Auto insurance, gas prices and economics
I don’t know about you, but every time I paid another bill and financial things seem to smooth out a bit, there is always some other financial hurdle to overcome. Take the recent rise in gasoline prices. Although some claim that it is insignificant, this is definitely not the case. Aside from the usual homeowner stuff and business insurance and maintenance costs, as well as never-yielding car maintenance and coverage premiums to deal with, rising prices hit us all.
While diesel truck drivers can legitimately complain about constantly rising costs, the average car, truck, motorcycle, ATV, RV, or ATV now suffers from the painful slap on the wallet. Economists, as well as major insurance companies, will tell you to defend yourself.
Counter? How do you go to war with gasoline pumps?
That is how:
1. When buying a new car, select one that has an excellent mileage history.
2. Research gas prices and sponsor the pumps that offer the best rate per gallon.
3. Be consistent with car maintenance practices: change the oil and filter as recommended and change the air filter according to the car manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Check your car’s fan belt. If it’s installed too tight, make sure it’s loose enough so your engine won’t run overtime and your gas level won’t either.
5. Check all four tires and tire pressure. If you’re low on air, unfortunately your gas will go the extra mile in the effort, too.
6. When the summer heat is too much to bear, use your vehicle’s air conditioner. However, if you are fine with the windows down, turn off the air conditioning. Note: this is only fiscally advantageous on city roads; Driving with the window open on the road only increases the overall resistance of the vehicle and the effort of the engine, requiring an overdose of gasoline use.
7. Avoid unnecessary loads on your car, as the added weight keeps it running hard along with the need to use more fuel.
8. If you can avoid a motorist’s busiest moment on the road, by all means, do so. Rush hour driving, with all stops and starts, affects gas levels.
9. Carpooling is tricky, especially when there is a group that goes to the same workplace or school every day. You will not only save gas, but also the wear and tear of daily car use and the risk of accidents or collisions.
10. Instead of driving everywhere, try incorporating healthy walking and biking. You’ll be doing your physical well-being as well as your gas tank a huge favor!