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Auto Smarts

4 Ways to Get the Most Out of Your Tires

Welcome to the Inside Track, where Farmers comes together with NASCAR driver Kasey Kahne’s No. 5 Farmers Insurance team at Hendrick Motorsports and other NASCAR partners, to give you their professional advice on everything from auto maintenance to healthy living tips.

Buying or replacing tires on your car can easily overwhelm the average driver…mostly because tires aren’t “one size fits all” and they can range in features.

To make sure you’re getting the right tire for you, your vehicle, and your driving needs, it’s important to know a few things before heading over to your local tire retailer. That way, you’ll be better prepared to talk tires and get what you really want.

The tire experts at Goodyear suggest, that to get maximum performance from your tires, it’s important to make sure you have the right type of tires for your vehicle and your driving habits. Using improper tires can actually deter from your vehicle’s performance.

Check out these four helpful tips to get the most out of your tires:

1) Chose the tire that best fits your vehicle

It’s not just the tire size that’s important. Consider the weather and road conditions you commonly commute in. Also, take into account your driving style and habits on the road. Hit some rough patches on your morning drive? Do a lot of city driving or put on more highway miles? Ask yourself these and similar questions when buying tires. In the end, getting the right tire is about what’s most important to you.

2) Follow the manufacturer’s replacement tire recommendations

When it comes to cars, in a lot of situations, your manufacturer knows best. That’s particularly true when it comes to tires. Whether you’re replacing a set of worn tires, or a flat with a new one, see a professional installer to make sure that your new tires have the proper clearance, load-carrying capacity, and inflation pressure.

3) Consider your driving environment

Some tires are made to face specific driving needs like commuting, local road conditions or off-road conditions. These things can impact your choice for tire, so make sure to discuss this with a professional.

The More You Know (Understanding Tire Categories)

All-Terrain Tires

Also known as off-road tires, mud tires, or 4×4 tires, these offer tough traction for both on- and off-road driving and are built with durability and strength in mind. If you drive in places where you face a variety of challenging road conditions, all-terrain tires might be right for you.

Fuel-Efficient Tires

If you spend a lot of time on the road and you want a tire that can face a variety of weather conditions, fuel-efficient tires are an excellent fuel-saving option. These tires utilize a low rolling resistance tread compound to help decrease the amount of energy used in driving resulting in less fuel consumption. The tire’s low rolling resistance tread can help save thousands of miles worth of gas over the life of each set of tires.

Sport Performance Tires

Also known as sport tires, these offer handling, maneuverability, and enhanced wet and dry traction. If you enjoy driving with precision and responsiveness, these tires might be right for you. Designed with soft rubber compounds made for better maneuverability and cornering, many sport performance tires are categorized as summer tires, but sport performance tires can also fit summer, winter, and all-season categories.

Run On Flat Tires

A great solution for those who value peace of mind and storage space. Since they are made to help you keep driving to reach a safe place with a deflating or deflated tire, you should consider them if convenience and safety are top of mind when searching for the right tire.

4) Know the type of tires you’re currently using:

If you’re replacing a single tire or set, your shopping process can be made easier if you know what type of tires you’re currently driving on. The best way to do that is to simply look at your tires. But “reading” tires can be a language all its own. Here’s a helpful key:

Tire type: The letter “P” at the beginning of the “Tire Size” informs you the tire is a P-Metric tire and refers to tires made to certain standards within the United States and are intended for Passenger vehicles. The letters “LT” at the beginning or end of the tire size mean the tire was made for light trucks. Light trucks may come with either “P” or “LT” size tires, so it’s important to know which you have.

Tire Width: This is the width of the tire measured in millimeters from sidewall to sidewall. The first three-digit number in the tire size refers to the tire width.

Aspect Ratio: The height of the tire’s cross-section to its width. The two-digit number after the slash mark in a tire size is the aspect ratio.
Construction: The letter “R” in a tire size stands for Radial, which means the layers run radially across the tire.

Wheel Diameter: The size of the wheel measured from one end to the other. It tells the size of the wheel that the tire is intended to fit.

Load Index: Indicates the maximum load that the tire can support when properly inflated. You’ll also find the maximum load on the tire sidewall, in both pounds and kilograms.

Speed Rating: Provides the maximum speed capability of a tire. Speed ratings are often matched to the top speed capability of the vehicle.

When buying new tires, it’s always recommended to talk to a trusted professional. But it doesn’t hurt to know what you’re talking about before you walk in the door. Understanding these simple tips can help you to get not only the right tires for your vehicle, but also the performance you want on and off the road.

The information contained in this page is provided for general informational purposes only. The information is provided by Farmers and their partners and while we endeavor to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to this article or the information, products, services or related graphics, if any, contained in this article for any purpose. The information is not meant as professional or expert advice, and any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

Your Auto Insurance Questions Answered

You know you need car insurance, but do you know what the typical car insurance policy covers? Do you know the difference between the named insured and a listed driver? What happens when a teen comes of driving age? How can you benefit if you have multiple drivers with different policies under the same roof? Why should you care about bundling? Here is some information to help you with these questions.

1. My teenage son is having trouble getting auto insurance. What can I do to help?

For younger drivers just starting out, trying to secure an auto insurance policy on their own can be a challenge. Generally, one of two scenarios will play out: they’ll either be denied coverage or will have to pay very high premium rates. A cost-efficient way to get coverage can be through their parent’s policy, which may can help them get covered for less and may even help discount their parents rate.

2. We have multiple drivers with individual policies living under one roof. Is there a way we can save money on coverage?

One solution to consider is combining more than one car on a single policy. Doing so, the entire household can pay less for their combined coverage with a single rate for all drivers, instead of each driver paying for individual coverage.

3. What happens when I add a driver as to my policy? Is there a difference between adding them as a named insured compared to a listed driver?

A named insured is the person who the insurance policy is issued for, who has legal rights and responsibilities related to the policy. A listed driver is just a person listed on the policy who is allowed to drive a vehicle. The policyholder (named insured) can make changes to the policy, a listed driver cannot.

4. How can I benefit by bundling multiple types of policies with the same insurer?

There are many opportunities to save when you bundle coverage. For instance, when you bundle multiple Farmers insurance policies along with your Auto insurance, you may become eligible for multi-policy discounts that can add up to valuable savings on all of your Farmers policies. It also provides your agent more opportunities to obtain better pricing and coverage options to fit your lifestyle, and saves you time managing multiple policies all in one place.

To get answers to questions like these and many more, talk to a Farmers agent. They can help answer any questions you may have, explain your available auto insurance options and discuss all discounts for which you are eligible.

The information contained in this page is provided for general informational purposes only. The information is provided by Farmers and its partners, and while we endeavor to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to this article or the information, products, services or related graphics, if any, contained in this article for any purpose. The information is not meant as professional or expert advice, and any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

Deciding on a New Car Budget

Take the guesswork out of car shopping with Farmers Car Shopping Series. Whether it’s finding the right car for you, estimating what you can afford, or finding the best deal, we’ve got you covered with expert advice and tips!

A new car is a major expense, and one that can take a big chunk out of your monthly income, and your savings. Too often though, many people make the mistake of buying a more expensive car than they can comfortably afford– and find themselves with a car payment they can’t keep up with.

That’s why, if you’re in the market for a new car, it’s wise to create a realistic budget and stick to it.

Here’s how to estimate what you can really afford.

Knowing Your Price Range

Your price range doesn’t have to be a precise number. It should just represent the lowest and highest prices you’re willing to pay (or could afford).

If you’re looking to finance, there are two numbers to consider:

  • Monthly payments – Estimate what you could afford as a monthly payment (including interest built in for financing).
  • Selling price – Estimate the ideal price range for the final out-the-door price (including fees and sales tax) you’re willing to pay for a vehicle.

(If you’re planning to pay cash for the car, there’s no need to worry about monthly payments. Simply calculate a price range that makes sense for your financial situation and won’t put a financial strain on you and your family.)

6 Tips for Sizing up Car Costs

1) Know Before You Go:

It’s always a good idea to have a general idea of your budget before you visit the dealership. Decide if you’re going to finance or not, the maximum monthly payment you’re willing to make, and take into account all your other existing expenses. That way, you’re prepared when the salesman starts talking numbers.

2) Know How Long You’d Like to Pay:

Next, decide the maximum number of months you’d like to make payments (typically, over three (36 months) to five years (60 months). Then when you research new car prices, divide the car price by your preferred loan term, and see if that number falls within your monthly price range.

3) Use Loan Payment Calculators:

A good rule of thumb: The car will cost about $20 a month for every $1,000 financed on a 60-month term (for buyers with good credit). Loan payment calculators can also help you estimate your monthly car payment with interest factored in.

4) Know the Total Selling Price:

When you visit the dealership to purchase the car, we strongly recommend looking at the total selling price and not the monthly payment. What may seem like a low monthly payment could actually get extended over several months to accommodate what ends up becoming a much larger total purchase price.

5) Know How Much You Can Put Down:

Let’s face it: no one likes to pay a large amount of money upfront. Your down payment can help lower your monthly payment though. That’s why it’s a good idea to put down at least 20 percent of the selling price.

6) Balance Time and Money:

Keep in mind that choosing a lower monthly payment means you’re paying the car off for a longer period of time, while a higher payment means you can pay the car off faster and it is more quickly owned by you, not the bank.

Are You Ready To Shop For A New Car?

As most people know, the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) on most vehicles is just a starting point. Car costs can extend far beyond the sticker price.

No one wants to overpay for a car and with TrueCar’s Price Curve and Market Analysis you should have some helpful information so you don’t pay too much. To get a better idea of what a particular car costs by make/model and down to the trim and options, visit the Farmers Car Shopping Service offered by TrueCar to learn more about the cost of a vehicle you are interested in purchasing.

The information contained in this page is provided for general informational purposes only. The information is provided by Farmers and while we endeavor to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to this article or the information, products, services or related graphics, if any, contained in this article for any purpose. The information is not meant as professional or expert advice, and any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

Finding the Right Car for You

Take the guesswork out of car shopping with Farmers Car Shopping Series. Whether it’s choosing a car that’s the right fit for you, estimating what you can afford, or finding the best deal, we’ve got you covered with expert advice and tips!

Browsing car ads, researching vehicles online, and taking test drives are integral parts of the car shopping process — and can be both exciting and overwhelming at the same time!

Luxury car? Compact? Hybrid? Sedan? Nowadays, there are so many choices on the market that it’s easy to get flustered. Follow this advice though, and confidently choose a car that’s right for you.

1) Think About Your Lifestyle Needs First, Then Your Wants.

