motorcycles, recreational vehicles and classic cars.

Before you purchase a user motor vehicle, you must consider purchasing a vehicle history report, title reports and salvage check reports to better understand the vehicle’s history. Prospective buyers are typically interested in this information because it can better forecast the vehicle’s future performance. Obviously you want to avoid vehicles that have been in numerous accidents, have had their odometers rolled back or have been driven by irresponsible owners. Avoiding these problems will save you tons of money in the future; you can forego costly maintenance appointments by simply viewing a vehicle history report.

In addition to prospective buyers, sellers of motor vehicles may also check the history of their vehicle prior to listing it for sale. Sellers will view the report prior to listing the vehicle for sale to prepare them to answer questions regarding the vehicle’s condition or past. Automotive dealers buy vehicle history reports to provide detailed background information on used vehicles to show prospective buyers. Dealers will also run reports prior to acquiring these vehicles from trade-ins or at auctions to help them reach a fair market value. Vehicle prices will fluctuate based on the information latent in a vehicle history report.

To obtain a Title Report and a Vehicle History Report, you may go online to the sites mentioned above to attain a full report. Some services will also provide a lower cost option for a VIN Check Report or a Salvage Report, which will provide you with just the vehicle’s accident history.

Free vehicle history reports may be offered sporadically by major reporting companies; however, these free vehicle history reports are typically limited in the scope of detail and sources of information. In general, used car dealerships will provide a vehicle history report upon request for only specific vehicles as part of their selling process. Prospective buyers can cross-reference the dates of these reports by running their own reports and comparing the results. Older vehicle history reports will typically not contain the latest information—vehicle history reports are time sensitive.

What Information is Included in a Vehicle History Report?

Vehicle history reports provide prospective buyers, sellers and dealers with information and detailed records concerning a vehicle’s unique VIN or serial number. Information included in a vehicle history report and title report may include:

Title Information: This fundamental section of the vehicle history report will show if the vehicle has been reported as possessing a negative title “brand” like junk, salvage or lemon that is often attached to severe accidents.

Number of Titles: Provides information concerning the reported ownership history and the history of ownership changes. This portion of the vehicle history report will elucidate the number of owners the vehicle has had in the past.

State of Titles: Provides the locations/states that the vehicle has been registered in or titled in previously

Junk or Salvage Information from Titles or Other Sources: This portion of the vehicle history report shows if the vehicle has been reported as a salvage vehicle by a state or has been reported at a junk or salvage yard.

Reported Odometer Problems: Provides information concerning the vehicle’s odometer history. If the vehicle has had its odometer rolled back, the vehicle history report will highlight when, why and how many miles were sliced off.

Lemon History: Shows if the automobile has ever been reported as a lemon.

Insurance Information (Total Loss): This portion of the vehicle history report shows if the automobile has been reported as a total loss by the respective insurance company

Auction History: Illuminates as to whether or not the vehicle has been involved in an auto action

Accident History: Arguably the most important aspect of the vehicle history report. Accident information provides details concerning the vehicle’s maintenance history. This portion of the report will show if the vehicle has ever been involved in an accident or sustained damage in any way.

Air Bag Deployment History: Every time a driver’s air bag is deployed, the vehicle’s computer system will record the date of incident. Therefore, this portion of the vehicle history report will show/list whether or not the vehicle’s airbag has been deployed in the past.

Mileage Statistics: Lists all odometer readings that have been recorded from previous vehicle appointments.

Service Records: Provides extensive details on reported service information. If a vehicle goes in for maintenance and the information/work done is recorded, it will be reflected on the vehicle history report.

State Emission Inspection Results: Provides results of state inspection or emission results as reported directly by the state’s Motor Vehicle Department. State emissions are crucial to maintain legal driving status. These reports deal with a vehicle’s emissions and whether or not they meet the environmental standards implemented by the state.

Service Contract or Warranty Availability: Provides information concerning whether or not the vehicle has been covered by a service contract or warranty.

The above information is gathered from a variety of sources including a state’s Department of motor Vehicles, dire and police departments, automotive auctions, rental agencies, salvage auctions, insurance companies, state inspection stations, automotive recyclers, manufacturers and dealerships.

