The Road to Confident Car Insurance: A First-Time Buyer's Essential Guide

Car insurance, though a mandatory requirement, can often seem like a daunting and confusing aspect of car ownership. For first-time buyers, navigating through the sea of policies, coverage options, and insurance providers can be overwhelming. However, armed with the right knowledge and tips, the process can become much more manageable. In this blog post, we will break down the essential aspects of researching, shopping for, and buying car insurance, offering valuable tips for those venturing into this realm for the first time. 

Understanding the Basics

Before delving into the shopping process, it's crucial to grasp the fundamental concepts of car insurance. At its core, car insurance is a contract between the policyholder and the insurance company, wherein the policyholder pays a premium in exchange for coverage against financial loss in case of an accident or other covered events. The coverage can range from liability insurance, which covers damages to other parties, to comprehensive coverage that includes damages to your own vehicle as well.

Researching and Comparing Policies

1. Assess Your Needs: Begin by understanding the type of coverage you require based on your vehicle's value, your budget, and any additional coverage you may need.
2. Compare Quotes: You must get car insurance quotes from multiple providers. Online comparison tools are valuable resources that can help you easily compare premiums, coverage limits, and deductibles.
3. Check Reviews and Reputation: Research the reputation of insurance companies and read customer reviews. A company's customer service and claims handling are vital factors to consider. 
4. Inquire About Discounts: Many insurers offer various discounts for safe driving, multiple policies, good student grades, and more. Inquire about available discounts to potentially lower your premium.
5. Consider the Deductible: The deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in. Opting for a higher deductible can lower your premium, but ensure it's an amount you can comfortably afford. 
   

Tips for First-Time Buyers

• Understand Coverage Options: Don't skimp on coverage to save money. Instead, understand your needs and choose coverage that adequately protects you and your assets. If you have a good relationship with family members who have had car insurance for decades, be sure to ask them questions. They may be able to offer helpful advice. 
• Read the Policy Carefully: Thoroughly read the policy documents to understand the terms, conditions, and exclusions. Seek clarification from the insurer if anything is unclear.
• Know State Requirements: Different states have different minimum insurance requirements. Ensure your policy meets or exceeds your state's mandatory coverage levels.
• Consider Your Driving Habits: If you don't drive frequently, consider usage-based insurance programs that determine your premium based on your driving behavior.
• Maintain a Good Driving Record: A clean driving record can significantly impact your insurance premium. Avoid accidents and traffic violations to enjoy lower rates.
• Bundle Your Policies: If you have multiple insurance needs, such as home or renter's insurance, consider bundling them with the same insurer for potential discounts.
• Regularly Review Your Policy: As your circumstances change, so might your insurance needs. Review your policy annually and update it accordingly.

Buying car insurance for the first time may seem like a complicated process, but with research and understanding, you can make informed decisions and find suitable coverage. Remember to assess your needs, compare quotes, and read policy documents carefully. As a first-time buyer, don't hesitate to seek advice from experienced drivers or insurance professionals to ensure you have the right coverage at the best possible rate. By following these tips, you can embark on your car insurance journey with confidence, knowing you're protected on the road ahead. Happy driving!

How to prepare for your driving test

There’s nothing quite as daunting as a driving test. You’re guaranteed to have butterflies in your stomach, sweaty palms and a raised heartbeat. Don’t worry. This is all completely normal. 

While a driving test brings out the nervous energy in all of us, the key is to be prepared. That way, nothing can surprise you and you’re likely to pass. Here are some ways to prepare for your driving test. 

Prepare for emergencies

What happens if you have an accident during your driving test? This is something that many learner drivers fear. While your examiner will have their own set of pedals, it’s important to be prepared for accidents or emergencies. This means knowing how to respond afterwards; such as stopping the car, putting on your hazards and redirecting traffic. You may also want to get in touch with a Houston car accident lawyer, as well as getting any injuries checked out by a medical team. The chance of an accident happening during your test is unlikely, but being prepared will help in the worst-case scenario. 

Know the roads

It’s no good learning to drive in Houston if you’re taking your test in Dallas. You might be a great driver, but all beginners struggle on roads they don’t know. So, it’s important to drive around in the area that your test will be. Familiarize yourself with one way systems, busy junctions and confusing road signs. That way, you won’t be thrown off by an unexpected turning and will be able to perform at your very best.  

Get a good night’s sleep

It’s difficult to perform well when we’re cranky and tired. So, the key to doing well in your driving test is to make sure you get a good night’s sleep beforehand. This means no late-night partying or binging Netflix. Put your phone on silent and aim for at least eight hours of shut-eye. A good night’s sleep will help you feel positive, motivated and ready for your driving test.  

Be comfortable with the car

All cars drive differently. You might be great at driving in your instructor’s car, but keep stalling in your mom’s. A diesel car might drive more smoothly than petrol, or the biting point might be different. So, prepare for your test by becoming comfortable in the car you’ll be taking the examination in. This means driving it regularly and understanding how to drive smoothly. You should also know how to fill it up and change the tire – just in case. 

Relax

When we’re stressed and anxious, our bodies can act in mysterious ways. You might know how to parallel park, but in the moment your mind has suddenly gone blank. Try to relax. While it might seem like a lot is riding on this moment, you can always take the test again. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself.  

