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Delaware License Plates

Delaware License Plates

Delaware license plates are put on your vehicle once you registered it with the Division of Motor Vehicles. Commonly known as tags, you will mount the plate on the back of your vehicle. The Delaware Department of Motor Vehicles provides tags and decals for your motor vehicle after you complete the registration process. These tags expire either on the last day or the 15th day of the given month. Your decal will show the year and month of your license plate expiration. These decals should be placed on the lower right corner of your Delaware license place.
Customized Delaware License Plates
You can purchase vanity plates, which are Delaware license plates that have customized license plate numbers. The fee for a vanity Delaware license plate is $40 each year in addition to the regular annual registration fee for a motor vehicle. The customized Delaware license plates can be ordered at any Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles facility.  If you want to search to see if your desired license plate number is available, you can check the availability online using the Vanity Plate Search on the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles’ website.
The issuance of customized Delaware license plates is subject to certain rules. Your plate must be approved b the Division of Motor Vehicles. Any license plates deemed offensive or vulgar in nature will be denied, or recalled if it is initially overlooked.
Vanity license plates must display at least a single letter and can also include a combination of letters and numbers that does not exceed seven characters in length. Motorcycle vanity license plates are restricted to five characters in length. If the vanity plate includes numerals, they will be displayed to the right of the letters. Ampersands, spaces, and hyphens are allowed and will count as a letter. 

A Guide to How to Buy a Car

A Guide to How to Buy a Car

Register Your New Car After The Purchase: State Guide

In the United States, there are different registration processes for vehicles in each state. There are certain general guidelines which are common to all states. First, the title of a car is usually required to register a vehicle. To ensure the safety of the vehicle, it is necessary to provide proof of insurance. After obtaining all necessary documentation, owners can fill out the application for registration and pay registration fees. These vary from one state to another.

The vehicle registration fee is based in most states on weight, age and usage of the car. The dealership will usually provide a temporary permit for new vehicles until their permanent registration is received. The registration of used vehicles usually begins with the ownership transfer.

Some states may require additional requirements, such as state inspections and emissions tests before a vehicle can be registered. It is crucial to know the requirements of registering a vehicle in each state so owners are able to comply with all state laws.

Owners must renew vehicle registration annually to avoid penalties and late fees. The renewal of vehicle registration usually requires the owner to provide proof of insurance and pay the renewal fee, as well as complete any inspections required.

The vehicle registration processes in the United States vary from one state to another. By following some general guidelines, such as providing proofs of ownership and insurance, completing the application for registration, and paying registration fees, car owners can make sure that their registrations and renewals go smoothly. It is important to be familiar with any state-specific requirements.

California Vehicle Registration

California’s vehicle registration procedure varies according to the vehicle type, such as a brand new or used vehicle. The process begins at the dealer, when the purchaser is given a temporary registration to use until their permanent registration arrives. Used vehicles require the purchaser to go through a transfer-of-ownership process. Registration fees depend on the age and condition of the car.

Texas Car Registration

The Department of Motor Vehicles in Texas is responsible for vehicle registration. State law requires that vehicle owners register and renew registrations annually. Registration fees vary depending on vehicle weight and are payable online, by mail or at the DMV.

Florida Vehicle Registration

For a Florida registration, you will need the title of the car, a proof of Florida Insurance, and the completed application. Before a car can be registered, the state requires that it’s VIN (vehicle identification number) is verified. The vehicle registration fee in Florida is based on the weight and size of the car.

New York Car Registry

New York State requires that car owners register their vehicle within 30 days after purchasing or moving into the state. Registration requires proofs of ownership and insurance. It also includes an inspection. Fees are determined by the weight and intended purpose of the vehicle.

Pennsylvania Vehicle Registration

Pennsylvania also has a DMV that handles vehicle registration. Proof of ownership and proof of insurance are required for the registration process. Fees are determined by the type and weight of your vehicle.

Ohio Car Registration

The Bureau of Motor Vehicles is responsible for vehicle registration in Ohio. The owner must present proof of insurance and identification, along with the registration fee, to register their vehicle. Fees are determined by the vehicle’s weight and intended purpose.

Georgia Vehicle Registration

For registration in Georgia, you will need a filled-out application, your vehicle’s title, proof of auto insurance and a valid ID. Most vehicles from 1996 and newer require an emissions test. The fees depend on the type and weight of the vehicle.

North Carolina Car Registry

In order to register a car in North Carolina the owner must provide the following: a copy the title of the vehicle, an application completed, proofs of insurance and registration fees. The fees are determined by the age, weight and use of the vehicle.

Michigan Vehicle Registration

Michigan’s vehicle registration requires a filled-out application, proof of auto insurance, registration fees paid, and an active driver license. Registration fees are determined by the state based on the value and age of the car.

Illinois Car Registration

Illinois’ vehicle registration requires proof of vehicle ownership, an application, and the payment of fees that are based on vehicle age and type. Illinois requires that cars in some areas be tested for emissions.

Virginia Vehicle Registration

Virginia requires that the vehicle owner submit a filled-out application, along with proof of ownership and insurance. The state will also inspect the car, as well as pay the fees. Virginia fees vary depending on vehicle type and weight.

New Jersey Car Registration

To register a car in New Jersey, you will need to submit a filled-out application, provide proof of insurance and pay the required registration fee. Fees are determined by the age and value of the car.

Washington Vehicle Registration

Washington State requires that vehicle owners provide a proof of ownership and proof of insurance. They also need to submit a filled-out application form as well as payment for the registration fee. Fees are determined by the type of vehicle, its weight and intended purpose.

Arizona Car Registration

For a vehicle to be registered in Arizona, an owner must submit a filled-out application, proof of auto insurance, vehicle title and pay the required registration fee. The fees in Arizona vary depending on the type of vehicle, its weight and intended purpose.

Massachusetts Vehicle Registration

The Massachusetts vehicle registration requires that you submit a vehicle registration form along with proofs of ownership and insurance. You will also need to pay registration fees according to the type of vehicle, its age and weight.

Tennessee Car Registration

Your vehicle in Tennessee must be registered every year. Registration requirements in Tennessee include an inspection of the vehicle, completion of the application, proof of liability insurance and payment of fees. Fees are determined by vehicle weight, type and intended purpose.

Indiana Vehicle Registration

You will need to complete an application form and submit it along with the title of your vehicle, proof of Indiana Insurance, state issued identification, odometer readings, as well as payment for registration fees. Indiana fees vary depending on the type of vehicle, its age and weight.

Missouri Car Registration

In Missouri, the vehicle registration procedure includes an application, proof of auto insurance, inspection of vehicle identification numbers (VINs), and payment of fees. Fees vary depending on vehicle type, age and weight.

Maryland Vehicle Registration

For a Maryland vehicle registration, an owner must submit a properly completed form along with proof of ownership and insurance. An inspection certificate is also required. Fees are determined by the type of vehicle, its age, weight and intended purpose.

Wisconsin Car Registration

Wisconsin vehicle registration requires a filled-out application, a title and fees that are based on vehicle type, weight and intended purpose. The car will also have to undergo an emission test.

Minnesota Vehicle Registration

To register your vehicle in Minnesota, you will also need a VIN check, a filled out application, an odometer readout, proof of liability insurance and the payment of registration fee. The vehicle registration fee in Minnesota is based upon the vehicle’s type, its age, its weight and its intended purpose.

Alabama Car Registration

To register your car in Alabama, you will also need to submit an application, proofs of insurance and ownership as well as payment of the registration fee. The vehicle registration fee in Alabama is based on weight and usage.

Oregon Vehicle Registration

Owners of cars in Oregon must submit a filled-out application, a title and pay registration fees that are based on vehicle type, weight and use. The vehicle will also need to undergo an emission test.

Oklahoma Car Registration

Owners of vehicles in Oklahoma must have a filled-out application, proof of auto insurance, an ID that is valid, as well as payment of the registration fee. Fees are determined by the weight of the vehicle and its intended purpose.

Kentucky Vehicle Registration

For a Kentucky vehicle registration, you will need a filled out application, proof of your insurance and the payment of the fees. Fees are determined by the year, type and weight of vehicle.

Arkansas Vehicle Registration

For a car to be registered in Arkansas the owner must have a filled out application, the title of the vehicle, proof of coverage, and the registration fee. A county-specific emissions test may be necessary.

Colorado Car Registration

Colorado vehicle registration is based on a filled-out application, proof of auto insurance, emissions testing, as well as payment of fees that are based upon the type of vehicle, its age and weight.

Louisiana Vehicle Registration

Louisiana requires that the vehicle owner submit a filled-out application, along with the title of the vehicle, proof of Louisiana Insurance, and the registration fee. Louisiana fees depend on the value, age and weight of a vehicle.

Iowa Vehicle Registration

Iowa registration requires the completion of an application form and proof of insurance. Fees vary depending on vehicle age and type.

Mississippi Car Registration

For a Mississippi car registration, you will need a filled-out application, your vehicle’s title, proof of coverage, and the payment of the registration fee. The fees are determined by the vehicle’s weight and its intended purpose.

