AUTO Insurance

Warning to young employees opting out of auto-pensions

2011-12-19T04:43:00.000-08:00

By Jeff Prestridge
Last updated at 9:53 AM on 19th December 2011

Workers who delay taking advantage of new rules next year allowing them to auto-enrol in an occupational pension could end up with a retirement fund 20 per cent lower than if they had joined immediately.

The finding is based on research by the Pensions Policy Institute for insurance giant Prudential. The PPI found that thousands of workers would opt out of the pensions.

Barry O'Dwyer, Prudential UK deputy chief executive, said: ‘Auto-enrolment is expected to encourage an extra four to nine million people either to start saving into a pension earlier or to save higher amounts.

'But we need to be realistic and recognise that some young people will not want the additional expense of investing in a pension.'

He said it was crucial that employers should continue to back workplace pensions with generous contributions made on behalf of employees.

Auto Insurance Of Las Vegas - Affordable Automobile Insurance Coverage

2011-11-30T00:17:00.000-08:00

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The U.K.'s Faulty Car-Insurance Market

2011-09-12T01:34:00.000-07:00

Car insurance in the U.K. is a wreck.

Prices for auto insurance are rising 40% annually, but many of those writing the business still are losing money. The Association of British Insurers estimates the industry as a whole hasn't been profitable for 16 years. Now, the Office of Fair Trading is investigating the rise in prices. It certainly could apply the jumper cables.

With 10 companies, and none exceeding a 30% market share, car insurance looks like a competitive market. Price-comparison websites, which now dominate sales, are helping to drive prices down. But the role of such websites will be included in the Office of Fair Trading's investigation. This year, it raised concerns about insurers sharing car-insurance pricing information on market analysis software.

Insurers blame spiraling prices on claims inflation and litigation costs, following the emergence of a "no-win, no-fee" claims-management industry. For low-value claims, insurers now estimate they are paying almost as much to lawyers in fees as they are to the injured party. They say insurance fraud, too, has risen. Over the last five years, personal-injury claims from car accidents have risen 10% annually, including a large number recently for whiplash, which is hard to prove medically.

But claims inflation is partly insurers' own fault. The problem is referral fees, money insurers receive from passing accident victims' details onto third parties. That helps fuel the growth in claims, because lawyers recoup the money off the insurer of the party at fault. Insurers are now pushing for the government to ban such fees, a move backed by the legal industry's representative body, the Law Society. AXA, already, has stopped the practice, but some companies are reluctant to act unilaterally.

Outlawing such fees would be a good first step. Requiring greater proof of damage to the car or driver before paying injury claims might be another.

Still, one reason for high prices simply is that insurers are earning lower returns on their investment portfolios, which in the past made up for weak underwriting profitability. There's little the Office of Fair Trading can do about that.

One in seven drivers has no insurance

2011-09-12T01:33:00.000-07:00

Despite laws in nearly every state requiring auto insurance, one in seven drivers in the USA goes uncovered.

That's according to an industry group that estimates 13.8% of motorists are uninsured, a number that has climbed during the economic downturn as many financially-pressed Americans allowed their insurance to lapse.

"Over the last 20 years, uninsured motorists and the unemployment rate have tracked fairly closely," says David Corum, vice president of the Insurance Research Council, a non-profit supported by insurers.

Insured drivers pay a hefty price for fellow motorists who have no policies — $10.8 billion in 2007, according to the most recent data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners.

"Most of the people that do have insurance have coverage that includes uninsured motorist coverage … to protect them (if) they're injured in an accident caused by another motorist who does not have insurance," Corum says.

Automobile insurance is compulsory in every state except New Hampshire, says Loretta Worters, vice president of the Insurance Information Institute— but that doesn't deter scofflaws.

"Laws in most states have proven ineffective in reducing the numbers of drivers who are uninsured," Worters says. "Some drivers can't afford insurance, and some drivers with surcharges for accidents or serious traffic violations don't want to pay the high premiums that result from a poor driving record. It is costly to track down violators of compulsory insurance laws, and unless the odds of getting caught are high and the penalties severe, drivers will continue to flout the law."

The rate of uninsured motorists varies widely — from 4% in Massachusetts to 28% in Mississippi, according to the IRC.

In Massachusetts, drivers must show proof of insurance before they can register a vehicle. Insurance commissioner Joseph Murphy attributes his state's low rate of uninsured motorists largely to that requirement. About half the states have a similar requirement, according to the Insurance Information Institute.

Mississippi, however, has no way for police to determine whether a driver has coverage, says insurance commissioner Mike Chaney. He says he worries about privacy and entrapment if data are misused, and his state doesn't require proof of insurance. "The legislature has never had the fortitude or the backbone to do it," he says.

As economy sinks, pay-as-you-go insurance soars

2011-09-12T01:28:00.000-07:00

As job growth stalls and household budgets shrink, more drivers are warming up to cost-cutting "pay-as-you-go" car insurance programs.

Pay-as-you-go car insurance plans peg your car insurance rate to the number of miles you drive. Drivers also receive discounts for avoiding violations and accidents, and for limiting time on the road during peak hours and late-night hours.

If you meet all pay-as-you-go requirements, it's possible to save up to 30 percent on car insurance rates.

A majority of drivers who took a joint MSN-Insurance.com online poll said they would at least consider driving less if it meant they could save money on car insurance.

Car insurance companies respond to demand
Two of the nation's biggest insurers are now responding to this growing demand for pay-as-you-go coverage.

A few weeks ago, State Farm - the country's largest insurer - announced plans to introduce a new telematics-based effort dubbed In-Drive to drivers in Illinois. Additional states are slated to receive In-Drive in 2012.

Allstate - the nation's third-largest insurer - also recently expanded its Drive Wise pay-as-you-go program to Ohio and Arizona after an earlier rollout in Illinois.

It's no coincidence that pay-as-you-go insurance is on the upswing at a time when the economy is in a downward spiral, according to Robert Passmore, spokesperson for the Property Casualty Insurers Association of America (PCI).

"A lot of companies are offering it, and a lot of people are driving less and looking for ways to save money," he says.

More control, lower car insurance costs
If you join a telematics-based program, you'll typically be asked to install a device into your car's diagnostic port (located below the steering column) that records information such as:

How many miles you drive
How often you brake hard
How smoothly you navigate turns
Initially, privacy advocates raised concerns about these devices and their ability to snoop on drivers. But the success of programs such as Progressive's Snapshot and a GMAC Insurance program based on OnStar technology apparently has convinced more insurers that pay-as-you-go insurance is the wave of the future.

The future of pay-as-you-go car insurance
Although pay-as-you-go insurance is just now catching on, advocates have been pushing it for years as a way to both save customers money and to achieve other social benefits, such as reducing traffic fatalities and cutting back on pollutants that contribute to global warming.

A 2008 study by the Brookings Institution noted that, "Just as an all-you-can-eat restaurant encourages more eating, all-you-can-drive insurance pricing encourages more driving. That means more accidents, congestion, carbon emissions, local pollution, and dependence on oil."

While it appears the world is catching up with those sentiments, it's unlikely that pay-as-you-go insurance will become the dominant form of pricing in the industry.

Kraft points out that such programs are not the best option for all policyholders. If you drive frequently or have a spotty driving record, pay-as-you-go probably doesn't make sense.

"It's not going to be a program that we're going to end up seeing 60 [percent] or 70 [percent] or 80 percent of our customers opt into," he says.

Still, Kraft believes drivers who choose pay-as-you-go automobile insurance coverage to save a buck during hard times will stick with the program long after the economy heals itself. And Passmore still sees room for the trend to grow.

"If people like it and perceive it as a value and save money, why not?" Passmore asks.

Stamping out of the Women’s Car Insurance

2011-03-09T02:24:00.001-08:00

The court has already decided to all intents and purposes to bring to an end the diverse rates charged to men and women.

Women’s car insurance was already eradicated in which, prejudice opposed to them will still be present including the truth that on wellbeing, existence or tour insurance according on sexual category will be dropped as well.

Setting the women’s car insurance aside, Malta Confederation of Women’s Organisations representative Ms. Renee Laiviera, shared that the drawbacks on wellbeing and existence guidelines is already prevalent around the world. Prejudice in women is also present at times on personal annuity since men have a shorter expectancy of existence.

The National Council of Women representative, Grace Attard not only greeted the decision of the court with open arms, but also with an open mind wherein the assembly approved so long as it was functional across the board together with the insurance about wellbeing. Women’s car insurance, although phased out of the insurance industry, a provisional exclusion authorized the utilization of sexual category as a basis for the estimation of payments and remuneration if pertinent and truthful numerical information are employed and made available.

Car insurance companies 'slashing rates to attract customers'

2011-03-09T02:22:00.000-08:00

Insurance firms are desperately trying to attract consumers, an expert believes.

Consumers searching for attractive deals on personal finance products such as car insurance are likely to have many options available to them due to the intense competition between companies in the sector.

That is the opinion of Lindsay Williamson, secretary at the Insurance Society of Edinburgh, who has said that this market - which also includes other areas such as home insurance and travel insurance - is being hotly contested by firms desperately trying to attract customers.

Ms Williamson noted that because organisations are slashing quotes in a bid to gain a share of the sector, individuals may be able to access cheap deals in the near future.

"Most products are very price-sensitive - even commercially, companies are competing in a market now that is probably a bit overcrowded," she explained.

This comes after Aviva revealed last week that it had experienced a 26 per cent rise in its operating profit figures last year.

Auto Insurance Problems Revealed

2011-03-09T02:21:00.000-08:00

The battle of the sexes does not only exist in the non-technical side of life. It has already reached the Insurance industry particularly the auto insurance.

The European Court of Justice (ECJ) currently announced a decree banning companies from using the gender of the person to establish prices. Women benefitted this decree more than men wherein the short term distinct probable frontrunners are the insurance companies. For over a decade now, propositions for the parity in gender in the insurance industry are still rolling. Good thing that in 2004, it was made into an ordinance to have parity in the provision of merchandise and services.

Several accounts of gender disparity continue to arise despite the fact that the European Court of Justice has already promulgated an ordinance concerning the uproar of different individuals. There was a general rule, according to Juliane Kokott, an advocate of the ECJ, that states the premiums and benefits of unisex will be invalid by the 21st of December 2012. It was believed to be disparaging and has earned a lot of denunciation not only from the auto insurance industry, but to everyone concerned as well.

How to Get Low Cost Teen Auto Insurance

2011-03-09T02:20:00.001-08:00

Once kids hit the adolescent stage, their parents start popping maintenance pills for hypertension. This may be a bit of an exaggeration but we can’t erase the fact that as soon as teens reach the age where they can legally drive, parents can only kiss low-cost car insurances goodbye. It’s hard enough to continually remind your child about the dangers of irresponsible driving. But don’t lose hope. There is a way where parents can get low-cost car insurance.

Insurance companies can give lower rates if your kid/s is/are performing well in school. Good academic performance means that the child is capable of exercising good responsibility.

Regardless of whether you have a teen driver in the house or not, taking a higher deductible works well for getting cheaper car insurance. You can go from a $250 deductible to a $1000 deductible, because you will find that it will definitely lower your rates.

Some sneaky insurance company would sometimes automatically assign the youngest driver to the most expensive vehicle. This can be really expensive. A good advice is to check with your insurance company so that you can assign your kid to a less expensive car.

Lastly, you can get discounts if your kid/s will sign up to supplemental driver’s ed classes. This can definitely lower down your insurance rates.

Insurance Buffs Site Goes Live Offering Auto Insurance Affordable to the Masses

2010-11-04T04:19:00.000-07:00

Online PR News – 03-November-2010 – New site, Insurance Buffs, enters the online insurance fray with auto insurance coverage geared towards those who need coverage on a budget. The site offers a variety of insurance types, “with a key focus on making auto insurance affordable for the average working guy or gal,” says the chief marketing officer for the site.

“With car insurance no longer being an option in many states, a lot of people are struggling to keep at least a minimum amount of coverage in place. We have taken this into account in constructing this site, but we took it a bit further by working with providers that would not only provide our clients the cheapest car insurance, but make sure that they are fairly covered as well. We want to get people past the days of just having no-fault insurance; so we made it our mission to get folks value for their money.”

The Insurance Buffs site provides a single point of contact for shopping out insurance quotes through their network of insurers. By filling out a short application form, the consumer is able to be returned competing quotes from a number of insurance companies.

About InsuranceBuffs.com:

Meeting the insurance needs of the consumer is our goal; we offer insurance for several facets of life. Our offerings include life insurance for the security of the entire family, home insurance for your most valuable asset and auto insurance to keep you safe on the road.

InsuranceBuffs.com

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Cleveland, OH 44114
http://www.insurancebuffs.com

As A Young Driver Or New Driver – You Can Save On Car Insurance!

2010-10-10T02:20:00.001-07:00

Are you a young driver or are you a new driver? Getting car insurance can be something that can cost a lot of money. If you want to find better car insurance quotes, then this article will help a lot!

The first thing to remember is that as a new driver or a young driver, the insurance you pay is going to be expensive. And when it comes to car insurance, the price will start very high, but over time, will get cheaper!

This is a good thing, but when you look at the first insurance prices that you will have to pay, you will find that they can be like the insurance company pulled the figure out of a hat!

There needs to be some other solutions, solutions that can save a lot of money on car insurance.

The good news is that it is fully possible, but where do you start?

Doing the research is basically a process to find a few options. For example, finding 3 different insurance quotes for young drivers, will help you better than going through one company.

There are now specialist companies who deal with young drivers, and this can be a route to consider. Most insurance companies are actually a general kind of organization that deals with everyone.

Try comparing both, and seeing which is really the best price for you.

Credit Life Insurance for Bad Credit Car Loans

2010-10-10T02:19:00.003-07:00

Weighing the pros and cons of credit life insurance as part of a bad credit auto loan

Now what?

Once you’ve picked out a car and received the final approval for a bad credit car loan, there are a number of decisions you may still have to make. We know, because at Auto Credit Express we’ve been working with poor credit car buyers for over two decades.

Having seen the embarrassment and frustration that many customers with bad credit often face, we even created a web site to accept applications and match these people up with local dealers that specialize in customers with credit issues.

The alternative – buying a vehicle from a tote the note, we finance anyone car dealer – can be a problem because normally these dealers don’t report your payments to the credit bureaus. But even taking out a loan through a dealer with a legitimate national bad credit lender can end up badly simply by choosing the wrong kind of vehicle. Both situations can create problems and either one might even result in repossession.

The car loans with bad credit process can also be confusing, because in addition to the loan itself, the special finance manager who helped to arrange the loan is bound to offer you a number of “back end” products that you may never have heard of, one of which is bound to be credit life insurance.

Credit life insurance explained

Credit life insurance is a form of term life insurance. Term insurance refers to an insurance policy that, unlike whole life insurance, is in force for a fixed period of time and cannot be renewed. And, also unlike a whole life policy, a term insurance policy builds no cash value.

In addition to being a form of term insurance, credit life insurance is also considered to be a “decreasing” term policy. This means that the payout on the policy is designed to match whatever the loan balance happens to be at any point throughout the loan term. As the loan is paid off, the loan balance decreases and the amount of life insurance covering the loan balance also decreases to match the amount owed on the loan contract.

Buying credit life insurance

If you decide to buy credit life insurance, you usually have to do it at the time you sign the loan contract. The monthly insurance premium is based upon the original loan balance and the cost is added to the finance contract and becomes part of your monthly car payment. This means that because it is part of the finance contract and not paid in a lump sum, you will be paying interest on the life insurance premium as well as on the vehicle loan.

Is it worth the cost?

Whether or not it’s worth the cost is a decision that you’ll have to make. Here are a few of the facts:

Advantages:

1. Peace of mind – credit life insurance will pay off your car if you should die before the loan contract is paid off.
2. A single payment – the insurance payment becomes part of your monthly car payment, so there is no separate insurance premium you’ll need to pay.
3. If the loan is covered by credit life insurance, your estate won’t be responsible for the loan balance or loan payments if you die before the car is paid off.

Disadvantages:

1. Generally speaking, credit life insurance is usually more costly than if you were to take out a separate term life insurance policy for the loan amount.
2. In addition to paying insurance premium, you are also paying the interest expense on the balance of the policy cost every month.
3. If there is no co-signer on the loan and you are single, even if the loan isn’t paid off before you die your family is not legally responsible for the loan balance.

As we see it

The decision to carry credit life insurance on your loan contract is one that you will have to make. If you have a family or a co-signer and you’re worried that they might not be able to make payments on your car if you die, you might want to first look at the costs of a term life policy before you sign on the dotted line making credit life insurance a part of your car loan.

At Auto Credit Express we have helped thousands of people with bad credit buy cars and reestablish their credit at the same time. Our nationwide network of affiliate dealers specializes in bad credit car loans. Unlike other sites, our toll free number is listed on every page in case you have any additional questions.

So why not begin the process right now by filling out our secure online bad credit car loan application to see what we can do for you.

Fuel-efficient Volkswagen might appeal to car insurance seekers

2010-10-10T02:19:00.001-07:00

Car insurance for the Volkswagen Passat BlueMotion could be set to grow in popularity after it was revealed the vehicle has set a new Guinness World Record.
According to the motor manufacturer, the model travelled the longest distance - 1,526.63 miles - on a single tank of fuel ever recorded by a standard production passenger car, taking its driver from Kent to the south of France and back to Calais.
The attempt was carried out by a team from the Sunday Times, with the participants driving on French autoroutes and through towns. This left the average speed at just more than 45 mph during the whole trip.

Commenting on the milestone, driver Gavin Conway told the Daily Mirror: "It shows how good modern cars really are."
And the feat might be of interest to consumers who are thinking about purchasing a new eco-friendly vehicle and obtaining suitable car insurance in the process.

Consumers advised on hidden car insurance costs

2010-10-10T02:15:00.001-07:00

Consumers have been advised to check for hidden car insurance costs before committing to a policy.

With the cost of such insurance rising, many drivers in the UK are looking for the most competitive premium on the market.

However, recent research from Which? Money indicated that around 80 per cent of insurers charge some form of administration fee on top of the initial cost.

Some 105 of the 151 companies surveyed charge for policy amendments, which include adding a named driver or changing your address with a cost of up to £55.

Furthermore, the study revealed that more than 60 per cent of car insurance firms apply an average cancellation fee of £40, but this can soar to £85 with some insurers.

Prospective customers should also ensure they are aware of interest rates added to insurance premiums, as this can be as much as 37 per cent APR for direct debits payments.

Graeme Trudgill, of the British Insurance Brokers' Association, said it is crucial to find out exactly how much an overall policy costs with interest added.

"Some comparison sites don't display the rate and instead advise the customer to check with the insurer," he said.

Don't let the myths about car insurance drive you off the road

2010-09-18T01:08:00.000-07:00

It's leading to more people than ever illegally driving without insurance, risking having their car seized by police and crushed or sold if it is not claimed within 14 days. Uninsured drivers also face a £200 fixed penalty, six penalty points and £150 car recovery charges. And they will only be able to get their car back if they can prove they have bought valid insurance.

With some 160 people killed every year by uninsured drivers, police are cracking down on them. By using Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology, which is linked to information on the Motor Insurance Database (MID) – the central record of 34 million insured vehicles in the UK – police are able to detect and seize uninsured vehicles at the roadside.

In fact police report that 180,000 vehicles were seized last year, taking the total to more than 600,000 since laws were introduced in 2005. Even more good news is the fact that last year 194,000 people were convicted in court for uninsured driving – that is one conviction every three minutes.

But the insurance industry says that some people fail to get adequate cover because they're put off by some of the insurance myths floating around. Some are ridiculous, while others sound plausible. Here we examine the most common misconceptions people have about car insurance.

Red cars cost more to insure

Many people believe that insurers automatically associate red with youth and aggressive driving but there really is no truth in that. In fact the AA says that there is no statistical evidence at all that a red car will increase your insurance premium.

Insurers use a variety of factors to calculate the cost of cover – such as the make and model of the car and its age and engine size, as well as taking into account your driving record and location. They don't take into account the colour of the car.

I will be covered if my car is stolen or vandalised

You will be covered, but only if you have fully-comprehensive insurance. Some third-party, fire and theft insurances do offer an element of cover for stolen vehicles or damage caused to a stolen vehicle that is subsequently recovered, but not all. You need to examine the policy's small print to discover what level of cover you have.

The police did not charge me so my no-claims is unaffected

Sorry, this is not always true. The police may not have been called, or have not deemed you criminally responsible for an accident, but it's your insurer which has the final decision as to whether your no-claims discount is affected or not. The accident will go on your permanent record and could become a factor on your rating.

If I get a speeding ticket my insurance rates will go up

Not necessarily. A first minor speeding ticket may not affect your insurance rate. However, the speed you were travelling will be noted and – if excessive – could lead to higher premiums. A second or third ticket will suggest you're a bit of a racer and premiums could start to rise steeply.

Anyone can drive my car as I have comprehensive cover

Not true. Insurers cover the driver, not the vehicle so anyone who drives your car must have their own comprehensive insurance in their own name or they will be uninsured. Even then, they will only be covered on a third-party basis so if anything happens to your car while they are driving it, you will not be covered for the damage.

My vehicle is worth what I paid for it

If your car is damaged beyond repair, vandalised or stolen, your insurer will only pay what it costs to replace it with a similar model that is on the market today, not what you paid for it. It doesn't matter if you splashed out £10,000 for it, your insurance only pays for a replacement vehicle, not a new one.

Car insurance policyholders told to check registration plates

2010-09-18T01:07:00.000-07:00

Car insurance policyholders have been reminded about the legislation surrounding number plates and how they are displayed.

Drivers in Essex might find they are pulled over for showing alternative fonts, spacing or colours instead of the regulation figures that are bold on a plain background.

Adam Pipe, casualty reduction manager for Essex Police said: "The main problem with misrepresented number plates is that we cannot quickly identify a car or its owner if it is stolen or used in crime."

Indeed, he added that the issue is compounded by the fact that automatic number plate recognition technology does not work when a non-regulation item is in place.

Motorists could also do well to fit anti-tamper screws to their registration plates, as criminals have been known to fit them to stolen cars to change their identity - a practice which sees them get away with speeding fines and driving off from petrol stations without paying.

Car insurance costs pushed up by administration fees

2010-09-18T01:06:00.000-07:00

Motorists are paying more for car insurance as a result of rising administration fees, according to Defaqto.

The independent financial research company found providers are frequently adding these fees to their products and that the scale of administration fees imposed on consumers has also risen dramatically since 2004.

In the past six years, the percentage of car insurance policies charging setup fees has increased from two per cent to seven per cent, while the number adding adjustment fees has shot up from 17.3 per cent to 67.1 per cent.