How to Get Yourself Out of Common Traffic Violations

Traffic violations can result in fines worth hundreds of dollars, points on your license, or even a driving ban. Some of the most common traffic violations are speeding, reckless driving, running through a stop sign or red light, driving under the influence and turning or changing lanes without indicating. Dealing with a pending court case can cause a lot of unnecessary stress. However, before you formally challenge the violation in a court of law, there are a few strategies that can be tried before you decide to look for legal representation.

Photo by Tobi from Pexels

1. Challenge the Officer’s Observations and Conclusion

After being pulled over and told that you have broken the Road Rules, challenging the traffic officer’s version of events can sometimes yield results. For example, if you run a red light, you might make the excuse that you were traveling too fast to stop in time. You might also point out that the officer was not in a favorable position to judge whether you did, in fact, violate the traffic laws. This can work especially well when there is a lot of traffic that might have arguably obstructed their view of the incident. Recording such an objection can help you later on if your case ends up going before a judge.

2. Challenge the State of the Roads or Signals

Make sure to drive past the site when the traffic offense occurred to check whether the road, markings, lights and signals are all in good working order. If you find any aspect of these is not working, in disrepair, or not clearly visible due to dirt or dust, record your findings in the form of a video or photo and pass them to your attorney. Any such evidence that you can collect can be extremely valuable and can assist a good lawyer in their attempt to construct a strong argument in your favor to absolve you of any responsibility for the violation.

3. Prove that the Offense Was the Result of an Attempt to Avoid Harm

A good defense in court may come from being able to prove that your action was a result of a legitimate attempt to protect the safety of yourself or other drivers. An example of this might be to claim that you were driving over the speed limit due to an attempt to avoid a collision, or because you feared the possibility of being hit from behind by a driver who was tailgating you. Another valid excuse might be that you were taking evasive action to avoid an animal that had moved into your path.

Photo by Mike from Pexels

While it is always much wiser to take care to avoid committing a traffic offense so that you do not end up in a legal wrangle, once you have received a ticket, it is a good idea to hire a legal attorney that specializes in minimizing driving penalties. If you live in the Greater Sydney area, why not check out some of the fantastic traffic lawyers Parramatta has to offer?

Riding a Motorcycle for the First Time

Motorcycles are loved by many people for the experience and freedom on the highway this vehicle provides. A grade-A motorcycle can push this experience to the next level. Many people are opting for motorcycles these days because they're not only better at providing mobility across busy cities, they are actually more fun!

However, anyone who has never ridden a bike in their life, riding a motorcycle is something that needs to be done carefully to avoid injury. You should keep in mind that motorcycle can be an extremely dangerous vehicle if not handled properly.

We have developed this small guide to help first-time motorcycle riders. After you follow all these precautions, you and your friends can finally head out for self-guided bike tours.
Make sure to follow expert guidelines, always!

No matter what kind of vehicle you are about to ride for the first time, general knowledge must be acquired beforehand. When it comes to motorcycles, it is very important that you acquire a license, take classes, and be of legal age.

Just like any other vehicle, it is impossible to learn how to ride motorcycles without help. You'll need the help of a seasoned motorcyclist to teach you how to ride one. You can do this if you opt out of professional training. But it is still recommended that you go through professional training before riding a bike.

Once you have learned the basics of riding a motorcycle, you should go for a license. Do not attempt to take out your bike without a license because it is against the law.

Make sure you ride safely
When riding a motorcycle, your utmost concern should be the safety of riding one. Motorcycles are a risky vehicle which can lead to serious injuries or even death if an accident occurs.

It is very important that you buy proper gear for motorcycle riding and wear a helmet at all times. Riding gloves, jackets, and pants that protect you against scratches are also very important.

Have some sort of insurance
Your life is very important to make sure you have some sort of health insurance that covers accidents. Even if you do not have one, you still have the option of hiring a motorcycle accident lawyer to help you win compensation for an accident especially if you are riding for the first time. 

Adjust your mirrors
One of the most important things new bike riders forget to work with is adjusting their rear view mirrors. Many bikers turn their head to look what's coming from behind.
This practice is not recommended and is dangerous. Always make sure that your rear view mirrors are set according to your vision level and that you can clearly and easily see whose coming from behind.

Always make sure to follow the appropriate steps when riding the motorcycle for the first time. If you carefully follow these guidelines, you can significantly lower any potential problems from occurring.

7 Crucial Tips to Help You Pass Your Drive Test

Driving tests makes many people anxious and nervous even after many hours of practice and professional training. Some fail their test because of fear while others fail because of lack of preparation. However, there are some things every prospective driver should know before they take their test to improve their chances of succeeding. Here are seven crucial tips that will help you pass your driving test.

1. Prepare for the Test
Proper preparation and practice lead to outstanding results in any test and professional training is not enough to pass a driving test. You’ll need many hours of private practice as well. Drive different cars where possible and use different routes during your private practice.

The routes you choose should include those near your driving school where you are likely to take the test. You should also consider taking a mock test beforehand to make sure that everything is on point before you take your exam. Companies like Toptests offer mock tests online that can prepare you for a variety of situations. You can find more information about Toptests and their services at www.toptests.co.uk.

