Getting Your First Used Car? What You Need To Do Before You Start Driving

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Insurance 101: Tips and Tricks to Choosing the Right Policy

Since my parents always added me to their auto insurance policy when I was a teenager, I never learned how to make educated insurance policy decisions. When I moved out of my parents house at the age of 25 and it was time to get my own policy, I was overwhelmed with all of the decisions I had to make. Thankfully, my parents were eager to teach me what each insurance coverage option meant and what the best choices were for me. I learned a lot about insurance during this experience, and I am eager to share what I learned with others on my new blog. I also plan to include many tips on choosing health and homeowners insurance policies, so check back often if you want to learn a little more about insurance!

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Getting Your First Used Car? What You Need To Do Before You Start Driving

19 August 2021
 Categories: Insurance, Blog


If you are getting your first used car, this can be an exciting time. To ensure things go smoothly, there are some things you must do before you start driving your new car, such as getting car insurance and having the car inspected.

Get Car Insurance

Depending on the state that you live in, it is often required that you have car insurance. Even if your state does not require it, you should still purchase car insurance. This is one of the most important things you can do.  

There is liability insurance which only covers the other driver and their medical bills, if there are any; however, your car will not be covered at all. You can save money by having only liability insurance. Consider how much your car is worth. If you could easily replace it, then liability would be a good option. If your car is worth much more than you can pay, then this would not be the right insurance for you.

Full coverage insurance covers you, your vehicle, and your medical bills if you are in a car accident. If the accident is your fault, your insurance company will cover the other driver's expenses, such as all medical expenses, and repair or replace their car. Your premiums will be higher with this insurance. An insurance agent can go over each of these with you in much more detail.

Have the Car Inspected

If you are purchasing a used car from an individual, you should hire a mechanic to inspect the car for you. First, ask the owner if they have done the right maintenance on the car, such as oil changes, check fluid levels, etc. If so, they should be able to prove this by showing paperwork.

The mechanic can check the engine to ensure it is in good condition. They will look at the spark plugs, the plug wiring, and much more. They will inspect the radiator, carburetor, belts, hoses, and fluid levels. The exterior will be checked for any problems, such as dents, rust, etc. The mechanic will check the interior for cleanliness, rips in seats, damage to the ceiling, etc. There may be things that you have not noticed yourself, such as small rips or cracks in seats. Tires and breaks will also be inspected.

Once you have the car inspected and the insurance in place, you will feel great knowing your car is ready for the road.