Utah Vehicle Registration

Utah’s vehicle registration requires that you submit a vehicle application, provide proof of your insurance and pay fees according to the type of vehicle, its age and intended purpose.

Nevada Car Registration

For Nevada vehicle registration, you will need a filled out application, a VIN verification form, insurance proof, as well as fees that are based on vehicle age and type.

Kansas Vehicle Registration

Kansas vehicle registration requires the completion of an application form and proof of ownership and insurance. Fees are based on vehicle age and type.

New Mexico Vehicle Registration

For a New Mexico vehicle registration, you will need a filled out application, proofs of insurance and ownership. You’ll also have to pay fees depending on your vehicle age and weight.

Maine Vehicle Registration

Maine’s vehicle registration requires that you submit a filled-out application, provide proof of ownership and insurance and pay fees according to the type of vehicle, its age and weight.

Nebraska Vehicle Registration

For a Nebraska vehicle registration, you will need a filled out application, a proof of insurance and proof of ownership. You’ll also have to pay fees depending on your vehicle age and weight.

South Carolina Vehicle Number

South Carolina’s vehicle registration requires that you submit a vehicle application, provide proof of ownership and insurance and pay fees according to the type of vehicle, its age and weight.

Montana Vehicle Registration

For a Montana vehicle registration, you will need a filled out application, proofs of ownership and insurance and fees that are based on vehicle age and type.

Alaska Vehicle Registration

For a car to be registered in Alaska the owner must have the VIN completed along with proof of ownership and insurance.

Hawaii Vehicle Registration

For Hawaii registration, you will need a filled-out application, your vehicle’s title, proof that it is insured in Hawaii and the appropriate fees for the type of vehicle, its age and weight.

Idaho Vehicle Registry

For Idaho registration, you will need a filled out application, proofs of ownership and insurance and the payment of the appropriate fees. These fees are based on vehicle age and type.

North Dakota Vehicle Registry

North Dakota’s vehicle registration requires that you submit a vehicle application, provide proof of your insurance and pay registration fees according to the type of vehicle, its age and weight.

South Dakota Vehicle Registry

In order to register a car in South Dakota the owner must provide the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), proof of ownership and proof of insurance. They also need to pay fees according the type of vehicle and its weight.

Vermont Vehicle Registration

Vermont’s vehicle registration requires that you submit a vehicle application, provide proof of ownership and insurance and pay fees according to the type of vehicle, its age and weight.

West Virginia Vehicle Registry

For a West Virginia vehicle registration, you will need a filled out application, proofs of ownership and insurance and fees that are based on vehicle age and type.

Wyoming Vehicle Registration

Wyoming’s vehicle registration requires that you submit a filled-out application, provide proof of your ownership and insurance and pay fees according to the type of vehicle, its age and weight.

The registration of vehicles in each state in the United States can vary depending on factors such as the weight, the age and the intended purpose. In almost all states, the registration process is similar. It requires proof of insurance and ownership, as well as a vehicle check and payment for fees. To avoid fines and penalties, it is vital that vehicle owners follow the laws of their state and maintain their registration.

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When you buy a car, it is usually a person’s second most expensive purchase, after purchasing a home. The National Automobile Dealers Association states that the average price of a brand new car purchased in the United States is $28,400. Because buying a car is an expensive endeavor, you must go about the process carefully and practically to get the best results.
How to Buy a Car: Research
Before you begin buy a car, whether new or used, you need to do first do some research on what the best options are. With some preparation, you will be in a much better position to find the best deal when you buy a car.
Figure Out Your Needs Before You Buy a Car
Before you buy a car, you should consider what you will use your car for. For example, will you be driving to work or school, just running errands, or driving long distances? Think about how many miles you typically drive in a week, what sort of road conditions you will be usually driving in (rural roads, city streets, highways, etc.), how many people will usually be with you during these trips, and what sort of weather conditions you will most likely drive in (warm and sunny, snowy winters, rainy weather).
Understand Your Credit Before You Buy a Car
Before you start browsing for either your car or your car loan, you should first get a credit report. You are entitled to a free credit report once every 12 months from all of the national consumer credit reporting companies, Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. To receive these credit reports, you can go to annualcreditreport.com or call 1-877-322-822. If you need more than one from a specific reporting company within a 12 month period when you buy a car, you will be charged a small fee to receive your score.
Preapproval for a Car Loan Before You Buy a Car
Before you go out and buy a car, you should browse around for a car loan. You can go to your local credit union or bank and apply for a preapproved car loan. When you visit different lenders, make sure to compare financing offers to the offer provided by the dealer. Sometimes, your bank or credit union will offer better loan terms than a dealer. When you understand exactly what you can afford when you buy a car and the interest rate and terms you qualify for, you will be in a much better position to negotiate the price on the car.
When you apply for a car loan and buy a car, a good credit score will help you qualify for better interest rates on your loan. When you know what your credit score is, you will have a better idea of what is a fair interest rate and from there you can negotiate the price of the car with the dealer. If you do not have a credit history, some banks or dealers may apply a higher interest rate for a loan to help you buy a car. However, it is best to still browse around. Many credit unions and banks have special programs to assist you in establishing your credit history.
You may be considering asking a relative or friend to be a co-signer on your loan in order to help you qualify for a lower interest loan so you can buy a car. Be careful about doing so. It is ideal to avoid joint ownership of a vehicle. The co-signer will also be responsible for making car payments if you are unable to make them and both you and the co-signer will both be listed on the car’s title after you buy a car.
How to Buy a Car: Cost of the Car
When you buy a car, many different factors will affect the final cost of a car, such as buying used or new, or deciding to lease. Other expenses will also add to the maintenance expense over the life of the car, such as gas, insurance, taxes, mileage, and other expenses. There are different resources that will help you research the cost before you buy a car:
• Consumer Reports publications that provide car ratings based on maintenance costs, safety, gas mileage, and reliability. These publications are published monthly and are often available in the resource section of the public library.
• Kelley Blue Book, which is available online at kbb.com and often available as a hard copy in many local libraries. This reference provides prices of used cars of a particular model with a specific mileage.
• Your local newspaper to see out what rates local car dealers are offering for specific models.
Buy a Car: Choosing New or Used Cars
While a new car may seem to have more advantages to buy, you should still consider used cars. There are positives and negatives regarding costs in both new and used cars.
New Cars
 