First things first. Decide which vehicle body type you want to buy; sedan, minivan, compact car, convertible, coupe, etc. This will help you narrow down your choices from the many hundreds of cars on dealership lots.

If, for instance, you need a car to haul three kids, your need for a five-seat vehicle will trump your desire for a sports car. The more characteristics you can shortlist, the easier it will be to weed out the cars that don’t fit your needs.

Start with at least one characteristic that’s absolutely essential, i.e., “I definitely want to buy a utility vehicle” or “I definitely want to buy a Ford.” Then move on from there to zero in on features that are important to have in your next new car.

2) Know Which Features You Need

If you’re like most car buyers, you probably want a car that’s loaded with all the bells and whistles. Unless you’ve got a limitless budget though, it doesn’t make sense to waste money on features you don’t really need or won’t use.

Consider the host of features vehicles have these days:

Body Style: Small or large? Five, four, or two doors? Coupe, sedan, hatchback, utility vehicle, or truck? Think about what you need the vehicle for (hauling gear, transporting family, or just commuting to work) and where you’ll drive it (around a city, in the suburbs, off-road, etc.) to help narrow down your choice.

Performance Features: Engine, horsepower, torque, AWD, sport suspension mode, fuel economy, etc. Think about what you want out of a car; speed, performance, towing power, or savings at the pump.

Technology Features: Infotainment features such as WiFi, Bluetooth, and iPod connectivity; navigation; and rear-seat entertainment systems. Modern cars are loaded with fun and helpful extras. Think about which ones you might use every day.

Safety Features: Rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, emergency assist, electronic stability control. Think about how important safety and visibility is for you as a driver.

Convenience/Luxury Features: Panoramic sunroof, power seats with lumbar support, dual climate control, heated and ventilated seats, hands-free liftgate, leather vs. cloth interior. If you’re like most drivers, you’re going to spend a lot of time in your new car, so you should be comfortable (as budget allows).

Make a list of your “must-have” features (that you cannot do without, no exceptions), your “good-to-have” features (that you would like to have but are not mandatory), and your “can-do-without” features (that you definitely do not need).

For example:

Let’s say you’re a parent of 3, living in the suburbs, with a half hour daily commute to work. Your ideal car is most likely one that scores high on safety and reliability. You want a car you can trust to keep your family comfortable and protected on the road. Here’s what your features wish list might look like:

Must have:

  • Seats five passengers
  • All-wheel drive
  • Rear seats can be folded down
  • Backup camera and front collision warning
  • Generous cargo space for your children’s gear
  • Must get at least 30 mpg combined city/highway
  • Must have Bluetooth connectivity

Good-to-have:

  • Rear-seat entertainment system
  • Simple LATCH System
  • Heated leather seats
  • Panoramic sunroof

Can do without:

  • Hands-free liftgate
  • Fancy alloy wheels
  • Front seat memory

Are You Ready To Shop For A New Car?

Once you’ve settled on cars you’re interested in, the next step is to research pricing for those models.

To get a better idea of what a particular car costs by make/model and down to the trim and options, visit the Farmers Car Shopping Service offered by TrueCar. Use TrueCar’s unique Price Curve to learn more about the vehicles you are interested in purchasing so you don’t overpay (used cars also available). Your agent can also help you by providing a quote and insuring your new car when ready.

The information contained in this page is provided for general informational purposes only. The information is provided by Farmers and while we endeavor to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to this article or the information, products, services or related graphics, if any, contained in this article for any purpose. The information is not meant as professional or expert advice, and any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

Car Insurance Shopping for Teens

It almost happens overnight. One day you’re pushing them down the sidewalk in a little plastic car, the next they’re asking for the keys to the real thing. As a parent, letting your teen take the wheel is a strange feeling; it’s a weird mix of pride, protection, fear, and trust.

As the person who pays for the auto insurance, you might also be terrified about your rates going up.

Shopping for car insurance for your teen driver may seem daunting and expensive, but ask yourself a few key questions. The answers could help make the process a little easier on your blood pressure and your wallet.

1) Should you add your teen driver to your existing auto policy or buy a separate policy?

This is a matter of personal preference. On one hand, it’s typically easier and cheaper, in the short term, to add your teen and their car to your existing policy. Adding them may raise your rates, but they’ll also get all the perks, discounts, and good rates you’ve earned over the years. You may even qualify for more discounts when you add them.

On the other hand, drivers under the age of 20 have nearly three times as many car accidents as the general population, and the numbers are even worse for drivers age 16-17. With a higher rate of accidents and violations, a teen driver on your policy could tarnish your good standing. You could see higher rates, lose discounts, or not be renewed if your teen causes accidents or receives violations. However, buying a separate policy can be expensive since your teen has never been insured and has little driving experience.

Talk to your teen and take a close look at your budget to help determine which route is best for you.

2) Which kind of coverage do you want for your teen?

Every driver out there requires basic liability coverage to drive legally. How much liability do they want though? Do you want them to have other types of coverage too, like comprehensive, collision, uninsured/underinsured, or personal injury protection?

  • What kind of car does your teen drive? If it’s old, used, and seen better days, it might not be worth getting comprehensive/collision coverage, since any payout on damages could be less than your deductible. If they’re driving a newer car though, comprehensive and collision coverage is something to consider.
  • Will your teen be driving with passengers? If your teen will be driving friends and family around, consider adding Personal Injury Protection (PIP) or Medical Payments coverage to their policy. These could help pay for injuries to passengers or pedestrians caused by an accident with your teen’s car.

3) Which extras or options do you want for your teen?

Auto insurers offer all kinds of beneficial options and extras that you can add to a policy if you’re so inclined. For young drivers who are inexperienced in emergency situations, or who may get themselves into a fender bender or two, options like these can be invaluable:

  • Towing and roadside assistance
  • Small claims forgiveness
  • Incident forgiveness
  • Accident forgiveness
  • Car rental reimbursement

4) Which discounts can save you money?

Adding a new teen driver to your policy may raise your rates since they can pose an added risk. On the bright side, there are car insurance discounts you may qualify for when you add your teen to your policy, and other’s your teen may can qualify for, like:

  • Good student – your teen’s good grades can save you money.
  • Distant student – if your teen driver goes to school 100 miles or more from home, this discount can help you save.
  • Multi-car – adding your teen driver’s car to your policy can earn you this discount.
  • Driver training – gain experience behind the wheel with a state-approved driving course and your teen can qualify for another discount.

After you talk to your teen and your family, speak with a Farmers agent about your car insurance needs. An agent can provide you with more information, help find discounts, and give you a quote for coverage you want.

The information contained in this page is provided for general informational purposes only. The information is provided by Farmers and while we endeavor to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to this article or the information, products, services or related graphics, if any, contained in this article for any purpose. The information is not meant as professional or expert advice, and any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

Is WiFi in the Car a Good Thing?

It seems human nature that as soon as new technology comes along, it becomes instantly impossible to live without.

Remember a time before cell phones? Maybe.

Remember a time you didn’t have yours? Probably not.

Once we get something we love, we expect it to work and be there for us at – every time. These days, WiFi is at the top of the list. If a place doesn’t have it, we’ll go someplace that does. WiFi has found its way from our homes to our coffee shops, hotels, offices, planes, trains…and now our automobiles.

Car manufacturers have heeded the call, and over the past few years, they’ve designed more new models with available WiFi services built in. And it’s not just the high end Audi’s and BMW’s of the world that are making the move. Almost all of Chevrolet’s fleet now features WiFi connectivity (Chevy provides this service with technology partner OnStar, while other manufacturers use other solutions.)

But does this new technology (or at least this new venue for an existing technology) really deliver? Does it improve our lives in the car, or just offer another in a laundry list of distractions? There’s no clear cut answer, but let’s review some of the ways in-car WiFi can change the driving experience:

Emergency Safety:

With in-car WiFi, you’re always connected. Regardless of data plans or signal strength, you can:

  • Stay in touch with family and loved ones
  • Access emergency services
  • Load navigation and maps

Most of this is possible now with smartphones, but WiFi in the car makes it more consistent, with added safety in case of an emergency. If anything should happen, or you’re out of signal range, with WiFi built in, you’ll always be able to reach out and connect with someone to help.

Productivity:

Do you carpool with coworkers? Maybe you travel a lot for work, or maybe travel is your job.

The ability to work from the car may improve your productivity (not while you’re driving of course). With in-car WiFi, you can work from your car like never before, by:

  • Using your laptop without tapping into expensive data plans
  • Staying connected with work
  • Sending emails and instant messages
  • Accessing work files, shared sites, or cloud services

Family:

Boredom can set in quickly on a long road trip. You might be floored by the sights and sounds of the world whizzing by, but your kids are probably moaning, groaning, and seat kicking with nothing to do. Running out of ways to keep them amused?

With in-car WiFi, road trips go high tech. The kids can connect their devices, talk to their friends, stream TV and movies, and play games all while you focus on the road…and all without costing you an arm and a leg in data charges.

Distractions:

Distracted driving is already a major issue, causing more accidents on the road every day. While technology like WiFi, smartphones, tablets, and other devices aren’t inherently flawed, they are a deadly distraction if used while driving.

The question then becomes, will WiFi in cars create more cravings for your devices while you drive?

Regardless of where you fall on this issue, in-car WiFi seems to be the way of the future. While this new technology may improve our lives on the go, it may also provide additional distractions to take our eyes off the road. So before cars can drive themselves (that’s probably not too far off either), it’s a good idea to speak with a Farmers agent about your auto insurance needs, to make sure you’re covered the way you want.

The information contained in this page is provided for general informational purposes only. The information is provided by Farmers and while we endeavor to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to this article or the information, products, services or related graphics, if any, contained in this article for any purpose. The information is not meant as professional or expert advice, and any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

2015 IIHS Top Vehicle Safety Picks

Some of our parents or grandparents might remember a time before seat belts and air bags. In the past few years though, we’ve seen advanced technology incorporated into every aspect of the ride. Now, our cars park themselves, brake on their own, and warn us if someone’s in our blind spot.

From tires to wires, everything in our cars these days is designed to keep us safer than ever before. Safety has taken center stage in vehicle manufacturing and development, and 2015’s Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) annual vehicle safety report reflects that shift in the industry.

For almost a decade, the IIHS has tested the cars we all drive and annually releases a list of top safety picks, based on how well our cars protect us in a crash. This year, 71 models out of nearly 200 tested received the highest honors…almost double the number of models selected just last year!

See the full 2015 IIHS Top Safety Pick list, and see if your car (or next vehicle) made the safety cut.