2. Sit Comfortably and Relax
Ensure that you are comfortable before you turn on the ignition key. Adjust the driver's seat where necessary. If you have an opportunity to choose a car for the test, choose one that you have driven before during your practice sessions. Take deep breaths just before the test to help you relax. You will make a lot of mistakes if you drive while feeling anxious.

3. Ask Questions
Interact with your examiner during the test and ask questions if you do not understand the instructions. Do not make any assumptions about the instructions. Ask for help if the car develops any mechanical problems that are beyond your training. Minor issues may be part of the test but if you cannot fix the problem, you need to ask for help before it leads to an accident.

4. Focus on the Road
You may be tempted to check your examiner’s reaction and notes at every turn. Keep your eyes on the road and on the mirrors. Concentrate on what is happening on the road. Mistakes happen when you take your eyes off the road. Your examiner can tell when your focus shifts as well.

5. Have a Positive Mindset
Believe that the hours of practice and training will pay off. Visualise yourself passing the test and getting your driving license even before you take the test. See yourself driving confidently through the worst terrains. Focus your mind on the freedom you will get to drive your dream car after passing the test.

6. Prepare for Anything
Anything can happen on the day you are taking the test. For instance, it can snow or rain heavily on that day. Drive under different weather conditions during your practice sessions to prepare for such extreme weather conditions. Learn to drive on slippery roads and deal with sudden obstructions on the road.

7. Avoid Common Mistakes
One of the most common mistakes that new drivers make is failing to check the mirrors sufficiently. Use the side and rear mirrors properly. Do not speed or use the wrong lanes near roundabouts. Observe the traffic before changing lanes and when taking turns at junctions. These are all simple mistakes that can be easily avoided but could cost you some important points if you commit them on the road.

Passing any test requires proper preparation and a positive mindset. Even if you feel supremely confident, never underestimate your driving test and spend several hours every week driving through different routes to sharpen your driving skills.

Ways To Help Your Teens Drive Safely At College #BeThereMoments

Today's conversation is sponsored by Michelin's Be There Moments campaign. 

Both of my daughters start their fall college classes in a few short weeks. This year, I have two student drivers that I panic  have great concern over. My older daughter has more experience under her belt, but my younger girl has very little. One of the things I have learned in my experience of being a mom to teen drivers is I need to try to worry less. I honestly don't know if that is really possible, but I try very hard.

Our girls are commuter students and make the drive back and forth to campus each day. I know they are already dreading the back-to-school traffic jams. They have to make sure to leave early enough each morning to secure a decent parking spot in the garage, as well as avoid getting stuck in traffic. I don't know what it is about a college campus that seems to make drivers really impatient (and crazy). I'm constantly telling my daughters to be mindful of their speed and allow enough space for sudden stops that they may have to make. Trust me, driving around a college campus means a whole lot of slamming on brakes will be happening daily. I've been on the road around the University during peak school hours and my nerves are usually shot.

This is why it is very important to have general safety checks before having them take the car back to school. We have a thorough inspection done on the brakes, tires, alignment, lights/signals, fluids and more. I think if you start with having peace of mind that the car is safe to drive, it helps your teens feel more secure. One of the biggest things I try to help the girls remember is that you have to keep a cool head when driving. Being one to get overly defensive about and angry over every little thing other drivers do that you don't agree with makes driving stressful. Calm and collected is the way to go.

Another thing we stress to the girls is not having distracting things that can obstruct your view from all angles. I know they love to show their school pride by sporting flags, decals, and other adornments, but this can backfire on you. If you can't see clearly, you are not going to have a safe driving experience. I know they get a tad annoyed with us, but we are all about safety first. Being cute doesn't matter if you're not being smart.

One more important thing to help your teens drive safely at college is to be sure they have an emergency kit packed in the trunk. Jumper cables, portable battery charger, and phone charger to name a few are helpful if your tire is low on air or the car won't start. The girls know that they should only use the phone in the car for emergencies. Calls can wait. Texts can wait. Both me and my husband try to be the best role models for all of our children and practice what we preach. We do not talk on the phone while driving. No matter how good of a driver you think you are, it is really easy to get distracted.

Ultimately, it is so important for parents with college students to instill values and the urgency of safety and following rules. Are you a parent of a college student or have a high school senior preparing for their next journey? You can share your stories or moments on social media using the #BeThereMoments hashtag and check out the stories on the Be There Moments website by Michelin.

Teen Driver Car Maintenance and Repair Guide from AutoMD.com

October is National Car Care Month and the experts at AutoMD.com have car safety in mind, especially for teenagers, who are at a significantly higher risk of
being in accidents and even fatal crashes according to the NHTSA. [1]  To this
end,  AutoMD.com offers a downloadable Teen Driver Car Maintenance and Repair Guide.

The Guide includes:

- A Vehicle Diagram to help you identify key components of your car.
- A Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Vehicle Maintenance Checklist to keep your car
running its best.
- Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Vehicle Repair Instructions to help you perform
basic maintenance and repair of your car.
- Car Maintenance and Repair Tips & Tricks you probably didn't know but
should.
- Car Repair Safety Information to keep you safe while you're performing
a repair.
- Roadside Safety Tips while you're out on the road.
- A Car Maintenance Quiz to earn your Certificate of Commitment upon
successful completion.