Mike Powell, insight analyst for general insurance at Defaqto, said: "There has been a noticeable and significant trend for motor insurance policies to charge administration fees for features that were in many cases previously standard services. Many consumers will be unaware that they may actually be paying a set up fee or a renewal fee for their motor insurance . Such fees will be detailed in the accompanying documentation or in the renewal quote ."

Auto Insurance Subsidy Introduced

2010-08-14T21:27:00.000-07:00

The state of California is telling unemployed residents there are auto insurance options if you have been hit hard by the recession or are unemployed. State official are trying to warn residents of the dangers of driving without insurance and the financial implications should an accident happen for people without auto insurance coverage.

Many people across the country have allowed their auto insurance policies to expire and do not have the financial means to activate them. California authorities and officials are warning residents that this can have serious repercussions should an accident happen. Being responsible for the cost of car repairs after an accident can financially ruin people without auto insurance.

The California Department of Insurance has recently started offering assistance to unemployed or low income drivers. To qualify for the program drivers must be in a specified low income bracket, drive a car valued below 20 thousand dollars and has held a valid drivers license for 3 years.

This program has allowed some drivers to afford auto insurance instead of just allowing their policies to expire.

5 Useful Tips for a Cheap Car Insurance

2010-08-14T21:25:00.000-07:00

A third-party car insurance is the minimum that a car owner needs to have as far as the Indian law goes. Purchasing a comprehensive insurance policy is left to the owner to decide. However, the bottom line remains that getting any of these is expensive. But, what if your car meets with an accident or gets stolen? It’s not always someone else who faces these situations. It could happen to anyone including you. You need to have your car insured. This article offers 5 useful tips on how to obtain a cheap auto insurance policy.

1. Compare and Save

With the increased number of automobiles in the country, the number of auto insurance sellers has also increased. With plenty of these providers, the competition has been getting stronger with one company trying its best to outdo the rest with attractive offers. With a little research, a judicious customer will be able to judge which car insurance provider offers the best policy at a low rate with great coverage. Remember, no insurance company is a non-profit organization. Just as you would have done while purchasing your new car, or while applying for the car loan, negotiate, collect car insurance quotes from multiple providers, compare some of the best deals and save.

2. Choice of Vehicle

The insurance amount also depends on your vehicle and the risk involved with the car. A very expensive car, say a sports car, will certainly bear a higher insurance premium. Then, there are certain cars shortlisted by companies as the most stolen cars. These cars too come attached with higher risk, and so, with a greater insurance amount too. On the other hand, vintage cars are driven by the more careful drivers and everybody knows this fact. They are likely to draw a lower premium. If you have a car with parts that are too expensive to replace expect a slightly expensive premium. Meanwhile, owning a rather safe package with plenty of safety features pre-installed in the new car also means that your insurance premium is going to be lower.

3. Go for the Basic Level of Coverage

Anything can happen on the road, but what’s the probability of fatalities? Very low, right? Insurance companies are intelligent enough to calculate the number of accidents or thefts associated with cars during the course of the year. Surveys are conducted to calculate this and the insurance amount is planned. However, these companies make huge profits and many a times the amount goes unclaimed. So, go for the basic level of coverage. This would be an intelligent and cheaper move. Set aside the amount you would have spent on the comprehensive insurance; save it in case of an eventuality.

4. Making Lump Sum Payments

Many insurance providers agree for monthly car insurance premium payments. However, it is advisable to pay it all at once as many companies offer discounts for lump sums paid on premiums. This needs to be checked while making the auto insurance deal. It is of course easier to pay the amount in monthly instalments, but if funds are available, paying the entire amount is intelligent and cheap.

5. Improving Safety

Insurance providers are usually lenient it comes to offering auto insurance to security-conscious car owners. Having security items installed in your car like alarms and immobilizers could get you a good discount on your insurance policy or the premium. And yes, nobody expects you to install airbags in your car if they do not have them. That can cost you a lot more. Instead, choose a variant of the car you like to buy that has airbags already installed. To that, add a clean driving record and the insurance provider will most likely decrease the premium.

Cost of car insurance going up, says Admiral

2010-03-20T21:16:00.001-07:00

You may be a safe driver, have no points on your licence and have never had an accident, but the chances are your car insurance still went up by about 12 per cent last year.

And, according to Henry Engelhardt, chief executive of Admiral, the price of insuring the average British vehicle will increase again this year.

“We put through premium hikes of about 12 per cent over 2009, mostly in the second half. It is certain to carry on rising. I can’t say exactly how much — it depends on how much pressure our competitors are under,” Mr Engelhardt said yesterday.

With annual premiums having held steady for the past two years, insurers are facing a rise in claim sizes and cases of fraud. They need to increase premiums to generate profits, he said.

Admiral insures about two million cars in the UK, equivalent to about one in every fourteen policies and a market share of 7 per cent. Admiral also operates the Confused.com “aggregating” website, which pools quotes from a number of insurers. Confused, which offers prices on cover from life policies to household and pet insurance, claims a share of about a third of that market.

The record rise in premiums — Admiral’s rate increases last year were the biggest in a decade — helped the insurer to report a 7 per cent rise in annual pre-tax profits to £215.8 million for the 12 months to December 31. Almost all of that, or £206.9 million, was generated by the British car insurance business, a 15 per cent increase on the previous year.

Annual profits at Confused.com remained at £25.7 million, but Mr Engelhardt said that it had done well to keep its position under an advertising offensive from Gocompare.com and Comparethemarket.com.

Mr Engelhardt said that it would take time for the increase in premiums to filter down into a sharp rise in the rates that consumers pay. That is partly because websites such as Confused.com help to maintain fierce competition. However, the rise will be reflected in next year’s results, he said.

According to the AA, premiums for car insurance rose by 7 per cent during the final three months of last year, the fastest rise since it began compiling records in 1994 — and in a period when insurers traditionally limit price rises. The average annual premium for comprehensive car cover increased over the full year by 18 per cent to more than £1,000, the AA said. It also predicted that car insurance would rise this year.

Warning on car insurance 'fronting'

2010-03-20T21:15:00.000-07:00

As many as 10% of parents are breaking the law regarding their children's car insurance, with mothers the main offenders, a survey has shown.

One in 10 motoring families has insured their child's car in their own name, putting their son or daughter down as the second driver, the poll by moneysupermarket.com found.

This practice - known as "fronting" - is more likely to be followed by women than men, while, overall, a further 30% of families would consider fronting.

2010 ushers in 15% hike in car premiums

2010-01-29T20:32:00.000-08:00

A 2009 rise of almost 20% in car insurance premiums could be followed by a further hike of 15% in 2010, according to Consumer Intelligence.

The market research firm puts the current average annual premium at £564.19, with 17 to 24-year-olds bearing the brunt of last year’s increase, at almost 25%.

For this age group a typical annual premium stands at £1,489 while for the 65s and over the rise has been around 15% to £423.

Best placed are 55 to 64-year-olds who pay around £376 a year to insure their vehicles.

Consumer Intelligence spokesman, Ian Hughes, believes upward pressure on pricing has “well and truly broken through”, despite the influence of price comparison websites.

He is concerned that the trend could encourage more motorists to drive uninsured and with an estimated 1.6 million uninsured drivers already on UK roads, the £30 per year penalty paid by legal car owners to compensate the victims of uninsured drivers may not be enough.

Earlier this month, Zurich announced that it will be increasing motor insurance premiums by up to one-fifth from March because of a rise in third party and personal injury claims.

The insurer said the current market is unsustainable.

In addition, EMB recently reported that motor insurer results for 2009 are even worse than feared.

Research by the actuarial firm revealed that combined loss ratios for the private and commercial motor insurance market are set to exceed 115%.

Prepare for a shock if it's time to renew your car insurance

2010-01-29T20:30:00.001-08:00

Car insurance costs climbed 7.2 per cent in the last three months of 2009, their biggest-ever quarterly rise, according to the AA's British Insurance Premium Index. Over the year, average motor premiums soared 18 per cent. The rise left the average comprehensive policy above £1,000 for the first time.

"There is no sign of premiums easing," warns Simon Douglas, director of AA Insurance. "We will continue to see increases over the coming year."

Last week Zurich said it will be increasing the cost of its premiums by a fifth in 2010 and there is likely to be more bad news for motorists ahead.

"Other insurers will follow Zurich's lead," says Will Thomas, head of car insurance at Confused.com. "Pricing has had to change due to a number of factors, not least the year-on-year increase in personal injury claims brought on by the new breed of litigation-savvy motorists assailed by ambulance-chasing injury lawyer adverts on the television."

Esure says it has experienced a notable increase in the number of drivers making false or exaggerated insurance claims. It says there has been a marked increase in people simply making up a theft or deliberately writing off a car to get a cash settlement. Others have been caught inflating claims by repairing completely unrelated damage on a vehicle such as repairs to expensive gear box systems or ad hoc electrical faults as part of a minor, unrelated collision. In short, people yielding to the temptation to cheat their insurer are costing us all in higher premiums.

There's another factor forcing up the cost of cover, according to Thomas. He says the trend of recent times when motor insurers were happy to cut profits to attract customers is over. "With increasing costs, that tactic is proving unsustainable, and many insurers are now looking for a new, more profitable way to do business which is being seen in an increase in premiums."

January and February are the most popular months for people to renew their car cover but with increased premiums across the board, playing different insurers off against each other is essential if you don't want to pay more than you need to.

Emboldend by our case study below – Sharon Alston saved two-thirds of the cost of cover – I decided to challenge my insurer's renewal charge of around £360. Five minutes on an insurance comparison site yielded a quote of £220, a third less. When I reported this to my insurer, it immediately agreed to match the lower rate.

"Anyone automatically renewing could be in for a shock when their quote comes through," says Thomas. "The only defence against this is to get online and shop around for the best price. Apathy is not an option for those looking for a good deal."

How else can you cut the cost of insurance? Cutting your mileage will reduce the price. "If you limit your mileage you can reduce your premiums," says Lana Clements of More Than. "It's even worth thinking about investing in a bicycle and using it for the shorter journeys that you have previously been making by car."

The next step is keeping your car safe. "Insurers look at the risk every driver presents, so you'll get a better deal if you can reduce that risk," explains Steve Sweeney, head of motor insurance at moneysupermarket.com. "By keeping your car off the road at night in a garage or on a drive you make it safer, meaning your premiums will come down."

By the same token, ensuring you have an alarm and immobiliser on your motor will help. Changing the terms of your cover can also reduce the bill. Agreeing to pay a higher excess – the amount of any claim you agree to pay – will reduce your premiums, although agreeing too high an excess will hit your pocket hard if you're forced to splash out hundreds after an accident.

Keeping an eye out for good deals is also worthwhile. On Monday, for instance, a new insurer – AXA Car Insurance – will offer up to 90 per cent no claims discount. "At a time when prices are rising sharply we felt that drivers with a proven track record deserved more," says Tina Shortle of AXA. However, you'll need to have been claim-free for eight years to qualify for the top rate of discount. Meanwhile, BMW Car Insurance is giving 52 days' worth of free cover with its annual comprehensive policies until the end of March.

Over-80s refused car insurance

2010-01-29T20:28:00.000-08:00

Motorists over 80 years old are being denied car insurance quotes, according to new research by Age Concern and Help the Aged.

Half of motor insurance companies will not provide car insurance to drivers aged over 80, their investigation found.

A significant number of insurers refused to provide quotes for any driver over the age of 65.

The offending companies include household names such as Zurich, AXA, and Aviva.

Age Concern and Help the Aged said denying insurance cover to older drivers irrespective of their health is age discrimination and puts unacceptable restrictions on people’s lives.

Being refused car insurance can mean people are prevented from visiting family and friends.

“It beggars belief that in 2010 a business is still able to refuse to deal with someone because of the date on their birth certificate,” said Andrew Harrop, head of public policy at Age Concern and Help the Aged.

“The insurance industry must wake up to the fact that more of us than ever are living longer, healthier and more active lives.

“Continuing to discriminate against our ageing population is not only bad for older people, it is bad for business.”

Car insurance and car tax on the increase

2010-01-10T02:55:00.001-08:00

Sainsbury's Finance has released new figures which show that car insurance costs have increased by nearly 13% this year. With average driver spending up to £1,300 each year, UK motorists will now have to pay even more when it comes to covering the cost of running a car - something that many people just can't do without.

Car insurance can't be scrimped on, despite these cost-cutting times, as driving uninsured is not only illegal, but it can fuel big repair bills in the long term. As the recession bites, there has also been an increase in theft from vehicles, especially those that house pricey gadgets such as SatNav, so it's important to keep up-to-date on policy payments.

Unfortunately for drivers, insurance is only the start of the price increases – car tax is also sky rocketing too, rising by a hefty 8% in comparison to last year. It's recommended that motorists shop around when looking for car insurance, as there are good deals out there than can save money – some even come with additional savings and incentives on top. Using a comparison site is a great way to do this, making it even easier to get a great package suited to your personal needs while ensuring you don't miss out on other deals at the same time.

The good news about pricier car insurance

2010-01-10T02:54:00.001-08:00

Auto insurance companies did not make a profit in New Jersey in 2008 as they battled for customers, one factor that is causing drivers to pay higher rates after several years of declines, according to state and industry sources.

After five years of double-digit profits, insurance companies here flatlined in 2008, down from a 10.1 percent profit in 2007, according to the Auto Insurance Report, released tomorrow.

Car Insurance firm advise motorists this Winter

2010-01-10T02:53:00.001-08:00

As the big freeze grips the country, de-icing the car in the morning can become quite a chore which is why so many drivers leave their vehicle unattended and running while they nip back into the warm. The Association of British Insurers (ABI) has tapped into this and released new guidelines for motorists who are concerned about the safety of their cars.

One of the biggest problems during this time of year is opportunist thieves who spot unattended vehicles and take a chance. In order to avoid the loss of vehicles and belongings, the ABI has recommended that driver’s stay inside their cars while it warms up and the windows clear.

The latest information comes hot on the heels of the shocking revelation that 27 cars had been stolen in just two hours as drivers left their vehicles unattended in this manner. The sudden crimewave took place in Lancashire, but it’s a countrywide problem.

Nick Starling, Director of General Insurance, explained that while the cold weather may put motorists off when it comes to hanging around outside, it certainly doesn’t bother would-be thieves!

“It only takes seconds for thieves to strike. Stay with your vehicle while it warms up, so that it’s you that drives away in a warm car, not a thief” he said.

Insurance payment lapse may lead to tag loss

2009-12-17T00:29:00.001-08:00

DAYTONA BEACH -- On his way home from a wedding rehearsal one night, Millard Gillen lost his car.

No, he wasn't drunk. And no, he hadn't crashed into anyone.

The 44-year-old simply had not paid his auto insurance on time.

As a result, Gillen's license tag was seized because he was driving with a suspended license, a police report shows. Because his tag was confiscated and his driver's license was useless, his red Chrysler convertible was swiftly towed away from the 500 block of International Speedway Boulevard just after 8 p.m. Sept. 5.

Accompanied by his two youngest children -- an 8-year-old girl and a 9-year-old boy -- Gillen was left red-faced and confounded. His children meanwhile, were frightened, having just been stopped by a policeman and watching their family's car hauled off by a tow truck.

"I found out that my license was suspended when I got pulled over," said Gillen of South Daytona. "I'm 44 years old and I've never not had a license. I've had one since I was 15 years old."

In Florida, being late with your auto insurance payment is verboten. Because Florida is a no-fault state, all motorists must carry Personal Injury Protection -- better known as PIP -- and property damage liability, said Ann Nucatola, spokeswoman for the state's Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles in Tallahassee.

When your auto insurance company fails to receive your payment, they must notify the state. State officials then send out a letter asking if the motorist has changed insurance companies and, if so, inform the state of the change, Nucatola said.

"We try to give people enough notice and a chance to respond," she said. "We realize that people do change insurance companies and all they have to do is notify us of the change."

If the state doesn't receive a response, the motorists' license is automatically suspended and a seize-tag order is put into effect. Nucatola said Gillen never responded to a letter sent to his home on July 6. He was given a month to reply.

And it's not the first time either.

"This is the third time this happens to Mr. Gillen," Nucatola said. "His license was reinstated on Oct. 29."

And the third time was no charm for Gillen, who ended up paying more than $800 in towing charges -- his car was in the tow yard for 35 days because he couldn't afford to bail it out -- as well as a higher reinstatement fee for his driver's license, records show.

According to state statute, the reinstatement fee is $150 for the first offense; $250 for the second; and $500 for the third and any subsequent offenses.

Ironically enough, Gillen was not pulled over because of his suspended license or the seize-tag order. He said he was stopped because he had swerved slightly over the dividing line as he headed home along ISB that evening after a wedding rehearsal for his brother's upcoming nuptials.

When Daytona Beach Officer Timothy Blowers checked Gillen's license plate, he discovered there was a seize-tag order from the state and that Gillen's driver's license had been suspended, the report shows.

Gillen said he had a six-month auto insurance policy at the time that was automatically debited from his checking account each month; he said he just assumed it had been done.

"The whole thing was just a nightmare," Gillen said.

Michigan House Democrats OK auto insurance bills

2009-12-17T00:27:00.000-08:00

LANSING, Mich. — The Michigan House has passed legislation that would change how auto insurance rates could be set in the state.

A bill that would prohibit using a driver's education level, credit history or occupation to determine rates passed by a 57-47 vote Wednesday. Another bill would prohibit rate increases for drivers who are not at fault in accidents.

The House did not vote on a measure that would require companies to get prior approval from the state insurance commissioner before raising rates.

Majority Democrats say the bills are designed to protect consumers and lower rates.

Opponents including the insurance industry say the proposals would drive up costs for motorists and jeopardize jobs. The measures are unlikely to be taken up in the Republican-led Senate.

Going to university? How to get the best car insurance quotes

2009-08-20T20:09:00.000-07:00

With over 500,000 students getting their A-level results today; many will be venturing off to college or university and probably leaving home for the first time. Many will also be looking to take their car with them, unaware that as they move into student accommodation or halls of residence their car insurance premiums could increase.

A list of the top 5 tips for students to follow to help fight any increase in premiums that may arise as a result of leaving home to study:

1. Consider how many miles you will be driving. When buying your car insurance the number of miles driven per year will have a major effect on your premium, so be accurate and make sure you don’t over estimate. Although be honest, if you “lie” to your insurer you could potentially invalidate a claim.

2. Look at where it is parked overnight. If you’re lucky enough to have off road parking or even a garage at your accommodation then use it as this will help to reduce your premium. If the vehicle is kept on the road, look to add some extra security such as alarms and immobilisers (if not already fitted) and steering locks. You may have no option but to park on the road, however you can still help reduce your annual costs by adding extra security.

3. If you are the main driver or registered keeper of the car, don’t insure it in your parents name and put yourself down as a named driver. As well as being false economy as you are just delaying the building up of your no-claims discount, more importantly this is illegal and is known as “fronting” and if you were to be in an accident it could mean the claim is not paid. Worse still, if it’s proven you’re guilty of fronting you are open to prosecution which is likely to be around 3-6 points on your licence and a hefty fine.

4. If you’re a new driver or under 25 consider taking the Pass Plus test. This will consist of some additional lessons which see’s you experience motorways, night driving and towns to name a few different situations. By completing the Pass Plus test you can then get discounts with various insurers of anything from 5% of your car insurance premium upwards.

5. Shop around for your car insurance policy and consider paying a higher voluntary excess in the event of a claim. Although you pay out more if you claim, your premium can reduce quite considerably if you agree to share more of the risk with your car insurance company

Younger drivers may want to also consider the type of car they buy. The GTi badge and the spoilers may look attractive, but the insurance premiums for younger drivers of such cars aren’t quite as appealing. By quickly looking at the insurance group applicable to the vehicle type, and avoiding anything that has “Sport” or “GT” in its name.

Whether you’re going to university, or starting your first step onto the career ladder this autumn, younger drivers can make some significant savings by shopping around for their car insurance and following our tips to get cheaper premiums.

Read this, then read your car insurance policy

2009-08-20T20:06:00.000-07:00

Let's say you have a brand-new car and you're the victim of an accident or vandalism that requires you to get the car repaired. Fortunately, you have insurance, so you can count on the car being made good as new. Right?

Wrong.

In 2003, while serving in the state Senate, I wrote the law that gives consumers the right to select the collision repair facility of their choice. This law was necessary because insurance companies routinely make deals with preferred shops to use cheaper used or "after-market" parts rather than parts made by the vehicle manufacturer. Sometimes the imitation parts work fine, but too often they don't fit the vehicle or are made of inferior metals and plastics. The law made it illegal for insurers to steer policy holders toward specific shops.

But that's all about to change because of an industry-sponsored bill and a recent legal ruling that are conspiring to make consumers the least important person involved in car repair decisions.

Assembly woman Mary Hayashi, D-Hayward, has introduced AB1200 to roll back California's consumer protections by allowing your insurance company to pressure you into choosing their shop even after you have selected where you want your vehicle fixed. A major insurer recently directed its shops to stop using factory parts on any vehicle with more than 12,000 miles or more than a year old. Never mind the fact that the non-manufacturer parts could void your warranty if it is deemed to cause some future problem - such as a substandard component of your car's transmission leading to larger transmission failure.

But wait, there's more bad news for California drivers.

Let's say that you are able to withstand your insurer's pressure tactics and demand that your body shop use factory parts. You still may not be protected. Because buried in many policies is a provision where the insurer reserves the right to use either factory or aftermarket parts, whichever is cheaper. This month, a Los Angeles County appeals court upheld an insurer's right to limit payment to a claimant who chose not to use a shop favored by the insurer. It is my guess that most drivers in California spend more time writing premium checks than they do reading their insurance policies. Well, I'm afraid we can't afford that luxury anymore. I urge you to go get your policy, pour yourself a cup of coffee and read it. Make sure that you are entitled to new, manufacturer parts whenever your car is repaired and that you can go to the shop of your choice, without arm-twisting from your insurer. If you can't find the language in the policy, call whoever sold it to you and make them go through it with you.

Finding an auto repair facility that you trust isn't always easy, but there are plenty of skilled and honest mechanics and body shops out there. However, they may soon go out of business if insurance companies get their way, squeezed out by the corner cutters and dealmakers.

There are two ways to stop this from happening: Read your policy to make sure your rights are protected, and tell your state lawmakers to stand up for consumers and reject AB1200.