 
• Positive: Has never been previously driven; may have new safety features or other attractive features; comes with a factory warranty.
• Negatives: More expensive; extra features are not always affordable; vehicle quickly loses value
Used Cars
• Positives: More affordable; may come with dealer warranty; may be able to afford vehicle with all the extras; any safety concerns may have already been acknowledged and fixed.
• Negatives: May need a higher down payment; cars sold “as-is” may not have warranty and may have previously damage.
Buy a Car: Other Expenses
When you buy a car, there are also other expenses you will have to consider:
Car Insurance
Car insurance (usually liability insurance) is needed and must be considered when you have to buy a car and plan a budget. Many different factors, such as the type of car you buy and personal qualities such as age, can also affect the cost of your particular insurance policy. You should make sure to check with your current insurance agency to find out what your insurance rates will be when you buy a car before actually purchasing it.
Miles per Gallon and Fuel Economy
Gas will be a very large expense over the life of your car. Before you buy a car, you should consider the grade of fuel the car needs (for example, premium-grade gas is much more expensive over the life of the car). Be sure to also compare the miles-per-gallon for whatever car you are considering purchasing.
Maintenance costs
Normal expenses when you buy a car include brakes, new tires, fluids, new batteries, tune-ups, repairs, and car washes. You may be able to save some money on these expenses if you learn just how to take care of some of the basic things by yourself, such as replacing belts, changing a flat tire, or changing the oil. You can read your car owner’s manual for more maintenance and money-saving suggestions before you buy a car.
Tax, License, and Registration Fees
Your local Department of Motor Vehicles or County Clerk/Recorder Office can give you a better idea of the fees and taxes needed for your car and what sort of identification you will need to provide when you buy a car. Some states may charge registration fees and taxes ever year. You might also be required by local laws to get a smog or emission test. All states’ motor vehicle departments require some form of official identification, such as a state identification card or a driver’s license, before they will register a car. Certain states will also require proof of legal residence in the United States as well before you can buy a car and register it.
How to Buy a Car: Financing Your Car
Depending on the price of the car you wish to buy and your finances, you may either borrow money from a bank or credit union or pay for the car in cash. Most individuals will need to get a car loan in order to buy the car. There are many different places to look for the right car loans: credit unions, banks, loan brokers, online direct lenders, car dealerships, and finance companies. Remember that you need to browse for financing deals the same way you do when you buy a car. You must understand the components of a car loan and look out for the best deal.
Look for a car loan before you visit the dealer to buy a car. Make sure to compare the terms and interest rates of the loan the car dealer offers you in comparison to your preapproved loan from the credit union or bank. Do not let a car dealer talk you into choosing their financing unless it the terms actually provide a better deal.
You should also be aware of car dealers that guarantee you a better interest rate on your loan after you sign the necessary paperwork to buy a car. This is usually a trick. After signing the paperwork, the dealer will tell you a few days later that unfortunately they are unable to give you the terms that you agreed to instead you will have to you come back in order to sign another contract that has even worse terms to buy a car. This practice is known as “yo-yo” financing, and while it is not illegal, it is unethical and can result in you paying much more than is necessary.
Buy a Car: Components of a Car Loan
Car Loans are designed for individuals who want to finance a car for personal use since they do not have the money available to purchase the car. A car loan can provide you with the immediate use of the car in exchange for regular payments on the loan over an agreed period of time. Here are some components of a car loan you should be aware of when you buy a car:
Down payment: Having some money saved up to use as a down payment on your car loan can greatly reduce your loan amount. A down payment will also help you lower your interest rate, which will save you a lot of money over the length of the loan. While it is possible to find a good auto loan that only requires a low down payment, such as 5%, it is better to put down as much money as you can, ideally at least 20%. Putting down a higher down payment drastically reduces the amount of money you will have to borrow, which results in lower monthly payments and a lower total of interest you will have to pay overall.
Length of Car Loan: The number of payments you will have to make before the loan is completely paid off affects your total purchase price as well as your monthly payment amount. By having a shorter loan term, it will result in the cost of your monthly payments to go up since you are choosing to pay your loan off sooner. While the payments themselves will be more expensive, you will end up saving money since you will pay less interest throughout the life of the car loan.
Interest Rates: Your auto loan interest rate is often determined by your credit history and your credit score. If you have a good credit score, you will be offered a lower interest rate on your car loan. If you have a bad credit score, your interest rate will be much higher. Other factors will also affect your interest rate, such as the size of your initial down payment.
Annual Percentage Rate: Your Annual Percentage Rate, or APR, includes your interest rate and the fees you are also financing with your loan. When you buy a car and you shop for auto loans beforehand, make sure to compare the annual percentage rates, which will you a more reasonable idea of the actual cost of the car loan.
You should make sure that you can afford your monthly car payments before you sign a contract. You should also make sure that the monthly payment you are quoted is the final monthly payment listed in your contract. Any extra features and options can substantially increase the final monthly payment for your car loan.
To get an idea of your monthly payment, the financial experts at Consumer Reports recommend that your total payment should not be any more than 36%of your total gross income. If you follow this rule, you can determine how much you can afford to pay on your loan by taking these steps:
• Calculate what 36% of your total gross monthly income is
• Total and itemize all your monthly payments, including your credit card bills, rent or mortgage, and any other installment loans you may have
• Subtract your monthly payments total from the 36%
By being aware of your down payment and your monthly payment, along with the typical interest rate and term you can handle, you can more easily calculate the total price of the vehicle that you will be able to afford as well as the loan amount for which you will need to qualify.
Buy a Car: Choosing the Vehicle Type
Now that you have an idea of what sort of financing you should expect before you buy a car, you can think about what sort of vehicle you want more in depth. Your goal is to find car models that exceed in the areas that are important to you. Here are some important considerations and explanations that you should consider.
Buy a Car: Choosing the Right Model
 
 
When you plan to buy a car and you figure out your price range and what type of vehicle you want, you can now start to narrow the possible choices to a few potential models that you want to test drive. To do this, you should gather as much information possible about each vehicle and compare them in different important areas, like reliability, fuel economy, driving experience, safety, owner experience, and features.
When you buy a car, you should check out model reviews of each possible car. You should read reviews from sources you trust that discuss a vehicle’s qualities, such as how it accelerates, brakes, and handles, how user-friendly and comfortable is the interior, and what deficiencies the vehicle may have. You can check out different consumer reports for full reports and reviews, as well as different newspapers and magazines which provide helpful reviews.
Buy a Car: Consider Reliability
Reliability ratings can explain well certain models compare to others, and the chances of you experiencing problems with your vehicle. The reliability of a vehicle can affect how happy you will be over the years with a car, and can significantly influence the resale value once you are ready to replace it. Reliability can be an expensive and difficult quality to evaluate, since the information has to come from vehicle owners. Many different sources provide reliability information to consumers based on surveys.
Buy a Car: Safety Ratings
There are many different elements that can affect the overall safety capability of a vehicle. Here are some important ones you should consider:
Crash tests
Front, side, and rear impact crash tests are performed by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety as well as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Both provide crash-test ratings for specifically tested models online. They also provide previous results up to ten years old. The Accident avoidance
A vehicle’s ability to help you prevent or avoid an accident is also very important. Many different factors contribute to the accident-avoidance capability, the two most important being emergency handling and braking.
Rollover resistance
Rollover accidents account for around 33% of all vehicle-occupant deaths. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration provides a 5-star rating system named the Rollover Resistance Rating. It is based on a vehicle’s static stability factor, which is basically how top-heavy the vehicle is, and the dynamic rollover test, which is a simulation of a driving making a series of sharp steering actions.
Rear-impact protection
 