Small / Midsized Vehicles

Minicars:

  • 2015 Chevrolet Spark
  • 2015 Honda Fit

Small cars:

  • 2015 Chevrolet Volt
  • 2015 Dodge Dart
  • 2015 Ford C-Max Hybrid
  • 2015 Ford Focus
  • 2015 Honda Civic 2-door coupe
  • 2015 Honda Civic 4-door sedan
  • 2015 Hyundai Elantra (Applies only to sedan models)
  • 2015 Kia Soul
  • 2015 Lexus CT 200h*(with optional front crash prevention. Applies only to vehicles built after September 2014)
  • 2015 Mazda 3*(with optional front crash prevention. 4-door hatchback | 4-door sedan)
  • 2015 Mini Cooper Countryman
  • 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer(Does not apply to Ralliart and Evolution models)
  • 2015 Scion FR-S
  • 2015 Scion tC
  • 2015 Subaru BRZ
  • 2015 Subaru Impreza*(with optional front crash prevention)
  • 2015 Subaru WRX
  • 2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek*(with optional front crash prevention)
  • 2015 Toyota Prius*(with optional front crash prevention)
  • 2015 Volkswagen Golf(Applies only to 4-door models)
  • 2015 Volkswagen GTI(Applies only to 4-door models)

Midsize moderately priced cars:

  • 2015 Chevrolet Malibu
  • 2015 Chrysler 200*(with optional front crash prevention)
  • 2015 Ford Fusion
  • 2015 Honda Accord 2-door coupe
  • 2015 Honda Accord 4-door sedan
  • 2015 Hyundai Sonata
  • 2015 Kia Optima
  • 2015 Mazda 6*(with optional front crash prevention)
  • 2015 Nissan Altima
  • 2015 Subaru Legacy*(with optional front crash prevention)
  • 2015 Subaru Outback*(with optional front crash prevention)
  • 2015 Toyota Camry*(with optional front crash prevention)
  • 2015 Toyota Prius v*(with optional front crash prevention)
  • 2015 Volkswagen Jetta
  • 2015 Volkswagen Passat

Large / Luxury Cars

Midsize luxury/near luxury cars:

  • 2015 Acura TLX*(with optional front crash prevention)
  • 2015 Audi A3*(with optional front crash prevention)
  • 2015 BMW 2 series*(with optional front crash prevention)
  • 2015 Infiniti Q50*(with optional front crash prevention)
  • 2015 Lincoln MKZ
  • 2015 Volvo S60
  • 2015 Volvo V60

Large family cars:

  • 2015 Toyota Avalon

Large luxury cars:

  • 2015 Acura RLX*(with optional front crash prevention)
  • 2015 Hyundai Genesis*(with optional front crash prevention)
  • 2015 Infiniti Q70*(with optional front crash prevention. Does not apply to V8 4-wheel-drive models)
  • 2015 Lexus RC*(with optional front crash prevention)
  • 2015 Mercedes E class*(with optional front crash prevention)
  • 2015 Volvo S80*

SUVS / Vans

Small SUVs:

  • 2015 Honda CR-V*(with optional front crash prevention)
  • 2015 Mazda CX-5*(with optional front crash prevention)
  • 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander*(with optional front crash prevention)
  • 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
  • 2015 Nissan Rogue
  • 2015 Subaru Forester*(with optional front crash prevention)
  • 2015 Toyota RAV4(Applies only to vehicles built after November 2014)

Midsize SUVs:

  • 2015 Chevrolet Equinox
  • 2015 GMC Terrain
  • 2015 Nissan Pathfinder
  • 2015 Toyota Highlander*(with optional front crash prevention)

Midsize luxury SUVs:

  • 2015 Acura MDX*(with optional front crash prevention)
  • 2015 Infiniti QX60
  • 2015 Lexus NX*(with optional front crash prevention)
  • 2015 Mercedes M class*(with optional front crash prevention)
  • 2015 Volvo XC60

Minivans:

  • 2015 Honda Odyssey
  • 2015 Kia Sedona
  • 2015 Toyota Sienna*(with optional front crash prevention)

See you’re next car here? Ready to start looking? Farmers Car Shopping Service, offered by TrueCar can help!

The information contained in this page is provided for general informational purposes only. The information is provided by Farmers and while we endeavor to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to this article or the information, products, services or related graphics, if any, contained in this article for any purpose. The information is not meant as professional or expert advice, and any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

DIY Roadside Assistance Kit

6 Must-Haves in an Emergency

Dead battery, flat tire, overheated engine…you never know what type of car troubles you’ll encounter on the road, or where a breakdown might leave you.

No matter what the situation though, an emergency kit can play a crucial role in helping you get back on the road safely.

That’s why it’s a smart idea to never leave home without these must-have tools and supplies in the car:

1) Tire SOS:

Did a pesky nail or pothole puncture your tire? Flat tires happen…and they always seem to happen at the worst possible time! That’s why it’s smart to carry tire sealant or a portable air compressor kit.

A simple bottle of fix-a-flat, for instance, can help patch up and inflate a leaking tire in minutes, so you can make it to the nearest tire repair center.

2) Jumper Cables:

You’re nowhere close to home. You crank the engine and… nothing, not even a splutter. Oops! Your battery died.

It’s time to reach for your jumper cables. As long as you can find another car to hook up to, booster cables can help resuscitate your battery and have you back on the road without needing to call roadside assistance. That’s why they’re an essential item for every trunk.

Quick tip: Cheap cables have a tendency to fail when you most need them. It’s always a good idea to invest in high-quality jumper cables.

3) Flash Light:

For those scary situations, when your car breaks down in the middle of nowhere and its pitch dark out, a flashlight can come in handy. Consumer Reports suggests buying one with a mount, so you can keep your hands free to tinker under the hood, or change a tire. An even smarter option: Look into buying a headlamp.

4) Fire Extinguisher:

Although it may seem extreme to keep a fire extinguisher in your car, vehicle fires happen more often than you think. In some cases, an extinguisher can help douse a small fire and prevent further damage. (Gauge the severity of the situation though and put yourself out of harm’s way first.)

5) Road Flares or Hazard Triangles:

Getting stuck on the highway is not only stressful but also extremely risky. Poor visibility and high traffic can put you in danger just checking your tires and engine on the side of the road. Always keep a set of road flares or reflective triangles on hand, so you can warn other motorists of your presence and create a safety zone between you and oncoming traffic.

6) Clothes, Food, Blanket, and a First Aid Kit:

Put all of these at the top of your packing list. Car breakdowns can sometimes leave you stranded for hours and test your survival skills. Warm clothes, granola bars, water bottles, and a blanket can make all the difference, especially in frigid weather.

Don’t forget your first-aid kit either! It can come to the rescue when you need to treat minor bruises and burns.

At Farmers, we can’t protect you from car failure, but we provide coverage for all sorts of accidents, injuries, and mishaps on the road. Speak to a Farmers agent about an Auto Insurance plan that’s right for you.

The information contained in this page is provided for general informational purposes only. The information is provided by Farmers and while we endeavor to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to this article or the information, products, services or related graphics, if any, contained in this article for any purpose. The information is not meant as professional or expert advice, and any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

Products & features may not be available in all states & may vary by state.
* Securities offered through Farmers Financial Solutions, LLC, 30801 Agoura Rd. Bldg. 1 Agoura Hills, CA 91301. Member FINRA & SIPC.
* Products and Services/Auto or Home/Questions you may have about Risk Assessment Indicators

3 Car Safety Tips for Toddlers

With a toddler on board, even a quick trip to the grocery store can sometimes seem like a hairy rollercoaster ride. Keep your pint-size passengers protected and secure on the road with these tips:

1) Avoid car seat mistakes

Most new parents admit that installing a car seat can be perplexing. Even experienced mommies and daddies don’t always get it right. In fact, some disturbing statistics show that 73 percent of parents fail to either set up a car seat correctly, or get their kids properly strapped in.

Let’s face it: getting a petulant toddler buckled up and ready to go is no easy task. Even if it’s a hassle though, it’s never a good idea (not to mention illegal) to allow your child to ride unrestrained. What may seem like a tiny concession at the time may have serious consequences.

Here’s the scary news: car crashes are the leading cause of death for children, and most crashes happen close to home. So never skip the car seat, even for short drives.

We can’t stress it enough – the car seat’s a crucial accessory that could save your little one’s life should you get into an accident. Car seats drastically reduce the risk of death and serious injury in a collision. (Up to 71 percent for infants and 54 percent for toddlers, according to the 2014 Motor Vehicle Safety Fact Sheet.)

  • Make a mental checklist of these safety guidelines the next time you get in the car with your infant or toddler:
  • First, make sure the car seat is fastened to the car correctly. The seat shouldn’t wobble more than one inch from side to side or forward.
  • Next, ask yourself: is the harness strap snug enough? Leaving too much slack in the harness can be risky. If you can pinch the harness between your fingers, it probably needs to be tightened. (Be careful though: don’t over-tighten the straps so that your child is uncomfortable.)
  • Remember, it may be freezing out but it’s wise to avoid winter jackets inside the car. Bulky winter coats leave too much wiggle room between the strap and your child.
  • Don’t skimp on the car seat! Buying a used or outdated car seat could lead to disaster. When it comes to old car seats, you never know what you’re getting. There are chances it might be faulty, or even recalled. Even at a bargain price, it’s just not worth the risk.

2) Rear-facing or forward-facing?

Your kiddos may put up a fuss, but it’s in their best interest to keep them rear-facing as long as possible. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) suggests you keep children in a rear-facing seat until they’re at least two years old. Why? It’s five times safer for your precious babies to ride rear-facing.

(Keep in mind, each car seat has specific height and weight limits for rear-facing children. Consider transitioning your kids to a forward-facing seat when they become too tall or heavy for the seat.)

3) Does my child still need a booster seat?

Booster seats help prop up your tiny tots, so the seatbelt can keep your kids better restrained. Without a booster seat, an ill-fitting seatbelt can do more harm than good in an accident.

When can your kids stop using the booster seat? If your six-year-old is too embarrassed to use a booster seat, you’ll have to show some tough love. Children should continue to use booster seats until they’re at least 8 years old and/or 4 feet 9 inches tall, according to The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). (Check your state’s laws, as the requirements may vary.)

When it comes to car seat safety, you’re better off paying attention to the small details. Otherwise, a careless mistake can lead to a lifetime of regret. It’s always a good idea to check the latest AAP and NHTSA guidelines to make sure you’re getting it right.

Unfortunately, accidents happen. That’s why it’s important to prepare yourself for the worst-case scenario. Speak to your Farmers agent to find out if your Auto Insurance policy offers medical payments and collision coverage.

The information contained in this page is provided for general informational purposes only. The information is provided by Farmers and while we endeavor to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to this article or the information, products, services or related graphics, if any, contained in this article for any purpose. The information is not meant as professional or expert advice, and any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

I Got a Ticket. Now What?