Auto Insurance Quotes - Compare Car Insurance Rates And Quotes

2009-08-20T20:03:00.000-07:00

With the economy being in a slump many auto insurance carriers are feeling the pinch as well and having to lower their car insurance rates to stay competitive in the market. This is great for the everyday consumer that wants to cut monthly costs. A new orlando based website launched that gives consumers in all 50 states free auto insurance quotes by entering their zipcode and pressing go at
orlando-auto-insurance.org. This save users a lot of time from having to invidually search for rates.

It use to be a hassle to search for car insurance quotes by opening up the phone book and dialing each provider and answering the same questions over and over only to find the rates weren’t all that good. That all has changed with the internet being a major resource for people and allowing them to get insatant auto insurance quotes.

"looking for auto insurance was alway something I dreaded because I hated getting on the phone and having to get bounced around to all the different departments and the hard selling tactics they tried to use on me, when I just wanted a quote. Now I can get car insurance quotes in minites using the internet" -Sandra Graham

Some website make you fill out lenthly quote forms but orlando-auto-insurance.org only needs you to enter your zipcode and press go so they can provide you with the most affordable local insurance companies in your area.

"I am now saving over $217 on my auto insurance for my family of 4 drivers. I didnt realize getting quotes was so easy and since my 2 kids have had clean driving records our rates have gone down substantially. I wouldn’t have been saving this money if I didnt get free car insurance quotes" -Bob Shridell

Consumers throught the united states are now saving alot of money by switching to cheaper car insurance and getting free car insurance quotes online is the best way to get started. Many people are saving $598 or more on their auto insurance.

Auto Insurance: Additional Auto Insurance Coverage

2009-08-04T22:09:00.000-07:00

When shopping for auto insurance rates you should also consider additional auto insurance coverage beyond the minimums set by the state you live in. Most states require you to have bodily liability and property liability coverage.

The minimum bodily coverage will probably be around $15,000 for death or injury of any one person, any one accident and $30,000 for all persons in any one accident. The minimum amount of property liability coverage will probably be around $5,000.

Auto Insurance
Getting the bare minimum amount of coverage isn’t recommended. You will be liable for any property damage and medical expenses beyond the auto insurance coverage you have if the accident is your fault. You can and probably will be sued if you don’t have enough insurance coverage.

That being said, we definitely recommend getting the most coverage you can afford. Yes, your auto insurance premiums will be higher but at least you will be able to sleep at night knowing you are adequately insured.

You should also consider additional auto insurance coverage. Insurance companies must also offer the following types of coverage with your automobile insurance policy.

Uninsured and Underinsured Coverage
Uninsured and Underinsured motorist coverage is a must. This type of car insurance provides liability insurance when the other driver does not have the required minimum liability coverage. This will also cover you if the other driver’s auto insurance coverage is insufficient to cover the injuries you sustained in an accident and if the other driver doesn’t have insurance.

Some auto insurance companies will also offer the following optional coverages. Payments for Medical, provides for the payment of medical and similar expenses without regard for liability.

Collision Insurance and Comprehensive Insurance
Physical Damage, collision and comprehensive. Collision covers damage to your auto caused by collision with another vehicle or with any other object, regardless of fault.

Collision car insurance also covers you when a vehicle overturns, but does not cover bodily injury or property damage liability. Comprehensive coverage covers damage to your car caused by reason other than collision, such as fire, theft, windstorm, flood, vandalism, etc.

Auto Insurance Riders
Auto insurance riders for after-market additions on your car like special tires, rims and sound systems. Coverage for towing and rental reimbursement especially if you only have one vehicle.

USAA Auto Insurance Reduces Auto Rates 7% for Californians

2009-08-04T22:04:00.000-07:00

USAA Auto Group announced it is reducing rates an average of 7 percent for auto policyholders in California.

The 10th largest auto insurer in the state, USAA insures nearly 1 million vehicles in California, covering approximately 3.5 percent of the auto insurance market, according to the California Department of Insurance. Under the newly approved rates, USAA's California policyholders will save an average of about 7 percent, or about $104 per policy per year -- a total of $47.6 million. New rates apply to policies written or renewed after August 5, 2009.

Under the newly approved rate cut, USAA customers in Los Angeles County will save an average of 15 percent, or $262 per year, per policy, the DOI said. USAA customers in San Francisco will save an average of $157 per year, and San Diego policyholders will save an average of $104 each year.

Auto Insurance: Insuring a Teenage Driver

2009-07-14T23:59:00.000-07:00

Getting auto insurance for a teenage driver in your home is costly. The increased cost for auto insurance is justified by insurance companies for the simple fact that teenagers are a in higher risk category than everyone else.

Do you know the crash rate per mile driven for 16-19 year-olds is four times the risk for older drivers? This risk drives the cost of your automotible insurance a lot higher.

There are some steps you can take to keep the increased insurance premiums down.

Find the Best Auto Insurance Rates Here

Have your teenager take a defensive driver course if the state you live in doesn’t already require a defensive driver course to obtain a drivers licence.

Add the teenage driver to your auto insurance policy, this is cheaper than having your teenager get their own insurance.

Consider combining your home insurance and auto insurance if you haven’t already. Most insurance companies will give you a discount on your insurance if you have more than one type of insurance coverage.

Shop around for the auto insurance rates. Since you’re adding a teenage driver and maybe another car now is probably a good time to comparison shop for car insurance rates.

Vehicle dealers not last stop for auto insurance

2009-07-10T00:49:00.000-07:00

A Mumbai resident who recently bought a midsized car was stumped when the dealer demanded Rs 48,000 premium for the annual comprehensive car insurance. “I did some online research independently and got several quotes from insurance companies, one of which was as low as Rs 25,000. I went back to my dealer who then matched it.’’

In other words, if you plan to buy a car, you don’t have to necessarily pick up motor insurance from the dealer. You could approach insurance companies directly and negotiate a lower premium and secure up to 50% discount on what your dealer offers. According to Delhi-based consumer expert Bejon Misra and former General Insurance Council secretary general K N Bhandari, dealers are known to mark up premium.

While insurance companies TOI spoke to deny knowledge of such a practice, Bhandari says, “Higher the premium, higher the commission. There is a need for consumers to assert themselves even to the regulator to enforce greater surveillance and more stringent implementation of insurance guidelines.’’

Another Mumbai resident who just bought an SUV says, “When people take an LPG connection, they think it is compulsory to pick up a gas stove from the dealer. The same mindset works here.’’ He too managed to bring down the dealer’s quote from Rs 38,000 to Rs 14,000. “The range of quotes is shocking,’’ he says.

Importantly, the dealer did not mention that he was entitled to a no-claims bonus as well, considering he had not made a single insurance claim on his old car. The bonus is transferable across insurers and vehicles-provided you sell your old vehicle.
Says Rahul Aggarwal, CEO at Optima Insurance Brokers, “The bonus is on percentage basis and not in rupee terms. It changes every year. The minimum is 20% on own-damage premium and maximum, 50%.’’ The percentage remains unchanged even when one upgrades from a smaller vehicle to a large one, assures Aggarwal.

An official at the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority (IRDA), while asking consumers to be more aware, says, “Dealers are neither agents, brokers nor insurers. What they quote is what they get from insurers. They can’t quote more or less than that.’’ Consumers should cross-check the price offered by various insurers, says the official. “Nobody should get carried away. No dealer can force you to get insurance.’’

Budget Measure Requires Drivers Get Auto Insurance

2009-07-01T02:05:00.000-07:00

MADISON, Wis. -- A provision requiring drivers to have auto liability insurance was signed into law on Monday as part the state budget.

By July 2010, every driver will be legally required to carry auto insurance. The amount of liability insurance also goes up in January.

Critics say the move will raise rates for everyone, but those who support it say it's a move toward more consumer protection.

"It really is more updating some of the limits you have, what are called financial responsibility limits, that had not been changed in 25 years," said Sean Dilweg, the state insurance commissioner. "And those are being increased two-fold, which really, if you think of medical costs, really falls in line with what people face," said Dilweg.

After July, New Hampshire will be the only state in the country that doesn't require drivers to be insured.

Beating the Rate Hike on Car Insurance

2009-06-25T08:00:00.000-07:00

Gas prices are down by a third from a year ago, but the costs of owning a car may be heading up, courtesy of your auto insurance. After two years of staying flat, rates rose an average of 2.5 percent in 2008 and could rise up to 7 percent this year—the biggest increase in more than five years, according to brokerage firm Stifel Nicolaus. Some tips to avoid the jump:

Bargain hard
Insurance companies may refuse to budge if you ask for a rate rollback. But “there’s always room to bargain,” says Michael McRaith, director of Illinois’s insurance division. One thing your underwriter might do is apply new discounts. Some carriers offer discounts for professional degrees—even a master’s in education may qualify—while others may apply a “persistency” credit just for being a longtime customer. If you’ve started working from home or get laid off, let your insurer know you’re no longer commuting by car. You could save up to 10 percent, for example, if you now drive less than 10 miles a day.

Tweak your policy
Most experts don’t advise going with your state’s minimum liability coverage, since a lawsuit over a severe bodily injury could then wipe out your net worth. But opting for a higher collision deductible—from $500 on a typical policy to $1,000—could knock 5 percent off the premium on that line of the policy, analysts say. Most consumers file claims only once every eight to 10 years, so you’ll probably come out ahead in the long run, says Jeanne Salvatore, senior vice president at the Insurance Information Institute. Bundling your auto and home insurance with the same carrier could shave a few bucks too, as could trading in your car for one that’s less costly to insure.

Get smarter about credit
Underwriters use a credit-based score to help calculate your premium—and if you have a few black marks on your record, you’ll probably get hit hardest. Paying overdue bills and fixing errors on your credit report are good places to start. Using less of your available credit can hike your score too, according to Fair Isaac, the big credit-scoring firm. Insurers such as State Farm may also give you a break for a hardship such as a job loss, divorce or identity theft. Only certain hardships qualify, and only if they negatively affect your score. But you won’t get a break if you don’t ask.

Bank holiday warning issued by car insurance firm

2009-06-25T07:53:00.000-07:00

The AA is appealing for drivers to ensure they take regular breaks when on road trips this bank holiday weekend.

According to research from the car insurance provider, one in 10 motorists admit to falling asleep while at the wheel with 28% saying they keep driving while tired in order to reach their destination quicker.

The study revealed that nearly half of those questioned drive through the night, when the body is in a naturally more relaxed state.

Andrew Howard, head of road safety at the AA, said: "The risk of death or serious injury from falling asleep at the wheel is greater as the grim fact is that these accidents tend to happen at higher speed, as drivers don't brake before crashing.

"Many of the motorists driving this weekend will not regularly drive long distances, so there will be a temptation to skip breaks and keep driving. If they do this while tired, they are in danger of becoming a statistic."

The AA advises drivers to plan journeys before setting off and make sure take stops at regular intervals.

Safe young drivers 'deserve better insurance deals'

2009-06-18T01:56:00.001-07:00

The insurance industry should recognise the efforts of young drivers who are trying to improve the standard of their driving, one insurer has said.

According to the AA, young drivers who can demonstrate they are driving safely and therefore less likely to end up claiming need to be rewarded.

Simon Douglas, director of AA Insurance, said that young drivers face high premiums as figures from the firm show that they are 10 times more likely to be involved in a serious collision than an experienced driver.

"But that doesn't mean all young drivers are reckless or careless when behind the wheel. I believe the industry must work together to find a formula that recognises those who are able to demonstrate they take a responsible approach to driving," he added.

The AA said that many insurers will not provide cover for some drivers under 21, or even 25, which means premiums become higher and could encourage more fraudulent claims.

Drive Smart, a new campaign to encourage young people to drive safely, has recently been launched by the insurer.

During recession consumers should keep insurance

2009-06-18T01:55:00.000-07:00

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Barry Miller figured he was saving $100 a month when he scaled back his disability insurance. After all, he was healthy.

"It just looked like the policy was too expensive," said Miller, who was paying for his own disability insurance carried over from a previous job. "Sometimes you don't know what will happen."

What happened was this: In January, he was diagnosed with Bell's palsy, a condition that causes facial paralysis. Now, at 61, he has left his job as a sales manager for a girls' accessories company, and the Ridgewood, N.J., resident is out $3,000 a month in disability payments.

This is the summer of the new frugality. Americans everywhere are clipping coupons, searching for freebies and finding all sorts of creative ways to save money. Saving money is chic; another way to impress the neighbors. But others are making far tougher choices that threaten to cost them far more than they save.

Reducing insurance coverage, whether it's a consumer or a small business making the cuts, does mean instant cost savings. But it's proving to be problematic for some people, leaving homes and businesses underinsured and their owners facing huge monetary losses should disaster or illness strike. It's also making families vulnerable to financial hardship because some are giving up their life insurance.

"The economy is prompting a lot of people to reassess or re-evaluate everything everywhere and they are looking to make sure they are getting the most for their money," said Mark Gibson, assistant vice president of advertising for State Farm Insurance Cos. "Our industry is no different."

That creates something of a buyers' market. Many consumers are shopping around for the best price.

After receiving a rate increase notice last year for polices on two automobiles and two homes, Justin Gregonis decided to leave his current insurance provider and go with a cheaper company. Gregonis, of Phoenix, said he was able to get the same amount of coverage without changing his deductibles for a savings of about $1,200 a year.

"I was willing to go with whomever was going to get me the best rate and have the best coverages," he said. "Insurance in itself is just basically like playing the lottery. It's just a gamble, but you have to have it."

Consumers' willingness to abandon their insurers is making some companies work with customers to try to retain them.

Companies like Allstate Corp. and Travelers Cos. are introducing new discounts and lower priced products. But consumers need to be careful about discounts, for example, when carriers offer lower prices to customers who buy both homeowners and auto policies.

To help consumers, President Barack Obama has been advocating health care reform, which could pressure private insurers to keep premiums reasonable. And state regulators limit how much insurers can charge for coverage such as auto and homeowners insurance.

But many consumers are still cutting back on all types of insurance.

Al Tobin, managing director and leader of Aon Corp.'s property practice, said some clients aren't renewing the same limits on what are known as specialized policies, such as California earthquake coverage, because they can't afford them. Aon, an insurance broker, helps companies find commercial insurance coverage.

"We have seen a trend for quite a few months where clients are buying less," he said.

Insurers don't release figures on how much their customers are reducing or ending their coverage. But according to an Insurance Resource Council survey that questioned 1,000 adult consumers by telephone in December, 28 percent with at least one vehicle shopped for lower auto insurance rates, while 9 percent said they had canceled or decided not to renew their auto coverage.

Five percent of homeowners surveyed said they had canceled or not renewed their homeowners insurance, as did 14 percent of renters.

Tips for planning your motorcycle trip

2009-06-10T02:11:00.000-07:00

Anyone planning a long motorcycle trip knows the unique feeling experienced in the days just before you “head out.” Call it anxiety, nervousness, excitement or worry, we’ve all felt it. We’ve checked the bike and the gear, usually multiple times. Then we’ve thought about checking the bike and the gear many more times! We think: “Did I miss something? Did I forget something? Is the bike ready? Am I ready, and am I sure I really want to do this?”

As we head into the summer riding season, I thought a check-list might help plan that long trip. This list is by no means inclusive. I started this list before my trip from Maryland to Arkansas last year and have added to it as ideas and experience have dictated.

Off-road warning after gate crash

2009-06-05T00:22:00.000-07:00

Police have warned riders of motorcycles and quad bikes against riding off-road on public paths after a biker was injured crashing into a gate.

The accident happened on a canal tow path at Tomnahurich Bridge, Inverness. The man required hospital treatment.

Northern Constabulary said riders using tow paths were partly behind increasing complaints about off-road riding.

Officers said irresponsible use of the bikes could lead to them being seized and even destroyed.

'Worst case'

Sgt Gus Stewart said the force wanted to ensure public paths and tracks were safe.

He added: "We ask that if you are using any such vehicle you seek approval of the land owners first or seek to find approved clubs or tracks in the area.

"I would also like to remind riders, if your motorcycle is being used on a road or public place it requires to be covered by a policy of insurance.

"If you don't, you run the risk of being reported, your motorcycle being seized, and in the worst case, it thereafter being destroyed."

Drivers look to bikes to save money on insurance deals

2009-06-05T00:20:00.001-07:00

Drivers are contemplating exchanging their cars for mopeds or motorbikes as a way of saving money on their insurance deals, one financial services provider has claimed.

The Post Office stated that the benefits of swapping to two wheels can be seen in lower premiums, no congestion charge, road tax starting from £15 and less fuel consumption.

Research from the organisation showed that 31% of men are attracted by lower fuel costs while 27% are considering a change as they think it will be easier to travel.

Richard Pennant-Jones, Post Office head of general insurance, said: "At a time when many people are stretched financially, switching from four wheels to two is one way to save money.

"Using mopeds or motorcycles over the spring and summer can help reduce day-to-day transport and running costs, including insurance which could be significantly cheaper for motorcycles and mopeds than cars."

Until the end of July, Post Office Motorcycle Insurance is currently offering new customers an extra month for free when they purchase a year-long policy.

Motorcycle class keeps riders safe

2009-06-05T00:18:00.000-07:00

MONTEVALLO — Mike Newton celebrated his 50th birthday earlier this year by fulfilling a lifelong dream: buying a motorcycle.

“I always wanted a bike, all my life,” said Newton, who lives in Forestdale. “I waited until I turned 50 and thought I would go for it.”

To learn more about biking, Newton enrolled in Motorcycle Safety Foundation training at the Alabama Traffic Safety Center. The class was taught May 29-31 on the University of Montevallo campus.

“I want to know how to get the most enjoyment out of the bike, and keep myself out of trouble,” said Newton, who teaches English at Wenonah High School in Birmingham.

About a dozen people took this weekend’s basic rider course, designed for people who have limited or no riding experience.

“The last thing I want to hear about is somebody wrecking, especially due to lack of training,” said Rick Randolph, program manager at the traffic safety center.

Randolph retired from the Air Force a few years ago and has taught vehicle safety at Maxwell Air Force Base.

“Motorcycling is just like a baby learning to walk,” Randolph said. “They learn by mistake — they fall. Rarely do they get up and dosado.”

An avid biker, Randolph said the course quickly helps people decide if motorcycling is really something they want to do.

“If someone is entertaining the thought of riding, take the class and find out,” Randolph said. “You don’t want to spend $7,000 on a motorcycle and realize this is not your cup of tea and then have payments for years. This may not be something for you; it isn’t meant for everyone.”

Eddie Zedaker, a 22-year-old Auburn student, enrolled in the class hoping to ride with his father.

“My dad just purchased a second bike; I want to ride with him,” said Zedaker. “This is my first time to ride. This helps you with just getting the feel of it.”

The traffic safety center also offers classes for more experienced riders. The advanced training focuses on cornering, braking, emergency maneuvering and carrying a passenger.

“I hear people say, ‘Dude, I’ve been riding for years, and I don’t need that,’” Randolph said. “I rode for years, but I was an uneducated rider. I thought I knew what I was doing, but I wasn’t always trained in the best way.”

Randolph said proper training is more essential now than ever before.

More and more people are turning to motorcycles, commuter bikes and scooters due to great fuel efficiency, Randolph said.

The state witnessed a 51 percent jump in motorcycle registration from 2000 to 2007. But more bikers on the roadways also mean more fatalities, accidents and property damage, Randolph said.

Alabama is the only state that doesn’t require motorcycle drivers to pass a skills test to earn a license. Currently, 38 states use the Motorcycle Safety Foundation course as their skills test.

Passing the course often earns drivers a discount on their motorcycle insurance, as well as better driving skills.

Customers demand Yamaha’s YBR250

2009-05-11T04:05:00.001-07:00

Yamaha’s YBR250 has been available in Europe before however it’s only now, following on from customer demand, that Yamaha have now decided to introduce into their model line up for this year.

Imported in limited numbers, this stylish single cylinder 250 four-stroke motorcycle is the perfect answer for those riders who like geared bikes, but also want to bridge the gap between a 125 and 600cc machinery. The YBR250 is economical, attracts low insurance premiums, is easy to ride and with its comtempory design, has a low seat height (805mm) too.

BIKE INSURANCE NEWS Motorbiking Abroad: What's the Bike Insurance Frontier?

2009-05-11T04:01:00.000-07:00

There's a lot of confusion about insurance when it comes to taking a motorbike abroad. Rob Balls of Bikesure, one of the UK's leading motorcycle insurance brokers, offers advice on what's covered, what isn't and how far bikers can go.

Will my UK bike insurance provide cover for motorcycling in Europe?
"Most policies should offer up to 30 days cover in the EU in any 12 month period. At Bikesure we usually offer 90 days. We are also able to give longer periods of cover, depending on the policy. Some offer up to 150 days and one of our underwriters will provide cover in Europe for the full 12 months.

"If you plan to travel much during the year, talk to your insurer when you take out the policy – it may well be that their recommendation will change if you're going to be away for more than 30 days."

What about breakdown cover?
"Many insurers now offer breakdown service insurance as an add-on to motorbike cover. It's just like being a member of a standard roadside assistance service, such as the RAC or AA, but usually it will be cheaper. Bikesure's breakdown policy costs £49 per year and covers roadside assistance, home start and recovery to home. It also covers the policyholder for up to 30 days biking on the continent, in most European destinations, including hotel accommodation and replacement vehicle options."

How far can a biker go?
"Each policy is different so you need to check with your provider. At Bikesure most policies cover the EU plus certain other European countries. We can also cover (depending on the insurer) Israel, Morocco, Tunisia and Turkey. Most insurers will probably want to know how long you are likely to be in any non-EU country. Frankly it's much easier if you can stick to the EU!"

Will travel insurance provide personal accident cover for bikes hired abroad?
"Lots of people hire a bike when they are away. The bike provider should arrange bike insurance, but personal accident (PA) cover is different. If you think you might hire one then be sure to check with your travel insurance provider to see if they'll offer it in the event that you have an accident while riding a hired motorbike. With many policies, PA cover could be invalid while riding a motorcycle.

"At Bikesure we offer a travel insurance policy through our parent company, Adrian Flux Insurance Services, that provides up to £25,000 PA cover as standard, even if riding a hired motorbike. For a motorcycle of 125cc or more the policy requires that the driver holds a current licence which allows them to ride a motorcycle of this size."

Motor insurers out to stop claims from piling up

2009-04-23T03:12:00.000-07:00

MUCH finger-pointing has gone on in trying to lick the problem of rising motor insurance premiums.

The one pointed by insurers is at rising motor claims, which hit $742 million last year, pushing motor underwriting losses to an all-time high of $214 million.

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It is partly the result of exaggerated claims from unscrupulous quarters, they say.

The General Insurance Association (GIA) has gone on the offensive against a trend that it does not see anyone else interested in curbing, even though motorists are crying foul about high premiums.