 
Although rear-impact collisions have a fairly low fatality rate, they result a high injury rate, particularly for whiplash neck injuries. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety institute conducts tests of head restraints and also performs dynamic rear-impact tests which measure how well the head/seat-restraint combinations in different vehicle models protect against whiplash injuries.
Blind zones
Many accidents are the result of the driving missing something in their blind zones while driving. Larger vehicles, such as pickups and SUVs also have larger blind zones. To check a blind spot of a vehicle, sit in the driver’s seat of the vehicle that is parked and have someone stand in back of the vehicle and hold out a his or her hand at waist level. Have the person slowly walk back until you can see their hand through the rear window.
Buy a Car: Initial Inspection
When you go to the dealership to buy a car and greet the dealer for the first time, you should explain that you only wish to inspect and test drive any choices, but you do not plan to purchase anything that day. Resist the dealer’s attempts to lure you into a purchase. You can then focus on simply inspecting the vehicle.
Before you buy a car, take some time to look at the interior and exterior of the vehicle. Look at the seams between the doors and the body panels for any gaps or irregularities. Make notes of the smoothness of the paint and what colors look good. Next, look at the interior design of the vehicle. Consider how quiet and comfortable the cabin is and whether the controls are convenient to operate.  Consider how easy it is to slip in and out of the car and how convenient the doors are to handle. Check out the upholstery that you intend to have and how comfortable it is. Adjust the seats and see if you can find a comfortable conformation. The seatbelt should be easy and comfortable as well. Adjust the steering well and decide on how you feel about your driving position. Check your visibility and make sure you can easily see the instrument panel and all directions while maintaining a comfortable position.
You should check for sufficient storage spaces for your personal items such as cell phones, mp3 players, or anything else when you buy a car. Check if used cup holders block important switches or block anything important such as air conditioning bents. Try out the audio system and compare its quality as well as other electronic systems like voice-activated controls or in-dash navigation before you buy a car.
After getting comfortable in the driver’s seat, sit in the other seats to see how comfortable they are. Look for any three-point safety belts for all seats, adequate cup holders, fold-down armrests, storage spaces, or ashtrays. Ensure that a child seat can be easily secured if you need one and how easy it would be to take a child out of the car before you buy a car.
Next, you should inspect rear cargo compartment or trunk. Check the opening mechanism, whether it needs a key or just a grab handle or remote control operated. Once the trunk is open, take a look at the hinges it has and whether they swing into the cargo area, which can damage items in the trunk. Consider how difficult it would be to load items into the cargo area before you buy a car.
Lastly, request to see the important service points in the engine compartment before you buy a car. You should easily find the dipsticks and fluid filler caps as well as the battery terminals.
Buy a Car: Test Drive
Ideally, you should test drive all potential vehicles on the same day on the same or similar streets in order to make good comparisons between vehicles before you buy a car. You should start by considering what you like and dislike about driving your current car regarding comfortable, features, performance, controls, and any other things you may not like. You should then plan your own route where you can experience different traffic situations such as rough city streets or high-speed freeways if they are a daily routine for you.
Once you decide on your route and what to look for before you buy a car, call the dealership to confirm the vehicle can be test-driven with certain features and schedule your appointments for the vehicles you wish to drive back to back. You must make sure to bring verification of car-insurance, something to record your observations with, a list of what you like and dislike with your current car, and what configuration you want for the cars you try. If you use child seats, bring those along to be test whether you can easily secure them in each vehicle.
Once you actually start the test drive before you buy a car, you should consider how the ride feels. Consider if the drive is smooth or harsh, whether the suspension isolates you from the road, how comfortable the ride is, what sort of acceleration is available, if the brakes are responsive, if the car responds nicely to steering maneuvers, how quiet the vehicle is, what sort of visibility you get, and what sort of visibility you get at night.
After the test drive, the dealer will most likely urge you into starting the buying process. At this point you should consider the dealership and whether you would want to buy a car from them. You should evaluate how responsive the dealer was to questions, whether you were treated with respect, if you got helpful and honest answers, and whether you were invited for any additional test drives before you decide to buy a car from a particular dealership.
Buy a Car: Figuring out Pricing
You should first decide on a target price that you can reasonably hope to attain after negotiating. When you first look at a car at a dealership, there will be a sticker that shows MSRP, and the cost of different options and the destination charge. Usually, you can negotiate a lower price without much resistance. You should not rely on the sticker price for a starting point when you buy a car.
Your target price should be somewhere between what dealership paid the manufacturer and the figure shown appears on the sticker. If you know the dealer’s cost, you can figure out what profit margin he or she can work with. Your target price should allow some space for a reasonable profit to the dealer. You can do this by find the dealer-invoice price and subtract any current dealer sales incentives along with the holdback amount from the figure. A reasonable price is around 1 to 5% over the dealer’s cost. If the model has not sold well, which can be indicated by frequent rebates or special financing, you may be able to buy a car for even less.
The best way to go about reaching your target price when you buy a car is to first come in prepared with the proper research about your target price. You can then work to negotiate one thing at a time. You should first make it clear that you wish to get the lowest markup possible and that you intend to visit other dealerships to compare prices. After settling on an initial price, discuss leasing, financing, and trade-ins if necessary and do so individually. Arrange financing in advance so that if the dealer offers you certain financing options, you can compare them to your preapproved options and determine which is better. You should also avoid paying for any extras that you do not need, such as paint protectant or rustproofing.
Buy a Car: Understanding the Auto-Pricing Terms
Here are some pricing terms that you will come across when you are looking at prices of vehicles.
On the window sticker:
• MSRP or Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: The vehicle’s published base retail price, without any options, destination charge, fees. This is only “suggested” so you may buy a car at other amounts.
• Optional equipment: Additional features or packages that can cost extra which are usually limited to interior, transmission choices, and paint. These prices can often be negotiated.
• Destination charge: Covers cost of delivery to the dealership from the factory which is usually non-negotiable fee.
• Market adjustments: An additional fee added by the dealer, usually to vehicles that are in high demand. While you can negotiate, you may not be as successful if the vehicle is selling and the dealer does not have an incentive to work with you.
• Sticker price or Total price: Total retail price including the MSRP, any options, the destination charge, and market adjustments. A salesperson will usually try to sell the vehicle as close to this price as possible.
Not on the sticker:
• Rebate: A rebate is a direct-to-buyer incentive to buy a car from the manufacturer. Disregard it when negotiating since it comes from the manufacturer.
• Dealer incentives: The money the manufacturer pays the dealer when he or she sells certain, models. It can be passed to the buyer as a price reduction, or kept as dealer profit.
• Holdback: Most manufacturers provide dealers a percentage of the MSRP as a refund after selling a vehicle, usually around 2 to 3%.
Buy a Car: Closing the Deal
After you decide on a car and you take care of negotiations, you are ready to purchase the vehicle. Before you give over your credit-card number, it is important to have the dealership send over the final contract to you so that you can review it ensure that everything is correct, such as the model of the vehicle, the trim, and any options that you want. Make sure to carefully check all the numbers found on the agreement. You will notice some other charges including the following:
• Destination charge
• Title and registration fee
• Documentation fee
• State sales tax
• Advertising fee
While these fees are not negotiable, there are others you can avoid paying such as:
• Extended warranty
• Advertising charge
• Dealer preparation fee
• Additional dealer markup
• Disability insurance
• Credit life insurance
• Rustproofing/undercoating
• Pinstriping
• Fabric protection
• VIN etching
• Security/anti-theft system
• Paint sealant
Buy a Car: After the Sale
After the sale, you will still need to make sure you have insurance on your car. Many people stay with their same insurance carrier without shopping around for a better deal. It is best to be proactive and compare premiums at least once a year to see whether you can get better, more affordable insurance.
In order to get a more accurate insurance quote, you will need to give information on the vehicle including the model, make model, trim line, year, and the vehicle identification number. You will also have to provide the sex, age, and recent driving record of any potential drivers. The insurance policy must cover bodily injury liability, property damage, and uninsured and underinsurance motorist insurance coverage. You can also choose to include collision and comprehensive, personal-injury protection, medical-payment protection, roadside assistance, and rental reimbursement in your insurance policy.
Buy a Car: Picking up your Vehicle
After you buy a car and your vehicle is ready, give it a full inspection before you drive off the dealer’s lot. If you notice any problems, you should immediately address them. You should not consider the process of buying a car complete until you have completely checked out the vehicle and you are fully satisfied with the vehicle’s condition. Go over the vehicle thoroughly, both the interior and exterior. If you find any issues, you should fix them before taking the car or if they are just minor issues, set up a firm date to have them fixed with the dealership. Here are some helpful hints for inspecting the vehicle:
• Inspect your vehicle during bright daylight to avoid missing small defects when it is dark.
• Ensure the vehicle has all the accessories and options you ordered and that they all work.
• Inspect the outside for dents, mismatched body panels, scratches, or paint defects.
• Inspect the inside of the car for improperly fitting or loose trim or stains and other defects in the carpeting, upholstery, or headliner.
• The odometer should have a very low mileage, from a few test drives.
• The salesperson should show you how to work the controls and help you find the common maintenance items (like the oil-filler hole, engine-oil dipstick, brake-fluid reservoir, etc.)
• IF you see anything else unusual about the vehicle, insist on a full explanation.

South Carolina Vehicle Registration

South Carolina Vehicle Registration

South Carolina Vehicle Registration: A Comprehensive Guide

If you own a vehicle in South Carolina, you need to register it with the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles to comply with state laws. In this article, we provide a comprehensive guide to the process of registering your vehicle in South Carolina.

Registration Requirements

The following vehicles require registration in South Carolina:

– Passenger cars
– Trucks
– Motorcycles
– Trailers
– Recreational vehicles
– Boats

To register your vehicle, you will need:

– Proof of ownership (title or registration certificate)
– South Carolina driver’s license or state-issued ID
– South Carolina Department of Environmental Control inspection certificate (if applicable)
– Application for Title and Registration
– Payment for registration fees and taxes
– Proof of insurance

Registration Process

Here is a step-by-step guide to registering your vehicle in South Carolina:

1. Obtain a title for your vehicle.

If your vehicle is new or was previously titled in another state, you’ll need to obtain a South Carolina title. You can do this by visiting a local DMV office.

2. Obtain South Carolina insurance.

You’ll need to provide proof of insurance when registering your vehicle. South Carolina requires minimum liability insurance of 25/50/25.

3. Obtain a Department of Environmental Control inspection (if applicable).

If your vehicle is over a certain age or located in a specific county, it may require a Department of Environmental Control inspection before it can be registered. Check with your local DMV office to see if your vehicle requires an inspection.

4. Complete the Application for Title and Registration.

The application is available on the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles website or at a local DMV office.

5. Submit your application and fees.

You can submit your application and fees in person at a local DMV office.

6. Receive your registration and license plates.

After your application is approved, you will receive a registration certificate and license plates. Place the license plates on the front and back of your vehicle.

Registration Fees

South Carolina registration fees vary based on the type of vehicle you own. Passenger cars have a base fee of $40 for one year. Additional fees may apply for vehicles over specific weights and ages.

Other fees may apply, such as a late fee if you fail to register your vehicle by the expiration date.

Conclusion

Registering your vehicle in South Carolina is necessary to comply with state laws. By following the registration requirements outlined in this article, you can easily register your vehicle and avoid fines or penalties. Remember to keep your registration up to date to avoid any complications while operating your vehicle, and don’t forget to renew your registration every year.

If you buy a new or used vehicle or if you move to South Carolina from a different state, you must apply for a new title and SC vehicle registration. You may apply for your title and SC registration by mail. Motor vehicles have to complete SC vehicle registration every two years. Passenger vehicle SC registrations undergo renewal every other year in the specific month you first completed the SC vehicle registration in South Carolina. A renewal registration sticker will be given each year after you pay your required vehicle property taxes. You can renew your SC vehicle registration by mail when you pay the required vehicle property taxes.

First-Time South Carolina Vehicle Registration

If you are moving to South Carolina from another state, you have forty-five (45) days to transfer your out-of-state title and registration. You can apply for the title and SC vehicle registration by mail. Form 400, the Application for Certificate of Title and Registration, which has to be completed, contains the correct mailing address.

In order to transfer out-of-state title and registration and complete your South Carolina vehicle registration, you need the following documents:

• Your out-of-state title and registration for the SC vehicle registration.

• If there is currently a lien on your motor vehicle, you must have the name and the address of the company which holds the lien for the SC registration.

• Liability Insurance information: you must give the name of your liability insurance company rather than the name of the agent.

• Acceptable Identification for the SC vehicle registration.

• Completed Form 400, the Application for Certificate of Title and Registration. This will require your odometer mileage reading and current lien information for your SC registration.

• Original Paid Vehicle Property Tax Receipt which shows proof of your payment of the vehicle property taxes in the county you reside in.