It’s just one of those days. You’re running late for work and traffic is testing your patience. Suddenly, you spot an open lane and nudge past the speed limit. In a split second, those dreaded lights and blaring sirens appear behind you, and you find yourself at the receiving end of a speeding ticket.

There are few things more aggravating than getting slapped with a moving violation. Even a minor offense can snowball into strikes against your driving record and increased auto insurance premiums.

As frustrating as it is though, it’s never a good idea to put that ticket on the back burner. Taking proactive steps to resolve the situation may help minimize any penalties or residual effects.

Here are some options to consider:

1) Do you pay the fine?

Paying the fine is one way to resolve the ticket and put the whole incident behind you.

When you pay the fine, you admit you’re guilty, and accept a conviction that may show up as points in your Motor Vehicle Report. (The bad news is those points can linger on your license for up to three years depending on the state where you were ticketed.)

Then, let’s say your insurance company checks your report when it comes time to renew your policy. Those points can raise a red flag and you may see your premium increase.

Keep in mind that your carrier may be more forgiving of a first time offense. Farmers, for instance, usually forgives a first time violation and won’t raise your rates (as long as the violation happens while you’re covered and no one files a claim). *

However, if you’ve racked up multiple moving violations within a short time frame, some carriers will jack up your premium, or even cancel your coverage.

Some types of tickets may impact your auto insurance rates more than others. A reckless driving or DUI first offense, for instance, carries more weight than a speeding or failure to stop at a red light citation.

If you don’t pay the ticket, you have other options. Enrolling in traffic school (if you’re eligible), or fighting the ticket in court may increase your chances of getting your fine reduced or having the charges dismissed.

2) Attend traffic school

Although traffic school is no fun, sometimes it may be worth your while to endure it. Some states will let you attend driving school in exchange for erasing the ticket from your record, or removing points from your license.

Generally speaking though, you may only be eligible to attend driving school in exchange for a clean slate if you have a good driving record or have only been ticketed for a minor offense.

3.)Contest the ticket in court

Let’s face it, no one wants to deal with the headache of fighting a ticket in traffic court. Taking time off from work and court costs alone are enough to keep you far away.

Don’t write off a court appearance completely though. It may work in your favor if you can prove your innocence. It’s possible you could walk away with a reduced fine, or even clear the charge from your record entirely.

Granted, there’s no upside to a traffic ticket — especially when you’re faced with higher premiums, but Farmers’ incident forgiveness coverage can help. Because even good drives make mistakes, you won’t see an increase in rates from a citation (as long as no claim is filed).* *

Talk to your Famers’ agent ahead of time and find out what types of car insurance options are available.

* Benefit may not be available in all policies and may vary by state.
** Benefit only apply to violations received while you’re covered with Farmers, any prior incidents are excluded.

The information contained in this page is provided for general informational purposes only, and is not meant as professional or expert advice. Every attempt is made to ensure accuracy and timeliness, however all content is presented without guarantees.

Products & features may not be available in all states & may vary by state.
* Securities offered through Farmers Financial Solutions, LLC, 30801 Agoura Rd. Bldg. 1 Agoura Hills, CA 91301. Member FINRA & SIPC.
* Products and Services/Auto or Home/Questions you may have about Risk Assessment Indicators

Must Have Apps for a Safe Roadtrip

Now we all know that driving and using your phone is a big no-no (if you’re reading this and driving…stop). In fact, it might even be more dangerous than driving drunk! But when you’re on a road trip, packed like sardines with friends, family, luggage, somebody’s dog, endless bags of pretzels, and your CD collection from ’98, your smartphone can come in handy.

With the right apps, your smartphone can be a lifeline, a tool, and a buddy on the road! Just make sure you use it safely, and have apps that can:

1) Find the cheapest gas station

On a great road trip, don’t break down and don’t break the bank. Use a reliable gas station finder app and avoid both! These kinds of apps map out the nearest gas stations by your location, let your sort by price and distance, and give you real-time prices. That way, when the fuel light comes on and you’ve got no clue where the heck you are, just fire up an app and find the closest and cheapest gas station in town.

Check out Gasbuddy, Gas Guru, or Fuel Finder.

2) Spot landmarks and attractions

What’s a road trip without a few random stops to visit the Pigeon Zoo, see the largest ball of string, or eat the biggest grilled cheese sandwich in America? No road trip we want to be on, that’s what! But how to find these hidden gems along the road? Trust your newest app! Great road trip apps can help find attractions and landmarks, or give suggestions as you drive.

It’s a great way to see the country, and you might even get a few weird and interesting stories out of it too. (That’s why you road trip in the first place right?)

Check out Roadside America, RoadNinja, or Roadtrippers.

3) Stop texting

Look, we all know texting and driving is dangerous. But on long road trips, it’s tough to avoid communicating with the world outside your car. Thankfully, your friendly neighborhood app developers have come up with solutions. Apps like DriveSafe.ly and even Apple’s Siri function can read texts to you, and let you send auto-responses. While other apps like Safecell, AT&T DriveMode, and Textecution completely block incoming messages and calls. They can even send a preprogrammed message back, like “Hey, I’m driving. I’ll get back to you” so you can focus on the road ahead.

4) Navigate and get around traffic

Getting lost on a road trip sounds like a fun adventure…or the start of every horror movie. So don’t be that person. Get a great navigation app, stay on the beaten path, and even avoid some time-sucking traffic too! The industry standards these days are GoogleMaps (with audio turn-by-turn navigation) and Waze (actually just bought by Google). Waze goes a step beyond, giving you crowd-sourced, real-time traffic reports for the best route possible.

Just remember though, if you do end up in a horror movie, never split up. That’s a rookie mistake.

5) Stay in contact with your Auto insurance company

Things happen on the road. Maybe you hit a rogue pothole and get a flat tire. Or maybe you accidentally rear end someone while stuck in traffic. Either way, having an app from your car insurance company can be a life saver! Farmers mobile app, for instance, let’s you file a claim, get in touch with your agent, and even find local utilities and services to fix your car if your road trip doesn’t go as planned.

The information contained in this page is provided for general informational purposes only, and is not meant as professional or expert advice. Every attempt is made to ensure accuracy and timeliness, however all content is presented without guarantees.

Products & features may not be available in all states & may vary by state.
* Securities offered through Farmers Financial Solutions, LLC, 30801 Agoura Rd. Bldg. 1 Agoura Hills, CA 91301. Member FINRA & SIPC.
* Products and Services/Auto or Home/Questions you may have about Risk Assessment Indicators

How to Research and Find a New Car

Take the guesswork out of car shopping with Farmers Car Shopping Series. Whether it’s finding the right car for you or estimating what you can afford, we’ve got you covered with practical advice and tips!
SUV, crossover, or sedan? Premium audio and navigation? Leather or cloth? Heated seats or sunroof? Black, silver, or white? When it comes to cars, the choices are mind-boggling.

But car buying doesn’t have to be overwhelming, if you take it one step at a time.

Start by narrowing down which type of car you want. Asking yourself a few simple questions now can make the process a whole lot easier. Once you have your shortlist, doing your homework before you buy can help you make a smarter, informed decision.

Here are some tips to help you research a new car:

1) Custom build your car online.

Want to see what your future car will look like? Visit the vehicle configurator on the manufacturer’s website. Typically those sites let you virtually build your ideal vehicle right in front of your eyes, playing with model, colors, options, etc. There’s no better way to see exactly how your new car will look, inside and out…plus it makes it easy to show off your expected new buy.

2) Get a rough estimate of your monthly payment.

Any “Build and Price” website can help you calculate what your monthly payment might be, to help get your wallet ready. That estimate is usually based on factors like:

  • The manufacturer’s suggested retail price for that model
  • The options you’ve selected,
  • Any manufacturer financing incentives or offers

3) Call dealerships ahead of time.

Even though car shopping websites may list a particular vehicle, there’s no guarantee the specific color or trim will be available in the actual dealer inventory.

If you’re looking for something very specific, save yourself some footwork and call dealerships ahead of time to find out if they have a matching car in their inventory, or whether they’re able to trade for it from a nearby partner dealership.

4) Talk to your insurance agent before you buy.

It may sound backwards to start talking car insurance before you buy the car, but in actuality, it can give you a better sense of the full cost of ownership before you put money down. When you talk to a Farmers agent about the car you plan to buy, they can provide an estimated insurance rate, which coupled with that payment estimation you got, can give you a clearer picture of just how much your new car could cost you.

Why can’t I find the car I want in the dealer’s inventory?

When dealerships order the new cars they want on their lots, like most store owners, they’re more likely to choose models they think will sell. That means selecting the cars most likely to please the broadest variety of consumers.

If you’re in the market for an unusual color, a basic trim level, or a manual transmission, it may be difficult to find in stock on most dealership lots. Plus, keep in mind that particularly popular models tend to sell out quickly.

If, for instance, you’re shopping for a Bronze Fire Lincoln MKZ, your search might be a little frustrating, since it’s not a very popular color choice. On the other hand, if you just want a black, sedan, you’ll probably find your new car in no time, at almost any dealership.

So, while it’s important to know what make and model you want to buy, you’re far more likely to find a match at a dealership nearby if you’re flexible with the colors and options you want.

If, on the other hand, you have a specific trim, color, and model in mind, it helps to be patient and proactive. Doing your research, calling dealerships, expanding your search area, and asking around can help locate the car you want. Just make sure to act quickly when you find it.

Remember, you always have the option to custom-order your new car directly from the dealer. Although delivery can take several weeks, the car’s usually built to your exact specifications, so you get exactly what you want.

Farmers Car Shopping Service can help you save on your next car
While the Farmers Car Shopping Service* powered by TrueCar can’t guarantee the color and trim you want, it can give you Guaranteed Savings off MSRP on new cars. You can also see what others paid for the same car you configured, so you know when you’re getting a good deal.

The Farmers Car Shopping Service monitors what people are paying daily for their cars so you can get upfront pricing information from Certified Dealers within minutes, and know how those prices compare to the current market.

Also, the upfront pricing information includes incentives and any special savings. All fees are factored in as well to eliminate any surprises at the dealership.

To start your (new or used) car search use the Farmers Car Shopping Service to get your Guaranteed Savings and find the fair market price for the vehicle you’re interested in purchasing.

Source: Truecar.com

*The Farmers Car Shopping Service website is owned and operated by TrueCar, which is not affiliated with any of the companies comprising the Farmers Insurance Group of Companies. Your use of the website is subject to TrueCar’s Privacy Policy. Guaranteed Savings and upfront dealer pricing information not available in all states. In these states, a Target Price is shown, which is a market-based example of what you can reasonably expect to pay for your vehicle as configured. Your configured vehicle may not be available or in-stock at the Certified Dealers.

