Sunday, December 28, 2014

Experiences With Driving

It's been about a month since I've gotten my learner's permit, so I figured I should share some of my first impressions of driving with you guys. All the basics lessons still apply, like pay attention, stay focused, don't text and drive, and wear a seatbelt. But, I've learned a few things.

First, when one first starts driving, they tend to sway to the right. This is because most teenagers aren't used to being on the left side of the car and aren't properly "calibrated" for this new position.

Next, the hardest part of driving can be backing out of your own driveway. When I back out of my driveway, there are a few hazards I have to worry about. Other cars, other people, kids and pets in the street, the car parked in the street, and making sure I'm in reverse. On top of the fact that I have to put some attention to steering the car, this can be quite a hectic situation.

Finally, I've learned to know that I will make mistakes. Let's say you don't do something right during driving. The car behind you honks and you get embarrassed, stop focusing on the road, and start focusing on what just happened. The next thing you know, you're half-way out of your lane. Yeah. New drivers need to know that they're gonna make mistakes and that people around them will be considerate. This is probably the most important lesson I've learned so far that hasn't been taught in driver's ed.

I hope this helps people who recently started driving and I wish you a happy new year!

Sunday, December 21, 2014

Emergency First Aid Kit

In case you're ever in an accident, you should be prepared. Be sure to always have an emergency kit in your trunk. Here are some essentials:

  • Flares
  • First Aid Kit
  • Water
    • Keep it in glass, not plastic
  • Gloves
  • 2 Quarts of Oil
  • Flashlight
  • Blanket
  • Brake Fluid
  • Jumper Cables
  • Tire Inflator
    • Tire Pressure Gauge While You're At It
  • Rags or T-Shirt
  • Funnel
  • Paper Towels
  • Pocketknife
Always be prepared! You never know what will happen on the road!

Sunday, December 14, 2014

Hydroplaning

'Tis the season as the cool kids say. As the rainy days come for many cities across the country, hydroplaning is one of the burdens that come with the rain. This typically occurs when water on a road renders your inputs to the car useless. As a result, your car is essentially like one of those teacup rides at Disneyland as your only useful tool is your steering wheel. Just steer your car if hydroplaning occurs. Don't use the gas or your brakes. It should be noted that vehicles hydroplane at speeds over 53 mph. It should also be noted that all-wheel drive vehicles are less likely to hydroplane. Check out this video by Defensive Driving for a good explanation on hydroplaning.

Sunday, December 7, 2014

Auto Insurance Discounts for Good Students

Statistics show that students with a 3.0 GPA or higher are less likely to get into a car crash. Insurance companies acknowledge that by lowering your insurance rate. How can you get in on this? You just need to meet the prerequisites. You must:
  • be younger than 25 years old
  • be enrolled in a high school, college, or university
  • have at least a B average (3.0+ GPA), be on the honor roll, or be on the Dean's List
  • turn in your proof of good performance
A report card or letter signed by an administrator is considered proof of good performance. 

Remember that auto insurance rates typically double when a teenager starts driving because they are considered a liability. Doing well at school can help ease the burden of this insurance cost. Also, different states, schooling techniques (e.g. home schooling), and insurance companies may have different policies regarding this discount. Be sure to check in with them before applying for the discount.