South Carolina Vehicle Registration Fees

Depending on the type of vehicle, there are different South Carolina vehicle registration fees. Aside from the SC registration fees, there are additional fees that are applied at the time of your SC vehicle registration. They include the following:

• Title fee: $15.00

• South Carolina vehicle registration for passenger cars: $24.00

• South Carolina vehicle registration for RV’s: $24.00

• South Carolina vehicle registration for persons up to 64 years old: $22.00

• South Carolina vehicle registration for persons 65 or older: $20.00

• South Carolina vehicle registration for motorcycles – $10.00

• South Carolina vehicle registration for Utility or Camper Trailers: $10.00

• South Carolina vehicle registration for trailers more than 2500 pounds: $20.00 fee

• Truck trailers, trucks, and road tractors: Depends on gross vehicle rate, ranges from $30.00-$100.00

Car Payment Calculator

Car Payment Calculator

 

Guide to Car Payment Calculator

 

When purchasing a new car, it is important that you understand all of the financial consequences of car ownership and the ways to finance your purchase.  A car payment calculator can be used to help you understand how much leasing a car will cost you if you are taking out a lease on the vehicle. 

 

Most people cannot afford to pay the upfront cost of a new car, so it is important that you understand the basics of auto leases before looking for that new vehicle.  Car payment calculators are just one of the steps needed to be taken before you are ready to make an offer on a vehicle.  

 

Following these steps in order properly use a car payment calculator while searching, finding, and leasing a vehicle while financing through a lender.

 

I. First, you must prepare your budget.  You should be aware of all of the costs involved in leasing a car.  Consider the following costs when coming up with your car lease budget:

 

– Basic cost of the car

 

– Taxes, fees, and licensing (all of these amounts will vary by state.  Check further with your state to determine exactly how much this will cost you)

 

– Insurance Costs

 

– Car lease payments.  Depending on your lease terms, you may be paying more to the lender than the car is worth.  Car lease rates vary by lender, they type of car, and your credit history.  

 

Check with multiple lenders to further explore what the lease rates are in your area. 

 

– Fuel and maintenance costs.  These amounts will vary by the type of car, the car's age, and sometimes just luck, as you never know when a car may have a problem that requires expensive mechanical work.

 

Once you have established your budget, you are ready to start using a car payment calculator to determine exactly how much your lease will cost and which cars are really in your price range.

 

II. Another important factor is your credit score.  While car payment calculators can give you a general idea of what your rates and payments will be, your credit score may ultimately determine what rates a lender is willing to give you, or whether they will provide the lease at all.

 

– Check with online credit score reports.  Many free options are available and many other options require payments but provide a much more in depth

look at your credit score.

 

– Always first check with the major credit reporting agencies, who will provide you with your scores. 

 

– After getting your score, search for information on whether your credit score is considered a good credit score or a bad credit score.  You may need credit counseling to raise your score in order to qualify for an auto loan.   

 

III. Many car payment calculators are available, however you want to use one that supplies as much information as possible to give you the best idea of the financial burden your lease will cost you.  Enter the data as it is asked for on the car payment screen.  You will need to include the following:

 

– Principal Amount

 

– Interest Rate

 

– Payment Period

 

– Term/Length of Loan

 

– Payment Amount

 

– First Payment Date

 

Once you have entered each value, select the calculate button.  You can reset your entered information at any time by pressing the reset button, or you can change each individual box at any point during the process. Once you finalize all of the numbers and press the calculate button, all available loan information will become available to you.  You may print this information, save it to your computer, or go back and change the values in order to see the effects they have on your loan information.  

 

4. In order to best understand the results of the auto loan calculator, you must understand what each term means.  The following are a brief description of each value that need to be entered into the auto loan calculator. 

 

   1. Purchase Price – The purchase price is the total sale amount of the car you are financing.  If you are unsure of the actual final vehicle price, enter your best estimate into the car payment calculator. 

 

   2. Down Payment – The down payment is the upfront payment on the car you are leasing.  Not all auto leases require a down payment, however most auto financing companies will only give an auto lease if a certain percentage of the total vehicle price is paid upfront. 

 

   3. Sales Tax – If the car to be leased is subject to sales tax in your state, you should enter the sales tax that will be added to your final vehicle price.  If you are unsure, check online to determine if your state requires an upfront sales tax.  Be cautious, as some states do not require an upfront sales tax, but instead charge a yearly property tax on vehicle ownership.  Most states require a sales tax for vehicle purchases, which often range in between 4% to 8%, but always check to find your state's rate. 

 

   4. Yearly Interest Rate – The yearly interest rate is the percentage of the total auto lease that will be turned into interest that must be paid to the lender.  The yearly interest rate can also be referred to as the APR (Annual Percent Rate), APY (Annual Percent Yield), or just as the interest rate.  If you are using car payment calculators to determine the yearly interest rate, leave this field blank and the calculator will tell you what the rate will be considering the other amounts entered in the other boxes.  

 

   5. Payment Period – This will determine how often you will make lease payments on your car.  You can choose between paying monthly (30 day payments), annually (one payment every year), quarterly (payment every 3 months), semi-monthly (payment every 15 days), bi-weekly (payment every 14 days), and weekly (one payment per week).  You may also select a custom payment period on the car payment calculator.  

 

– Typically, most financing companies require a monthly payment for car leases.  However, you may occasionally find bi-monthly lease plans or quarterly lease plans, depending on your credit history and the value of the car. 

 

– The payment period must be used along with the proper length of lease.  Typically, the length of the lease will highly depend on the terms provided by the dealership and financing company.  Car leases are typically between 2 and 3 years in length.  They are not usually longer as most cars depreciate greatly over time.    

 

   6. Length of Lease (Term) – The length of the auto lease is the overall length of time you will make lease payments and have possession of the car.  You can enter any amount of time your lease will last.  If you are using the car payment calculator to determine the length of a lease, leave this field blank and the car payment calculator will tell you how long it will take to pay your lease considering the total lease amount, lease rates, and payment terms.   

 

   7. Payment Amount – The payment amount is how much each payment will be on your auto lease.  Typically, this is what most people want to find out when using car payment calculators, as this is the payment you will be responsible every payment period.  Leave this area blank in order for the car payment calculator to tell you what your payment amounts will be. Note that you must enter a length of lease, lease terms, and amount in order to get your car payment amount.  

 

   8.  First Payment Date – The first payment date is when you will first start making payments.  The car payment calculator does not require this information in order to perform its basic functions, however entering a first payment date will provide you with a more accurate description of when your overall car payments will end and the lease will be completed.

 

Notes

 

1. While car payment calculators can usually give you fairly accurate auto lease information, you should not rely on the information obtained through them.  Instead, they should only serve as general estimate to help you budget and determine what cars you can and cannot afford.  

 

2. Leasing a new vehicle works slightly different than other forms of loans.  Auto leasing terms often involve limits on how many miles you can put on the car during the year.  Auto leases also do not transfer the car to your ownership, instead the leasing company is the true owner.  You must also return a leased vehicle at the end of the term, however you may have a purchasing option.  

 

3. Beware of unconventional lease terms that auto financiers may offer to lure you in.  These terms can often not put into the car payment calculator so you must manually determine how these terms will affect your overall lease. 

 

– Many auto financiers offer no payments for a certain period of time, usually for the first month or two.  While these offers seem tempting, as you will be driving your vehicle without a monthly payment for a short period, the lease amounts will catch up with you and are often less favorable than standard lease. 

 

– An incredibly low lease rate is only one factor to use in your car payment calculator.  While a low rate may seem like you are getting the best deal possible, if the lease requires a large down payment, you may actually spend more overall than with higher lease payments and a smaller down payment. 

 

4. Always be willing to haggle.  Often times, an auto financing company will not offer you the best deal they are willing to give.  Instead, you should try to bring the total amount down. Use the car payment calculator to see what lease rates and terms will best suit you.  Use this information to try to bring down lease rates and try to extend the term of your lease as long as possible.

 

5. Depreciation is a major factor that you must calculate into your budget.  Cars can depreciate in value very quickly, so be cautious that at the end of the lease you are not paying more for the car than it is worth.  Instead, look at the average depreciation rate of similar makes and models of the car you are looking at.  

A Guide to the Traffic Violations Bureau

A Guide to the Traffic Violations Bureau

The Traffic Violations Bureau, often referred to as TVB, is a division of the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles. The Traffic Violations Bureau is entrusted with resolving non-criminal traffic violations within New York City, and the cities of Buffalo and Rochester, as well as significant sections of Suffolk County. The idea behind the establishment of the Traffic Violations Bureau was to reduce the large volume of these traffic cases from the normal courts. You may still contact a traffic lawyer to review your case.

Purpose of the Traffic Violations Bureau

Unlike a true legal court, the Traffic Violations Bureau is an administrative agency that is a part of the Department of Motor Vehicles, which has different procedures regarding certain elements such as having rules of evidence to its threshold for conviction of traffic violations. The function of the judge at the Traffic Violations Bureau is performed by the administrative law judge.

