Ounces versus Pounds: A look at sound preventive measures – The Car
Monday, October 19th, 2009 by Charles Mayfield, CFP®
This is the second posting for my “Ounces versus Pounds” series. If you missed the first one, here is a link: http://atlantaplanningguys.com/?p=436. As is the case with much of the guidance that Cass and I dispense, you can’t hear enough of it. Here are some things to consider routinely doing to make sure you and your vehicle are prepared for whatever life throws at you:
Air it up: It seems almost too obvious that you should check the air in your tires. However, you would be surprised how many of us are driving around with too little. Make sure to especially check them if you’re loading the car up for a road trip or even if you’re just running some long errands around the city. Do an internet search to find the appropriate PSI (pounds per square inch) of pressure needed in your tires and then head to a gas station to check them out. Be sure and check the air of your spare tire also. The spare is just as important, as the other four you ride around on, when something goes wrong.
Roadside assistance: Everyone has their roadside assistance story. There are plenty of ways to get roadside assistance. Many car manufacturers offer it (at least for a few years). If yours doesn’t, consider joining an auto club. Make sure you have some for that “just in case” moment.
Light things up: Be sure to check and make sure all your turn signals, brake lights and head lights work properly. Especially as we approach winter and those long days of summer turn quickly to dark mornings and early sundowns. Not only are non-functioning lights dangerous to you, they also could lead to costly tickets.
Review your coverage: Would you submit a claim on your insurance for $250? How about $500? If the answer is no, then why do you carry deductibles that are that low? Review your policy to make sure that your coverage matches up with your willingness to assume risk. Increasing your deductible could save you more than you think. Additionally, there have been a few changes regarding how the uninsured motorist coverage on your policy works (http://atlantaplanningguys.com/?p=331). Call your agent for assistance today.
Remember, everything is great when everything is well…..great. Take a few minutes and prepare yourself for the unforeseen. It is those that are prepared for the worst that often don’t experience it.