Last year, it made it mandatory for motorists to report accidents - no matter how minor - within 24 hours.

Then in January, it asked motorists to supplement these reports with photographs.

And in yet another move, it is proposing to have accident vehicles on expressways and arterial roads towed exclusively by tow-trucks assigned by the Land Transport Authority (LTA).

The idea to rope in the LTA's Expressway Monitoring and Advisory System (Emas) trucks is to stem workshop touts, who often turn up at accident sites offering 'free' towing services if the motorist agrees to patronise certain workshops.

Insurers suspect some of these touts are also involved in staging accidents by, for instance, having an accomplice veer into a driver's lane and braking suddenly.

The LTA has confirmed that the GIA has approached it 'to explore ways to deter touting of private vehicle workshop services on expressways'.

'One idea is to authorise Emas recovery teams exclusively to tow away vehicles,' an LTA spokesman said, but added that 'it is too premature to comment on this suggestion at this point'.

GIA president Derek Teo said insurers cannot lick the problem of inflated motor claims alone. They need the cooperation of the police, the courts and, last but not least, individual motorists.

Mr Teo, 58, a 34-year industry veteran, said: 'Even if they are not at fault in an accident, they should not be party to inflating claims because the additional cost will come back to them eventually in the form of higher premiums.'

Inflating claims is typically not as blatant as feigning injury or letting workshops claim for parts undamaged in an accident.

'A workshop might say, let me do the job and you don't have to pay the excess,' Mr Teo said, referring to a nominal sum that policyholders usually have to foot themselves.

The workshop then makes a higher claim to cover the excess sum. Lawyers are often engaged to file it - sending costs spiralling even more.

But motorists will eventually pay the price in higher premiums, which have soared from an average of $672 in 1998 to $1,013 last year. And premiums could post another double-digit rise this year.

Policyholders should also speak up if they feel a claim filed by a third party against them is exaggerated, and if their insurer is giving in to such claims.

Are policyholders prepared to go all the way with insurers to fight a fraudulent claim? 'Most people won't be bothered because of time and effort,' Mr Teo said.

Bogus claims on repairs are not the only trouble spot the GIA has identified.

The number of injury claims is rising alarmingly, almost doubling to 16,174 last year from the year before.

Such claims are typically at least three times heftier than property damage claims - and rising.

'The average bodily injury claim is about $15,000 today, up from $11,000 to $12,000 just a few years ago,' Mr Teo said.

AIG close to 2-billion-dollar sale of unit

2009-04-22T02:37:00.000-07:00

NEW YORK (AFP) — US taxpayer-bailed out insurance giant AIG is in "advanced talks" with Zurich Financial Services to sell its US personal lines insurance business for about two billion dollars, the Financial Times said.

The negotiations between AIG and ZFS, the subject of much speculation in the economic press for the past two months, "could still fall apart" but "a deal could be announced in the next few days," the British newspaper reported, citing people close to the matter.

US insurer MetLife was also said to have shown an interest in AIG's unit.

The unit includes car, motorcycle and commercial vehicle insurance. Its sale would help AIG repay 100 billion dollars in federal government aid "and maintain a chance of a future outside government control," the Financial Times said.

The federal government has pumped some 180 billion dollars into the coffers of AIG, now nearly 80 percent owned by the government under the bailout. Under government pressure, it is working to shed assets.

AIG chairman and chief executive Edward Liddy said that the company, once the world's largest insurer, has struck agreements on the sale of 10 businesses in recent months and that "several" other transactions were under discussion.

Bike insurance reminder

2009-03-30T07:31:00.000-07:00

Motorcyclists have been warned of the potential risks of getting back on their bikes after a long winter rest.

With the clocks set to go back and the weather steadily improving, thousands of bikers are expected to head out onto the nation's roads over the next few weeks.

And while a vast majority are skilled and safe riders, many could be a bit rusty after spending the winter indoors, prompting AA Motorcycle Insurance director Simon Douglas to advise people to take extra care.

"We have all heard of road rage, but at this time of year the big danger to bikers is 'road rust' among drivers who have lost the habit of looking out for bikes," he said.

"The skills of many motorcyclists need polishing too after a long lay-up, so it's important for both to be aware of the risks as the results can be tragic."

Figures from the AA suggest that insurance claims involving motorcycles rise by around 40% each spring.

Kick Start For World Trials Championships Announced

2009-02-21T20:35:00.000-08:00

A world championship motor cycle event will kick-start in Northern Ireland later this year, under the title of the Adelaide GP of Ireland.

Jack Challoner, winner of the 2008 Youth Trial World Championship is pictured getting in some practice in the shadow of the Mournes for the prestigious event which takes place on 4 - 5 April.

It will see motorcycle champions from all over the world race into Newcastle to compete in the first two rounds of this year's SPEA FIM Trial World Championship.

At the press launch in the Slieve Donard Hotel the Lightweight Motor Cycle Club (LMCC) - which is hosting the event - revealed that for the first time the opening rounds will be held in Northern Ireland, in the all-new venue of Donard Park, Newcastle.

The world's top trials riders will all compete for the first points of the 2009 Championship under the watchful eye of thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts.

Such luminaries as Toni Bou, Adam Raga, Dougie Lampkin and Takahisa Fujinami will come to south Down to take on the best of what the Mourne Mountains can throw at them.

An LMCC spokesman said they were extremely pleased to be working with Down District Council at this new venue, and excited about what this special event will bring to the town.

Offering a town centre location with seaside resort facilities, Donard Park will give fans the chance to see some of the World's best trialing sections only a few minutes walk from the promenade.

Donard Park itself is mostly thick forest, interspersed with rivers and streams carving their way from the Mourne Mountains to the sea, and also a large quarry area which overlooks the town, and marks the change from forest to open mountainside.

The club also announced a new title sponsor of the event, Adelaide Insurance Services, Northern Ireland's long-standing premier motorcycle insurance provider.

Adelaide were voted 'the UK's favourite motorcycle insurance broker' by the annual Rider Power 2008 survey.

The club spokesman also took the opportunity to thank the other sponsors whose continued support has made the event possible, including Uhire, a Newtownards based Plant Hire company, and Barkley Murphy Building & Shop Fitting incorporating O'Hares Bar & Lounge Newcastle, as well as numerous section sponsors.

Last year's Northern Ireland rounds were held in Bangor, Co Down, and brought over 15,000 spectators into the area over the weekend.

The upcoming trials seem well on its way to exceeding this footfall, with interest building for several months within motorcycling circles, all eager to find out where the new venue for the beginning of this year's World Trial would be.

See: www.worldtrialni.co.uk/

Georgetown / Hutto / Taylor Impacts - February 2009

2009-02-14T01:23:00.000-08:00

1. New transit station
Construction of a new Capital Area Rural Transportation System transit station is underway at 3620 S. Austin Ave., just north of SE Inner Loop. The CARTS station, which is expected to be complete by fall 2009, will serve as a stop for regional buses, freight vehicles and private carriers such as Greyhound. A new park-and-ride lot will also be available. Visit www.ridecarts.com.

2. Awarding experience
GTX Awards and Engraving, offering personalized engraved items for sports teams and businesses, opened under its new name Jan. 1 at 1915 N. Austin Ave. Formerly Yours For Keeps, the store was purchased by Ty and Crystal Gipson, owners of Minuteman Press, and Georgetown Sporting Goods owners Brian and Cindy Burkhart. Call 868-5881 or visit www.gtxawards.com.

3. Same digs, new treasures
The owners of His and Her Treasures, 112 W. Eighth St., have added a walk-in cigar humidor to the shop’s selection of Mexican pottery, Willow Tree Angels and other custom-made crafts. Call 868-3288 or visit www.hisandhertreasuresgeorgetown.com.

4. Chantal’s is back
Chantal’s Bistro, 204 E. Eighth St., celebrated a grand re-opening Feb. 5. The restaurant is now open for dinner Thursday to Saturday 4:30 p.m. to closing and Sunday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for brunch. Call 535-6143 or visit www.chantalsbistro.com.

5. Rest insured
The Square is now home to the new office of Nationwide Insurance/The Dollar Agency, which opened at 109 W. Seventh St. Jan. 12. The agency specializes in home, auto, life, boat and motorcycle insurance. Call 869-2211.

6. Georgetown sounds
Aspiring musicians have a new venue in which to sharpen their skills. Georgetown Music Studio opened Jan. 12 and is now signing up students of all ages for lessons in piano, guitar, drums, violin, fiddle and accordion. The studio, 2544 Shell Road, Ste. A, currently employs six instructors who teach private and group sessions. Call 868-2255 or visit www.georgetownmusicstudio.org.

7. Start the presses
Work was completed in January on an expansion project at Minuteman Press, 1011 Leander Road. Incorporating the space formerly occupied by Budget Optical, the new floor plan allows the business to include large-format sign making. Call 931-2211 or visit www.mmptx.com.

8. Through the grapevine
Georgetown Winery, formerly known as D’Vine Wine of Georgetown, will relocate to 715 Main St. in February. In addition to selling locally made wine and gifts, the business also hosts winemaking classes and private events. Call 869-8600 or visit www.georgetownwinery.com.

Spur of the moment
After the City of Georgetown took over maintenance of Austin Avenue/Business 35 from Leander Road to Williams Drive, the Texas Department of Transportation renamed its portions of the road. The section from SE Inner Loop north to Leander Road became Spur 26, and from Williams Drive north to NE Inner Loop became Spur 158.

Downtown Wi-Fi
Visitors to the Square will be able to access the internet wirelessly with the launch of a free city network unveiled Feb. 10. In development since the summer, the Wi-Fi system covers the Square with signals from four access points. Laptop owners who connect to the network will be automatically redirected to a website with log-on instructions. Call 930-3652 or visit www.georgetown.org.

Fite fire with fire
Robert Fite has been selected to serve as the new chief of the Georgetown Fire Department. Fite last worked as a battalion chief in Richardson, Texas. He fills the position vacated when former chief Anthony Lincoln retired in May. For more information, call 930-3723 or visit www.georgetown.org/departments/fire.

Bike Insurance News: Make Sure You Are Protected When You Hit The Road

2009-01-24T00:19:00.000-08:00

Bike Insurance News: Make Sure You Are Protected When You Hit The Road
Bikesure's Helmet and Leather policy encourages rider safety.

(Vocus/PRWEB ) January 23, 2009 -- Nobody wants to fall off their motorbike but sadly most people will at some point in their biking careers, so they need to make sure they have good quality protective clothing. Modern motorcycle clothing offers impact and abrasion protection from the moment riders hit the road until they come to a stop. It can significantly reduce injuries and, as a rule of thumb, it is recommended that bikers should spend between 15 to 20% of the value of their bike on protective clothing.

But after an accident some, if not all the clothing will need replacing - especially the helmet if it has taken a knock. Helmets and leathers can now cost on average around £500 and many cost significantly more, so taking out insurance for these expensive accessories is very important. For just £20 per year Bikesure offers a Helmet and Leather policy that gives cover up to £1000 on all leathers, including jacket, trousers, boots and gloves, and helmets (subject to a £50 excess).

"We recognise that good quality helmet and leathers are an essential part of a motorcyclist's safety kit," says Robert Balls of Bikesure. "We want to make it affordable for bikers to ride safely. Our Helmet and Leather policy makes it possible for them to easily replace damaged kit after an accident."

Bikesure is 100% British owned and based. It has a huge range of specialist policies for the motorcycle enthusiast, including cheap bike insurance schemes for performance and custom bikes, scooters, trikes, quads and bug riders. For details freephone the Bikesure quote line on 0800 089 2000, email the company at bikesure(at)adrianflux.co.uk or visit www.bikesure.co.uk

Helmet and Leather safety.doc – Jan-09
Press Enquiries:
Toni Turner or Alison Haynes at The Publicity Works
Tel: 01263 761000 Email: bikesure(at)publicityworks.biz
Robert Balls at Bikesure Insurance Services: 08700 771377
Press information, digital files, photos etc., available on request from bikesure(at)publicityworks.biz

Bennetts withdraw from BSB

2009-01-19T04:02:00.000-08:00

The British Superbike Championship is without a title sponsor with less than three months until the new season opens at Brands Hatch.

The motorcycle insurance company Bennetts has ended it's four year association with the series.

It's another indication of the problems facing motorsport in general with the global downturn beginning to really bite.

The news follows Ducati and Rizla Suzuki pulling the plug on their involvement in British Superbikes.

There has been no word from British Superbike organisers Motorsport Vision about Bennetts ending their sponsorship.

Nine Months to go – Win a Suzuki GSX-R1000K9

2008-12-26T03:24:00.000-08:00

Published by Garret Cashman

Westhill Insurance is offering you the chance to win a brand new Suzuki GSX-R1000K9 worth approximately £9000 and there are only nine months left to qualify for the free-to-enter competition, with the winner being announced on 30th September 2009. All you have to do to enter the competition is complete a quote with Westhill Insurance – either online at westhill-insurance.co.uk or call on 0844 371 7000.

For every insurance group you can complete one quote and that means there are six chances to enter– the groups are motorcycle insurance, car insurance, household insurance, let property insurance, business insurance or van insurance. On top of the chance to win the bike, there is an open £30 discount off any policy taken out with Westhill Insurance. If you need household insurance in December 2008, then a further 10 per cent discount will be applied as well – making it a fantastic month for getting insurance.

With already fantastic rates for bike insurance, car insurance, household insurance, let property insurance, business insurance or van insurance, Westhill Insurance is confident that numerous customers will take up this offer and enjoy the reduced policy cost as well as being given the opportunity to win an all-new GSX-R1000. Even if you don’t convert your quote into an insurance policy you still go through to the prize draw. This superb offer applies to all Westhill Insurance products which will help ease the financial squeeze everyone is feeling due to the credit crunch.

The GSX-R1000K9 on offer is an all new machine freshly launched for 2009. It will be one of the fastest and best handling motorcycles on the market, so it really is an amazing prize. Get your motorcycle, car, home, let property, van or commercial quote today to be in with a chance to win and save money.

Based in Bexleyheath, Kent, Westhill Insurance runs alongside the successful Westhill Financial Services business that has built up a reputation for exceptional personal service over the last 25-years. Under the watchful eye of Managing Director Gertski, who has been with the business since formation in 1984, it is now bringing a new level of personal customer service to the insurance market. Westhill Insurance covers motorcycle, car, van, household, business and let property insurance. It is willing to talk with you and come up with a tailor-made deal to suit. In the current climate of financial and insurance crisis Westhill Insurance understands the fear of dealing with a large impersonal, unaccountable organisation and sets itself apart as the broker you can speak to and trust.

For more information on Westhill Insurance or a quote, visit westhill-insurance.co.uk or call on 0844 371 7000 Mon – Fri 0900-1730 and Sat 0900-1300. Terms and conditions apply to the competition and can be found on the website. “Westhill Insurance – we’ve got it covered!”

Make a Date With the Bikesure Babes

2008-12-20T06:15:00.000-08:00

Bikesure is one of the UK's leading motorcycle insurance specialists. "We've had loads of people asking for the calendars," explains Charlotte Roughton, who as well as working for Bikesure's marketing team features as Miss June in the calendar. "It was obvious that we were going to run out of the printed copies, so I got the IT team working on the downloadable version – that way, everyone can have one."

The calendar caters for all tastes – whether it be superbikes, choppers, scooters, trikes or quads, there's a different, sexy bike picture every month. Each month also features one or more insurance executives – that is, the Bikesure Babes, all of them beautiful girls who work for Bikesure and its parent company, Adrian Flux Insurance Services.

The downloadable version is more than just a simple file. "It's actually a clever little widget," explains Charlotte. "You can have it load up when you turn on your computer and it'll tell you if you have any diary dates that day.

"And in the unlikely event that you get bored of looking at bikes and babes, you can change its theme to cars. You still get the babes, obviously…"

The Bikesure Babes have lots of other downloadables, all available via www.bikesure.co.uk, including screensavers, wallpaper and games.

Bikesure is 100% British owned and based. It has a huge range of specialist insurance policies for the motorcycle enthusiast, including cheap bike insurance schemes for performance and custom bikes, scooters, trikes, quads and bug riders. For details freephone the Bikesure quote line on 0800 089 2000, email the company at bikesure(at)adrianflux.co.uk or visit www.bikesure.co.uk

Bikesure Babes downloadable calendar.doc – Dec-08
Press Enquiries:
Toni Turner or Alison Haynes at The Publicity Works
Tel: 01263 761000 Email: bikesure(at)publicityworks.biz
Robert Balls at Bikesure Insurance Services: 08700 771377
Press information, digital files, photos etc., available on request from bikesure(at)publicityworks.biz

By: Sharon Supriya

2008-12-12T20:16:00.000-08:00

By: Sharon Supriya

Just a scratch on your hard earned bike can make you sigh every time you see it. Imagine the plight, if you see it in bits and pieces due to a major accident. No, this is not an article to sell an insurance but to give a fine guideline to find the best insurance for your bike. Read further to avoid the common mistakes while buying a safe insurance and other safety measures.

Finding Bike Insurance

Get information about local regulations governing motorcycle insurance. Make sure when to buy insurance as in some states you have to buy insurance before you can take delivery of a new motorcycle from the dealer, while other states have opted out of this requirement.

Contact local motorcycle insurance agents for detailed information about different policies covering motorcycles and their riders.

Call as many companies as you can to get a rate quote

Search online and visit Web sites that offer insurance schemes.

Check different policies and clauses regarding required safety gear, such as helmets, clothing and shoes.

To find the best and cheapest motorcycle insurance it is also necessary to know how the insurance company will rate your bike. Some of the factors for rating are , age(usually the older you are the cheaper your rates will be), address (people living in more crime areas and accidents will have higher rates), clean driving record and you occupation or job. The last factor, job indicates, to where the rider is driving and parking his bike. For instance, if you have to keep the bike parked on a construction site, your insurance rate will be high, due to the increased risk of injury to your bike.

Other safety measures

If you are not wearing your safety gear at the time of accident, your insurance may not fully cover your injuries or damage. Therefore make sure to wear one.

Remember, if something happens to your motorcycle, you will only receive the market value so over insuring will not help you get a higher price for your bike.

Hugh Jackman's narrow escape on Australia set

2008-12-07T06:18:00.000-08:00

Australian actor Hugh Jackman says he almost died while filming a horse riding scene for the new movie Australia.

Jackman says the helmet saved his life.

Contactmusic.com reports him saying: "Six months into training they brought in a rearing horse. The safety officer happened to be onset. He's always a chump. He's the guy nobody wants around. He came over with a motorcycle helmet and a padded jacket. He was like, 'Please wear it, please. For insurance.'

"All the horsemen were sniggering, saying, 'Wuss'. I reluctantly put it on. As I pulled on the reins, the horse's head came back and hit me on the motorcycle helmet. I flew back off the horse and landed on my back. I didn't move for about five minutes. I'm pretty sure if I hadn't worn the helmet I would be dead."

He added: "In Australia, if you fall off a horse, you have to say the words 'just taking a piss' before you hit the ground. If you don't get the words out, you have to buy a bottle of whiskey for everyone in the horse crew, which is about 25 people."

Victim baulks at $320000 legal bill

2008-12-01T02:50:00.000-08:00

MITCHELL SMITH was 23 when he lost most of his right arm and his dream of becoming a police officer.

Now at 30 and three years after he had thought his legal action was finished, he has also lost faith in his solicitors, Keddies Lawyers.

Mr Smith says he may have been charged inflated and sometimes duplicated legal fees.

He plans to file a complaint with the legal regulator about his bill, which included more than $9000 for photocopying and charges for compiling the bill.

This month a Supreme Court-appointed costs assessor began work on Mr Smith's objection to the total of $320,230.24 in fees and other expenses that were retained from his total compensation settlement of $1.5 million.

Keddies has rejected Mr Smith's complaint but has declined to provide further details, saying the firm would respond in opposing his costs application, which is yet to be determined by the court.

A range of lawyers the Herald consulted say the $261,634.99, including GST, that Keddies charged in their professional fees appears "grossly excessive" and "outrageous", and should have been closer to $50,000 given Keddies's involvement in the file and the relatively uncomplicated nature of the claim.

This was largely due to the fact that another firm - Stacks/Goudkamp - had done much of the preparatory work over two years before reaching the point of informal settlement with NRMA in mid-2004.

NRMA was the insurer of the car that hit Mr Smith. He was riding his yellow 1000cc Suzuki motorcycle along Canterbury Road on the night of February 8, 2002, when the car turned suddenly in front of him.

The former funeral parlour assistant and ice-rink official hit the kerb and was flung 40 metres, irreparably crushing his arm and causing a closed head injury that left him in a coma for a week.

By mid-2004 Stacks/Goudkamp had indicated they were in a position to settle his case. But Mr Smith, unhappy with the thought of possible compensation of as low as about $750,000 - the only figure he can recall from the range put to him - suddenly, on the recommendation of a friend, switched to Keddies.

One year later, after attending a settlement conference with NRMA, Mr Smith was "very happy" to walk away with a cheque for $1 million. More than $140,000 was reimbursed to official agencies including Centrelink and the Health Insurance Commission. Mr Smith said he had the impression that Keddies bent over backwards to get $1 million.

"It seemed a pretty big deal that they had been able to get that much for me," Mr Smith recalled of the conference on July 19, 2005.

"I couldn't understand why there were all these back-and-forth negotiations. It's not like I was trying to fake a lost arm.

"I was prepared to go to court [but] that [$1 million net] was what I thought was all I could get."

Later, travelling home to Riverwood with his cheque, he says: "All I can remember is that one piece of paper in my pocket on the train." Mr Smith has no recollection of receiving a bill, although Keddies maintains it gave him one the day he received his cheque.

Mr Smith's case had not been overly complicated, say lawyers who have reviewed documents in his case. He had lost an arm but NRMA had claimed some contributory negligence, which was denied.

Mr Smith's Keddies solicitor, Stephen Morgan, one of a group of accredited specialists in personal injury at Keddies, charged $390 an hour at the time of Mr Smith's case - the same as the firm's three partners.

The firm charged him $261,634.99 for its costs plus another $58,595.25 in disbursements - expenses that included more than $15,000 in barristers' fees and $3.20 for a bus ticket, inclusive of GST.

Disbursements in Mr Smith's Keddies bill also included $9000 for photocopying and another three items for District Court photocopying totalling $386.75. As well, 35 separate items of photocopying time - in addition to time spent "waiting for photocopier" at the District Court - were included in the bill within the firm's professional costs. Mr Smith requested an itemised bill from Mr Morgan in June this year, after a series of articles published in the Herald on multiple complaints about the firm to the legal regulator, the Office of the Legal Services Commissioner.