All of the above information is stored in a database using the VIN number. A vehicle history report provides an overview of the vehicle’s past. The VIN number serves as a portal to its past; the VIN holds registration records, which describe how the vehicle was used in the past. If you do not have the VIN of the car you are interested in viewing, you can order an Unlimited Vehicle History Report from autocheck.com.

Guide to Speeding Tickets

What are Speeding Tickets?

A speeding ticket is a form of traffic ticket that is given to motorists who travel faster than the allotted speed limit. Traffic tickets are notices issued by law enforcement officers or officials to motorists or other users. Traffic tickets formally accuse motorists of committing a traffic violation. In general, a traffic ticket comes in two forms—they will either cite a moving violation (including speeding tickets) or non-moving violations, such as parking infractions.

Speeding tickets will be given to individual motorists if they travel beyond the speeding limit. Speeding limits will range depending on jurisdiction and the type of road the motorist is traveling on. For instance, on highways or major roadways the average speed limit is 65 miles per hour. In residential areas, the speed limit will be significantly lower, often times between the ranges of 25 to 45 miles per hour. Regardless of the location, if a motorist is caught travelling above this limit he or she will be pulled over and given a speeding ticket. All jurisdictions will post speed limits for given roads via traffic signs. These signs are universal; they will list the speed limit in large bold lettering with the phrase “speed limit” listed above.

Speeding tickets are given to motorists by local, county or state police officers. It is up to the discretion of these law enforcement officers to administer speeding tickets to motorists who are in violation of the jurisdiction’s laws. Typically, law enforcement officers will only administer speeding tickets for egregious or aggressive violations of the speed limit. In this sense, law enforcement officers, will pull-over motorists for travelling at least 10 miles over the allotted speed limit. Regardless of this leeway, it is important to stay at or below the speeding limit when driving.

Speeding tickets are always attached with a fine. This fine will vary based on the severity of the violation. If the motorist is travelling only 5 to 10 miles above the legal limit, their ticket will be attached with the minimum fine. If the motorist is travelling above 25 miles per hour above the limit this fine will likely increase; any flagrant violation of the speed limit will result in an exorbitant fine and perhaps additional penalties, such as a suspension of the operator’s driver’s license. Additionally, a motorist will susceptible to increased penalties if the individual has committed similar offenses in the past. Similar to other traffic laws or DUI laws, multiple offenses will yield additional penalties.

What are my Options if I’m given a Speeding Ticket?

In the United States, the majority of traffic laws are codified in various ways by state, county or municipal laws. Each state’s Department of Motor Vehicles will maintain a database of motorists and their coordinating traffic violations. When a motorist is given a speeding ticket, the individual will be given the option to mail the ticket—with its coordinating payment—to the local court system or the court for the jurisdiction in which the traffic violation took place. On the speeding ticket, the motorist must check—in the appropriate box—whether they wish to contest the ticket or plead guilty. A plea of guilty will require the motorist to submit a payment for the satisfaction of the fine. The response to the speeding ticket must be prompt—a failure to respond to speeding tickets will result in additional penalties.

If the motorist wishes to contest a speeding ticket, a hearing will be set by the Court upon the request. These traffic hearings are heard before a judge or magistrate depending on the city or state. These hearings may be continued and witnesses or the issuing police officer may be subpoenaed. At any point during the traffic court, the motorist may retain a legal professional to represent him/her in traffic court. Consulting with a traffic lawyer may prove beneficial to the motorist because these legal professionals understand how to contest speeding tickets in the given state, county or town. Motorists will typically schedule the hearing for a time at which the issuing police officer is likely to attend. If the law enforcement officer or representative responsible for the ticket fails to attend, the court judge will typically dismiss the charge. Because of the local laws attached to speeding tickets, each judge, state, county or municipality will handle traffic cases a tad differently.

If the motorist wishes to plead guilty to the speeding ticket and the fines attached, the outcome will be equivalent to a conviction following the hearing. Upon conviction, the motorist will be fined a monetary sum and an additional penalty referred to as “points.” This penalty is distributed differently based on state law; however, all point systems are employed to chart a motorist’s driving history. If a motorist is convicted of speeding in a different state than the one he or she is registered, individual agreements between the states will decide if, and how, the driver’s home state applies the other state’s charges. If an agreement does not exist, the conviction will be applied locally to the state where the speeding infraction took place.

What is the Point System?