The full guide can be downloaded here: http://www.automd.com/teen/.

Below are six key maintenance tips for teens (and adults!) from the Teen Driver
Car Maintenance and Repair Guide.

1. Know your car's maintenance intervals and keep up with service

Each vehicle has a maintenance schedule, outlined in your owner's manual. Be
sure you read and understand the schedule. Items that require regular
maintenance include the car's fluids, tires, brakes, and oil and filter changes,
too. Oil and air filter changes are particularly important to keep the engine
running efficiently and make great beginning DIY auto repair projects. Get an
experienced adult to help the first few times, and follow these how-to guides
for help:

How to Change Your Oil: http://www.automd.com/101/how-to-change-engine-oil-and-filter/

How to Replace an Air Filter: http://www.automd.com/11/how-to-replace-an-air-filter/

Did You Know? These days experts say that you only need to change your oil every 5,000 miles. A good rule of thumb is this – if a vehicle is older than a 2002
model year, it should probably get an oil change every 3,000 miles. If it's
newer than a 2002 model, it's fine to change the oil every 5,000 miles.

2. Take care of your tires – make sure they can get you to school, work,
etc.

Tire maintenance is particularly important for safe and fuel-efficient driving,
so, take good care of them! Keep your tires properly inflated, and watch for
tire wear. Driving on underinflated tires can shorten the life of your tires,
increase tire wear and lead to significant tire damage from heat, potholes and
other road hazards. Plus, keeping your tires inflated to the proper pressure can
improve gas mileage by up to 3.3 percent. Consult your owner's manual or tire
sticker on the door jamb for manufacturer-recommended tire pressure settings.
And, look at your tires for wear and tear every time you stop for gas.

Did You Know? You can check for tire wear and tear by using a penny. Hold a
penny at the base between your thumb and forefinger so that you can see the top
of President Lincoln's head and the words "In God We Trust." Place the top of
Lincoln's head into one of the grooves in your tire tread. If any part of
Lincoln's head is covered, you have a legal and safe amount of tire tread left
and your tires probably don't need to be replaced. However, if there is any
space above Lincoln's head, or if you can see any part of the words "In God We
Trust," it's time for new tires. Click here for more tire care tips:
http://www.automd.com/about-automd/press/01-25-2011/

3. Don't ignore dashboard warning lights

Dashboard warning lights serve as notification that something may be wrong with your car, and include the Check Engine Light, Oil Light, Temperature Light, Brake Light, and more. When warning lights come on, pay attention to them! Read the owner's manual so you know what each of the warning lights mean and how you should respond.

Did You Know? If your Check Engine light is blinking while you're driving, you
should pull over immediately. The Check Engine light can signal any number of
system failures, from a fuel vapor leak caused by a loose gas cap to poor
acceleration caused by a faulty MAF (Mass Air Flow) sensor. If the light comes
on and stays on without flashing – yet the car seems to be running smoothly –
chances are your car can be examined by a mechanic after you get home, or when you can get to one. On the other hand, if the Check Engine light is blinking
while you're driving, pull over or get to a mechanic right away. A blinking
check engine light usually indicates a severe misfire that could damage your
car's engine.

4. Don't let your car run too low, or out of gas

You know it's important to fuel your body with food for optimal performance at
school and play, and it is equally important to fuel your car appropriately,
which means not letting your car run too low on gas. Most of today's vehicles
have fuel-injected engines that rely on in-tank electric pumps that use gas to
cool and lubricate its components. Driving your fuel injected engine frequently
on fumes could cause hundreds of dollars in repairs, and leave you stranded on
the side of the road, which is always a dangerous place to be. A good rule of
thumb – keep the fuel level above a quarter tank to keep your car running well,
and to avoid running out of gas!

Did You Know? You don't need to use the highest grade of gasoline for your car's engine to perform its best. The variation in quality between different grades of gasoline today is very small, so don't waste your money by filling up with
premium gasoline unless your car "requires" it (if this exact wording is stated
in your owner's manual).

5. Steer clear – take care of your windshield

The windshield is like the eye of your car. Therefore, it is critical to keep it
clean and clear for safe driving. Some parts of the country are, or will be,
experiencing their first rainfalls after months of being dry. You don't want to
discover that your windshield wiper blades don't work during the first rainfall
when you need them most. Wiper blades that have cracks, skip, streak or leave
spots or smears should be replaced. You should also check spray nozzles for
proper aim. If the nozzles are clogged, clean them with a needle. Use windshield
washer fluid in the tank to prevent corrosion and remove stubborn dirt, grime
and insects from your windshield. Whether it rains or not, you should try to use
your spray nozzles and wiper blades every few weeks to keep them functioning
properly.

Click here for guide on How to Replace Wiper Blades: http://www.automd.com/94/how-to-replace-windshield-wiper-blades/

Did You Know? Carrying a squeegee with a scrubber in your car or trunk is a good idea. It can help remove splattered bugs, and maximize visibility.