Numerous complaints about Keddies have been discontinued and files closed by the commissioner, some after the complaints were withdrawn following settlements between the complainants and Keddies.

No complaint against Keddies has been the subject of any formal action. A number have been under investigation for more than a year, and one is still going on after two years. The firm's managing partner, Russell Keddie, has reiterated several times his confidence that every remaining complaint will eventually be dismissed by the commissioner, Steve Mark. A Keddies Lawyers spokesman said yesterday that Mr Smith had been "delighted with the result and made no complaint so it is surprising he is now raising concerns some 3½ years later".

Six weeks after his request, a non-itemised bill was provided to Mr Smith by Keddies with no information for him to determine the time taken on each item of the firm's work, or the staff member who performed it, or its individual cost.

"Just looking at the bill was infuriating," Mr Smith says about bill items that included leaving him telephone messages.

"I thought, 'How dare you. You are supposed to be on my side. I am trusting you'. Nine thousand dollars for photocopying pieces of paper? I don't think so. I feel like this is just greed on my loss."

Several lawyers and a forensic accountant have scrutinised the information in Mr Smith's bill. Each pointed out that it was not a proper bill as it included merely the date and the type of work carried out. They agree the total charged was "clearly not able to be matched with the amount of work done", which prompted one solicitor with long experience in personal injury cases to suggest that more Keddies clients might like to review their bills.

A former costs assessor, who described the limited information in the bill as "a joke", suggested that the firm's computerised work-in-progress ledger should be studied as part of the current costs assessment.

"There does not appear to be significant progress in the matter, yet there is this massive account," he said. The bill includes 14 instances of "diarising", seven of "general filing" as well as amending, sorting, photocopying and leaving telephone messages - none of which would normally be allowed in a line-by-line costs assessment. Seventeen instances of reviewing the file, two of

them on the same day, were also included.

Billing to "diarise a conference date for the solicitor's diary" was "despicable", one of the solicitors consulted said.

After just over a year with his second firm, Mr Smith was happy to accept $1 million net to him as the best possible result that could be negotiated.

It allowed him to "get on with my life" after nearly four years of stress.

Diane Smith recalls all her only child told her about his bill was "that he got $1.5 million [in total] and that he got $1 million himself". She assumed the large amount taken in legal fees was not abnormal.

Although he initially returned to work, Mr Smith could no longer manage his former duties with one arm. His employment choices greatly reduced, he toyed with studying for a private detective's licence but remains unemployed while he considers his options.

A spokesman for Keddies said yesterday: "Mr Smith came to us unhappy with the efforts of his previous lawyers so we took on his case and achieved a payout more than double the insurer's previous offer in what was a difficult and complex case.

"Keddies has a reputation of fighting hard for clients and achieving the best results. Our fees are appropriate for the work we do and the results we achieve."

Britain’s Got Biking Talent Climaxes at NEC

2008-11-28T05:05:00.000-08:00

Britain’s best custom bikes, as voted for by thousands of UK motorcyclists, are set to be revealed this Thursday (November 27th) as Britain’s Got Biking Talent climaxes at the Carole Nash International Motorcycle and Scooter Show.

Organised by Carole Nash, the UK’s biggest bike insurance specialist, and bikers’ bible Motor Cycle News, the competition attracted hundreds of entries and nearly 20,000 votes from the great British biking public.

The entries that flooded in from across the nation spanned the biking spectrum pitting custom against classic, racer against roadster. Now the day of reckoning is drawing near after the judges – who included MCN editor Marc Potter, controversial Daily Telegraph and MCN columnist, Kevin Ash and top UK customiser Roger Allmond – whittled down the top 50 bikes voted for by the public to the winning dozen.

Strict secrecy has so far surrounded the top 12 bikes and their owners who, having enjoyed a professional photo-shoot by top bike photographer Adam Duckworth, now know they’re in the running for the £1,000 top prize. Bikers will be able to see each bike close up on a special Britain’s Got Biking Talent stand (2B15) at The Show which will also host the winners’ presentation on Thursday morning.

But-no-one, as they say, will go away empty handed. All 12 bikes will feature in the Carole Nash 2009 calendar, 120,000 copies of which will be distributed free at The Carole Nash International Motorcycle Show and other biking events. They will also star in a digital calendar which the company will be offering as a free download on its website (www.carolenash.com) .In addition the runner up will win a Shoei helmet worth nearly £400 and the third placed winner £250 worth of Spada biking gear - helmet and biking gear courtesy of Feridax.com. The top three winners will also enjoy up to £250 off a Carole Nash insurance policy and free cover for their helmets and leathers.

For more info go to www.motorcycleshow.co.uk and book online or on 0844 581 2345

Cab driver spent his final shift getting others home safely

2008-11-10T18:50:00.000-08:00

By Meg Jones of the Journal Sentinel

Posted: Oct. 31, 2008
Bruce Mosher saw the sign-up sheet at Madison's Union Cab and scribbled his name to work the Deerfield Fireman's Festival, giving safe rides home to folks who had imbibed too much. He worked both nights of the festival, providing nearly 50 people with lifts.

The taxi driver was heading home in his cab when he met another person who had too much to drink. But instead of being in the back of Mosher's cab, 20-year-old Luke Goudreau was behind the wheel of his Honda Prelude on U.S. Highway 12/18 in Cottage Grove, almost twice the legal level of alcohol coursing through his veins. Their cars smashed into each other on July 13, 2003, with such force that both men died instantly.

"The thing he was trying to do was to get everyone home safe," said David Lee, operations manager at Union Cab. "He got everybody but one person."

Mosher, 43, was a gearhead who loved motors and driving pretty much anything powered by an engine, whether it was a Harley, a semitrailer truck or a taxi. He built go-karts and scooters as an only child growing up in Madison. When his mother was on her deathbed, she made Mosher promise to use her life insurance money to buy the motorcycle of his dreams. He did.

An intelligent, well-read, opinionated man, Mosher didn't mince words, wasn't politically correct and was known for his colorful language, said friend and fellow cabbie Larry Sharp. He enjoyed reading racing magazines and Hunter S. Thompson; "Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas" was a favorite. A member of the Ho-Chunk tribe, Mosher stuck a bumper sticker on his car - "Pow Wow - a way of life" -shortly before his death.

Mosher once told Sharp: "I'd rather be disliked than ignored. I'd rather have a few good friends that respect me than a lot of acquaintances."

Judging by the motorcade of dozens of taxis that were part of the funeral procession, Mosher had more than a few good friends. They spread his ashes on Indian burial grounds overlooking Lake Monona, in a peaceful place within earshot of the cars on Atwood Ave. and the boats on the lake.

"To not allow him to hear motors would have been an insult," Sharp said.

Thieves steal parts from his motorbikes 5 times

2008-11-01T02:57:00.000-07:00

By Arul John

First, it was his scooter. Then, his motorcycle.

Mr Christopher Lin said his two-wheelers have been targeted by thieves five times since last year.

They struck repeatedly even though the 24-year-old technician installed an alarm system for his scooter and motorcycle.

He told The New Paper: 'I now feel like a supplier who is providing free motorcycle parts.

'I do not know why this has happened as I have no enemies and neither I nor my family members have offended anyone.'

Overall, Mr Lin said he has spent nearly $1,300 to replace the stolen parts.

He lives with his parents and two elder brothers in a four-room flat at Boon Tiong Road, near Tiong Bahru Plaza, and parks his vehicles at a multi-storey carpark nearby.

The first incident occurred last year, when the right mirror on his 200cc Vespa scooter went missing.

He said: 'I did not make a police report as it seemed a small matter. About three months later, the mirror went missing again.

'I lodged a police report and the police officer advised me to install an alarm system and to park it where it could be seen by more people, like on the ground floor of the carpark.'

So Mr Lin did as told, spending $100 on an alarm system for his scooter.

When he traded in the scooter and bought a 600cc Yamaha R6 motorcycle, he installed a more expensive alarm system, costing about $300, and parked the motorbike on the lower decks of the carpark.

Alarm didn't help

But that did not work either. Early this year, his motorcycle's tank cover and rider's seat were removed.

Mr Lin said his motorbike's alarm system would be activated if someone made a rough movement on it or tried to ride it away.

'But whoever did this did it very gently without activating the alarm system,' he said.

'The police advised me to seek the town council's help in installing CCTVs in the carpark.'

Mr Lin said his Yamaha R6 motorcycle cost about $22,000 (including insurance).

According to reports by Berita Harian last year, the motorcycle has been a target for thieves because of its high market value.

On 22 Apr, Mr Lin e-mailed Tanjong Pagar Town Council (TPTC) about his problem and asked if they could help by installing more CCTVs or placing more warning posters around the area.

He received a reply the next day asking him to refer the matter to the police.

He said: 'After that, I did not pursue the matter further.'

The fourth incident was an attempted theft on 28 Aug. He said: 'Again, the alarm was not activated. One of the screws holding the rider's seat was missing, and the other screw was half-way out.

'My bike was parked at an upper deck because the lots at the ground floor are always fully occupied.'

Mr Lin replaced the missing screw and then parked his bike at the ground floor of the carpark.

Thieves struck for the fifth time on 4 Sep.

Mr Lin said: 'As I was walking towards my motorbike to go to work, I saw that both its fairings (the plastic covers that protect the wiring and engine) were missing, exposing the wiring and engine. I made a police report two days later.

'I am at a loss on how to prevent my bike from theft. Maybe the last resort is that I stop riding for good.'

Mr Lin said he has since upgraded the alarm system on his motorcycle by adding an additional sensor worth $80, but wonders if and when the sixth theft will occur.

He claimed that two other motorcyclists he met at the carpark previously told him to be careful as there had been reports of motorcycle thieves in the area.

Mr K C Chua, who lives at a block near the multi-storey carpark, said one resident also had some parts stolen from his motorcycle at the carpark on or around 1 Sep.

Police investigating

Police spokesman Stanley Norbert confirmed that Mr Lin lodged three reports concerning the theft of vehicle component parts from his motorcycle and they are investigating the cases.

He added that the police conduct regular patrols in the area to prevent and deter crime, and members of the public and residents were encouraged to inform the police immediately if they spotted any suspicious activities in the neighbourhood.

ASP Norbert said theft of motorcycle parts in the Boon Tiong Road area was not rampant.

Overall, there were 192 reported cases of theft of motor vehicle component parts in Singapore in 2006 and 129 last year.

A town council spokesman said Mr Lin was referred to the police as the latter handled theft cases. The council is working with the police to identify spots where security cameras can be placed.

Anyone convicted of stealing motor vehicle parts can be jailed up to seven years and fined. They can also be disqualified from holding or obtaining a driving licence under the Road Traffic Act.

When is Car Insurance Not Good Enough? When You Use It to Cover Your RV

2008-10-13T17:53:00.000-07:00

From the Quirky to the Commonplace, Progressive Warns Many Mishaps Not Covered by Common Car Policies; Urges Considering Specialized RV Insurance

MAYFIELD VILLAGE, Ohio--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Imagine leaving your RV set up at a campsite and returning to find that a family of bears has moved in and, because they weigh hundreds of pounds and are not the best housekeepers, the RV is torn apart. Or accidentally flooding your neighbor’s coach with “black water” by mistakenly hooking your water connections up to the trailer next door. These incidents may sound far-fetched, but they actually happened to Progressive customers. Fortunately for them, they were covered because they had specialized RV insurance, but a lot of RVers wouldn’t be.

“Some people make the mistake of adding their RV onto their car insurance policy, only to find out too late that the car policy doesn’t cover a lot of things that can go wrong in an RV,” said Cathy Pelfrey, RV product manager, Progressive. “An RV is much more than a car—it’s a house on wheels. So an RVer really needs a specialized policy that covers more than what standard car insurance covers.”

As the number one brand of RV insurance sold through independent insurance agents in the country, Pelfrey says Progressive has seen its share of oddball claims over the years, as well as everyday mishaps that may be excluded from standard auto coverage. For example, if your RV is damaged during a trip, an auto policy could leave you out in the cold but Progressive’s RV insurance would pay up to $2,000 for lodging and transportation so you could still enjoy your vacation. Similarly, expensive items like outdoor gear, laptops or other electronics stolen from inside your RV would be covered by an RV policy but typically would not be covered by an auto policy.

Specialized RV coverage can also protect you against depreciation if your RV is totaled. A car insurance policy could only pay the RV’s actual cash value, but an RV Agreed Value policy would pay the amount that you and the insurance company agreed the RV was worth when you bought the policy, regardless of the RV’s value at the time of the loss.

“We’re sharing this information about claims and coverages because we want RVers to understand what their policies cover and to make sure they have the protection that best meets their individual needs,” said Pelfrey.

While RV insurance covers most of what can go wrong in an RV, there are exceptions. Take the case of the customer who let his motor home fall into such disrepair that the roof seals were leaking, resulting in a small forest of mushrooms growing underneath his couch. Because RVers are required to maintain their coaches, this claim was denied.

To learn more about Progressive’s RV coverages, go to http://rv.progressive.com.

About Progressive

The Progressive Group of Insurance Companies, in business since 1937, is one of the country’s largest auto insurance groups, the largest seller of motorcycle and personal watercraft policies, and a market leader in commercial auto insurance based on premiums written.

Progressive is committed to becoming consumers’ #1 choice for auto insurance by providing competitive rates and innovative products and services that meet drivers’ needs throughout their lifetimes, including superior online and in-person customer service, and best-in-class, 24-hour claims service, such as its concierge level of claims service available at service centers located in major metropolitan areas throughout the United States.

Progressive companies offer consumers choices in how to shop for, buy and manage their auto insurance policies. Progressive offers its products, including personal and commercial auto, motorcycle, boat and recreational vehicle insurance, through more than 30,000 independent insurance agencies throughout the U.S. and online and by phone directly from the Company. Private passenger auto products and prices are different when purchased directly from Progressive or through independent agencies. To find an agent or to get a quote, go to http://www.progressive.com.

The Common Shares of The Progressive Corporation, the Mayfield Village, Ohio-based holding company, are publicly traded at (NYSE:PGR).

Moped sales on the rise

2008-09-23T05:43:00.000-07:00

By Jimmy

Published: September 19, 2008

Young and old alike are flocking to fuel-efficient mopeds and more stylish scooters to get around Waynesboro and other towns and cities across the country.
With high gas prices, an increasing number of the fuel-efficient mopeds that can get 100 miles per gallon or more can be found on city streets. Greg Hensley, manager of Wayne Cycle Shop in Waynesboro, said the mopeds are moving out quicker than he can keep them in stock.
His sales are up by about 60 percent over last year, with nationwide moped sales up nearly 50 percent. Prices start at just under $2,000, with payments as low as $50 per month.
According to a AAA Mid-Atlantic news release, more people are riding motorcycles and mopeds.
In the first three months of 2008, sales increased 24 percent compared to the same time last year, according to the Motorcycle Industry Council. Motorcycle sales have nearly quadrupled – from 356,000 in 1997 to 1.1 million in 2006.
AAA Mid-Atlantic says lower prices, stylish designs and improved performance have contributed to the moped and motorcycle proliferation.
Other advantages to mopeds: “no tags, no insurance, no permit,” Hensley said.
However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t some rules to follow.
For starters, mopeds in Virginia must display green stickers classifying them as mopeds.
“Really, [the police] could charge them because they’re supposed to have the sticker on it,” Hensley said.
Moped riders, according to Virginia law, must be at least 16 years old, cannot exceed 35 mph and must carry identification. In addition, moped engines must not exceed 50 cubic centimeters. Also, anyone who is a habitual offender or has had their license suspended due to an alcohol violation is not allowed to ride a moped.
Virginia code also states that a moped seat must be at least 24 inches high. Riders must abide by the same traffic laws and regulations as people driving motorcycles or cars.
While state law does not require a helmet to ride a moped, Waynesboro recently passed a helmet ordinance that took effect Aug. 21. First-time offenders get a warning, with a second offenders facing a $25 fine.
Across Virginia and in other states, Hensley said there is no degree of consistency in moped laws.
At Wayne Cycle, Hensley said anyone buying a moped must sign a form stating that they understand the law.
He said some people come into the store saying they want a scooter, but it can be classified either as a moped or a motorcycle depending on the amount of horsepower it has. A scooter, he said, is about the styling of the bike, as it has a step-through frame. If the scooter is 50 cubic centimeters or more, those owners – like motorcycle riders – must have a driver’s license and the vehicles must have tags and registrations. The higher-powered scooters, at 40 to 90 mpg – get slightly poorer gas mileage their lower-powered counterparts.
Vice Mayor Frank Lucente is a recent scooter convert.
“I thought it’d be fun to ride around town,” Lucente said. “I didn’t buy it particularly to save gas. I was a little bored driving to the post office in my car, and it’s a lot more fun to drive the scooter.”
Besides having trouble keeping them in stock, the other issue Hensley faces is finding parts for mopeds. He told a customer recently that it would be four months before a part came in. He was able to provide a temporary fix for the moped until then, however.
“Your selection and availablity to see what’s out there is very slim right now because demand is so high,” Hensley said.

Yamaha sets up new-age store in Mumbai

2008-09-16T05:29:00.000-07:00

In a bid to rev up the spirit of youth and refurbish the biking culture in the country, India Yamaha Motor on 8th September'08 has launched their first new-age lifestyle company owned store at Malad, Mumbai. Yamaha had earlier opened similar showrooms in Delhi and Pune.

Designed to provide a complete biking lifestyle experience, the showroom presents a complete range of accessories to fulfill the needs of a modern biker. Through this innovative concept, Yamaha is all geared to associate Indian bike enthusiasts with the thrill of technological superiority and artistic brilliance. While the store exhibits an entire range of latest bikes from Yamaha, there is an apparel and accessories section displaying quality, stylish and trendy clothing like jackets, T-shirts, jeans and accessories like bags, mugs, gloves, key chains. Apart from it, the showroom also has a world class service centre for international models YZF-R1, MT 01 and other models.

The showroom will also provide insurance, finance options, spares and warranty for its international models YZF-R1 and MT01. There are various zones inside the store as you move from a gaming zone to an internet area thus creating a one-stop store for the needs of today's youth.

According to Tsutomu Mabuchi, CEO and MD, Yamaha India, biking is not just about commuting; but today it is all about making a statement. The rationale behind the unique concept is to create a new culture of biking lifestyle, which Indian youth is looking for, and move into their everyday life, thus achieving the highest customer satisfaction in the industry. He also added that it is confident that the showroom will pad-up the biking experience of gen-x by providing an insight into the complete gamut of Yamaha's offerings.

Yamaha is going to expand this new Merchandising concept in a phased manner throughout India. Yamaha is refining the motorcycling culture in India by bringing in technologically advanced and visually appealing machines.

The company which recently launched its super sports YZF - R15, has received an overwhelming response from road riders and enriched their riding experience by adding a lifestyle quotient. With India's first liquid cooled, 4-valve fuel injected engine, YZF-R15 comes with R1 DNA. The bike has many firsts to its credit, high performance DiASil cylinder, forged piston, deltabox frame, linked type monocross suspension and sharp dual headlights. The company claims that this bike is becoming a craze for the young motorcycle enthusiasts and plans are afoot for the commercial launch of Yamaha's new bike FZ which attracted a huge crowd during Auto Expo 2008.

Comments By The Readers

Kevin Ash invites you to a taste of adventure

2008-09-03T05:28:00.000-07:00

This year's BMW Biker Meeting in Garmisch, Germany, in early July was a success for the group of Telegraph Motoring readers who rode out with the BMW GB party. While hot and humid weather interspersed with heavy storms added to the outward adventure, the Garmisch weekend itself was warm and dry, and packed with spectacle and interest including stunning tours, test rides, displays and the traditional Saturday night parties.

Following the success of this event, BMW and The Daily Telegraph have again joined forces, this time to invite Motoring readers to a two-day BMW Off-Road Skills course in the Brecon Beacons in Wales. The course takes place on October 10 and 11 and covers level one, which BMW describes as two days of "overcoming fears and instilling confidence into novice or nervous road riders who have no off-road experience. Trail riding is on gravel, fire roads and tracks. The course teaches participants the essentials of off-road riding, focusing on confidence and machine control to improve general riding skills and ultimate enjoyment. Lessons include: being able to lift, balance and manoeuvre a motorcycle in awkward situations, manoeuvring at slow speeds, improved braking, and ascending and descending hills safely and confidently".

The course costs £449, which includes two days of instruction, bike hire, third party insurance, fuel, two lunches and one evening meal, refreshments and a certificate of completion. It does not include accommodation or evening drinks.

BMW has 17 places for Motoring readers on a first come, first served basis. Go to www.worldofbmw.com/content/offRoadSkills.asp?article=252 for more details. To book a place, call 08000 131 282 and quote The Daily Telegraph.

Customers must be at least 21, hold a full and valid licence (not provisional or restricted) for riding a motorcycle in the UK and have not been convicted within the last five years of any driving offence involving drink or drugs or that resulted in a disqualification. It is mandatory that all customers bring both original parts - plastic and paper - of their licence to registration for a BMW Off Road Skills event, otherwise applicants will be unable to participate. Customers who are not residents of the UK and wish to participate in the course must hold a full and valid motorcycle driving licence which is legally valid for riding a motorcycle in the UK.

Motorbike Insurance Package Brings New Cover by the Day

2008-08-27T04:49:00.000-07:00

Dayinsure.com, the original, internet based, short term motor insurance provider, has taken the daily car and van insurance experience forward by launching Flexirider. The innovative new service is believed to be a world first in motorcycle insurance, offering short term cover purchased by the day.

In partnership with Chaucer Insurance PLC, Flexirider allows bikers to get temporary insurance cover to either enable them to use another bike that does not belong to them, to drive home a new bike or to insure another person to ride their own bike. Eliminating the need to amend any existing annual policy, Flexirider can be purchased to give up to 28 days bike insurance, per annum, used on a daily basis or for longer periods. The policy is fully comprehensive and the online certificate of insurance can be printed out immediately.

Steve Coppock, Managing Director of Dayinsure.com:

“It can be very onerous to amend an existing annual insurance policy with additional bike or rider details. Flexirider by-passes this complicated procedure, providing a simple answer to temporary motorbike insurance requirements. We have seen an 87% growth in Dayinsure.com since January 2008, confirming our credentials in providing innovative insurance solutions that truly reflect the motoring needs of consumers today. ”

Dayinsure.com is the market leader in the provision of day rate motor insurance, which includes dayresQ, the daily roadside recovery in conjunction with Mondial Assistance.

