Queensland’s flood disaster has made residents all the more aware of what exactly their insurance policy consists of. Although it is stated in most policies that you will be covered for flood damage that is, flash flooding, storm water and rain water various insurers exclude riverine and inland flooding. This factor has affected many Queensland residences as they are now left with vehicles that are severely damaged and their insurers do not cover them. Many other residents weren’t even covered in the first place and as brutal as it may sound insurer’s are going by the notion of “no insurance, no payout”.

Suncorp is one of Queensland’s largest insurance companies that have flood insurance incorporated into their policy. There will be no issue in paying out clients whose cars, bikes or boats were damaged in the disaster.

This event has left Australians devastated and aware with exactly what their insurers are covering them for. When updating your insurance next be sure to read the policy thoroughly, even the fine print! It is vital to be covered in the event of any natural disaster. If you are not covered the consequences aren’t too pleasant, leaving you with no car to make your way around. Not only will you have to be relying on public transport, but also you will have to start saving for another car or seek for finance.

Let this disaster be a lesson to all, if you weren’t aware of your cover contact your insurer to find out what you are eligible for and seek for a product that does cover you.

Technorati Tags: Bike Insurance, car finance, comprehensive car insurance, other car costs

As time goes by technology is improving at a rapid rate, increasing our chances of survival in car accidents. Statistics reveal that in Victoria, 1 in 4 cars are unsafe, that is 27.9% of our cars. It is also evident that darker colored vehicles have a higher chance of being involved in a car accident, whereas lighter colored vehicles provide better visibility to drivers.

Purchasing a new car provides the driver with the newest and safest technology, hence the importance of eliminating older vehicles from the road. New technology has decreased the number of deaths and serious injuries, due to safer car features.

Various features that are included in most vehicles are:

ABS Brakes: ABS brakes prevent brakes from quickly locking up. In fact they usually prevent an accident from occurring due to being so effective.

Reverse Cameras & Sensing System: This feature is currently on specific vehicles, unless you have requested them. They allow the driver to have a view

Driver Fatigue Warnings: When the driver is on the road for more than 2 hours a warning will appear, reminding them to take a break preventing high levels of fatigue.

Airbags: Are currently in most vehicles and have saved many lives in the past. They are usually located in the centre of the steering wheel and on the side of the doors. When the car is in a severe collision, this will be detected and the airbags will automatically pop out in only a matter of seconds.

Car manufacturers claim that from 2012 head protection technology will be mandatory in all new vehicles. It is vital to be driving a car with high safety features, as drivers can be quite dangerous (i.e. intoxicated or fatigue drivers).

For more information on how to go about financing a safer car in the new year call Natloans on 1300 955 791 or visit www.natloans.com.au

Technorati Tags: Buying a car, car finance, car loan tips, other car costs

When thinking of buying a car, the first thing you usually think about is what is your budget? Did you think about the ongoing costs needed to run a car?

If you are looking at purchasing a brand new vehicle you must consider a few things, remember your car may depreciate up to 35% of its value within the first year. You will also need to pay stamp duty, dealer delivery and any extras you wish to add. Before you realize you may be over your budget or can afford to add a few more luxury items!

Once you are ready to hit the road with your new car, there are many ongoing costs that you must be ready for.

Insurance is vital incase of any accidents or damage to your car, insurance is essential in that when you unexpectedly have a collision the company will fix it at a much lower cost. You will need to pay insurance either monthly or once a year to cover you and if an incident does occur you will need to pay excess. Prices can range from $900 – $3000; this amount will vary depending on your driving history, age and location you live in.

Maintaining your car will depend on how well you drive and take car of it. You need to service your car on a regular basis in order to change oils, headlights and tires if needed. There are many more components that need to be changed depending on the situation.

Petrol is needed for running your car, unless you are using diesel or gas. They are all weekly costs that needed to be paid for or you won’t be getting anywhere! It is no secret that the prices are increasing, you cannot refill with $20 any longer, and you will need at least $40 for a full tank depending on the size of your car.

Parking can be an issue for some individuals depending on where they live and work. If you are working in the city expect to pay at least $10 a day on parking, even if you live near the city negotiate a permit if possible to prevent yourself getting booked. You don’t want to have to deal with ongoing parking fees, they aren’t cheap these days.

The above factors all need to be considered before buying a new vehicle, if you cannot afford the expenses you may need to find a cheaper option. Perhaps it’s a smaller car, a bike or even a scooter; there are many products that can still get you to your destination!

Technorati Tags: associated car costs, Car costs, other car costs