The sole options at the Traffic Violations Bureau for a defendant are to either plead guilty or plead not guilty. You cannot ask for plea bargains at the Traffic Violations Bureau, nor can the judge lower the charge or the penalty. Instead, he or she can only rule guilty or not guilty based on the stated charge of the violation. The Traffic Violations Bureau judge is not given the authority to increase the fine, nor is he or she given the authority to suspend a license. At the Traffic Violations Bureau, there is no complete right to a supporting deposition, and the rules on admissibility of hearsay evidence are much less strict than that of a regular court. Usually, the traffic hearing only consists of each side presenting their story, the allowance of hearsay eliminating the need of court formalities such as swearing the witnesses in and other procedures.

Appeals from Traffic Violations Bureau rulings are made not to a higher court, but rather to the Appeals Processing Unit of the Department of Motor Vehicles. There is an appeals fee of $10, which must be paid to the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles. If the Traffic Violations Bureau appeal is against the guilty verdict itself, rather than opposed to the penalty, a transcript of the case must be ordered, which has an additional fee of $50.

Criticisms of the Traffic Violations Bureau

Because the rules of evidence of the Traffic Violations Bureau, particularly the admissibility of hearsay and the right of discovery, are more relaxed than in an actual court, the Traffic Violations Bureau system has often been criticized to be a difficult and biased system. It has also been criticized due to the lack of an option to plead in order to lesser charges, which is usually found in traffic court.

The threshold of conviction at the Traffic Violations Bureau is having convincing and clear evidence, rather than the general definition of having proof beyond a reasonable doubt. Another criticism of the Traffic Violations Bureau is that this lower standard makes conviction much easier. However, others have argued that this streamlined process, along with having a judge who is an expert on traffic law, results in a fairer trial for the parties involved.

 

What to Know About Vehicular Homicide

What to Know About Vehicular Homicide

Vehicular homicide, which is also known as vehicular manslaughter, in considered a moving violation and a serious crime in most states. In general, vehicular homicide involves a person’s death that is the result of the a driver’s negligent operation of a motor vehicle, or more so the result from operating a vehicle while committing some unlawful act that may not necessarily amount to a felony. In the United States Model Penal Code, there is no special distinction between just a vehicular homicide and a vehicular homicide that also involves negligence. Both vehicular homicides fall within the overall category of a negligent homicide.
All states except Alaska, Arizona, and Montana have specific vehicular homicide statutes. The laws pertaining to vehicular homicide have the legal effect of calling a vehicle a potentially dangerous and deadly weapon, which allows for more severe penalties and easier convictions. In states that do not have statutes regarding vehicular homicide, defendants may still be charged with manslaughter or even murder depending on the situations. The victim of a vehicular homicide can either be a person who is not in the vehicle with the offending driver, for example a pedestrian, another motorist, or a cyclist, or the victim can be the passenger in the motor vehicle with the offending driver.
Motor Vehicles Involved in a Vehicular Homicide
A vehicular homicide occurs when a motor vehicle is used as the tool or instrument which causes a person’s death. Usually, the term “motor vehicle” includes all vehicles that are used and designed to mainly transport property and people on public roads and highways. The vehicle is also self-propelled and does not require manpower as a power source. Following this definition, motor vehicles that are involved in a vehicular homicide can include:
• Passenger vehicles
• Vans or mini-vans
• Sport utility vehicles 
• Motorcycles
• Taxicabs 
• Buses
• Trucks, such as pickup trucks or commercial trucks
Depending on the states, airplanes and motorboats may or may not be included within the definition of “motor vehicles” in regards to vehicular homicide. However, all-terrain vehicles, snowmobiles, watercraft, skateboards, and farm tractors are usually not considered “motor vehicles” when dealing with vehicular homicide.
Sentencing for Vehicular Homicide by State
Because the statutes and sentencing for vehicular homicide vary by state, here is a quick breakdown by state of the potential fines and time spent in prison for a vehicular homicide. Note that these can vary due to the circumstances, for example if alcohol or drugs were involved.
• Alabama: 1 to 10 years, penalties between $500 and $15,000.
• Alaska: 1 to 99 years, case law states that vehicular homicide can be criminally negligent homicide, manslaughter, or second-degree murder, depending on the risk created and level of awareness.
• Arizona: No statutes, by negligent homicide (1 to 8 years), manslaughter (7 to 21 years) or second degree murder (10 to 22 years) may apply.
• Arkansas: 5 to 20 years, classifies as a negligent homicide with fines not exceeding $15,000.
• California: 0 to 10 years and up to $10,000.
• Colorado: 2 to 6 years and $2,000 to $500,000.
• Connecticut: 1 to 10 years, up to $10,000.
• Delaware: 1 to 5 years, time spent depends on if the vehicular homicide is a first degree offense or a second degree offense.
• Florida: 0 to 15 years, up to $10,000.
• Georgia: 0 to 20 years, depending on severity of offense and whether or not the person is a habitual offender.
• Hawaii: 0 to 10 years and up to $25,000 depending on degree of negligent homicide.
•  Idaho: 0 to 15 years, and up to 15,000 for vehicular manslaughter.
•  Illinois: 1 to 28 years and up to $25,000, no probation offered unless extraordinary circumstances exist.
• Indiana: 2 to 20 years, up to $10,000, depends on offense and blood alcohol content. 
• Iowa: 1 to 25 years.
• Kansas: 0 to 172 months and fees of up to $300,000 depending on severity and whether alcohol or drugs were involved.
• Kentucky: 0 to 10 years and up to 10,000 depending on severity of the vehicular homicide.
• Louisiana: 3 to 30 years and from $2,000 to $15,000.
• Maine: 6 months to10 year, between $2,100 and $20,000.
• Maryland: 0 to 5 years, no more than $5,000.
• Massachusetts: 30 days to 15 years, depends on if there is negligence or recklessness, between $300 and $3,000.
• Michigan: 0 to 20 years, between $2,500 and $10,000.
• Minnesota: 0 to 10 years and up to $20,000 for grossly negligent behavior or DUI.
• Mississippi: 5 to 25 years and up to $1,000.
• Missouri: 0 to 15 years, depends on class of felony.
• Montana: No official vehicular homicide statute but 0 – 30 years and no more than $50,000.
• Nebraska: 1 to 50 years, up to $25,000.
• Nevada: 2 to 25 years, fees between $2,000 and $5,000, depends on if it was a DUI and any prior offenses, imprisonment for life is possible.
• New Hampshire:  0 to 15 years, up to $4,000.
• New Jersey: 5 to 10 years, no more than $150,000.
• New Mexico: 0 to 6 years, no more than $5,000 for third degree felony.
• New York:  0 to 15 years, no more than $15,000 depending on degree of manslaughter.
• North Carolina: 15 months to 40 years, depends on whether it is a felony, aggravated felony, or repeat felony.
• North Dakota: Up to 10 years and up to $10,000 can be classified as murder, manslaughter, or negligent homicide. 
• Ohio: 1 to 15 years, up to $15,000, can be classified as aggravated vehicular homicide or  involuntary manslaughter
• Oklahoma: 0 to 1 year, between $100 and $1,000.
• Oregon: 0 to 20 years, up to $375,000.
• Pennsylvania: 0 to 10 years, up to $25,000.
• Rhode Island: 5 to 25 years, up to $20,000 depending on offense. 
• South Carolina: 1 to 25 years, between $10,100 and $25,100.
• South Dakota: 0 to 15 years, up to $30,000.
• Tennessee: 80 to 60 years, up to $50,000 depending on whether it is a vehicular homicide or aggravated vehicular homicide.
• Texas: 2 to 20 years, up to $10,000.
• Utah: 0 to 15 years and up to $10,000 depending on degree of felony
• Vermont: 1 to 15 years and up to $10,000.
• Virginia: 1 to 20 years, up to $2,500.
• Washington: 31 months to 177 months, or life imprisonment depending on circumstances, no more than $50,000.
• West Virginia: 90 days to 10 years, up to $3,000.
• Wisconsin: 0 to 40 years, up to $100,000.
• Wyoming: 0 to 20 years for the felony.