The information contained in this page is provided for general informational purposes only. The information is provided by Farmers and while we endeavor to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to this article or the information, products, services or related graphics, if any, contained in this article for any purpose. The information is not meant as professional or expert advice, and any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

Products & features may not be available in all states & may vary by state.
* Securities offered through Farmers Financial Solutions, LLC, 30801 Agoura Rd. Bldg. 1 Agoura Hills, CA 91301. Member FINRA & SIPC.
* Products and Services/Auto or Home/Questions you may have about Risk Assessment Indicators

Dangers of Driving with a Cell Phone

Is Driving With a Cellphone More Dangerous Than We Think?

By now we’ve all heard of the dangers of driving with a cell phone. Some have even claimed, and statistics seem to confirm, that it’s as dangerous as driving drunk!

But what’s more unnerving is the growing suspicion that we’re not getting the full picture. That driving with a cell phone may be even more dangerous than current stats lead us to believe.

Why the mixed messages?

The problem is that judging “impaired” or “distracted” driving is pretty subjective and tough to quantify. For instance:

  • Is a person holding a cell phone as distracted as someone looking down to send a text message?
  • Are hands-free devices less of a distraction?
  • Are all crashes and incidents caused by cell phone distractions reported?
  • And statistics are rarely if ever 100% spot on. There’s always a margin of error. But when it comes to statistics about cell phones and car crashes, there could be some major discrepancies.

All too often, drivers at fault in an accident don’t admit to using a cellphone, or witness accounts are inaccurate. Also, cellphone records are hard to legally obtain in a lot of cases. This means that often, the cause of the accident isn’t accurately attributed…which suggests that the true correlation between driving and cellphone usage is worse than we think.

To start uncovering the truth about the dangers of phone use while driving, let’s examine the facts:

Is hands-free just as dangerous as hands-on?

We’ve all been told that texting and driving is a big no-no. So companies and tech developers have come up with all kinds of hands-free talking and texting options to keep us connected on the road. But is there a big difference between texting and talking hands free?

The National Safety Council (NSC) conducted a study on the distracted brain, and confirmed that talking on the phone, either hands-free or not, was about as distracting to a driver as texting.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration also found that 21% of car crashes involved talking on either a handheld or hands-free cellphone. The big news was that there wasn’t a significant variation between the two!

It can wait….

With mobile devices in everyone’s pockets, it’s clear that the risk of accidents, injuries, and fatalities on the road is growing…as is the need for sound life insurance coverage.

So even if we generally accept that underreporting is rampant and cellphone-to-crash correlations are stronger than they appear, it’s still everyone’s responsibility to not use our phones behind the wheel, and continue to look out for those who are.

That’s why it’s important to avoid distracted driving. Turn off the phone, or put it in your glove compartment so you’re not tempted. Whatever the conversation, it can wait.

IC-0514-C 6/14

Products & features may not be available in all states & may vary by state.
* Securities offered through Farmers Financial Solutions, LLC, 30801 Agoura Rd. Bldg. 1 Agoura Hills, CA 91301. Member FINRA & SIPC.
* Products and Services/Auto or Home/Questions you may have about Risk Assessment Indicators

The information contained in this page is provided for general informational purposes only. The information is provided by Farmers and its partners, and while we endeavor to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to this article or the information, products, services or related graphics, if any, contained in this article for any purpose. The information is not meant as professional or expert advice, and any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

How to File a Car Insurance Claim

Just when you thought this day couldn’t get any worse… CRASH! You’re in a car accident. Thankfully, everyone’s fine and has Auto insurance. Now that it’s over and you have a minute to think, you just want to get your car fixed and get on with your life.

To do that, you need to file a claim with your insurance company.

The accident was stressful enough. The claims process doesn’t have to be. We’ll make it easy for you by explaining exactly what you need to do to file a claim.

On the scene

After the accident, your mind is racing with questions, but take a deep breath, and collect the following information before you leave the scene of the accident:

  • Exchange insurance information with the other driver, and anyone involved in the accident. Take pictures of their insurance cards, or write down the information.
  • Take pictures of the damage to your vehicle, and to any other vehicles or structures.
  • If there are any witnesses, respectfully try to get their names and contact information.
  • Write down as much as you can: location, street names, time, license plates, vehicle makes and models, road and weather conditions. The more the better!
  • If a police officer is called to the scene, ask for as much information as you can from the officer (police report number, officer name, etc.).

Before you file a claim

Now that you’re ready to file your claim, you need your insurer’s claim phone number (on your insurance card), or a link to their online claims services.

You’ll need to provide the claims rep with the following information:

  • Date and time the accident happened
  • A basic description of what happened
  • Location of the accident (cross streets, address, city…whatever you can provide)

To make things faster and easier, have these items on hand:

  • Driver’s license
  • Vehicle registration
  • Insurance card
  • Policy number
  • Name, license plate number, vehicle and insurance information for the other drivers
  • Contact information for any witnesses (if you have it)
  • Police report and incident number (if you have it)
  • Name of the police office involved

Note: Even if the other person might be at fault, it’s still a good idea to file a claim and report the accident to your insurer. Their biggest concern is protecting your interests, which may not be the case with the other insurer.

The information contained in this page is provided for general informational purposes only, and is not meant as professional or expert advice. Every attempt is made to ensure accuracy and timeliness, however all content is presented without guarantees.

Products & features may not be available in all states & may vary by state.
* Securities offered through Farmers Financial Solutions, LLC, 30801 Agoura Rd. Bldg. 1 Agoura Hills, CA 91301. Member FINRA & SIPC.
* Products and Services/Auto or Home/Questions you may have about Risk Assessment Indicators

When should you update your car insurance coverage

If you’re anything like most people, you may only speak with your insurance agent or review your car insurance when you’re paying a bill or filing a claim. If it’s been a while since you’ve looked at your policy though, you could be missing out on new discounts, or even have developed gaps or overlaps in your coverage.

When Life Changes

Big life changes ripple through all aspects of your life, even your insurance coverage.

For instance, if your son just got his driver’s license, odds are you’ve added him to your existing policy. Did you update your insurance though?

A new, young driver can sometimes lead to higher premiums, but it might also warrant an update to your limits. Without an update, your current limits may not be enough to provide the coverage you want for the whole family.

The good news is you could qualify for a series of discounts too, like a “Good Student,” “Distant Student,” or “Driving Training” discount.

You won’t know until you talk to your agent though.

All types of life changes may cause gaps or overlaps in coverage, as well as qualify you for additional discounts. That’s why it’s important to speak with your agent and update your coverage after any big life changes like:

  • Getting a new job – changes in your commute can change your risk factors and possibly your premium.
  • Moving to a new house – a new location can affect your premiums or qualify you for a “homeowners” discount. You can even bundle your Home and Auto policies for more savings.
  • Getting married – changes in your marital status can have changes in your coverage, especially if your adding / removing your spouse to your policy.
  • Having children – kids are a blessing and can also have effects on your coverage. New drivers in the household, and on your policy, mean it’s time to update your coverage.

To keep your policy updated, and make sure you’re getting the coverage you want, schedule a Farmers Friendly Review each year, and explore your policy with your agent.

Before Buying a New Car

Recent cost of ownership data suggests insurance can add as much as 17 percent to the cost of a new car. That’s why if you’re shopping for a new car, don’t forget to consider how it might affect your insurance policy.

It might seem backwards to update your coverage and check with your insurance agent before you start shopping for a new car, but knowing premium levels beforehand can help influence your buying decisions. For instance, if you knew the premiums would be higher for the luxury edition than the standard trim, would it affect your choice?

After Buying a Car

Before you driver it off the lot, make sure you’ve updated your insurance coverage to include your new car. Dealers usually take care of that, but you can also call your insurance agent and let him/her know about your new buy, or update your policy online.

Once you’ve talked to your agent about insurance and narrowed down your vehicle choices, be sure to take advantage of the Farmers Car Shopping Service, offered by TrueCar. This exclusive service can help you save money and make the car buying experience much easier. In fact, using the Farmer’s Car Shopping Service can save you an average of $3,221 off MSRP*!

* Between 7/1/13 and 9/30/13, the average estimated savings off MSRP presented by TrueCar Certified Dealers to users of TrueCar powered websites, based on users who configured virtual vehicles and subsequently purchased a new vehicle of the same make and model listed on the certificate from Certified Dealers, was $3,078, including applicable vehicle specific manufacturer incentives. Your actual savings may vary based on multiple factors including the vehicle you select, region, dealer, and applicable vehicle specific manufacturer incentives which are subject to change. The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (“MSRP”) is determined by the manufacturer, and may not reflect the price at which vehicles are generally sold in the dealer’s trade area as not all vehicles are sold at MSRP. Each dealer sets its own pricing. Your actual purchase price is negotiated between you and the dealer. Alt: Neither TrueCar nor Farmers sells or leases motor vehicles.

The information contained in this page is provided for general informational purposes only. The information is provided by Farmers and while we endeavor to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to this article or the information, products, services or related graphics, if any, contained in this article for any purpose. The information is not meant as professional or expert advice, and any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

Improve Your Ride with the Right Brakes

Want to spend between 5 – 33% less on gas? The key could be your brakes.
Think about driving, braking, and gas in terms of energy.

Every time you brake, you’re sending tons of energy into your brake pads, and pulling it away from the energy that gets your car moving again. The more efficiently you brake, and the better your brake pads, the more efficiently energy is used in your car, the less gas your car uses, and the less often you have to fill up.

Long story short, braking correctly and finding the right brake pads for your car can improve your gas mileage, improve your ride, and save you money.

The Right Brake Pads for Your Car

Your brake pads are what convert the movement of your car into the friction that slows and stops it. The better they are at their job, the less energy it takes to brake.

To improve your ride with the right brake pads for your car, it’s important to understand the types of pads available today:

1) Ceramic Brake Pads

Ceramic brake pads are mostly composed of ceramic fibers.

Pros: they’re extremely resistant to wear and tear, quiet, don’t produce a lot of dust, and don’t wear down brake rotors as quickly as other pads.

Cons: not surprisingly, they’re usually the most expensive brake pads out there.

2) Non-Asbestos Organic Pads (NAO)

Asbestos isn’t used in domestically-produced brake pads anymore, but it’s still something to look out for when purchasing foreign-made pads. Made from glass, rubber, and similar materials, NAO pads are non-toxic and safe to use.

Pros: they’re pretty quiet and free of toxic materials.

Cons: they tend to wear down quickly and because of that, produce a lot of (non-toxic) dust.