Pegram Pulls Another Holeshot at VIR on Ducati 848

2008-08-23T04:22:00.000-07:00

The start at VIR (Virginia International Raceway) could not have been better for Pegram and the Ducati 848. Pegram's qualifying time put him in the fourth position on the grid and he convincingly pulled the holeshot, leading the early part of the race. Problems with his front brakes caused him difficulties and kept him from staying at the front of the pack.

Last year Pegram finished on the podium in second place after trading spots with the leader Josh Hayes.

Pegram:

"This was a tough weekend, no doubt. The bike had the speed, but I was having trouble with the front brakes. I was surprised that we didn't finish stronger at VIR, it is definitely a track that I like to race at."

The Formula Xtreme race will be televised on SPEED Channel on Tuesday, August 19, 2008.

The next race is August 30, 2008 at Road Atlanta (roadatlanta.com).

About LeoVince Foremost Insurance Ducati
Hebron, Ohio-based, LeoVince Foremost Insurance Ducati is a professional motorcycle road race team competing in the AMA Superbike Championship Series. The team is owned and managed by Larry Pegram, a third-generation motorcycle racer who competes in the AMA Formula Xtreme class on a modified Ducati 848.

Additional information about the team can be found on their web site at pegramracing.com.

Tips for Shipping your Motorcycle

2008-08-18T03:58:00.000-07:00

Whether buying a new bike, taking your bike with you to a new home, or going to a rally too far to ride to, shipping your motorcycle may be necessary in many situations. It can be very hard to find a good, trustworthy carrier if you do not know what you are looking for or where to start. Here are some helpful tips to safely and successfully transport your bike:

Ask Around

There is a good chance that one of your friends has needed a similar service in the past and used someone they would recommend to you. This may be the best place to start when looking for motorcycle transporters since you know that someone you trust had a good experience with them. You can also try asking local motorcycle clubs or posting on forums to find recommendations.

Check References

Many motorcycles have a lot of monetary and sentimental value to their riders, so you would not want to send them with a carrier you do not trust. Most companies should be able to provide multiple positive references. Make sure these references are specific to motorcycles so you know the company has experience with bikes and a good reputation. This is especially important for bikes since they require special shipping needs and most carriers should have specific experience to know how to safely transport motorcycles.

Trailers

Motorcycles are shipped on either open or enclosed trailers. Enclosed trailers are best when the motorcycle is very valuable, will be travelling a long distance or through extreme weather conditions, or if you have a very flexible timeline. Booking an enclosed trailer can be difficult since they often hold more than one bike, so you may have to work around the driver’s previously scheduled deliveries. Open trailers are safe if your bike is not going very far since it will not be subjected to prolonged exposure to the elements or thieves. They also provide you with more flexibility when scheduling the transport since most open trailer carriers do not carry a large number of motorcycles.

Door to Door Shipping

Most motorcycle shipping is door-to-door. This does not always mean that the carrier will come straight to your door as some large companies have trucks that are too big to fit on residential streets. You may have to meet them in a nearby parking lot that can accommodate large trucks. If they will be picking up or dropping off the bike at night, make sure there is enough light available to thoroughly inspect the bike for damage.

Insurance

Your personal policy will not cover your bike when it is being shipped. Your carrier should offer a minimum amount of coverage, but this will most likely not cover the full value of the bike. If your bike is very valuable, you may want to purchase additional insurance. Your carrier may be able to provide this or refer you to a third-party insurance company. You can verify the insurance your carrier offers by asking for a copy of their insurance certificate. Double-check the coverage with the insurance company listed on the certificate or with the Department of Transportation at www.safersys.org.

Preparing Your Bike

Carriers are not responsible for lost or stolen accessories, so make sure to remove everything before the carrier arrives, including anything you may have been storing in the bike. Also, check the company’s policies since some require a drained or empty fuel tank and disconnected battery before transport. Inspect the bike thoroughly at pick-up and drop off, and take inventory of any scratches or dings. Taking pictures of your bike from several angles will help document the existing damage and prevent claims that damage incurred during shipping was already there.

When riding your bike to your destination is not a feasible option, shipping your motorcycle can really come in handy. With gas prices so high and still rising now, it can also save you money! Good luck and safe riding!

Gas prices pumping up scooter sales

2008-08-12T05:04:00.000-07:00

By Carol Fletcher
McClatchy News Service

HACKENSACK, N.J. — Call it scooter-mania.

Skyrocketing gas prices and the warm weather have triggered a buying frenzy of highly fuel-efficient scooters that has emptied most dealers and increased sales of scooter insurance policies.

What’s drawing customers to the two-wheel side is their high gas mileage: Small-engine scooters — those with 50 cubic centimeters — can get up to 100 miles per gallon; larger ones — 650cc — get 50 to 70 miles per gallon.

Paramus, N.J., resident Joe Tramontana, 48, drives his new Vespa to his job in Tenafly and uses it to take his 12-year-old daughter to her day camp, rather than his Nissan Armada. The Armada was costing him $120 a week to fill the tank; the Vespa, $7 every couple of weeks.

“They’re a lot of fun to ride, and the gas prices are ridiculous,” he said.

Dealers say interest in scooters and small- to medium-size motorcycles, which also get higher gas mileage, began in May when gasoline prices approached $4 a gallon, where prices have remained.

Top speeds for scooters can vary based on make and model, but dealers say the 50cc can reach around 40 mph, the 150cc between 60 to 70 mph and some 650cc can exceed 100 mph.

“We have not a one,” said Edgar Luzunaris, sales manager for Ramsey Motorsports. “People keep coming in and saying they want to save on fuel, but they’re a couple months late on the idea.”

It’s the same story elsewhere: The normally less popular vehicles dealers stock in small numbers are in high demand. Manufacturers didn’t anticipate the rush, so dealers have been unable to bring in new stock. Dealers say they are increasing next year’s orders for scooters and small to medium bikes.

Auto insurers that offer motorcycle policies — required in New Jersey for scooters — also are seeing sharp increases in the number of new scooter policies sold this year compared with previous years.

Scooters are powered mostly by gas engines and differ from motorcycles with engines in the back and a step-through design. They’re considered easier to ride because you don’t have to shift gears.

Engine size is measured in cubic centimeters ranging from 500cc (they can get up to 100 mpg) to about 650cc (they can get about 50 miles per gallon). Costs range from $1,899 to more than $8,000.

New Jersey considers most scooters motorcycles, so riders must get a motorcycle license, registration and insurance. Classes on how to ride the two-wheel vehicles are not required, but the state recommends them.

It was a good time to sell scooters, dealers say, when they had them in stock.

Bergen Sportcycles in Lodi said June’s scooter business was up 60 percent over June 2007. Ramsey Motorsports said its scooter sales jumped 30 percent in the second quarter and 24 percent in the first quarter over last year. Pompton Honda in Pompton Plains saw scooter sales surge 15 percent in the first two quarters.

“There’s a market now, and gas prices aren’t going down,” said Gary La Forgia, co-owner of Bergen Sportcycles. “The problem is, they’re not available.”

He’s sold all but three of his 50 scooters when he normally sells two to maybe five for the year. La Forgia plans to increase his inventory to 150 next year. He also sold out of the Honda Rebel, a small, 250cc motorcycle.

Tom Bellusci, general manager for Pompton Honda in Pompton Plains, has only three scooters left out of about 12, he said, including last year’s leftovers. He plans to buy twice the number for next year, he said.

Demand for Vespa and Piaggio scooters at manufacturer Piaggio Group Americas Inc.’s new Jersey City dealership caught general manager Elizabeth Young off guard.

She said the dealership, open since June 10, has been selling at least two to three scooters a day, clearing out 20 percent of its inventory in the first 21/2 weeks.

“It’s been pretty crazy,” said Young. “I would expect that as we grew, but immediately, I wasn’t ready.”

Nationwide, late-spring sales broke records for the Italian manufacturer, with June sales soaring 146 percent over last June and 106 percent in May, said Piaggio spokeswoman Elke Martin at its Manhattan headquarters.

“It’s certainly driven by fuel prices,” said Martin, but she also said sales have increased consistently in recent years.

Also fueling the interest is that weekend joy riders are now taking their scooters to work because of high gas prices.

New Jersey scooter sales increased 36 percent over the past five years and 395 percent over 10 years, said Mike Mount, spokesman for the Motorcycle Industry Council in Irvine, Calif.

Customers want anything that gets more than 50 miles per gallon, including small- to medium-size motorcycles.

The “50 mpg, stop in here,” sign outside Bergen County Harley-Davidson in Rochelle Park has made May and June “fantastic” in sales for small bikes that normally are slow sellers, said owner Liz DiGennaro, who expected sales to fall as the economy slowed.

“We’ve increased our orders for 2009 for the 500-to-883ccs by 10 percent,” she said. “We haven’t done that for about five years.”

In Passaic, customers bought all six of F.W. Speer Yamaha’s 50-mile-per-gallon, $6,000 medium-engine bikes, the ones no one used to want before this year, said owner Vito Addabbo.

Motorcycle riding classes, which people can take to learn how to ride a scooter, are booked into the fall at the Bergen Harley-Davidson dealership.

Fairleigh Dickinson University in Teaneck is adding a scooter-riding class in late August for graduates of its basic motorcycle class in response to more than 10 calls since March.

The scooter demand has prompted some die-hard motorcycle dealers to reconsider selling them.

“Economic conditions permit us to grow the business a bit by bringing in scooters,” said Addabbo.

Auto insurers are seeing a ripple effect.

Dollars made from selling scooter policies were up 50 percent for motorcycle insurer Rider Insurance Agency Inc. in Springfield, 30 percent of which are new policies, said Nicole Vokoun, marketing and dealer operations manager.

Within New Jersey, Allstate Insurance Co. in Roanoke, Va., had a 94 percent surge in new scooter policies between April and June of this year compared with the same time in 2007. The Progressive Corp. in Mayfield Village, Ohio, saw an 80 percent jump from January to June over the same period in 2007. Other insurers also saw increases.

While scooter and motorcycle sales are hot, their profit margins are not, say dealers, and some suspect it’s temporary.

“It helped the bottom line somewhat,” said La Forgia, “but there’s not a great margin on those.” He said he makes $400 from a $2,600 scooter and about $1,500 from a $10,000 motorcycle.

Addabbo said scooters and bikes are not “a transportation industry yet” and that bad weather and cheaper gas prices will slow the trend.

But Martin said Americans are seeing the fun of scooter driving, albeit because of high gas prices.

“I think we’re creating a whole new generation of people riding on two wheels,” said Martin.

— The Hackensack, N.J., Record

Rise of the scooter

2008-08-10T04:20:00.000-07:00

Kylie Kavanagh used to commute from Winston-Salem to Davidson County in her Subaru Outback. Now she rides her Honda Metropolitan mo-ped.

Government announce biker death reduction plan

2008-07-29T05:17:00.000-07:00

By Visordown News
'The new action plan sets out how we will work to improve the safety of motorcyclists' says Labour MP

PLANS TO tackle the numbers of motorcyclists killed or injured on Britain's roads have just been published by Road Safety Minister Jim Fitzpatrick.
The new Motorcycling Strategy Action Plan - agreed with the National Motorcycle Council - sets out what the Government will do to improve safety for motorcyclists and to continue to facilitate motorcycling as a choice of travel.

Jim Fitzpatrick said: "Motorcyclists are the single most vulnerable group on Britain's roads today. They account for just 1% of all road traffic, but for 20% of all those killed on the roads.

"The new action plan sets out how we will work to improve the safety of motorcyclists, and make sure that we continue to address their concerns and fully consider their needs when making decisions.

"Updated actions in the new plan include building on initial work to identify the feasibility of a motorcycle safety assessment programme, in particular, looking at the safety benefit to motorcyclists offered by new technologies and the potential for including security and environmental aspects. We will also investigate reporting options for diesel spills and other highway defects, and disseminate options for tackling diesel spills."

Since the strategy was published in 2005:

* The DfT has developed and launched a new TV and radio THINK! campaign to encourage car drivers to "take longer to look for bikes".

* THINK! has sponsored the British Superbikes Championship.

* The DfT has published new safety ratings for motorcycle helmets through the SHARP scheme that could save up to 50 lives a year.

* The Driving Standards Agency has established a voluntary register of approved Post Test Motorcycle Trainers and an Enhanced Rider Scheme offering insurance discounts to licensed riders who take further training with an approved instructor.

* The DfT has published new guidance to local authorities on Use of Bus Lanes by Motorcycles.

* Guidance to highway authorities on motorcycle-friendly infrastructure has been published by the Institute of Highway Incorporated Engineers with support from DfT.

The 42 new actions update those in the 2005 Strategy. Some of the original actions have been completed, others are ongoing, many have developed over time and been revised to reflect the latest progress, while some new issues have arisen requiring new actions.

Motorcycles alternatives, risks on today’s roads

2008-07-20T06:04:00.000-07:00

By Debbie Ingram

Published: July 19, 2008

Motorcycles — they’re not just for bad boys anymore.
Motorcycles are ridden by men and women, teens and seniors. They are ridden as status symbols and by baby boomers who want to relive their youth. They represent freedom, the open road and, nowadays, conservation.
Motorcycles average 56 miles per gallon, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation. That has made many drivers take a second look at bikes as they seek to escape the debilitating effects of record-high fuel prices.
Jeremy Middleton, sales manager of Harley-Davidson of Dothan, said many customers are first-time buyers.
Middleton said today’s motorcycle buyer comes in with two questions: How much and how many.
“They want to get on the most fuel-efficient bike at the lowest cost possible,” he said.
Among all brands of new motorcycles, prices start just under $4,000. Smaller scooters, which are highway approved and have less power and speed, cost less.
While sales have increased this year, Middleton says despite the gas prices, motorcycles have always been popular in the South because of the climate.
“We are only about midway through the riding season,” he said.

The risk factor
Motorcycles, obviously, are not like cars. They are two-wheeled vehicles which require balance and coordination to drive, and as such, are considered more dangerous than four-wheeled vehicles.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that inexperience plays a big part in single-vehicle motorcycle crashes. Now that more people are riding motorcycles, enthusiasts say taking a hands-on rider safety class is all the more important.
“The safety classes we promote in our area are offered as basic, intermediate, and experienced,” Middleton said. “Most people do take the course. They see the benefit.”
Also, insurance companies do give price breaks for riders who take the training course. Middleton said even experienced bikers have said they benefited from taking an advanced course.
“There are techniques they learn,” he said.
And riders need all the help they can get. In the event of a crash, a motorcycle rider is three times more likely to sustain serious or fatal injuries, according to the Alabama Department of Public Safety.
Motorcycle riders – and passengers – should be aware that the death rate per mile traveled by motorcyclists is seven times that for those in cars.
“With motorcycles – if you wreck – you will hurt yourself. With a car, you will hurt others,” said Sgt. Scott Brasher, assistant post commander at the Dothan Highway Patrol office.
There are two types of motorcycle accidents – single-vehicle crashes where a motorcyclist loses control, and collisions with other vehicles. Brasher said there are a variety of factors that come into play in single-motorcycle crashes.
“The accidents we see are speed related,” he said. “People are going too fast in curves or they are not trained well enough to ride a motorcycle. That’s the two biggest reasons for accidents. Driving under the influence is up there, but it is not a huge factor, not as much as inexperienced motorcyclists.”
In motorcycle vs. car accidents, the main cause is failure to see a motorcycle in traffic. Almost half of all motorcycle accidents occur when a vehicle turns left into the path of a bike; two-thirds of all fatal car and motorcycle collisions result from errors made by the driver of the car, according to the Alabama Department of Public Safety.
Highway safety officials have responded with public awareness campaigns in some states, and the motorcycle industry has come out with new products like flashing headlights in an attempt to make the motorcycle more visible in traffic.
It is all about being seen.
But Brasher said the highway patrol has gotten complaints about the lights.
“Most motorcycles have daytime running headlights for visibility only,” he said. “A lot of times with car drivers, without picking on anybody, eyesight is not as good as it used to be and motorcycles are quicker than cars. Motorcycles blend in with the traffic so well. They don’t stand out. When a motorcycle pops out of traffic, often drivers will shoot out and not see it. A car has more visibility.”
Regardless of the cause, when a vehicle and motorcycle collide, the motorcycle loses. Yet that fact does not deter riders.
“I would not ride in a car without a seat belt, but jumping on a motorcycle is no problem,” said John Faison of Kinsey. “I jump on my bike every weekend and never think anything about it.”
Faison rode a motorcycle as a teenager, then took a 20-year hiatus. He started back riding four years ago. He has never been involved in a motorcycle accident.
“When I ride in town, a hundred percent of the time, I watch other people,” he said. “It’s only when I’m riding on country roads that I enjoy the scenery. I trust myself – my own riding – but other people will run over you.”
Brasher said more motorcycle fatalities occur on sport bikes, which are often called “crotch rockets.”
“Those are the biggest problem we have now,” he said.
Sport bikes are more aerodynamic, faster, and often attract younger riders.

License required, training recommended
While new bikers might be inexperienced, they are required to pass a written test to acquire a motorcycle license (Class M) through the Alabama Department of Public Safety.
The motorcycle manual provided by the highway patrol educates drivers on riding basics, from body position to shifting and turning. It provides information on proper riding attire, how to handle dangerous surfaces, crash avoidance and group riding.
There is no driving test for motorcyclists like there is for motor vehicle drivers.
While everyone wants to increase rider safety, Imre Szauter, government affairs manager with the American Motorcyclist Association, said the AMA supports rider education programs but not mandatory training.
“States that offer programs now are unable to meet the demand,” he said. “Mandatory rider education would only create a bigger backlog of untrained riders.”
If the education requirement was tied to licensing, it could mean fewer riders would bother to obtain their licenses. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that 40 percent of all motorcycle fatalities are drivers with no motorcycle license or no license at all.
But what about driver training for the other guy. The AMA believes that motorist awareness may be the single best solution to preventing crashes, Szauter said.
The AMA supports programs that require a motorcycle awareness component in driver education courses and state license manuals and testing; in-school awareness campaigns to educate young drivers to watch out for vulnerable roadway users such as motorcyclists, bicyclists and pedestrians; and education on the dangers of distracted driving.
Brasher said there are steps motorcyclists can take to both increase their visibility and prevent driver error. Officials recommend wearing bright colors, particularly yellow.
“The biggest thing I recommend is, learn how to drive a motorcycle,” he said. “Wear a helmet and a reflective vest whenever possible and slow down.”
While Faison is not ready to give up his ride, he said safety is always on his mind.
“The whole time you are on the bike, you think safety and you watch the other person,” he said. “You know it’s dangerous when you get on it but you just enjoy it so much, you do it anyway. Wanting to ride outweighs the danger.”
Middleton agrees. “Basically, I never would think of getting off my bike. I am not going to stop riding because of the risk.”

Sparks Fly and Metal Melts as Harley-Davidson Museum Opens in Milwaukee

2008-07-18T16:48:00.000-07:00

MILWAUKEE - (Business Wire) The Harley-Davidson Museum, located in Harley’s hometown of Milwaukee for nearly 105 years, opened its doors for the first time to the public today. The Museum opening kicked off with a Harley-Davidson-style “ribbon cutting” ceremony in which a motorcycle primary chain wrapped around a Museum tower was cut with an acetylene torch. Festivities – including the Harley-Davidson, Inc. president and CEO Jim Ziemer receiving his first tattoo, a 2008 Super Glide Custom bike build-off, and live music – will continue all weekend.

“Harley-Davidson has dreamed about building this Museum for a long time,” said Jim Ziemer, president and chief executive officer of Harley-Davidson, Inc. “It adds a whole new dimension to the Harley-Davidson experience.”

The Museum exhibits tell the stories of the extraordinary people, products, history and culture of Harley-Davidson. The stories are told through both chronological and thematic exhibits, which are linked together by a chronological procession of landmark motorcycles from the Company’s 105-year history. Vintage photographs, posters and other artifacts explain major moments in the Company’s history such as the entrepreneurial start in 1903, survival during the Great Depression, involvement in WWII, and the landmark buy-back from AMF in 1981.

Along side the history galleries, four galleries dive deeper into specific topics of importance to Harley-Davidson culture. The Engine Room provides an education on Harley-Davidson engines and the science behind how they work. Another exhibit explains how motorcycle competition spurred the creation of motorcycle clubs and includes a recreation of a 1920s board track complete with factory race bikes banking a corner. Elvis Presley’s motorcycle is featured in an exhibit on customization along with paperwork proving that he purchased it just days before he became famous with the hit single, “Heartbreak Hotel.” The Design Lab gives a look into the process of developing a new Harley-Davidson motorcycle from concept to manufacturing.

“Riders will instantly feel at home at the Harley-Davidson Museum,” said Stacey Schiesl, Harley-Davidson Museum director. “And those who aren’t yet riders will be able to experience the passion that riders feel every time they fire up their motorcycles.”

In addition to enjoying a variety of exhibits, Museum patrons will also be able to take a peek into a portion of the previously private Archives, home to hundreds of motorcycles and thousands of artifacts and historical photographs.

Beyond the exhibits and Archives, Museum visitors and the general public can tap into the Harley-Davidson experience in a number of other ways - from grabbing a boldly flavored American meal in Motor, the Museum’s 150-seat restaurant, or Cafe Racer, a grab-and-go dining spot, to reading the various personalized messages on the Living the Legend rivets, found on curved steel walls and in plazas. With customizable indoor and outdoor spaces, the Museum also provides a variety of unique special event spaces that can accommodate an intimate gathering of 20 to freewheeling festivities for 15,000. The Museum site, located on 20 acres of park-like green space and bordered by the Menomonee River on three sides, is open to the public free of charge, 24 hours a day.

Timed tickets to the Museum are on sale online at www.h-dmuseum.com/tickets. General admission tickets are $16 for adults, $12 for students and seniors, $10 for children (ages 5-17 years), and children under 5 years of age will be admitted free with an accompanying adult. Visit www.h-dmuseum.com for additional details on the Harley-Davidson Museum.

Tickets to the Museum are not available during the Harley-Davidson 105th Anniversary celebration, August 28-31, and Harley-Davidson 105th Anniversary tickets do not include admission to the Museum.

Harley-Davidson, Inc. (HOG) is the parent company for the group of companies doing business as Harley-Davidson Motor Company, Buell Motorcycle Company and Harley-Davidson Financial Services. Harley-Davidson Motor Company produces heavyweight street, custom and touring motorcycles and offers a complete line of motorcycle parts, accessories, apparel and general merchandise. Buell Motorcycle Company produces sport motorcycles in addition to motorcycle parts, accessories and apparel. Harley-Davidson Financial Services, Inc. provides wholesale and retail financing and insurance programs to Harley-Davidson/Buell dealers and customers.