6. Teen life moves fast, but your car doesn't have to. Slow down – avoid
speeding

Perhaps one of the best ways to keep your car well maintained, and keep you safe on the road, is to avoid speeding! It may seem fun to drive fast, or you might
simply be in a hurry (late for school, maybe?), but speeding is incredibly
dangerous, and bad for your car. In fact, driving slower puts less demand on
your car's engine and transmission, and also helps to reduce the amount of gas
you use in the process. Avoid all driving habits that put stress and strain on
your vehicle, such as fast driving, hitting curbs, and off-roading. It is also a
good idea to slow down and increase your following distance when driving in
harsh weather, as vehicles can lose traction in rain, snow and ice.

Did You Know? Speeding is so dangerous because it reduces your reaction time to avoid a potential collision. According to one website[2], among serious crashes involving teen driver error, 1 in 5 crashes occurred due to speeding. Remember that speeding is reckless driving.

Monitor your vehicles with Zubie

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Zubie for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.
Being a mother of two teenage daughters can be very stressful at times. When you factor in driving, it makes you feel like you have completely lost your sanity. Although my oldest daughter is very responsible, I still can't help but worry a little each time she leaves the house. My younger daughter has been studying her driver's book to get ready for her license this upcoming summer.
Aside from the stress of having teenage drivers and thinking of their safety, I also think about the actual car itself. Is there enough air in the tires? Is the battery holding a strong charge? Is the temperature at a normal level? One of the best things in this day and age is technology. Introducing, Zubie.
What is Zubie, you ask?

Zubie combines a smart device (about the size of a matchbox) that plugs into a standard port in every car* along with a smartphone app that help you get the most from your car. Features such as:

• Family Safety:  AlwaysSmart™ location tracking and alerts when family members arrive at home, work or school.
• Problem alerts:  Be alerted to car problems before they leave you stranded, such as a Check Engine light or a dying battery.
• Safe Driving:  Track and improve your driving, and connect and compete with friends. Monitor and coach teen drivers.
• Trip Coordination:  Connect with friends to share locations and simplify coordination on short trips or car-pools. 

Know and understand what’s going on under the hood. Zubie helps you keep your car running by giving timely information about your car’s health, and alerting you to potential problems.

• Engine Problems: Be alerted to problem codes reported by your engine, and understand what they mean.
• Check Engine Light: Know exactly why the light is on, and avoid an unnecessary trip to the repair shop.
• Dead Battery: Track battery levels and be alerted to a problem BEFORE a dead battery leaves you stranded.
• Repair Cost & Insight: Know how serious a problem might be, and receive an estimate of likely repair costs before you go to the repair shop.

I really like the idea of receiving alerts on potential problems going on with any of our cars. I think it would save us money in the long run by having us get our vehicle checked before it ends up malfunctioning or breaking down.
You can check out the Zubie site for more information. Hit the road with Zubie! Order today with code SAVE20FEB and SAVE 20% on your Zubie Key plus one year of service (Offer good through March 31, 2014. Shipping charges apply)  It would make a great late Valentine's gift or a gift 'just because'!
Stay connected to Zubie on Facebook and on Twitter.

Sign the Toyota & Teen Vogue #ArriveInStyle pledge for safe driving and win prizes! #ad

***CLOSED***
This post was written as part of my association with Toyota for Arrive in Style. I received a promotional item as a thank you for participating.  The prize was provided and may be shipped by Toyota.  Toyota is not a sponsor, administrator, or connected in any other way with this giveaway

I have been working to help spread the word about a great initiative by Toyota and Teen Vogue, to promote safe driving for teens by taking the Arrive in Style pledge. I was Tweeting a couple days ago with many prizes to give away just for taking the pledge. I still have a lot of prizes left over and I would love to see them all in the hands of those moms and teenage daughters who make safety a priority. It takes about 2-3 minutes to complete and all you have to do is copy and paste the link when you reach the completion page. The other alternative is to share your pledge through Facebook. It is very easy to do and I sure hope you will take the pledge!

You can win one of the three prizes we have available:

A Two-Pack “Arrive in Style” safe driving promise rings (photo below)
An “Arrive in Style” beauty box or
A $50 AMEX gift card

To enter this giveaway, all you have to do is take the pledge then copy & paste your completion link or Facebook share post in your comment. That's it! 9 winners will be chosen at random and contacted via email to claim prize.

This giveaway is open to US Residents only and will close on August 31, 2013. Mom Files is not responsible for any lost or stolen prizes. Good luck!

Sign the Toyota &Teen Vogue #ArriveInStyle Pledge & join me for a day full of giveaways! #ad

This post was written as part of my association with Toyota for Arrive in Style. I received a promotional item as a thank you for participating.  The prize was provided and may be shipped by Toyota.  Toyota is not a sponsor, administrator, or connected in any other way with this giveaway

Hi guys! You might remember a couple months ago, I posted about the Toyota and Teen Vogue "Arrive In Style" pledge. The pledge is a very simple way for moms and daughters to make a promise to make safety a priority when driving. Many girls and women have already taken the pledge and I would love for you to do the same!

