Some colleges have free parking while others might require the student to purchase a parking permit. Usually, the further away from the campus the parking lot is, the cheaper the permit might be. Be sure to look at all of the parking options.
College Students who leave their cars at home—or those who take them to campus while keeping the car’s permanent address at their parents’ home—can stay on their parents’ auto insurance policy. Students can keep insurance premiums from drastically increasing by following a few smart pieces of advice:
- Be a conservative driver. You’ll not only keep yourself and other motorists safe, but you’ll also give your wallet a boost. The biggest things that drive up premiums are accidents and tickets. Obey posted speed limits, observe the rules of the road and, most important, avoid distracted driving.
- Guard your key or key fob. More often than not, cars get stolen when owners leave keys out in the open or somewhere obvious like under the mat or visor.
- Keep an extra long distance from—or just avoid—certain vehicles. It’s common to see windshield damage that results from debris escaping from landscaping and dump trucks. If you’re in that situation, either safely pass the vehicle or pull over so you aren’t riding right behind the vehicle.
- Hide the high-value stuff. Experts say most thefts occur when items like GPS devices, computers and smart phones are left out in plain view of passersby. Reduce temptation by putting them in a bag or storing them in your trunk. This is especially important during the holiday shopping season.
- Stick to a maintenance schedule. Mom and Dad aren’t taking care of things anymore, so show your car some love by maintaining it. Check the air filter, automatic transmission fluid level, accessory belts, brake fluid, battery, power-steering fluid and coolant. Also check the windshield wipers and amount of windshield washer fluid, hoses, wiring and the oil level on the dipstick. And last, regularly check the tires and keep them properly inflated.
- Take extra precautions with used cars. Some—like inexpensive reconstructed title cars that have been rebuilt after being damaged—may be unreliable. For about $50, you can know for sure by having a mechanic look it over before you buy, or purchase a vehicle history report.
John Holland - ICAN Waterloo & Hiawatha Centers
