There is a lot to think about when buying a new car, and it’s not all just about which color to choose and what model is best for your situation. To be a responsible car owner, you need to have a few different things. Some things are legal requirements, and should you be caught, driving without them could land you in a lot of trouble, while other things improve your safety and convenience.
An Up-to-Date Registration
One of the first things you’ll need to do when you buy a new vehicle is to register it under your name. Doing so recognizes the transfer of ownership legally from the seller to yourself and is crucial if you ever need to prove ownership. As well as registering your car upon purchase, should you relocate to another state for more than a short period, you will need to register to your new state of residence.
Be Insured
Insurance is essential for any vehicle you own. It protects you financially should any damage be inflicted to your car or if you cause damage to someone else’s car. Many types of insurance are available, starting with liability coverage and working up to fully comprehensive coverage. If you’re unsure what level of coverage will suit you best, Progressive Insurance reviews will give you all the information you need to make an informed decision.
Cover if you Breakdown
Regardless of whether you choose to take it out as a separate policy or have it included in your insurance policy, breakdown cover is a must as it will allow you to be back on the road or off the road into a repair shop in the quickest possible time should you breakdown. Like insurance, it pays to shop around to make sure you get the best cover for your needs, but once you have that cover in place, you’ll have the ongoing peace of mind that even if you accidentally lock your keys in the trunk, you won’t stay stranded for long.
An Emergency Kit
Should you find yourself first to the scene of an accident or, worse, involved in one, you’ll be thankful to have an emergency kit with you. An emergency kit can include a basic first aid kit, an emergency reflective triangle, and foil blankets. If you get stuck in snow or mud, a shovel is helpful, while a small device to break a car window could save your life if the doors become blocked. An emergency kit doesn’t have to take up a lot of space but having a few safety and first aid essentials could make the difference when it counts.
Jumper Cables
Running your car battery is frustratingly easy to do, but should it happen, it’s an easy fix if there is another vehicle within your vacinity. All you need is a set of jumper cables. However, as you can’t be sure other drivers carry them, it’s a smart move to have some of your own.