3) Low-Metallic Non-Asbestos Organic Pads

Metallic and semi-metallic pads are meant for high-performance vehicles, but they’re specially-designed to be gentle enough for use in everyday cars too. These pads are similar to non-asbestos organic pads, but they contain small amounts of copper and steel.

Pros: the added metal makes for smoother braking and aids in heat transfer, preventing wear and tear without wearing down your brake rotors.

Cons: they’re typically pretty noisy and can produce high levels of (non-toxic) dust.

4) Semi-Metallic Break Pads

Semi-metallic brake pads are made from 30-65% metal. They’re essential for high-performance vehicles like race cars and heavy duty trucks, but can also be used in everyday vehicles.

Pros: extremely durable and resistant to wear and tear.

Cons: can sometimes wear down brake rotors faster than other brake pads, and can be pretty noisy in most cars.

Braking Correctly

Smooth, gentle, and correct braking techniques can extend the life of any brake pads (whichever you choose for your car) and improve your ride. That means:

  • Gradually pushing down on the brake instead of stomping on the pedal.
  • Coasting slowly towards a stoplight and braking gently, instead of accelerating towards it and braking at the last minute.

The information contained in this page is provided for general informational purposes only, and is not meant as professional or expert advice. Every attempt is made to ensure accuracy and timeliness, however all content is presented without guarantees.

Products & features may not be available in all states & may vary by state.
* Securities offered through Farmers Financial Solutions, LLC, 30801 Agoura Rd. Bldg. 1 Agoura Hills, CA 91301. Member FINRA & SIPC.
* Products and Services/Auto or Home/Questions you may have about Risk Assessment Indicators

Healthy Living at the Speed of NASCAR

Welcome to the Inside Track, where Farmers comes together with NASCAR driver Kasey Kahne’s No. 5 Farmers Insurance team at Hendrick Motorsports, to give you their professional advice on everything from auto maintenance to healthy living tips.

For members of the No. 5 Farmers Insurance team at Hendrick Motorsports, staying in top physical shape, eating right, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are all key to running at top speed on the track and at home.

To succeed on Kasey Kahne’s pit crew, or in your own life off the track, you need a healthy dose of physicality, strength, and conditioning. Matt Skeen, one of the strength and conditioning coaches at Hendrick Motorsports, explains why.

“Our race season is 38 weeks long, and our pit crews need to be fit to make it through the entire season,” said Skeen. “It’s important to stay healthy from the first race at Daytona in February, to the last race in Miami in November.”

Customize Your Exercise Schedule

Skeen explains that due to the weight of the equipment the pit crew works with each week (like a 65 lb. Sunoco fuel can) they work out to withstand moving objects while in different positions.

Each week they follow a set schedule to get the most out of their work outs:

  • Monday: “Recovery day”; active stretching, yoga, lightweight training or light cardio sessions.
  • Tuesday: “Heavier day”; weight training and more intense cardio.
  • Wednesday: “Heaver day”; weight training and intense cardio.
  • Thursday: “Cool down day”; round out the week with any areas not worked on.
  • Friday – Sunday: “Action days”; use the workout from the week and put your body to work.

In addition to the weekly regiment, each member on the pit crew has a workout plan specific to their position on the team.

“All our pit crew members need to have strength,” said Skeen. “They need to have strong legs, strong cores, and a strong upper body. Additionally, we have training plans for specific positions, like our tire changers. For each position, common injuries can occur, so we look at those areas and try to target them to prevent injuries from happening.”

Landon Walker, the back-up gas man on the No. 5 Farmers Insurance team, knows how critical staying well-conditioned is for his role on the team.

“It’s important to stay in shape and fit for my position on the team,” said Walker. “Being a gas man, there’s not as much agility and running around the car required like some of the other positions, but there’s a lot of strength involved. Four days a week, we do heavy lifting, and no matter what job you have on the team, you have to keep your strength up.”

Eat Right

While maintaining their strength, the team also focuses on proper nutrition in their diet.

“We have a dietician and a nutritionist on call that come in and give the guys nutrition information at the beginning of the year,” said Skeen. “If any one of them need weight management or a certain diet to help them gain or lose weight, we will schedule one-on-one consultations with the outsourced dieticians and nutritionists.”

Avoiding temptation is the hardest part of a healthy lifestyle, and that’s especially true if, like the No. 5 Farmers Insurance team, you’re on the road a lot. Walker knows just how difficult that can be though.

“Making sure I get enough protein and maintaining a healthy balance is important when I’m on the road,” said Walker. “It can be hard traveling because it’s easy to make a bad decision, so you just have to stick to your plan and maintain during the week to prepare for the weekend.”

Design a Realistic Plan

For the best results, it’s important to identify your goals and consult a nutritionist or doctor to help you get started with a nutrition plan and your fitness plan. That’s just as true for the pit crew as it is for fans off the track.

“We’ve seen a lot of benefits over the years by promoting a healthy lifestyle,” said Skeen. “We’ve had guys come from other race teams that may have been a little overweight or maybe didn’t have the optimal strength that they could have had and we’ve been able to get them stronger. Doing this helps them increase their muscle mass and prolong their careers.”

With 11 Sprint Cup Championships, Hendrick Motorsports is the most successful racing organization in NASCAR history. Kasey Kahne’s No. 5 Farmers Insurance Chevrolet SS is supported by some of the most talented engineers, mechanics and race strategists.

The information contained in this page is provided for general informational purposes only. The information is provided by Farmers and while we endeavor to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to this article or the information, products, services or related graphics, if any, contained in this article for any purpose. The information is not meant as professional or expert advice, and any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

Pro Advice on DIY Car Maintenance

Welcome to the Inside Track. In our continued dedication to making you a smarter and safer driver, Farmers went to some of the smartest drivers we know, Hendrick Motorsports and NASCAR driver Kasey Kahne’s No. 5 Farmers Insurance team, and asked for their professional advice. Here’s what they had to say:

Knowing how to properly maintain your vehicle can save you money in the long run, but knowing when to leave it to the professionals is just as important.

Todd Devnich, car chief for the No. 5 Farmers Insurance Chevrolet SS team, prepares Kasey Kahne’s car for every race and makes sure it’s in top racing form. Whether it’s race cars or his personal car, Devnich knows how important it is to keep vehicles in shape.

At the shop, Devnich has an entire race team helping him maintain the stable of No. 5 Chevrolet SS cars at Hendrick Motorsports. You might not have a whole team at your disposal, but that doesn’t mean you can’t follow a similar system for your own vehicle’s maintenance.

“Some of the best things you can do for your vehicles are keeping up with regular maintenance on your oil system and keeping tabs on the wear and tear of your tires,” says Devnich.

It’s also a good idea to:

Make a Checklist

“At the shop we work off a checklist of items we regularly review on the car that includes inspecting for wear and tear, making sure brake pads are still thick, that the fuel filter isn’t dirty, the bolts are tight and there are no leaks in the brake system,” says Devnich.

Creating a weekly or monthly checklist allows you to learn what is normal for your vehicle and when it might be time to replace or repair a part. This helps you know when something may be performing differently or is becoming unsafe and needs attention from a professional.

Know when to leave it to the Pros

“Unless you’re educated and knowledgeable on how to properly maintain and upkeep your car, it’s probably best to leave it to professionals to handle,” says Devnich. “You want to make sure everything is done correctly to make sure you’re safe on the road.”

The more you learn about your car, the more likely you will be able to recognize when additional care or maintenance might be required. If you have a question about your vehicle though, you should always consult a professional. Whether it’s a race car or your everyday vehicle – safety should always come first.

With 11 Sprint Cup Championships, Hendrick Motorsports is the most successful racing organization in NASCAR history. Kasey Kahne’s No. 5 Farmers Insurance Chevrolet SS is supported by some of the most talented engineers, mechanics and race strategists.

The information contained in this page is provided for general informational purposes only, and is not meant as professional or expert advice. Every attempt is made to ensure accuracy and timeliness, however all content is presented without guarantees.

How to Prepare your Car for Fall like a Pro

Welcome to the Inside Track. In our continued dedication to making you a smarter and safer driver, Farmers went to some of the smartest drivers we know, Hendrick Motorsports and NASCAR driver Kasey Kahne’s No. 5 Farmers Insurance team, and asked for their professional advice. Here’s what they had to say:

The NASCAR Sprint Cup Series competes on many tracks and surfaces over a 10 month season. The Farmers Insurance team prepares their No. 5 Chevrolet SS to perform on all types of racetracks in all types of weather. For us everyday drivers though, it’s just as important to properly prepare our cars to operate at their highest performance levels.

Keith Eads, tire specialist for Kasey Kahne’s No. 5 Farmers Insurance Chevrolet SS team, shares his expert tips on how to get your car ready for the upcoming fall and winter seasons:

1) Check belts, hoses, and fluids

“The first thing you should do to prepare for fall and winter is to check all of your belts and hoses,” says Eads. “It’s important to keep up on your oil changes, make sure your heat is working properly and ensure the fluids have been replenished.”

Before the weather starts to turn, take your car in for regular maintenance. Your trusted mechanic can spot problem areas, change worn belts and hoses, fix any heating issues, and change your oil before the fall.

2) Check your antifreeze

“You need to keep tabs on the antifreeze in your vehicle so that it’s equivalent to the temperatures you are going to be driving in,” says Eads. “Checking is important because it may have gotten diluted during the summer months.”

When temperatures get colder, a vehicle’s antifreeze becomes vital for operation because it regulates your engine’s temperature and ensures it runs properly.

3) Check fuel lines and tire pressure

“As the cooler weather gets closer, being aware of how the temperature can affect your vehicle is important. Your fuel lines and tire pressure are both areas that need extra attention in the changing temps,” says Eads. “Fuel supplements are a great way to keep the ice out of your fuel lines and checking your vehicle’s tire pressure is important for safety and the handling of your car.”

Changing temperatures can condense or expand air in your tires, and cooler weather can leave you with low tire pressure. Keep an eye on your car’s tire pressure indicator, and make sure to refill any tire that looks low before you start driving.

4) Keep an eye on your fuel levels

Another area you want to keep an eye on when the temperature drops is your fuel levels. During a race, proper fuel management can be the difference between winning and losing. While driving in your own car, keeping up on your fuel levels is essential for performance and making sure you won’t get stranded out in the cold.

5) Stay safe in colder weather

Along with vehicle maintenance, it’s smart to properly prepare for traveling in the elements and for an emergency.

“In the winter, you should have things like gloves, an ice scraper, a blanket and candles in your car,” according to Eads. “Other items that should always be kept in your vehicle are a first aid kit, flares and jumper cables.”