Laughlin/Constable
Stephanie Schultz, 414-270-7261
sschultz@laughlin.com
Cell: 262-370-1100
or
Harley-Davidson Motor Company
Rebecca Bortner, 414-343-8479
rebecca.bortner@harley-davidson.com

Win a GSX650F with Rizla & Suzuki

2008-07-12T01:11:00.000-07:00

Published by Tasha Crook

Rizla and Suzuki are offering you the chance to win a GSX650F motorcycle in this free to enter competition.

Featured within Rizla Regular blue packs for a limited period, the competition is open to anyone over the age of 18 to enter and the top prize is a stunner... a brand new GSX650F complete with free insurance. If you can’t ride a bike, then don’t worry, BSM will supply free instruction so you can take your motorcycle test.

The 2008 Suzuki GSX650F is a great all-round sporting motorcycle, featuring exciting style, with a sporty full fairing and all-day comfort. Built using advanced technology developed on the racetrack, including Suzuki's efficient Suzuki Dual Throttle Valve (SDTV) digital fuel injection system, it delivers smooth power, and fuel efficiency as well as excitement.
As well as this fantastic top prize, there are other prizes up for grabs. These are a pillion ride with Rizla Suzuki triple-Superbike Champion John Reynolds, a full set of Rizla Suzuki team wear, and a number of team baseball caps signed by the 2008 riders.

Closing date for entries is 31st December 2008. Winners will be announced on 2nd January 2009.

To enter the competition, you must register with here first and click on the following link www.rizla-suzuki.co.uk.

Flood level falls at foot of the Arch

2008-07-02T06:12:00.000-07:00

By Tim Bryant
ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH

Four days after the Mississippi River began its retreat from this spring's flood in northeast Missouri, the water level fell Tuesday at the Arch.

By next Tuesday, the river will slip below the 30-foot flood stage at St. Louis, the National Weather Service calculates.

To the north, in Pike and Lincoln counties, the Mississippi will remain high until July 14, the Weather Service said. But major flooding in the hard-hit towns of Clarksville, Winfield and Foley should end this week.

The Army Corps of Engineers said the river may drop enough to allow the locks and dams at Winfield and Clarksville to reopen Friday.

Some flood victims went home Tuesday.

"People that can are getting back to their homes and are already starting to clean up," said Kelly Hardcastle, emergency director for Lincoln County.

Many flood veterans had employed the standard strategy: Move out belongings. Remove doors and put them in storage. Open the windows. Evacuate.

Leaving doors and windows open allows floodwater to recede quickly and air to circulate, retarding mold growth.

Hardcastle urged people to stay out of the floodwater, noting that the river had flowed over sewage lagoons and had picked up fuel spills and other toxins on its way south.

"We're a pretty clean society," he said. "For us to get in that water, we could get sick."

The Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Missouri State Emergency Management Agency have opened a disaster relief center at the Winfield-Foley fire station on Highway 47. Flood victims may go there to get answers about assistance programs, low-interest loans and flood insurance.

In addition, the U.S. Department of Agriculture waived in flood-affected areas its rule that gives food stamp recipients only 10 days to request replacement stamps. Waiver areas includes Jefferson, Lincoln, Pike, St. Charles and Ste. Genevieve counties, plus the city of St. Louis.

In Chester, Ill., the Mississippi had yet to relax its grip. The river was forecast to crest there today at more than 12 feet over flood stage. Officials in Randolph County monitored sand boils along the Prairie du Rocher levee at the Kaskaskia Lock and Dam and at Fort de Chartres.

"At this point we're not in a 'gung ho, we've-got-a-problem' mode because we don't," said Larry Willis, spokesman for the county's emergency management agency.

Officials also considered pumping water from inside the levee back into the Mississippi. The water is coming from a pressure-release well and is spewing into farm land and forcing road closings.

"There are literally no homes in danger anywhere in the county," Willis said.

Travellers warned over insurance

2008-06-30T16:35:00.000-07:00

By Joe Lynam
Business reporter, BBC News

British standards are being applied unfairly overseas as a basis for rejecting travel insurance claims, according to a consumer watchdog.

The Consumer Action Group (CAG) wants companies to be clearer with customers when selling travel insurance.

It cites the case of a 19-year-old who crashed a moped in Vietnam but his insurer refused to pay out.

The insurance firm involved said the policy "clearly stated" that the driver must have a full UK motorcycle licence.

The warning from the CAG comes as millions of gap year students and schoolchildren prepare to take their holidays this summer.

The group has highlighted the example of gap year student James Pinnington, 19, who crashed his moped in Vietnam in May, breaking both his legs.

Although James had what he thought was comprehensive travel insurance and a full driving licence and was wearing a helmet, his insurer refused to honour the claim because he did not have a full UK Class A motorcycle licence.

Officially any class of UK or international driving licence would not apply in Vietnam and local moped and car users are required to have separate licences, although these laws are not strictly applied in practice.

James's father Chris had to pay £25,000 to transport his son from a remote village in Vietnam to London via Bangkok.

The policy, which was purchased from Boots Gap Year Travel Insurance, stipulates that a full UK motorcycle licence would be required on page 13 of a 64 page document containing all the terms and conditions.

However, the Consumer Action Group said this condition should have been contained in the "Key Facts" booklet.

“We consider that it was unwise and probably unfair that this important requirement was omitted from the ‘Key Facts' booklet (in the terms and conditions) and we believe that Mr Pinnington may have suffered as a result,” according to Marc Gander from the CAG.

“We consider that the provision of a "Key Facts" booklet and then the omission of important key facts amounts to a misinformation.”

850,000 claims

In a statement, Boots said: "Our Gap Year Insurance policy wording clearly states that a claim will not be paid 'arising from using a two-wheeled motor vehicle as a driver or passenger if you are not wearing a crash helmet and the driver is not a holder of a full UK category A motorcycle licence'."

Last year more than 20 million people took out some form of travel insurance in Britain - of which just over 4% (850,000) claims were made. The Association of British Insurers denies using "small print" to avoid paying claims.

"Insurance companies pay out when genuine claims are made," according to Malcolm Tarling from the ABI. “We don't look at ways not to pay.

"The last thing we want is to leave people high and dry with medical injuries. Last year we paid out £200m for people who fell ill overseas.

"The key thing to do is avoid getting into difficulties is to read the Terms and Conditions. If you are unclear, talk to your insurance company or broker.”

Video Report - Talladega wannabe accused of doing 176 mph on Highway 11-W

2008-06-25T02:18:00.000-07:00

Rogersville officer Travis Fields inspects the 2003 Yamaha seized Sunday from Rusty Shane Webb, who allegedly hit 176 mph on Highway 11-W. Photo by Jeff Bobo.

-------------------------------

ROGERSVILLE — Hitting 176 mph on a motorcycle might be about average for the road course at Talladega Superspeedway, but it’s quite extreme for Highway 11-W in Rogersville.

Early Sunday morning, Rogersville police arrested Rusty Shane Webb, 26, 114 Lipe Lane, Rogersville, for allegedly hitting 176 mph while fleeing an attempted traffic stop.

Arresting Officer Travis Fields told the Times-News Monday he clocked Webb at 135 mph during a high-speed pursuit before losing contact.

After his arrest, however, Webb allegedly admitted to hitting 176 mph on a 2003 Yamaha. Webb also told police he’d built to race on the Talladega, Ala., road course next month.

Webb’s racing plans have been derailed, as the motorcycle has been impounded — and if Rogersville police have their way, will be seized permanently. If Webb had put a bit more gasoline in the tank, however, he’d probably still have his racer.

Gap year travel: Check insurance, father urges

2008-06-23T05:30:00.000-07:00

A father left with a £25,000 bill after his son was injured in Vietnam has issued a warning to other gap-year travellers. Jeremy Skidmore reports.

A father has warned gap year students and their parents to scrutinise the small print of insurance policies after he was left with a £25,000 bill when his son was injured in a scooter accident in Vietnam.

James Pinnington, 19, from Wimbledon, south-west London, hit an electricity pylon while riding in a remote area of Nha Trang in Vietnam last month, four months into a gap year holiday. He broke both legs, fractured his vertebra and suffering internal bleeding.

James's father, Chris, flew out straight away. Unhappy with the treatment on offer in the local hospital, he organised for his son to be transferred by air ambulance to Ho Chi Minh City and then on to Bangkok. James was then flown home on a Thai Airways jet, lying across economy seats and accompanied by a doctor and nurse. The total bill came to £25,000.

Mr Pinnington had bought an insurance policy for his son from Boots, because it included extreme activities and appeared to offer the most comprehensive cover - up to £10 million for medical claims and repatriation expenses.

However, Boots said James was not covered because, although he was wearing a helmet, he did not have a full UK motorcycle licence. This exclusion is on page 14 of a 50-page document.

Boots recommended its own repatriation service to help Mr Pinnington, and quoted a fee of £85,000 to fly James home.

"I even read a copy of the policy before I bought it because I am very careful, and I thought it was very comprehensive," said Mr Pinnington. "But, of course, when disaster strikes, they happily find a small-print loophole. Most children on gap years in Asia at some point rent a moped, because that's how they get around. But I bet only a tiny percentage of them have a full UK motorcycle licence.

"I'm not expecting to get my money back from Boots now. I just want to warn people to check their policies very carefully, so they don't have the same experience as us."

Insurance companies specialising in gap year insurance offer different levels of cover. Many state that scooter riders must wear a helmet and have a full UK motorcycle licence. Others, such as Real Gap Insurance and Ace Traveller, insist only that riders wear a helmet.

James has now been operated on in Britain and is expected to make a full recovery. He is hoping to be well enough to take up a place at Bristol University in October.

Tom Griffiths, the founder of Gapyear.com, an advice and social networking site, said: "Our research shows that 25 per cent of [gap year] students are either not insured or under-insured. It's no exaggeration to say they are putting their parents' homes at risk. We hear of costs of between £50,000 and £100,000 to cover medical bills, and some people have had to remortgage or sell their home to pay. There is no consistency between policies, so you must make sure you get the right one and telephone the company to talk about the cover if you are not sure."

In a statement, Boots said: "Boots have investigated Mr Pinnington's claim. Our Gap Year Insurance policy wording clearly states that a claim will not be paid 'arising from using a two-wheeled motor vehicle as a driver or passenger if you are not wearing a crash helmet and the driver is not a holder of a full UK category A motorcycle licence'.

"Boots and the insurance underwriters of the policy AIG UK will continue to liaise with Mr Pinnington about his complaint."

The company is investigating the discrepancy between the two quotes for the cost of repatriation.

3-wheelers in line for green light

2008-06-20T01:19:00.000-07:00

Monday, June 16, 2008 3:17 AM
By Amanda Dolasinski

THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH
Three-wheel electric cars will soon be legal on Ohio roads, as Gov. Ted Strickland is expected to sign a bill recognizing them as motorcycles.

The cars currently don't fit any of the state's definitions of motor vehicles, said Julie Ehrhart, spokeswoman for the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles. "They're not qualified as a motorcycle because they don't have a saddle, but they're not qualified as motor vehicles either because they don't meet federal safety guidelines.

"The lawmakers need to change the motorcycle outline from having a saddle to having a saddle or a seat."

That's what an amendment to the state construction budget bill did. The legislature passed the bill this week, and it will take effect 90 days after Strickland signs it, which he is expected to do next week.

"The governor has supported it and plans to sign it," said spokesman Keith Dailey.

One version of the three-wheel vehicles is the NmG-1 (for "no more gas"), which carries one person and is sold by Myers Motors in Tallmadge, just east of Akron.

It comes in vibrant colors, including aqua and lilac. The vehicle goes up to 76 mph and gets 35 to 45 miles per charge; a completely depleted battery can be charged in six to eight hours, according to the company's Web site.

Myers says its car costs 1 to 2 cents per mile to operate compared with 8 cents per mile for a gas hybrid that gets 50 miles to the gallon at $3.99 a gallon. It's priced at about $35,000, says Myers' Web site.

So far, one person, in Clinton County, has attempted to obtain title and registration for a three-wheel vehicle, and manufacturers who want to sell them have sent letters asking the bureau how they could be made street legal, Ehrhart said.

Under the proposed law, people driving the three-wheel vehicles would be expected to follow motorcycle laws, including wearing a helmet for the first year, even though they would be enclosed in the vehicle.

Drivers would have to take the motorcycle skills test instead of the motor vehicle maneuverability test and get a motorcycle endorsement on their license, Ehrhart said.

The motorcycle designation might be temporary, she said. "We've sat down and gathered everyone who is involved to patch it quickly by categorizing it as a motorcycle, and then maybe later (legislation) can draft it into a different categorization."

It's unclear whether the vehicles will be insured as a motorcycle or a car.

"It's up to the insurance companies on what kind of policy they want to write," said Jarrett Dunbar, spokesman for the Ohio Department of Insurance.

Mike Jucha, finance manager at Ohio Motorcycle in Hilliard, said the company is unfamiliar with the three-wheel vehicles but has been looking for alternatives for its customers.

"We have discussed selling some versions of electric scooters," he said. "We have considered other options because of the economy."

adolasinski@dispatch.com

Scooting past sky-high gas prices

2008-06-16T06:25:00.000-07:00

A pickup truck, motorcycle, six bicycles and a scooter sit in George Hunter's garage and driveway.

But for the retired schoolteacher, the scooter is the preferred choice.

"The scooter is just the best choice for what I need -- it's cheap on gas and easy to get around in," the 61-year-old said.

According to Roanoke Valley bike merchants, Hunter is just one example of the scooter craze in America that is infiltrating Southwest Virginia.

The number of registered motorcycles and scooters in Virginia increased 81 percent from 2001-07 to 166,806, according to the Department of Motor Vehicles.

Their low price, low maintenance and high fuel mileage have caused an average of a 50 percent sales increase on scooters and motorcycles, according to three area dealers.

Sales on brand-name scooters such as Honda, Yamaha, Vespa and Suzuki rose 24 percent in the first quarter of the year, according to the Motorcycle Industry Council trade group.

Michael Bower, general manager at Star City Powersports on Peters Creek Road, said on Friday that he had one scooter left and anticipates a new shipment.

This two-wheeler trend can be seen across the board, from the smallest motor scooters that don't require a license or insurance to small motorcycles.

The fuel-stingy scooters have a 50cc engine and can get anywhere from 75 to 100 miles per gallon. Their prices are as low as $1,300 and they require no insurance. Most of these scooters max out at 30 mph, though, making interstate driving impossible.

Larger scooters are also available that have more powerful engines that can reach 60 to 80 mph. They require a license but not insurance. They cost between $5,500 and $7,500.

The two-wheeler selling season usually begins toward the end of February and drops off toward the beginning of the summer, dealers say.

However, with fuel prices pushing $4 a gallon, the Roanoke bike shop owners say they think they will continue to see high sales throughout the summer.

a 24-hour party – with one hell of a race attached

2008-06-09T05:33:00.000-07:00

Le Mans is the endurance race. The track is one of the fastest, most challenging in the world and the race lasts not just a few minutes or even a few hours. It lasts an entire day. Which is why most would agree that Les Vingt-Quatre Heures du Mans, which takes place next weekend, is one of the greatest races in the world.

Certainly, British fans need no convincing. For decades tens of thousands of Brits have flocked to Le Mans, making it the third most popular motor sport event after the British Grand Prix and the Goodwood Revival.

In fact many of the 35,000 British spectators have come to regard it as a British motor race that just happens to take place in France. You have only to look at the bulging British campsites and the endless convoys of British sports cars making their way from the Channel ports to the circuit just south of the city of Le Mans to know it.

Why do they do it? Most British fans look upon it not only as a race but a great weekend away. They tend to go in groups, driving down, camping at the track, drinking too much, staying up most of the night and soaking up the sights and sounds and smells of the race.

The prizes go to the cars that cover the most distance in 24 hours. Teams compete in four separate classes, though they share the same track at the same time. Top of the pile are custom-built Le Mans prototypes, which are split into two categories, LMP1 and LMP2, and divided by speed, weight and power output. The next two classes are production-based grand tourers, also divided by speed, weight and power output and known as GT1 and GT2.

Traditionally the race began with a Le Mans start, with the cars parked in the pit lane and the drivers running to them, clambering in, turning on the ignition and racing away. The practice has been replaced with a rolling start because of safety concerns (with a Le Mans start, there was no time for drivers to strap themselves into safety harnesses before pulling away).

Once under way, the cars may stop to refuel and to be repaired as often as they need, but the clock is ticking so the race is as much a test of the cars’ stamina and reliability over 24 hours as that of the drivers.

Originally two drivers would take it in turns behind the wheel. However, in recent years this has changed in an attempt to reduce driver fatigue and crashes. Today drivers are not allowed to drive for more than four hours consecutively, and no driver can drive for more than 14 hours in total.

This year’s main race is likely to be a battle between Audi and Peugeot. Each team is fielding three diesel-powered prototype racing cars. Jacques Villeneuve, the former Formula One world champion, is driving for Peugeot while Scotland’s Allan McNish lines up in the Audi squad.

In the GT class, Aston Martin will be hoping for a successful defence of last year’s win with its DBR9 racer. It has Heinz-Harald Frentzen, another F1 driver, to help beat its principal opposition, the Chevrolet Corvette.

Motorcycle injuries continue to rise

2008-06-04T06:42:00.000-07:00

Cheryl Chan, The Province
Published: Sunday, June 01, 2008
With motorcycle-related crashes on B.C. roads at their highest since 2000, Dave Munro is becoming busier than he'd like to be.

The president of the Vancouver chapter of the Association of Injured Motorcyclists spends about

30 hours a week helping a largely forgotten segment of motorcycle crash victims -- the survivors.

"It's almost like a full-time job," said the 62-year-old Surrey man. "We're always busy in the summer."

The death of Canucks defenceman Luc Bourdon last week highlighted the vulnerability of bikers on the road.

The 21-year-old died after his three-week-old Suzuki motorcycle collided head-on with a transport truck on a New Brunswick highway. His funeral is scheduled for tomorrow at an ice rink in his hometown of Shippagan, N.B.

But even as motorcycle deaths remained steady in B.C., fluctuating between 35 and 45 from 2003 to '06, motorcycle-related injuries have continued to climb.

Over a recent six-month period, volunteers from the Surrey-based nonprofit association made 125 visits to G.F. Strong Rehabilitation Centre, helping eight downed riders cope with the aftermath of their crashes and navigate through the maze of disability benefits and insurance claims.

"Most people don't know these things," said Munro. "When someone is injured in hospital, they're traumatized and foremost on their mind is their injury."

The group, which has about 200 members locally and 1,200 across B.C., pitches in wherever it's needed: It has installed wheelchair ramps, taken care of pets, subsidized family members' airfares and provided motorcycle magazines and emotional support.

There are currently three injured bikers in rehab at G.F. Strong and one man still in hospital after a serious crash two months ago, said Munro. But because AIM cannot approach injured motorcyclists for privacy reasons, Munro believes there are a lot more out there.

According to police data, there were 1,233 injuries and 37 fatalities from motorcycle crashes in 2006. ICBC numbers also reveal injuries increased from 882 in 2001 to 1,153 in 2005, a 31-per-cent jump.

Munro believes accidents on bikes are inevitable. "There's two kinds of riders: Ones that have had accidents and ones that are going to

have accidents. It's just a matter

of how bad it is."

He knows this first-hand. After 40 years of accident-free riding, an unexpected collision in October 2004 left him an amputee.

Munro was cruising down 264th Street in Aldergrove on his Harley-Davidson bike when a pickup with no headlights crossed the median and plowed into his path. "He was on top of my leg when I saw him," said Munro.

The impact nearly tore his leg off. Doctors amputated his left leg below the knee.

Munro, who now wears a prosthetic limb, spent a year in rehab and fought off depression by continuing his volunteer work. "It kept my mind off what's going on with me."

Out of the seven people in his group-therapy program, two or three were also in serious motorcycle crashes, he said.

Depending on the extent of their injuries, motorcycle accidents can be "life-altering," said Dr. Jennifer Yao, a physical medicine and rehab specialist at G.F. Strong. "Motorcycle accidents tend to be high-velocity and multi-trauma."

Gas prices too high? iReporters use bikes, trains

2008-06-01T06:41:00.000-07:00

By Kate Taylor

(CNN) -- Americans are seeking new ways to get to work, with soaring gas prices suddenly making their cars and SUVs uncomfortable -- or at least expensive -- places to be.

On average, Americans spend almost 50 minutes driving to and from work each day and changing habits can be hard in cities where public transport has not kept up with the growth of suburbs.

With the average price of gas up to $3.92 a gallon Friday -- a record high, according to the American Automobile Association -- many commuters are considering alternative means of transportation.

iReporters told CNN that going car-less just takes a little research, exploration and planning.

Soon after Elizabeth Peisner of Los Angeles, California, bought a new car, gas prices exploded. After years of driving around Los Angeles, Peisner decided to look into the Los Angeles Metro.

Peisner was delighted to find she could take the Metro from a stop near her home in the Valley straight to her office downtown. Since then she's reorganized her life so that everywhere she needs to go is accessible via the Metro. She even found a new doctor whose office is on the Metro line.

A teacher, Peisner runs into fellow staff and students on the train. She says she's forged new friendships by sharing commutes.

"It has become a new way to rediscover the city I have called home my entire life but never really knew that much about," Peisner explained. "I love my Metro."

It appears that Peisner is not alone in making the switch to public transportation.

According to the American Public Transportation Association, ridership increased by 2.1 percent in 2007, with Americans taking 10.3 billion trips on public transportation, the highest level in 50 years, the group said.

Those numbers add up to fewer cars on the road. Americans drove an estimated 4.3 percent less in March 2008 than in March 2007. That's 11 billion fewer miles, the DOT's Federal Highway Administration said Monday, and it is the sharpest yearly drop for any month in the agency's history.

Robert Elliott used to go to the gym every morning, but after the birth of his two children 13 months apart, that changed. One day at work, Elliott was complaining to his co-workers about the weight he'd gained, when one of them suggested he bike to work.

"I said, 'Are you kidding me? In Phoenix?' " Elliott envisioned himself as the sole biker surrounded by cars on the city's grid system of streets. Instead, Elliott's co-worker used Google Earth to show him a 12-mile network of paved trails, a section of which passed by their office. Elliott says he'd been looking for bike trail maps for a while with no luck. "You have to ask around," he explained.

Now, Elliott rides 23 miles round trip three times a week. "It started off being a bit of a challenge," he said. "You have to bike both ways. Sometimes you feel a little concerned, am I going to get home? You can literally run out of energy. You have to make sure you drink plenty of water." See a photolog of Elliott's bike ride to work

"And," Elliott added, "You're used to having your car at work, to run errands and stuff."