Starting tomorrow, July 23, 2013 at 11:00 am EST until 8:00 PM, I will be tweeting about this initiative and would love for you to join me! By taking the pledge and posting your public link or a screenshot, you will have the chance to win one of 13 awesome prizes! We will be giving away:

(10) Two-Pack “Arrive in Style” safe driving promise rings (photo below)
(2) “Arrive in Style” beauty boxes
(1) $50 AMEX gift card

Taking the pledge is so easy! It has 4 steps in all and takes about 2-3 minutes to complete. Go to the Teen Vogue and Toyota Arrive in Style pledge page.

#1- Enter your date of birth and then accept all 4 sections of safety guidelines.
#2- Sign and enter your basic information to be eligible for the sweepstakes and photo contest.
#3- Next you can post a photo of you and your daughter "air driving" (see photo below for an example).
#4- Spread the word! Share your pledge on your Facebook page and make it a "public" update. Remember, if you do not make it public, we won't be able to verify that you took the pledge. If you don't care to post publicly on your Facebook page, just copy and paste the link on the completion page and leave your link in the comments or tweet it to me @momfiles. Easy, right?!

Here is an example of what your completed pledge will look like: https://www.facebook.com/natasha.taylor.7355/posts/473892042700150

If you want to go take the pledge now, you can leave your public link or a screenshot in the comments section to enter to win one of the 13 prizes. For a screenshot, you can Tweet me the screenshot image @momfiles and use the hashtag #arriveinstyle. You have until 8:00 PM EST on July 23, 2013 to enter either here on the blog, or on Twitter.

Winners will be selected randomly and will be contacted to provide mailing information to claim prize. You will have 24 hours to respond or an alternate winner will be chosen. Mom Files is not responsible for any lost prizes. Good luck!

Toyota and Teen Vogue want you to take a pledge "Arrive in Style" #spon [Giveaway]

**CONTEST CLOSED** 

Winner is Stacie Sayz So. Congratulations! 

*This post was written as part of my association with Toyota for Arrive in Style

With one teenage driver under my roof and one getting ready to get her license and hit the road this summer, it is a stressful time in a mom's life. I still haven't gotten over the fear of something happening when I am not in the car. It is so important to always talk to them about driving safety and be a good example to them. When I am driving the kids, I avoid talking on the cell phone unless it is very important. If I do take the occasional call, it goes something like this, "Hey, I'm driving, I'll call you back". I have been doing that for years and for good reason... safety!

To help educate teen girls about safe driving, Toyota and Teen Vogue are partnering on the “Arrive in Style” initiative.

Through research—Toyota found that 62% of teenage girls report using a cell phone while driving.* And since parents are such a major influence on their teen’s driving habits—they are asking mothers and daughters to sign and share a pledge to drive safely and “Arrive in Style”.

After you sign the Toyota Mutual Driving Agreement pledge at www.teenvogue.com/arriveinstyle, pledgers are then entered for a chance to win a Teen Vogue Beauty Box. You can also submit an “air-driving” photo with your daughter for the opportunity to win an all-expense paid trip to NYC to be featured in the February 2014 issue of Teen Vogue. How amazing is that?! To help raise awareness, you can also share your "air driving" photos on Instagram using the hashtag #arriveinstyle

Be sure to share your pledge on Facebook. This will allow each of you to win additional entries in the monthly beauty box giveaway. An easy Facebook “share” feature will pop up on the “Arrive in Style” site after you sign the pledge.

Why Teen Vogue?
Teen Vogue really shares in Toyota’s commitment to empower girls to be safe on the road, so they couldn’t have picked a better partner to create such a unique, fun and informative program with. With a readership of nearly 3.5 million and an additional 3 million plus social followers, Teen Vogue was the ideal partner to get this message out to teen girls. 

Toyota’s Commitment to Safe Driving:
Toyota offers a variety of resources to help all teens become safer drivers – from behind the wheel safe driving clinics, to online games and resources – and this initiative with Teen Vogue is a wonderful way to not only bring awareness to important teen driving issues, but also let teens and parents know that Toyota is here with resources to help them.

Do you have a teen daughter who's driving or learning to? You can enter to win a fabulous beauty box to help reward your teen for safe driving. Enter below:

a Rafflecopter giveaway
This giveaway is open to US Residents only and will end on May 25, 2013. One winner will be chosen at random and will be contacted via email. Momfiles is not responsible for any lost or stolen prizes. Prize may vary from what it pictured above. Good luck!

I received compensation to help spread the word about this campaign. The prize was provided and may be shipped by Toyota. Toyota is not a sponsor, administrator or connected in any other way with this giveaway.. 

10 Tips to help winterize your car for the busy holiday travel season

The holiday travel season is upon us, and so too is winter driving season. Is your car winterized? This is especially important if you are hitting the road with a high mileage vehicle. Just this week, AAA* projected that 43.6 million Americans will travel at least 50 miles for the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, of which ninety percent will drive to Thanksgiving destinations and 7% will fly. Furthermore, according to a recent AutoMD.com survey,** there is an aging fleet of cars on the streets, with the primary vehicle for 60% of respondents having over 100,000 miles. This all adds up to a lot of older metal on the road this holiday season. Fortunately, most cars on the roads today, even the high-mileage ones, have been built to last longer and withstand the test of time – and weather – with the proper care, of course.

