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About 128 million Americans commute to work each day, with an average commute time of 25.5 minutes, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Chances are, you’re one of these people. Commuting to work obviously costs money in terms of gas and wear and tear on the car — but you may not know that how long you commute to work each day also can affect your auto insurance premium.
Many newer vehicle models come equipped with technology that helps drivers navigate, helps them apply the brakes correctly and even lets the car temporarily steer itself if all else fails. But while cars are getting smarter and safer, are drivers keeping up?
The answer is “probably not,” according to the latest MetLife American Safety Pulse poll.
Jail time, fines and license suspensions are some of the consequences that those convicted of drunken driving face. In some cases, they also face an additional hurdle — an ignition interlock device that prevents them from committing the same crime twice.
Technology often gets a bad reputation when it comes to driving safety, as cellphones and smartphone apps are becoming widely known as dangerous distractions. Yet other improvements in technology may keep drivers safer and more aware of what’s happening on the road. Technology companies and auto manufacturers alike are now experimenting with augmented reality — and exploring its possibilities for driving safety and car repairs.
You may have heard that bigger vehicles are better when it comes to your safety during an auto accident. Crash tests and safety studies suggest that may be the case in many circumstances. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean that your small car is a death trap. There are several interwoven factors that affect your safety — and you auto insurance premiums.
Crawford Frazer
July and August are the biggest months for auto theft, according to a news release from the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) and security company LoJack. Much of the problem is that thieves are clever. But, according to the release, some car owners are making things too easy.
The vehicles offered at independent used car lots, at salvage auctions or even in newspaper or online ads may seem like real bargains. But that 3-year-old, low-mileage car that’s going for just a few thousand dollars may have more problems than you realize. It could be a salvaged vehicle that has not been properly repaired.