A Guide to Auto Recalls

A Guide to Auto Recalls

The United States National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act gives the Department of Transportation National Highway Traffic Safety Administration the authority to create vehicle safety standards and to require vehicle manufacturers to recall motor vehicles that do not meet Federal safety standards or have any safety-related defects. Since 1966, over 390 million cars, buses, trucks, recreational vehicles, mopeds, and motorcycles, as well as nearly 66 million pieces of vehicle equipment, 46 million tires, and 42 million child safety seats have also been recalled in order to correct safety defects.
While some manufacturers may voluntarily initiate of these auto recalls, others are often influenced by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration investigations or ordered by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to perform auto recalls through the courts. If a safety defect is found in a vehicle, the manufacturer has to notify the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, as well as any vehicle owners, dealers, and distributors. The vehicle manufacturer is then required to fix the problem at no charge to the vehicle owner. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is responsible for observing the auto manufacturer’s corrective action in order to ensure successful completion of the auto recall campaign.
The Purpose of Auto Recalls
Auto recalls are necessary when:
• A motor vehicle or a part of motor vehicle equipment does not comply with the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard.
• There is some safety-related defect in the motor vehicle or its equipment.
Federal standards on motor vehicle safety create minimum performance requirements for those parts of motor the vehicle that most directly affect its safe operation (such as brakes, lighting, and tires) or that protect the vehicle’s drivers and passengers from serious injury or death in the event of a vehicle crash (such as safety belts, energy absorbing steering columns, air bags, child restraints, motorcycle helmets). These federal standards are also applicable to all motor vehicles and vehicle-related equipment that are manufactured or imported for retail in the United States and its territories and are certified for use on public highways and road.
Auto Recalls and Safety Defects
The U.S. Code for Motor Vehicle Safety (Title 49, Chapter 301) specifically defines motor vehicle safety as the motor vehicle’s performance or the performance of motor vehicle equipment in a way in which it protects the public against any unreasonable risk of vehicle accidents due to the design, construction, or the performance of a motor vehicle, and against any unreasonable risk of injury or death in an accident, and also includes nonoperational safety of the motor vehicle. Defects that can result in motor recalls include those in construction, performance, a component, or the material of a motor vehicle or its equipment. Usually, a safety defect is considered a problem that only exists in a motor vehicle or the motor vehicle equipment if:
• The motor vehicle or the equipment poses some risk to the motor vehicle safety, and
• It can exist in a group of motor vehicles of the same manufacture or design, or items of equipment of the same manufacture or type.
Examples of Safety-Related Defects that Can Result in Auto Recalls
Auto recalls can be the result of many different safety-related defects in automobiles or their parts. Some examples include the following:
• Steering components of the vehicle break suddenly resulting in partial or complete loss of control over the motor vehicle.
• Accelerator controls that stick or break.
• Issues with the fuel system components, mainly in their susceptibility to any crash damage, which results in leakage of fuel and can potential result in motor vehicle fires.
• Wheels that break or crack, which results in a loss of control over the vehicle.
• Windshield wiper assemblies that do not properly operate.
• Engine cooling fan blades that unexpectedly break resulting in injury to people working on a motor vehicle.
• Seats and/or seat backs which fail unexpectedly during regular use.
• Radios and air conditioners that do not operate properly.
• Ordinary use or wear of vehicle equipment that has to be maintained, inspected, or replaced periodically such as batteries, shock absorbers, exhaust systems and brake pads and shoes. 
• Excessive oil consumption.
• Body panel or nonstructural rust. 
• Quality of paint defects or cosmetic blemishes. 
The Start of Auto Recalls
Most decisions to conduct auto recalls and remedies of a safety defect are made by manufacturers voluntarily before any involvement by the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Through their own inspection procedures, tests, and information gathering systems, auto manufacturers often discover that some safety defect exists in the vehicle or its equipment or that the safety standard requirement has not been correctly met. If a safety defect is discovered and auto recalls are necessary, the vehicle manufacturer must file a public report that describes the safety-related defect or the noncompliance with the federal motor vehicle safety standard, the events that resulted in the determination of the auto recall, the involved motor vehicle or motor vehicle equipment population, a description of the auto recall’s remedy, and a schedule for auto recalls. 
After auto recalls, manufacturers are required to attempt to notify owners of the recalled products. For auto recalls of motor vehicles, that means manufacturers must combine their own records of motor vehicle purchasers with the current state motor vehicle registration information. For motor vehicle equipment, where there are no state registration records, manufacturers must notify the distribution chain and all known purchasers of the recalled motor vehicle equipment. If an owner of a vehicle subject to any auto recalls does not receive a notification, the manufacturer is then obligated to provide a free remedy for the vehicle or equipment.

Booster Seat Requirements for Your Child’s Safety

Booster Seat Requirements for Your Child’s Safety

What is a Booster Seat?
Unlike many child restraints with built-in harnesses, a booster seat uses on a vehicle’s belt to buckle a child in. The purpose is to make the adult seat belt fit the child better. Booster seats used are for children who have outgrown forward-facing restraints. The best booster seats will provide a good fit for the adult seat belt for typical children between 4 and 8 years old or above 40 pounds in nearly any car, SUV, or minivan.
A booster seat is a firm cushion made of plastic or foam that elevates a child higher in a car in order to improve the angle and position of the shoulder seat belt. Booster seat requirements call for slots or hooks where the lap belt is put through to lower the lap belt down to the child’s hips and thighs. There are high back, backless, and removable-back booster seats. Many booster seats also include a comfort clip or a shoulder belt guide that can be used, if needed, to slightly lower the shoulder belt so it can cross the center of the child’s shoulder and chest.
Booster Seat Requirements for Your Child
While there are no strict booster seat requirements for the design of a booster seat, ideal booster seats have a removable back with adjustable headrests. Most high back booster seats have energy-absorbing, high-density foam in the head region. In order protect a child’s neck and spine, the head must be properly supported by the vehicle seatback, headrest, or booster seat. An adjustable headrest also helps keep a sleeping child properly positioned under the vehicle belt and also comfortably positions the shoulder without preventing it from properly retracting.
Booster Seat Requirements by State
 Each state has its own specific booster seat requirements. Some states do not explicitly state that a booster seat is needed, but rather some sort of child restraint system is required. If your state is not listed, there are no booster seat requirements for children between 4 and 8 years old.
• Alabama Booster Seat Requirements: Booster seat for children between the ages of 5 and 6 years old.
• Alaska Booster Seat Requirements: Booster seat for ages between 4 and 7 (between 20 and 64 pounds or less than 57”).
• Arizona Booster Seat Requirements: Child restraint for children less than 5 years old.
• Arkansas Booster Seat Requirements: Child restraint for children less than 5 years old (and less than 60 pounds).
• California Booster Seat Requirements: Child restraint for children less than 8 years old (and less than 57″) in rear seat if possible.
• Colorado Booster Seat Requirements: Booster seat for children ages between 4 and 7.
• Connecticut Booster Seat Requirements: Child restraint system for children between ages 1 and 6 (and less than 60 pounds).
• Delaware Booster Seat Requirements: Child restraint for children less than 7 years old (less than 66 pounds).
• Georgia Booster Seat Requirements: Child restraint for children less than 8 years old (and less than 57″) in rear seat if possible.
• Hawaii Booster Seat Requirements: Booster seat for child restraint for between 4 and 7.
• Idaho Booster Seat Requirements: Child restraints required for children less than 7 years old.
• Illinois Booster Seat Requirements: Child restraint for children less than 7 years old.
• Indiana Booster Seat Requirements: Child restraint for children less than 7 years old.
• Iowa Booster Seat Requirements: Child restraint for children 4-5 years old.
• Kansas Booster Seat Requirements: Booster seat or child restraint required for children between ages 4 and 7 years old (and less than 80 pounds or than 57″).
• Kentucky Booster Seat Requirements: Booster seat for children less than 6 years old (between 40″ and 50″).
• Louisiana Booster Seat Requirements: Booster seat for children between ages 4 and 5 years old (between 40 and 60 pounds).
• Maine Booster Seat Requirements: Booster seat for children 40 to 80 pounds and less than 8 years old
• Maryland Booster Seat Requirements: Child restraint for children less than 8 (and less than 57″ and less than 65 pounds).
• Massachusetts Booster Seat Requirements: Child restraint for children less than 7 years old (and less than 57″).
• Michigan Booster Seat Requirements: Child restraint for children less than 7 years old (and less than 57″).
• Minnesota Booster Seat Requirements: Child restraint for children less than 7 years old (and less than 57″).
• Mississippi Booster Seat Requirements: Booster seat for children between 4 and 6 years old (and less than 57″ or 65 pounds).
• Missouri Booster Seat Requirements: Booster seat between 4 and 7 years old (and between 40 and 80 pounds and less than 57″) or for children 4 years or older (and greater than 80 pounds or more than 57″) in rear seat.
• Montana Booster Seat Requirements: Child restraint for children less than 6 years old (and less than 60 pounds).
• Nebraska Booster Seat Requirements: Child restraint for children less than 5 years old.
• Nevada Booster Seat Requirements: Child restraint for children less than 6 years old (less than 60 pounds).
• New Hampshire Booster Seat Requirements: Child restraint for children less than 5 years old (less than 55″).
• New Jersey Booster Seat Requirements: Child restraint for children less than 8 years old (less than 80 pounds).
• New Mexico Booster Seat Requirements: Booster seat for children 5 and 6 years old (or less than 60 pounds).
• New York Booster Seat Requirements: Child restraint for children between 4 and 7 years old unless no lap/shoulder belt is available.
• North Carolina Booster Seat Requirements: Child restraint for than 7 years old (and less than 80 pounds).
• North Dakota Booster Seat Requirements: Child restraint for less than 6 years old (and less than 80 pounds or 57”), or if greater than 40 pounds, child can use lap belt if lap/shoulder seat belts is not available.
• Ohio Booster Seat Requirements: Booster seat for children between 4 and 7 years old (greater than 40 pounds and less than 57″).
• Oklahoma Booster Seat Requirements: Lap belt for children greater than 40 pounds in rear seat if belt if lap/shoulder belt is unavailable.
• Oregon Booster Seat Requirements: Booster seat for children less than 8 years old but over 40 pounds or less than 57″ tall.
• Pennsylvania Booster Seat Requirements (Pennsylvania Vehicle Registration): Child restraint for children less than 7 years old.
• Rhode Island Booster Seat Requirements: Child restraint for children less than 7 years old (less than 80 pounds and less than 57″) in rear seat if possible.
• South Carolina Booster Seat Requirements: Booster seat for children between 1 and 5 years old (between 40 and 80 pounds) secured by lap/shoulder belt.
• Tennessee Booster Seat Requirements: Booster seat for children between 4 and 8 years old (and less than 57”), rear seat if available for children less than 8 years old (and less than 57”)
• Texas Booster Seat Requirements: Child restraint for children less than 7 years old (and less than 57″).
• Utah Booster Seat Requirements: Child restraint for children less than 7 years old (and less than 57″).
• Vermont Booster Seat Requirements: Child restraint for children between 2 and 7 years old (and greater than 20 pounds).
• Virginia Booster Seat Requirements: Child restraint for children less than 7 years old.
• Washington Booster Seat Requirements: Child restraint for children less than 8 years old (and less than 57”).
• West Virginia Booster Seat Requirements: Child restraint for children less than 7 years old (and less than 57”).
• Wisconsin Booster Seat Requirements: Booster seat for children between 4 and 7 years old (and 40 and 80 pounds and less than 57″).
• Wyoming Booster Seat Requirements: Child restraint for children less than 8 years old in rear seat if available.