A point system is one where a police force or a Department of Motor Vehicles issues cumulative penalties or points to motorists following a conviction for violating traffic laws. Speeding tickets are one way to accumulate points; the more points a motorist has on his or her driving record the more the individual will be fined for subsequent traffic violations. Points may be either added or subtracted from one’s driving record. Major offenses will lead to more severe penalties; egregious violations of traffic laws will result in hefty fines and multiple points.

Points are applied after the traffic violation is committed and cancelled following a defined length of time, typically a few years. If the motorist accumulates a specified amount of points he or she may be disqualified from driving for a set length of time. Fines and other penalties will be applied additionally, either for a violation or after a certain number of paints has been accumulated by the motorist. The purpose of the point system is to identify, deter and subsequently penalize repeat offenders of traffic law. By doing this, the point system ultimately streamlines the legal process.

The point system in the United States is implemented on a state level. Because of this localized structure, the point system will be applied in a variety of ways—or not at all—depending on the state. Aspects of a motorist’s driving record will be reported to their respective insurance companies, who will use them in determining rates and fees to charge. Insurance companies will also evaluate motorist driving records to decide whether or not to renew or cancel the respective insurance policy.

Examples of how Speeding Tickets will affect my Driving Record:

In the state of California, drivers who accumulate speeding tickets may be deemed negligent operators of motor vehicles. If a driver in California accumulates a certain number of speeding tickets their right to drive will be taken away. Major offenses, such as reckless driving or driving under the influence, will earn 2 points and remain on the driver’s record for 10 years in the state of California. “Reckless driving” may refer to excessive speeding, typically 30+ miles above the legal speed limit. Less serious offenses, including minor speeding infractions, will remain on the driver’s record for 3 years and will accrue one point. A driver in the state of California will be deemed negligent if they accumulate the following points in the given time frames:

• 4 points in 12 months

• 6 points in 24 months

• 8 points in 36 months

Negligent drivers will be placed on probation for one year (6 months of their probation will be applied with a suspension of their driver’s license). When the suspension or revocation ends, the driver is required to re-apply for a license to legally drive in the state.

The judge may suspend the driver’s license following a conviction for the following traffic laws:

• Excess breaking of the speed limit or reckless driving

• Hit-and-run

• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol

• Assaulting a motorist or pedestrian when the event occurs on a roadway (this is known as road rage)

• Failure to stop the vehicle as required when signaled at a railway grade crossing.

If a driver is cited for speeding or another traffic violation, the presiding judge may offer the motorist the opportunity to attend Traffic Violator School. This alternative penalty is delivered as a form of rehabilitation for the motorist. A driver will have to participate in these schools for a period of 18 months for the offenses to be formally expunged. Whenever a citation for a speeding ticket is dismissed, the record of citation is forever removed and no more points will accumulate.

New Mexico License Plates

The state of New Mexico provides many different license plate styles to the drivers of New Mexico. In order to get them, drivers must register their vehicles with the New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division. After registering your vehicle, you can receive standard New Mexico license plates for your vehicle. You can also get personalized New Mexico license plates that have a customized designs or numbers.

Personalized New Mexico License Plates

You can get personalized New Mexico license plates, which are also called vanity or prestige license plates. For personalized New Mexico license plates, you can choose the phase or word you want on your New Mexico license plate. Typically, the fees for these plates are $17 each year for a one-year registration or $32 each year for a two-year registration. The New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division will allow you to put whatever you want on your New Mexico license plate as long as it is not obscene or vulgar. You can use whatever numbers and letters, as well as different punctuation such as a plug sign, apostrophe, or even a blank space. You can have up to seven characters on a personalized New Mexico license plate (six for personalized motorcycle plates).

Specialty New Mexico license Plates

There are many different specialty plates you can get in New Mexico. Here are some specialty plates available:

Santa Fe 400th Anniversary Plate: Open to all state residents. Requires a completed Form MVD 10098 (Application for Santa Fe 400th Plate) and a $37 fee.

Horseless Carriage: Plates for cars, trucks, or motorcycles that are at least 35 years old. There is a $10 initial fee and a renewal fee of $5 every five years.

Collegiate License plates: Plates for alumni of the University of New Mexico or New Mexico State. There is a $37 annual fee.

Military License plates: Recognizes veterans, Purple Heart or Bronze star recipients, and Pearl Harbor. Fees vary depending on the plate. If you need legal advice and assistance, contact New Mexico lawyers.