AutoMD.com encourages all drivers to take some time to put their rides through their ten point winter travel vehicle checklist before making those Holiday road trips, so they don't end up stranded on a chilly roadside.


1. Check the antifreeze (coolant). The engine cooling system should be filled with a 50/50 mixture of antifreeze and distilled water to prevent freezing and boiling over. Antifreeze testers are available at your local auto parts store to test the mixture. To keep the cooling system operating at peak performance, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for changing the antifreeze (flush and fill). In addition to changing the antifreeze, pressure testing the cooling system on an older vehicle may expose a minor leak before it becomes a major problem. Most repair shops charge a minimal fee for pressure testing, and some shops will do it for free.

2. Change the engine oil. Be especially meticulous about changing your car’s fluids and filters during the winter months. Your car’s older engine will thank you for it! Remember to change the oil and oil filter every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. Use the recommended oil viscosity range for winter. 5W-30 motor oil flows quicker in cold weather than 20W-50. Most vehicle manufacturers recommend 5W-30 oil for year round protection.

3. Check the tires. Keep your vehicle riding smoothly and safely by maintaining your tires! Remember, there’s a very good chance a third set of tires is needed if your vehicle has reached the 80 to 90,000 mile mark. Tires that are unevenly worn or out of balance can cause a car to pull or shake when driven, potentially damaging other components. Remember to rotate and balance your tires every other oil change; regularly check for uneven wear and try to keep them clean. Tires should be properly inflated, and the tread depth should be at least 4/32”. Using snow tires can improve traction over all-season tires.

4. Check the battery. Cold temperatures can reduce the battery’s power. If the battery is older than four years, it may be time to replace it. Check the battery tray and hold down brackets for corrosion - a common problem on older vehicles.

5. Check the belts and hoses. If your vehicle has a timing belt, it’s very important to replace it at the recommended interval (60,000 miles or more). Cold weather can reduce the life expectancy of belts and hoses, so make sure yours are in good shape before getting on the road. A stretched timing belt affects engine performance, and a broken belt can leave you stranded. If you have an interference engine, a broken belt will also cause engine damage!

6. Check the wipers and wiper fluid. Replace wipers that are old or worn, and (to prevent freezing) use windshield washer fluid instead of water. Just like the elderly, an aging vehicle needs clean glasses to see!

7. Check the emergency kit. Make sure your kit is well stocked and add an ice scraper, tire chains, jumper cables, and warm clothes for winter weather emergencies. Remember to include a candle and matches, as well as some bottled water and energy bars. You can use a candle for light and warmth inside the vehicle if you get stranded.

8. Check 4WD operation if equipped. Since you may not have used 4 Wheel Drive (4WD) all year, or in several years, make sure the 4WD is activated (review your manual on “how to activate”) when you switch it on. Using 4WD improves traction in slippery conditions.

9. Change your driving habits. Cars that are driven easy last longer. To prevent component wear and possible damage in very cold temperatures, warm up your car by driving it slowly to start. This will help the engine, transmission and other drive line components warm up with less stress. Avoid fast driving in general, hitting curbs, off-roading, and trailer towing as these can put unnecessary strain on your vehicle. Slow down and increase your following distance when driving in harsh weather. All vehicles lose traction in rain, snow and ice.

10. Wash and wax your car. It is a good idea to get a good car wash and wax before heading out onto winter roads to protect your paint from road salt. And be sure to wash your car as soon as you return home, to remove any lingering road salt. As your vehicle ages, the paint/finish becomes more vulnerable to the elements, which could lead to rust etc. so, if you can, keep your vehicle in the garage to protect it or consider a cover if you don’t have a garage.



I wish you all safe travels this holiday season!

Check out your favorite NASCAR Chase drivers in the Coca-Cola Racing Family Google+ Hangout [Giveaway]

Hi guys! Fall is here and the NASCAR Chase for the Sprint Cup series is in full swing! This November, bring family and friends together to watch one of the most anticipated series of races in the world of NASCAR. The Coca-Cola Racing Family currently has three drivers in the Chase – Denny Hamlin, Tony Stewart and Greg Biffle.

Coca-Cola and @CocaColaRacing know the thrill of being live at the track, but have you ever wondered what goes on inside the cockpit? Or ever wonder if your favorite driver has any special ritual to prepare for a big race? This year, Coca-Cola wants to help you get the answers to those questions! As a long-time sponsor of NASCAR and many of its drivers, Coca-Cola wants to help fuel your curiosity by hosting a Google+ Hangout with the three Coca-Cola Racing Family drivers that are competing in the Chase, as well as special guests Elliot Sadler and Dale Jarrett!

The exciting part is that one of Momfiles' lucky readers will get the opportunity to secure one text-in question for the Hangout! How cool would that be to have your question answered during the Hangout?! I also get to submit a question of my own so deciding on one will be so hard.

If your question does not get picked, you can still follow the @CocaColaRacing Twitter handle and tweet a question with the hashtag #CokeRacingHangout. Questions will be chosen at random by the Hangout moderator prior to the start of the Google+ Hangout on Saturday, November 3rd at 12 PM central. Hey, you never know if your question might just get answered!  After the Hangout ends at 1 pm central on November 3rd, the @CocaColaRacing Twitter handle will be continuing the conversation all weekend long, live-tweeting at the race that Sunday and interacting with fans like you! Be sure to Tweet those questions!