Whether you’re preparing for a race or preparing for driving in the harsh winter months, having a car prepared for success will keep you confident behind the wheel.

With 11 Sprint Cup Championships, Hendrick Motorsports is the most successful racing organization in NASCAR history. Kasey Kahne’s No. 5 Farmers Insurance Chevrolet SS is supported by some of the most talented engineers, mechanics and race strategists.

The information contained in this page is provided for general informational purposes only, and is not meant as professional or expert advice. Every attempt is made to ensure accuracy and timeliness, however all content is presented without guarantees.

True Cost of "Cheap Car Insurance"

The ads are all over the place, and almost every Auto insurance company has chimed in.

“We’re the cheapest” “Save more with us” “Hey you! Over here! Cheap auto insurance!”

It’s not surprising there’s a race to the bottom in Auto insurance. Everyone (or at least everyone who wants to drive legally) needs it, and it’s quickly become a commodity. So why not get it on the cheap right?

The thing is, not all Auto insurance is created equal. Sometimes they can get you a better rate by cutting expenses and overheads. But all too often, to save you some money, they have to sacrifice quality.

That means if you get a great price up front, you might end up paying for it when you actually need to use your insurance!

So know the difference between quality insurance and value insurance. Because if you just go for the cheap, important things can suffer, like:

Coverage

To get a better rate, you might choose or be offered lower Auto coverage limits. That means you take on more of the responsibility yourself, and have a higher deductible. It also means that if you’re ever at fault in an accident, you might find yourself under covered and up a creek, owing more out of pocket than you thought! Cheaper coverage might also leave gaps, so while you think your new SUV is fully covered, you actually only have enough to cover this.

Quality coverage might cost a little more, but you can get higher limits and more coverage options that let you cover your car the way you want.

Policy features

Cheaper Auto insurance might offer great prices but not offer valuable features or options. To keep costs down, they may even raise your rates or drop you after just a single claim (fender bender? You’re done!).

Quality coverage comes with built-in policy features and additional paid options like Small Claims Forgiveness, Incident Forgiveness, and Comprehensive Claims Forgiveness. That way, you don’t have to worry about losing your coverage because of one little dent.

Claims processing

To help cut costs and get you a lower rate, “value” Auto insurance companies might not be able to offer comprehensive or quality claims services. They might use outside adjusters, or not have solid 24/7 support. So you’re stuck taking the bus while claims drag on forever.

On the other hand, quality Auto insurance usually comes with an agent and highly trained, experienced claims professionals. For many it’s worth the money in the long run, because they get claims settled quickly and keep you in the know with less hassle.

Attention and convenience

Value insurance is solely focused on price, not as much on customer service or convenience. That may seem fine at the start. But just try and get a question answered, service your policy, or get some personalized attention, and after hours of frustration you’ll think again.

Quality Auto insurance is there for you when and where you need them, with personalized service, 24/7 support, and convenient online access to documents, billing, and policy information. They save you time and money by giving you what you want before you ask for it.

Big savings may sound great from the outset, but remember, even in Auto insurance, you get what you pay for. And sometimes that savings up front really means bigger costs and hassle down the road. So do your research before you buy, and know that the price you’re getting includes all the coverage, services, options, and extra you want to make it worth your while.

Farmers takes all these qualities and benefits into consideration with every policy we write, and you should too, before you buy.

The information contained in this page is provided for general informational purposes only, and is not meant as professional or expert advice. Every attempt is made to ensure accuracy and timeliness, however all content is presented without guarantees.

Why Did My Car Insurance Rates Change?

It’s probably the biggest complaint in the industry. You get your quote, you’ve got your rate, and then after 6 months, a year, maybe a few years, you see your rate go up.

What’s with that? You haven’t filed a claim, and you’re a great driver (that’s why we insured you in the first place!).

Well, most people may not realize this, but all kinds of factors can affect your insurance rate over time.

What Causes Car Insurance Rate Increases?

Long story short, insurance rates are tied to costs and risks.

Generally speaking, auto insurance rate adjustments are caused by changes in:

1) Personal Risk

When you get a quote, you answer questions about your driving history, experience, age, vehicle, and location, among others. All this information gives the insurance company an idea of your personal risk.

The thing is though, once you get your initial rate, your risk levels don’t suddenly lock into place forever. They can change as life changes, and not just because you got a speeding ticket or bumped a parked car.

Depending on where you live, the following changes in life and in your policy may alter your risks to your insurer and affect rates:

  • Adding a new or inexperienced driver to your policy.
  • Getting a new vehicle
  • Moving to a new location
  • Changes in your commute
  • Changes in your credit score

2) Inflation and Higher Costs

If there’s one thing you can count on over time, it’s that prices will rise. Chocolate bars don’t go for a nickel anymore and your average car costs nearly 9x’s more than it did 40 years ago! So it’s no surprise that insurance costs more over time, too.

But why exactly?

Well, Auto insurance covers injuries to others, vehicle and property damage, medical and other expenses, and at times, legal fees. So, since insurance can pay for services from these industries, it’s inherently connected to them too. And as their costs fluctuate over time (due to inflation and other factors), Auto insurance rates are adjusted to reflect those costs.

3) Insurance Fraud

Claims are probably the biggest cost to insurance companies, but fraud is the biggest threat to the entire industry. Insurance fraud, like over-inflating damages and filing false claims, costs the industry billions each year. Unfortunately, that can drive rates up.

Insurance companies don’t just sit idly by though. They spend a lot of time and effort identifying and trying to prevent insurance fraud. But when fraud scams do slip through the cracks, or areas of the country become havens to fraudsters, companies have to react. Typically that means raising rates for customers in certain areas.

The Reality of Rate Increases

At the end of the day, whatever the factor, costs are going to fluctuate. And so they don’t have to sacrifice service, most companies are going to raise rates to compensate. But companies have all kinds of options to keep things from getting out of control. They’re:

  • Using the large size of their companies to negotiate better costs and keep rates lower.
  • Utilizing new systems and analytics to watch costs and risks.
  • Getting better data on customers and claims, to more accurately identify risks and adjust rates accordingly.
  • Using new technologies to offer customer-specific insurance rates, based on your exact and actual driving abilities and habits.
  • Working internally to run more efficiently, and keep internal costs lower, to pass on those savings to customers.

The information contained in this page is provided for general informational purposes only. The information is provided by Farmers and its partners, and while we endeavor to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to this article or the information, products, services or related graphics, if any, contained in this article for any purpose. The information is not meant as professional or expert advice, and any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

How NASCAR Inspires Tire Technology in Your Car

Welcome to the Inside Track, where Farmers comes together with NASCAR driver Kasey Kahne’s No. 5 Farmers Insurance team at Hendrick Motorsports and other NASCAR partners, to give you their professional advice on everything from auto maintenance to healthy living tips.

Have you ever wondered what makes your vehicle so different from the cars that burn up the tracks at NASCAR events? Well, besides the sponsor logos, netted windows, and roll cages, you might be surprised to learn just how similar the two machines really are.

Your tires, for instance, are probably inspired by the advancements and technologies in the tires made for NASCAR drivers.

You see, as the official tire of NASCAR, Goodyear is continuously developing and testing different compounds, constructions, and technologies in NASCAR tires to bring the best tires possible to each race and help drivers perform at their best on the track. And, what they learn through all of this is shared with engineers who develop tires for everyday driving.

One example of a technology used in both consumer and NASCAR tires is multi-zone tread. In NASCAR, tires with two tread zones, one using a harder rubber compound on the outside for endurance and a softer compound for more grip, are used at some tracks. Some consumer tires have similar compounds to help driving in wet, icy or dry conditions.

Goodyear engineers use NASCAR as a type of ‘learning lab’ to continuously improve tires on and off the track.

The information contained in this page is provided for general informational purposes only. The information is provided by Farmers and their partners and while we endeavor to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to this article or the information, products, services or related graphics, if any, contained in this article for any purpose. The information is not meant as professional or expert advice, and any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

Keep Kids Occupied on Family Road Trips

With airfares up in the clouds (sorry, but pun) and the “staycation” fad losing its luster, the classic family road trip is coming back into vogue.

But to avoid being “that person,” yelling at the kids and threatening to “turn this car around,” here are some suggestions to break up the tedium and keep them occupied, quiet, and not driving you completely insane.

Give them a screen to watch

Technology’s come a long way since we were stuck in Dad’s station wagon with nothing to do. These days, a lot of newer vehicles have on-board DVD players and TV’s. If you’re lucky enough to have one, throw on their favorite kids flick and let the good times roll! A tablet, smartphone, or MP3 player works too. Give them a game to play and you’re sure to get at least a solid half-hour of quiet time.

Bring along car-friendly board games

Ok, so you probably don’t want the kids playing Parcheesi in the backseat (pieces falling and sliding everywhere isn’t good for business). But there are car-safe board games that are great for long trips. Pick up some magnetic board games like magnetic checkers or ScrabbleTM and your kids can play all day without pieces dropping into crevices, never to be seen again. Look for the “Travel Edition” of your favorite board games at toy stores and you’ll be all set.

Play classic car games

You don’t have to spend your entire road trip keeping the kids quiet. Take the time to bond, laugh, and play together! Revisit a few of these classic gems from road trips past:

  • 20 Questions – one person thinks of something (anything!) and everyone else has 20 “yes or no” questions to guess what it is
  • I Spy – somebody picks a thing they see (not something flying by the car…that’s not fair) and gives everyone else a clue, like first letter or color. Everyone else has to guess what it is.
  • The License Plate Game – there are almost endless variations of the game, and it seems like everyone has their own version. You can find the alphabet in license plates, guess celebrity names in license plate letters (JC = James Caan), or make phrases out of license plate letters, like “BDD” could become “Buy Dad Dinner.”
  • The Alphabet Game – another one with tons of variations. The idea is to go through the alphabet spotting letters on road signs, or thinking of things that correspond to each letter.

Do car-friendly crafts

Kids have wild imaginations! Let them do their thing and create in the car. Bring along some yarn, construction paper, pencils, crayons, and stickers. Let them draw, make up stories, or even create presents for grandma and grandpa. Just leave the glitter, glue, and scissors at home. Too many risks on a bumpy road!

Just talk

Kids of any age love to listen and talk (even if it’s completely incoherent to us). So gab with your children in the car. Tell stories, sing songs, and chat with them about where you’re going, what they’ll see, and who they might meet when you get there. Even if they can’t talk back yet, it’s still engaging for them to listen. Plus, communicating with kids is a great way to expand their vocabulary and improve their speech patterns.

Mix and match any of these suggestions for a memorable and totally tolerable family road trip!