A Guide to Moving Violations

A Guide to Moving Violations

What are Moving Violations?
A moving violation is a violation of traffic law which is committed by a driver of a motor vehicle while the vehicle is in motion. The word “motion” distinguishes moving violations from other traffic violations such as equipment violations, parking violations, or paperwork violations that are related to registration insurance, inspection, or others.
Moving violations are usually more heavily penalized because in theory, they are more likely to cause direct physical hard to the other individuals or cause property damage. While some traffic violations, like parking violations, are considered civil matters that only involve a vehicle’s owner, moving violations are actually charged against the vehicle driver. Moving violations are typically classified as misdemeanors or infractions, but any serious moving violations such driving under the influence, a hit and run, or road rage can be classified as felonies depending on the situation.
The most typically enforced moving violation, and certainly the most frequent reason for a motor vehicle pullover (regardless of specific citation issued, if any), is a moving violation that involve the speed limit. The measurements of drivers speed throughout time have found certain roadways where driver compliance with the speed laws is very low, which makes many motor vehicles liable to be pulled over by law enforcement.
Severe Moving Violations
As mentioned, some serious moving violations will result in criminal charges such as misdemeanors or felonies. Here are some severe moving violations that you should be aware of:
Severe Moving Violations: Driving Under the Influence


Driving under the influence (known as a DUI or DWI for driving while intoxicated) is the act of operating a motor vehicle while having blood levels of alcohol that exceed a legal limit. For these moving violations, convictions do not necessarily require actual driving of the motor vehicle. In most jurisdictions, a measurement like the person’s blood alcohol content beyond a defined level, like 0.08% defines the offense, without having to prove driving impairment. 
For DUI moving violations, many states adopted truth in sentencing laws which enforce strict guidelines on sentencing for this moving violation. Many jurisdictions in the United States require more serious penalties for this moving violation, such as large fines, jail time, DUI programs, or the installation of ignition interlock devices. These penalties can increase even more when driver’s BAC is much higher than the limit, such as 0.15-0.20%.These additional penalties are an attempt to prevent and punish the operation of a motor vehicle at extremely high blood alcohol content levels and the resulting danger posed to the safety of individuals and personal property by heavily impaired drunk drivers. 
Severe Moving Violations: Reckless Driving
Reckless driving is another severe moving traffic violation. It is considered a more serious moving violation than careless driving, improper driving, and driving without due care and attention. Reckless driving often results in fines, jail time, and/or suspension or revocation of a driver’s license as well as a misdemeanor criminal record.
When a person commits reckless driving moving violations, the driver is often in a mental state in which he or she displays an extreme disregard for the regulations of the road. The driver often misjudges normal driving procedures, which results in accidents and damages such as personal injury or property damage. Like other moving violations, reckless driving stays on your DMV record also results in points added to your insurance.  Reckless driving usually goes hand in hand with other moving violations such as speeding or alcohol use.
Severe Moving Violations: Vehicular Homicide
Vehicular homicide, sometimes called vehicular manslaughter, is one of the more severe moving violations that result in a criminal record. In general, vehicle homicide results in death from the negligent operation of a motor vehicle or from driving while performing an unlawful act that does not necessarily amount to a felony. In the Model Penal Code, there are no distinctions between vehicular homicide alone and vehicular homicides that include negligence. Both moving violations are included in the category of negligent homicide.
 All states with the exception of Alaska, Arizona, and Montana have statutes regarding this moving violation. The relevant laws have the effect of calling the motor vehicle a potentially deadly weapon, which allows for easier criminal conviction and severe penalties. In states that do not have statutes regarding vehicular homicide, defendants may still be charged with murder or manslaughter in some situations. The victim of these moving violations may be either an individual not in the vehicle with the offending motorist, like a pedestrian, another motorist, cyclist, or the passenger who is in the motor vehicle with the offender.
Severe Moving Violations: Street Racing


Street racing is an illegal unsanctioned form of motor racing that takes place on public roads and is considered a moving violation. Street racing can either be well-planned and coordinated or spontaneous. The street racing culture is particularly in Northern California and Southern Florida.
In certain cases, the popularity of street racing has resulted in tough anti-street racing regulations which give more strict penalties, including misdemeanor offenses for attending race events, than normal moving violations and also result in dedicated anti-racing task forces. Penalties for these moving violations now can even include impoundment or even destruction of the offending motor vehicle as well as the revocation or suspension of the offender’s license. 
Other Moving Violations
While the punishments for other moving violations are not as severe, you should still be aware of what is considered a moving violation and avoid them:
• Running a red traffic light or a stop sign
• Speeding, which can either be exceeding a speed limit or just driving at an unsafe speed
• Failure to yield to another motor vehicle who has right-of-way
• Failure to use signals for lane changes or turns
• Failure to drive within one single lane
• Crossing over a median, gore, or center divider
• Driving your vehicle on the shoulder of the road when it is considered illegal under specific conditions
• Failure to properly use a seat belt
• Failure to stop at a cross walk for a pedestrian 
• Failure to stop for a school bus while children are exiting or boarding the bus
• Failure to secure a load to a lorry or a truck
• Illegally driving in a car pool lane 
• Depending on the jurisdiction, operating a mobile device while driving
• Driving a motor vehicle outside the conditions of one’s driver’s license

What to Know About Pedestrians

What to Know About Pedestrians

In the United States, pedestrians often cross roads and in doing so, they may come into the way of motor vehicles traveling on the road. While In many places pedestrians are left to cross safely by themselves after observing the road and crossing only when they know traffic will threaten them, many busier cities often provide pedestrian crossings, where pedestrians are expected to cross.
The appearance of pedestrian crossings can greatly vary, but the two most common crosswalk designations for pedestrians are either a series of parallel white stripes on the ground or two long white lines horizontal to each other. The former of the two is typically preferred, since it stands out more much more conspicuously against the road’s dark pavement.
Other pedestrian crossings also have a traffic signal which makes vehicles stop at regular intervals in order to allow pedestrians to cross the street. Others have “intelligent” signals, where pedestrians can push a button, which results in the traffic signal will schedule a stop in order to allow pedestrians to cross. Pedestrian crossings that do not have traffic signals are also very common. In this situation, the laws usually say that pedestrians have the right of way if crossing, and motor vehicles must stop to allow the pedestrian to cross. 
Pedestrians, Drivers, and the Right of Way
Certain jurisdictions forbid pedestrians from crossing the road at any point other than at crosswalks, which is called jaywalking. In other areas, pedestrians can have the right to cross where they choose to, and they also have the right of way over any vehicular traffic while crossing. Most crosswalks exist at all intersections which meet at nearly right angles, whether they have walk markings or not. Some states, like California, have pedestrian safety laws that require cars to stop for any pedestrians in both unmarked and marked crosswalks.
In most states, drivers have to wait only until the pedestrian has crossed the half of the crosswalk which the driver is driving on, after which he or she may proceed. However, some states, such as Utah, require the driver to wait the full time, for example in a school zone when the lights flashing are on, before he or she can proceed.
Types of Pedestrian Laws
Not only are there laws that look at the interaction between drivers and pedestrians, but there are also those that regulate pedestrian conduct. While each state has specific laws regarding both of these, all states have laws that consider the following issues:
• The way pedestrians must obey traffic control devices and traffic signals unless directed by a police or traffic officer.
• Drivers and bicyclists yielding or stopping to pedestrians at crosswalks.
• Where pedestrians must walk on roadways if sidewalks are not available. 
• Drivers exercising care to avoid hitting a pedestrian.
• Pedestrians abruptly leaving a curve and moving into traffic.
• Pedestrians yielding to motor vehicles outside of intersections.
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