Just be sure to follow the @CocaColaRacing Twitter page the day of, so you can see the live stream of the Hangout. You can find out if your question was answered.

Now to get you revved up about the Coca-Cola Racing Google+ Hangout, one lucky Momfiles reader will get to submit a question to be answered as well as win a big Coca-Cola branded prize pack! The prize pack is valued at $120 and includes:
 · 1 Coca-Cola branded Grandstands Cooler
 · A Coca-Cola Branded Recycling Koozie to keep your drink chilled
 · A Coca-Cola Carabiner Key Light
 · A Coca-Cola NASCAR Decal Pack
 · A Coca-Cola and NASCAR Race Day Cap
 · 3 Coca-Cola Tumblers (16oz. insulated tumbler)

Enter below in the Rafflecopter widget and be sure to follow the rules so your entries count. Good luck!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
This giveaway is open to US Residents only and will end on October 31. One winner will be chosen at random and contacted via email. Momfiles is not responsible for any lost or stolen prizes.

Coca-Cola provided me with the Coca-Cola Racing Family Prize Pack. The prize was provided and may be shipped to the winner by Coca-Cola, but Coca-Cola is not a sponsor, administrator, or involved in any other way with this contest. I received compensation to help promote this event. All opinions expressed in the post are my own and not those of The Coca-Cola Company.

How in the world did this happen?

Yesterday morning I was dropping my daughters off to school and heading back home to gather my things so I could go to the store. I was driving about 25-30 mph since I was exiting from the school speed limit. As I was coming around a curve on the road I hear a very loud pop in the back of the car. I was stunned and not sure what it was. Lucky for me my car speaks to me when things go wrong. I looked at the screen and it said to check right rear tire pressure. I watched it go from 33 to 1 in a matter of seconds! I had a flat tire. Thankfully I was in a familiar area and found a safe spot to pull over on the side of the road. I called Dwayne and he was there in what felt like only 5 minutes. Thank goodness! He very quickly took off my bad tire and put on the spare. He showed me what appeared to be either a flattened nail or piece of metal sticking out of the tire. Now it was off to Walmart to get a new one. I am so happy I always buy the road hazard protection so at least I didn't have to pay the full price for a new tire. But check out what they found that was the culprit in causing my tire to blow out...

This is a screw driver without the handle. When they showed it to me I freaked out and could not understand how it happened! As a matter of fact, the tire installers were laughing and amazed at how this huge piece of metal even got inside my tire. The funny part is the flat-head tip of the screw driver was sticking out of the tire so this meant the blunt end is what penetrated it. Crazy!! 

To show just how big the screw driver was I put it next to a pen and a nail file. The guys at Walmart said they have seen things the size of a pin or an average nail pierce and ruin a tire but never anything as large as a screwdriver! It was a crazy way to start my day and I am thankful I was in a safe area and not driving at a high speed. 

I got to thinking and realized I am so glad I am one of those moms that gets fully dressed (sometimes even with make-up) to drive the kids to school! :)

It's always the little things that matter

Today was a full day for me. I drove kids all over the place, ran errands, picked kids up, took one to the doctor, potty training and teaching boy, dropped girls to practice and then picked them up~ Well it was something like that. I know I must drive about $10-$12 worth of gas each day. It's worth it though. I love the time I spend in the car with the kids. We talk about serious issues, crack jokes and talk about the most random things! The highlight of my hectic day today was when William thanked me for each meal I gave him. Then he thanked me for teaching him his school lessons. He is so compassionate (all 3 of my kids are). I am a proud momma. **Now back to cleaning up the 50 million toys he left all over the place and the mountain of laundry that is stalking me**

Carpool no-no's

There are some very inconsiderate people in this world and they show just how rude they can be in the carpool line at school. Here is a list of some no-no's when in the carpool line.

• Do not do your child's hair in the car. Seriously, there was someone in front of me doing that (hair grease and all) holding up the flow of traffic.
• If there are orange cones set up so cars do not go that way then please, DO NOT GO THAT WAY!
• Carpool is social hour for some parents. Please talk to each other. We don't want to hear your whining from 20 feet away. If you are talking from car to car, be mindful of the traffic behind you.
  
• If you talk on your cellphone, please use your "inside voice" in your vehicle.
  
• Please refrain from smoking in line. Not everyone enjoys second-hand smoke.
• Please DO NOT cut in line. Not cool at all.
• Park in designated parking spaces and stop being a lazy ass and wait in line like all the other parent do.

By all means, if you have anything to add, GO FOR IT!

Mom = Taxi Driver

It's getting to be that time of year again...parents you know just what I'm talking about. School is about to be back in session here in Columbia and I know it has already started back in a lot of other cities. My car has been tuned up, oil and filter changed, wipers checked and all greased up and ready to go go go! My mommy taxi driver gig is back in session! I have already started driving kids to tryouts and practices. This week is orientation and registration for both girls. I will be driving for at least an hour or two each day (not counting waiting periods). Too bad kids don't have gas money hee hee!