But, Elliott says, the payoff has been worth it. He did a few weekend test runs to make sure he was ready to bike so far. "The wife's always on call with the minivan," he added.

He's gotten used to the distance, and now Elliott prefers biking to driving, although it takes about 20 minutes more each way. "I'm losing weight, and it's stress-free, not having to sit in traffic." Take a narrated tour of another city's gridlock traffic

To pass the time while biking, Elliot has been listening to Spanish lessons on his MP3 player. "I'm out there on the trails, speaking Spanish," he mused.

Kate Mullins lives just outside Springfield, Missouri, and admits that she finds the city bus system in her area "weird." Wanting to avoid spending money to drive their 1979 Chevy Nova, Mullins and her husband each bought a used scooter. Now, she says, they save about $200 a month on gas.

Mullins rides her scooter to work every day, and it's not powerful enough to take on the highway, so the trip takes her twice as long as the 15-minute drive to work in the car. But Mullins doesn't mind; she enjoys the wind in her hair and calls it "a fun little ride." Hear from another iReporter who adores his scooter

"It saves me a heck of a lot more gas," Mullins said. "It's gotten to the point where most of us are doing what we can."

When Heath and Danyah Johnson of Roanoke, Texas, were given the option of working in the same building, they jumped at it. Both teachers, the Johnsons work in a school district that allows married couples to work together.

Although, as Heath said, it's "a lot of togetherness," the convenience makes up for the challenge. The Johnsons have one car, which they usually take to work, dropping their sons off on the way. On the days the boys ride the bus, Heath and Danyah Johnson take the motorcycle. Hear from an iReporter who calls motorcycling a 'Zen vacation'

Electric pickup is a real charge (cost of driving isn’t bad either)

2008-05-21T02:39:00.000-07:00

By Richard Walker | May 21, 2008 Diesel prices have passed the $5 mark. The price of regular gas, as of Friday, neared the mid-$4 mark.

But you won’t hear a gripe from Brad Pillow of Friday Harbor, especially since it only costs him 31.71 to fill ’er up.

That’s 31.71 cents, not dollars.

Pillow, who’s accustomed to being behind the wheel of a full-size Chevy pickup with a 350 V8, now cruises island streets in a pickup truck made by Zap, an Oregon-based electric vehicle manufacturer.

Pillow bought his Zap pickup April 27, after a dump truck and his 38 mpg Honda Civic had an unfortunate meeting.

Faced with ever-increasing fuel prices, Pillow’s wife, Liz, recommended they look at options. He did some research into electric vehicles, learned about Zap, connected with an owner in Olympia and went for a test drive. He was sold. His pickup cost him $13,000.

Turns out, the smart blue pickup has proven to be an ideal vehicle for tooling around the island. It goes 45 mph and has a 40-mile range on one charge. (The golf cart-like electric cars manufactured by GEM go 25 mph, have a 20-mile range per charge and cost about $18,000.)

Pillow’s pickup is cozy – it has two doors, two seats, seatbelts and stereo. Just how cozy is it? “I like to say that you have to step outside to change your mind,” Pillow quips.

It’s so quiet it has a signal that alerts motorists and pedestrians that it is backing up. A full charge is 4.2 kilowatt hours, at 7.55 cents per kwh. You can top off anytime you want.

It’s built Zap tough: it weighs almost a ton. The batteries have a life of five to seven years. The differential takes one pint of oil a year.

Now, here’s the part that’s anti-Danica. The Zap pickup carries a maximum of 300 pounds – that’s including driver and passenger. The winter cold can affect the battery charge, so you’ve got to park this rod in the garage. And speed and length of battery charge are affected by road grade; the flatter the grade, the longer the ride.

Pillow said the benefits far outweigh any disadvantages.

Zap vehicles are actually classified as motorcycles (they have three wheels). So, to register your vehicle you pay a motorcycle rate. Insurance is a lot cheaper. And, as a “motorcycle,” you can be first on and first off the ferry, Pillow said.

“The savings are astronomical. I save about $100 a month in gas,” he said. “Liz puts her bike in the back, we drive into town together and then she rides her bike to work.”

Pillow’s top reason for recommending that others go Zap: “Social responsibility.”

Wrecks make for hot day on 199

2008-05-19T05:23:00.000-07:00

By Adam Madison
Triplicate staff writer
Two major wrecks occurred on U.S. Highway 199 on Wednesday, one resulting in injuries and the other blocking traffic in both directions for more than two hours.
The highway was closed in both directions northwest of Gasquet after a log truck overturned shortly after noon.
Hours later, a Ford Mustang collided with a Dodge truck towing a trailer with a tractor on it in front of Hog-Heaven Motorcycle Resort in Gasquet, owned by the driver of the truck, Keith DeForest.
"I looked over my shoulder and I heard something—I heard gravel—and it hit me," said DeForest, shaken and holding his discolored left arm.
DeForest was turning left toward the gravel driveway of his business when the southbound Mustang, driven by Nathanial Dean Schoeber of Crescent City, collided with the truck, according to the California Highway Patrol. Schoeber was treated and released from Sutter Coast Hospital on Wednesday evening.
DeForest said he had insurance on his truck, which brought a brief smile to his dusty face.
"It jerked me right up on the porch," he said about the collision, still shaken from his experience.
"We're getting ready to take him to the hospital, we think he might have some broken ribs," Summer Calvin, a Hog-Heaven employee and family friend, said Wednesday evening.
After hitting the truck, Schoeber's Mustang slid over a curbed lawn and through a fence before coming to a stop.
Two motorcyclists who were inside Hog-Heaven when the accident occurred were not injured as the truck stopped at the porch—but their motorcycles didn't do as well.
"I was in the store paying for that drink there," said Todd Clendenin, of Crescent City, pointing toward an empty sports drink bottle.
"I heard the impact and saw the truck floating toward the store—I thought it was coming through," said Clendenin. "I was just getting ready to run when it (the truck) stopped."
Clendenin said the heartbreak happened only a moment later. "My buddy looks out and says, "Hey, your bike's underneath that truck."'
He replied with an enthusiastic "yep" when asked if he had insurance, adding, "I've only had the bike for about a year."
Clendenin was riding with Jeff Broderson, whose bike was hit in the chain reaction as well—but didn't end up underneath the truck.
In an earlier wreck, a log truck overturned 10 miles northwest of Gasquet blocking north and southbound lanes of the highway and stopping other travelers in the Gasquet heat.
"As he was coming around the corner the truck started to overturn," said CHP Officer Alton Randall. "I'm not sure whether the cab or the trailer went first."
The logs on the trailer of the southbound truck spilled into the northbound lane after the vehicle tipped.
The name of the truck driver, who was uninjured, was not released Wednesday.
CHP Officer Barry Foster said that no diesel spilled from the log truck, only "a little bit of engine oil."
"When the truck overturned the tanks didn't rupture," said Foster, pointing to a dark pool of liquid that had spilled out from the engine compartment.
People on the way out of town were stuck in the heat for more than two hours.
"We were headed to Medford (Ore.) and Redding," said Roy Magnuson, who was with his wife, Marilyn. "We were headed to pick up a new trailer," he said, pointing to his fifth-wheel camper trailer.
A filmmaker's travels were disrupted as well.
"I'm doing a documentary on hitchhiking for the U.K. (United Kingdom)—sometimes the unexpected happens," said Hamish Campbell from Britain.
Reach Adam Madison at amadison@triplicate.com.

One2Five - Bikesure Steps in to Cover the Sub-125cc 'Uninsurables'

2008-05-09T04:44:00.000-07:00

There are also more manufacturers then ever producing them - and this is a problem, as the official ABI database (compiled by the Association of British Insurers) can't keep up with all the new models and marques. Which means many insurers simply can't touch lots of the new 'sub-125's - and owners can find themselves with a real problem getting cover.
Now Bikesure has launched a scheme that will insure any sub-125cc machine, no matter what the brand. Called One2Five, and underwritten by Norwich Union, Bikesure believes it's the most flexible scheme for the small bike and scooter rider.
"One2Five can handle any bike make, any age of driver and any level of cover," says Robert Balls of Bikesure. "We'll not only cover brands that other insurers can't or won't touch, we'll also insure riders and bikes that many exclude - such as a 17 year old on a race style bike."
Despite its flexibility One2Five is very competitively priced - in fact Bikesure believes the scheme delivers some of the cheapest bike insurance premiums on the market for bikes under 125cc.
"If you're a standard rider with a standard bike, you can even buy online," adds Robert Balls. "If the bike is a bit off the wall, or if the rider has any convictions or other special conditions, then it's best to give us a call for the cheapest quote."
Amongst the extras for the Bikesure scheme is a special 'new for old' feature for brand new bikes. If a new bike is written off within six months of purchase, One2Five will replace it with no depreciation.
Bikesure is 100% British owned and based. It has a huge range of specialist policies for the motorcycle enthusiast, including cheap bike insurance schemes for performance and custom bikes, scooters, trikes, quads and bug riders. For details freephone the Bikesure quote line on 0800 089 2000, email the company at bikesure @ adrianflux.co.uk or visit http://www.bikesure.co.uk/
One2Five.doc – May-08Press Enquiries:Toni Turner or Alison Haynes at The Publicity WorksTel: 01263 761000 Email: bikesure @ publicityworks.biz Robert Balls at Bikesure Insurance: 08700 771377 Press information, digital files, photos etc., available on request from bikesure @ publicityworks.biz

Help Protect Your Motorcycle Accident Claim

2008-05-07T04:36:00.000-07:00

How often do we find ourselves sitting in a traffic jam waiting patiently in our cars inching forward every few minutes then we suddenly hear the roar of an engine pass our window as we turn and see a motorcycle slice through the commuters hell that is the everyday rush hour?
There is no question that a motorcycle is the ideal way to beat the traffic woes in big cities or large towns. Modern machines are equipped for comfort and are icons of speed to help get the rider to his destination in the quickest time possible. Yet, a motorcycle is still a dangerous way to travel no matter how quickly it makes the journey-time.
Riders of motorcycles are aware of these dangers and obviously protect themselves by wearing the proper bike leathers and safety helmet. However, there are less safety features on a motorcycle than with a car. There is no protective frame on a motorcycle like a car has and in the case of an impact it is the motorcycle and its driver that in the majority of times will come of as second-best.
If you have been in a recent road accident and were a motorcycle driver it is best to seek specialist help if you are looking to claim compensation for your injuries. Nowadays, most personal injury lawyers run these type of claims under a 'No Win No Fee' policy which means that the claimant does not pay anything whether they lose the claim or not.
A professional personal injury lawyer will help build your case for compensation and collect evidence to support your claim by retrieving police accident reports, witness statements, medical reports, costs incurred from the accident such as repair bills for the motorcycle, insurance documents ... everything that is required legally to take your case to trial.
It is most likely that in the majority of cases that the other party will admit negligence for their part in the accident and an out-of-court settlement can be reached. However, it is best to be prepared to go to court to fight your case and an experienced personal injury lawyer should prepare your case and you for this event.
With more and more cars hitting our roads everyday, inexperienced drivers, road rage and confusing road layouts accidents will happen. Motorcycles can be often bare the brunt of a road collision and if you have been a victim of such a motorcycle accident and wish to claim compensation for your injuries then you require the experience of a professional injury lawyer such as The Injury Lawyers.
Paul Steven writes for North South Media an organic SEO Company that offers article writing and submission services.

As Fuel Prices Increase, So Do Motorcycle Sales

2008-05-04T02:17:00.001-07:00

WEST PALM BEACH, FL (NBC) -- Standing at a local gas station, watching the numbers roll by faster than his eye can keep up with, Marco Almeida swears this may be one of the last times he fills up his car with gas.

$4.00-a-gallon fuel has financially drained him."That's why I'm switching to a bike," he says. A bike, as in, motorcycle.At the local Harley Davidson dealership, they've been seeing more and more people like Marco just within the past couple of week."The fuel mileage ranges anywhere from 35-miles per gallon to one of the bikes we make that get 70 miles to a gallon," says Andy DaMiano, General Manager at the Harley store.DaMiano says people are still hesitant to purchase a new motorcycle because they're already feeling the financial pinch from higher fuel and food prices, and don't need yet another payment.But pre-owned bikes, he says, he can't keep on the floor. "We're selling every used bike we can possibly get. Everything we trade for, we sell. We're out of used motorcycles right now," says DaMiano.Leslie Kay, who owns an insurance company in Boynton Beach specializes in motorcycle coverage. Her company writes policies in 23 states for everything from scooters to cruisers. Business, she says, is booming."There's a whole group of people out there that are pulling the bike out of the garage that they quit riding 5 years ago and put a cover over and they got too busy to ride because that was their hobby," says Kay, "All of a sudden it's not a hobby anymore."Once considered an expendable-income luxury. Motorcycles are now becoming, for many, an economic necessity."I have no choice but to," says Almeida, "I'm working a part time job and it feels like I'm working to put gas in my car."

Women victimized by motorcycle thieves

2008-05-04T02:15:00.000-07:00

Many Yemenis work as motorcycle drivers in order to earn a living; however, others use it to steal women’s purses and harass female pedestrians on the street.There are more than 10,000 motorcycles in Sana’a, nearly all of which have entered Yemen illegally from entry points such as Oman and Saudi Arabia. These motorcycles don’t have any documentation or insurance and are unregistered, notes Yahya Shubail, former head of the Sana’a Traffic Department.Many motorcyclists in Yemen consider it a job in order to make a living, says Yahya Al-Hadtha. “I tried to find a job for nearly a year, but with no success, so one day, I decided to buy and become a motorcycle driver in order to earn money. I don’t have a number for my motorcycle and it’s unregistered.”The real problem in Yemen is that most of these motorcycles are unregistered and have entered the country illegally, so no one can go after these criminals and find them, Shubail notes.This is why the Yemeni government must give some attention to this problem and come up with solutions. Besides Sana’a, Hodeidah governorate and the Tihama region also are experiencing an increased number of motorcycles.Many motorcyclists use their vehicles to steal women’s purses, for sexual harassment and to break the law by not heeding traffic signals, Shubail said.While walking to her home in Al-Qaa’a area of Sana’a one afternoon last year, a motorcyclist came up to Abeer Mohammed and tried to steal her purse. “I fought with him while he was holding my purse. I beat him until we both fell down. Then some people saw us and came to help me and the driver drove away,” she recounted.During the past three years from 2005 to 2007, the phenomenon of hooligan motorcyclists has increased. They steal women’s purses while they’re walking on the street, as well as sexually abuse women pedestrians, and then flee quickly, explains Ahmed Sa’ad, an official at Al-Saba’een area police station in Sana’a.Following such incidents, Sa’ad noted, “We came up with a plan to stop and fight these motorcyclists. In the beginning, it was a very hard job because many of the cycles were unregistered. However, working hand in hand and with the help of security officials, it worked.”After working hard to stop gangs and illegal motorcycles, police succeeded in 2007 in stopping and catching nearly all of the thieves. Approximately 40 to 50 motorcyclists have been caught and imprisoned. While most were organized gangs, some acted individually, Sa’ad added.According to him, “We used to follow them by car and taxi, keeping our eye on them in order to learn more about them and we succeeded. We then sent them to criminal investigation, which transferred them to the attorney general’s office.”Despite such successful action, the phenomenon has begun to reappear in Sana’a and there must be solutions as soon as possible, Sa’ad urged.However, not all motorcyclists are bad; in fact, most work hard to earn a respectable living. At the same time, many people – almost exclusively men – prefer getting around by motorcycle because it’s faster than other vehicles.“They’re fast because no one can follow them because there aren’t any numbers on our motorcycles,” adds Ali Mohammed, who has been a motorcycle driver for almost two years.He explains, “Because I’m poor and couldn’t find a job, I started working as a driver, taking people from place to place.” However, he admitted, “I know many drivers who use their motorcycles to steal from people on the street or to bother women and girls.”Riham Ahmed, 19, was walking to her car with her friend from their friend’s house. She recalled, “The neighborhood was dark. A motorcyclist came from behind and tried to take my purse, but I kept holding onto it so he couldn’t take it. He failed and drove off.”She continued, “I then got into my car and tried to go after him and find him, but without success. Since then, I’ve stopped going out at night alone and started carrying my purse on the side facing the sidewalk so that no one can do anything.”Bushra Al-Liswas likewise had a bad experience seven years ago while walking on Iran Street in Hadda area. She said, “It was 8:30 p.m. and I was walking alone when a motorcyclist carrying another passenger with him came from behind and tried to take my purse by force and he did. I screamed, but when people came to help me, he’d already fled with my purse. I lost my mobile phone and some money.”Eid season is a good time for thieves because everyone goes to the market to buy things. At that time, their purses and pockets are filled with money.For example, during this past Eid Al-Fitr, while Mona was in the market buying some clothing, a motorcyclist came up, hit her hard on the back and seized all of her purchases.Other motorcycle crimesSome girls have encountered extremely dangerous situations involving motorcycle hooligans. One day during Ramadan, a group of girls was in the market when a group of four male motorcyclists suddenly drove past, threw acid on them and then fled. Some of the girls’ clothing [that they were wearing] melted and two girls were injured because of it, Majeda recounted.She continued, “We didn’t report it to the police because we thought that even if we did, nothing would happen because there’s no law to protect us, so we just decided to walk on and be careful.”Besides using their motorcycles, thieves also use weapons. According to A.J., “Last year, I was walking to my friend’s house at sunset to attend her wedding when three individuals came up on their motorcycles, threatened me with knives and demanded all of my gold. Having no other choice, I gave them everything.”Shubail points out that there is a law pertaining to stopping smuggled motorcycles, but so far, it hasn’t been implemented. He concluded, “I recommend creating stricter legislation in order to stop traffic congestion and confusion in order to benefit the public.”

NASCAR Drivers, Virginia Officials Encourage Local Teens to Stop Texting While Driving

2008-05-04T02:13:00.000-07:00

RICHMOND, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Today, Nationwide Insurance teamed up with NASCAR drivers Clint Bowyer and Landon Cassill, DRIVE SMART Virginia, the Virginia State Police, Henrico County School officials and the Richmond International Raceway to raise awareness among Virginia teens about DWD – Driving While Distracted.
"To remain safe behind the wheel, whether it is on a race track or on the streets, requires 100 percent focus," said Clint Bowyer, driver of the No. 2 BB&T Chevrolet and current points leader in the NASCAR Nationwide Series. "If I allow myself to become distracted during the race it can cost me positions on the track, but driving distracted on the streets and highways can be extremely dangerous not only to the driver but to the other motorists on the road."
To drive home the message that multitasking behind the wheel puts drivers and their fellow motorists at risk, Nationwide hosted an event at Hermitage High School. Students and community members were able to see firsthand the impact text messaging has on their driving abilities while racing in a NASCAR simulator.
“Here in Virginia, we are committed to improving the safety of our roadways, and distracted driving is a challenge that we are addressing. Initiatives like Distracted Driving Awareness Day direct our attention to the need to focus our minds and eyes on the important task of driving," said Ralph Davis, Deputy Secretary of Transportation. "We want to urge all drivers to devote their full attention and energy to helping to improve safety on Virginia's roadways."
Officials, including Davis, Virginia State Police Deputy Director of Field Operations Major George L. Daniels, Jr., Superintendent of Henrico Co. Schools Fred Morton IV and the President of Richmond International Raceway Doug Fritz, encouraged teens in Virginia to drive safely and stop driving while distracted.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says distracted drivers account for nearly four out of five crashes in the U.S. The problem is especially bad for young drivers. In a survey by Nationwide Mutual Insurance of 1,200 drivers, a third of Gen Y-ers admit to always multitasking while driving and 37 percent send text messages while driving.
“Multi-tasking has become such a daily part of our lives that many people don’t think about the risks to themselves and others when it’s done behind the wheel,” said Major George L. Daniels, Virginia State Police Deputy Director of Field Operations. “It only takes a few seconds to change a CD, grab a drink, dial a cell phone, crash your vehicle and change a life forever.”
Distractions that take a driver’s eyes off the road even for just seconds put drivers and their passengers at great risk.
“At Nationwide, we’re as much in the business of preventing accidents as we are in reimbursing people after an accident,” said Mark Berven, Nationwide’s Regional Vice President for Virginia. “Text messaging comes natural to Gen Y-ers. However, multitasking while behind the wheel is quite different from multitasking while sitting at home.”
Nationwide and the National Safety Council developed www.NationwideSmartRide.com, a Website to provide parents and teens free tools and resources to help develop safe drivers and reinforce smart behavior. It is available free to anyone regardless of whether they are a Nationwide customer.
"The increase in cell phone use and text-messaging by young drivers – and adult drivers as well – makes the "don't drive while distracted" message critical for all communities,” said Fred Morton, IV, Superintendent of Henrico County Schools. “I applaud all the organizations involved in today's event for addressing this very contemporary safety issue.”
Nationwide Insurance was at Hermitage High School as part of its new sponsorship of the NASCAR Nationwide Series. In addition to spreading the message of dangers of driving while distracted, the event gave race fans an opportunity to get driver autographs, clock the fastest time in a NASCAR racing simulator, meet local Nationwide agents and win prizes. The grand prize for the sweepstakes at the event was the Nationwide® VIP Experience at the track in Richmond.
The NASCAR Nationwide Series will be at the Richmond International Raceway on Friday, May 2, 2008 for the Lipton Tea 250. Coverage begins at 7 p.m. on ESPN 2.
DRIVE SMART Virginia (DSV) is the only 501c3 non-profit in Virginia dedicated entirely to making Virginia's roadways the safest in the nation. Founded by automobile insurance companies that represent more than 85 percent of the driving insured on Virginia’s roads, DSV is a formidable presence in the homes and businesses of our Virginia citizens. For more information, visit www.drivesmartva.org.
Nationwide, based in Columbus, Ohio, is one of the largest diversified insurance and financial services organizations in the world, with more than $161 billion in assets. Nationwide ranks #108 on the Fortune 500 list. The company provides a full range of insurance and financial services, including auto, motorcycle, boat, homeowners, life, farm, commercial insurance, administrative services, annuities, mortgages, mutual funds, pensions, long-term savings plans and health and productivity services. For more information, visit www.nationwide.com.
The NASCAR Nationwide Series logo and word mark are used under license by the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing, Inc., and Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. NASCAR® and the NASCAR logo are registered trademarks of the National Association for Stock Auto Racing, Inc. Nationwide SmartRide is a service mark of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. Nationwide, On Your Side and the Nationwide Frame mark are federally registered service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company.