The information contained in this page is provided for general informational purposes only. The information is provided by Farmers and its partners, and while we endeavor to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to this article or the information, products, services or related graphics, if any, contained in this article for any purpose. The information is not meant as professional or expert advice, and any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

Car Problem Home Remedies

Through years of commuting, road tripping, and season changing, we put our cars through their paces. So every once in a while, they need a little love.

But getting a pro to remove a dent, fix a scratch, or clean the headlights can dig into your wallet. So check out these 10 amazing car hacks you’ve probably never considered, and fix your car on the cheap with things you’ve got laying around the house:

  1. De-ice your locks with hand sanitizer – Car locks can ice over in the winter. So squirt a little waterless hand sanitizer on your key and insert it in the lock. The same alcohol content that kills germs on dirty hands also melts away the ice in the lock.
  2. Remove dents with dry ice – The extreme cold of dry ice can help pop dents! Pick some up at your local grocery store (just remember to pick it up with gloves…dry ice can hurt your skin!). Then apply it to the dent repeatedly until it’s gone.
  3. Clean your engine with soap and water – A spotless engine is easier to service. Clean it often with some water and a little dishwasher detergent (degreaser works well too). First, cover all the sensitive areas (electrical parts, battery, air intake, and distributor) with plastic bags, then scrub and rinse the engine with a soft rag.
  4. Fix scratches with nail polish – Touch-up paint always works best, but if you’re in a pinch, clear nail polish helps to fill in scratches and cover up exposed metal to avoid rust.
  5. Unlock your car with a shoelace – Locking yourself out of your car is frustrating…and a little embarrassing. But don’t let it ruin your day. Tie a loop in a shoelace large enough to wrap around your door lock. Work it into the space between the car and the door, then move it until the loop fits around the door lock. Lasso it, and lift up the lock!
  6. Improve fuel economy by “Hypermiling” – Like clipping coupons and scoping out deals, there are thrifty ways to save on fuel economy too! Try:
    1. Giving the car in front of you more space. Then you can coast to a stop instead of slamming on the breaks.
    2. Turning off your engine whenever you’re stopped for more than a few minutes.
    3. Using cruise control to maintain your speed.
  7. Remember where you parked with Smartphone photos – Parking lots and garages can be endless mazes. So take out your Smartphone, snap a few pictures of your location and markers around you before you leave the car, and you’ll find it again in no time.
  8. Clean foggy headlights with toothpaste – Over time, headlights get oxidized and dirty. But the same stuff that makes your teeth shine can help make your headlights bright again too! Slather plenty of the stuff on your headlights, buff it in with a dry cloth, rinse with water, and wipe clean for clear headlights on the cheap.
  9. Clear your windshield with a razor blade – Dead bugs, sap, and other gunk spotting up your windshield? Stuck on stuff like that won’t come off with washer fluid. Try scraping them off with a razorblade. Just be careful!
  10. Protect your ignition and lighten your keychain – A heavy keychain can weigh your pocket book down and make your jeans look bulky and awkward. But they can also weigh down your ignition switch, causing premature wear and tear. So keep your keys lean, get a sleek profile, and protect your car’s ignition.

The information contained in this page is provided for general informational purposes only. The information is provided by Farmers and its partners, and while we endeavor to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to this article or the information, products, services or related graphics, if any, contained in this article for any purpose. The information is not meant as professional or expert advice, and any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

Not Cleaning Your Car Can Hurt You

Ok, so you haven’t washed your car since disco was king. But you get your oil changed, replace old parts, and keep it running like new. So what’s the big deal? It’s just dirt right?

Well, a filthy car can be more than just smelly. It might actually be damaging your ride…and your wallet!

Dirt Can Hurt

One way or the other, your car’s going to get dirty. So what happens if you don’t wash it off (besides kids writing “Wash Me” on it)?

  • Dirt build up can act like sandpaper, wearing down and weakening the paint.
  • Dirt can mix with rain and other pollutants, etching paint right off.
  • Other things, like sap and bird droppings will ruin your paint even faster.

Why is Paint so Important?

The color of your car is a big deal. It might define your personality (lime green? Must be a free spirit!) or fit your car perfectly (nothing like a hot red sports car!). But your paint does more than just make you look cool. It protects the body of the car from the elements too.

When paint starts to crack, etch, or chip off, it exposes the car’s body to moisture. And when that happens, the metal can start to rust and corrode, spreading like a nasty brownish disease. Left untreated, rust can weaken the car’s body, eat away holes, and expose vital parts…doing some real damage.

Resale Value

Even if you couldn’t care less about what your car looks like (rusty, yellow, dirty, whatever), you probably still give a hoot about its resale value. And it goes without saying that good looking, well cared-for cars sell for more than old rust buckets. So besides just causing damage to paint, or spreading rust, a dirty car could eat into your pocket down the line too!

What Can I Do?

Bottom line? Just keep your car clean! Take it to the local car wash and get the whole wash, wax, and undercoating package. Or put on your favorite laundry-day outfit and wash the car yourself!

However you do it, just remember to not skip the wax. Waxing helps keep your car shimmering, but it also creates a protective barrier between the paint and the elements, defending against sap, insects, overzealous birds, and all kinds of other stuff. Wax properly and clean regularly and you’ll protect your car’s paint job, extend its life, and increase its resale value.

The information contained in this page is provided for general informational purposes only. The information is provided by Farmers and its partners, and while we endeavor to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to this article or the information, products, services or related graphics, if any, contained in this article for any purpose. The information is not meant as professional or expert advice, and any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

Uninsured Coverage

Watch Your Rear End! Uninsured Motorist Coverage Protects You If They’re Not Protected

In almost every state in the union, drivers have to buy liability insurance to stay legal. But did you know that 1 in 8 drivers out there are hitting the streets completely uninsured?

According to the Insurance Information Institute, about 87% of drivers are good boys and girls who have at least basic liability coverage. The other 13%? Not so much.

So what does all this mean for you decent, legal drivers?

Well, it means that if you got into an accident with an uninsured driver, you’d be up a creek without an insurance company. There’d be no one to send a claim to, or recoup money for repairs, medical bills, and property damage from…except, of course, the driver. And we don’t have to tell you, that usually means frustrating phone calls, four letter words, and maybe legal action.

That’s why it’s important to protect yourself from those headaches and purchase Uninsured Motorist Liability Coverage. That includes:

  • Uninsured Motorist Bodily Injury Coverage – covers your medical expenses, lost wages, emotional distress, pain and suffering…that sort of thing. But it doesn’t cover car damages resulting from the collision.
  • Uninsured Motorist Property Damage Coverage – covers damages to your vehicle but it wouldn’t cover bodily injuries.

In 22 states, plus Washington D.C, laws actually require drivers to have Uninsured Auto insurance. Others, like California, offer the coverage as an extra option for mandatory liability insurance.

Wherever you live though, uninsured drivers are a serious danger…and when is it not a good idea to protect yourself from danger? Just look around the next time you’re on the road (use your mirrors…we don’t want you taking your eyes off the road). Statistically, 1 out of every 8 drivers you pass has no insurance!

That’s why we encourage you to get smarter about your insurance, and consider adding Uninsured Auto insurance to your policy. It’s usually a pretty affordable option, and could save you money, time, and stress if you’re ever hit by an uninsured, negligent driver.

The information contained in this page is provided for general informational purposes only. The information is provided by Farmers and its partners, and while we endeavor to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to this article or the information, products, services or related graphics, if any, contained in this article for any purpose. The information is not meant as professional or expert advice, and any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

Distracted Driving

7 Smart Ways to Distract Yourself from Distracted Driving

The dangers of distracted driving are pretty well known at this point. Newspapers (remember those?), magazines, and the internet are laden with horror stories and statistics about texting and driving. The thing is though, as serious as it is, distracted driving wasn’t invented along with the cell phone. It’s been around a long, long time. Remember when you were first learning to drive? Your folks always said “Keep your eyes on the road and your hands upon the wheel!” Or maybe that was Jim Morrison…

So to distract yourself from the myriad distractions on the road, here are 7 ways to maintain your focus and drive safer out there:

1) Don’t be afraid to just turn off your phone

Whatever they just texted you, it can wait. Try putting your phone out of reach, turning the screen around, or just shutting it off (yes, phone’s do have ‘Off’ buttons). However you do it, just make sure your phone is out of sight and out of mind. When you get to your destination, it’s cool to text back “Sorry, I just got off the road.” Trust us, they’ll understand.

2) Organize your stuff and avoid multitasking

Know where your important stuff is before driving off. Set up your GPS route before you hit the gas, get your EZ-Pass out or have any toll money ready, and keep your morning coffee in the cup holder where it belongs. The better organized you are beforehand, the less you’ll have to search around and take your eyes off the road when you need something.

3) Let your passengers do some of the work

That’s what they’re there for! You’re the driver…your job is to drive the car and get everyone there without crashing. If you have other people in the car, let them do some of the other work. Their hands are free, so let them run the GPS, find just the right song on the radio, or send a text for you. It’ll give them something productive to do and take some distracting tasks off of your plate.

4) Save the serious discussions for later

OK, so it’s easier said than done, but it’s important to not lose yourself in stressful thoughts or serious conversations when you’re on the road. Driving is the task at hand, so save that “We need to talk” moment for later. Whatever it is, it’s not worth risking your life or the lives of others over.

5) Use voice commands and Bluetooth sparingly

They’re great technologies, but hands-free texting and talking are still pretty distracting. Your hands may be on the wheel, but it takes your mind and attentions off the road. So only use them when you absolutely need to.

6) Use your Smartphone to drive safer

Some people need to use their Smartphone’s GPS app in the car, so they can’t just switch it off completely. But when you’re driving, try putting your phone on silent. Actually, a lot of modern phones even have a programmable feature that turns off other functions when the GPS is on.

Also, there are plenty of apps out there these days that can disable texting, send an automated text response, and hold calls while you’re driving. So poke around your safety settings and app store to maximize your phone’s safety capabilities.

7) Make your drive time, quiet time

We all need our little Zen moments of the day. And while most of us don’t think of drive time as relaxing, remember that it’s OK to turn off the radio, pause the iPod, or ask your passengers to shut it. It can be pretty nice to collect your thoughts and focus on the single task at hand. And it makes it easier to concentrate on merging or finding that next exit when things are quiet.

The information contained in this page is provided for general informational purposes only. The information is provided by Farmers and its partners, and while we endeavor to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to this article or the information, products, services or related graphics, if any, contained in this article for any purpose. The information is not meant as professional or expert advice, and any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

Roadside Emergency Safety

10 Smart Steps for a Roadside Emergency

You hit a massive pothole and hear your tire pop.
You’re on the highway and smoke starts billowing from your engine.
Your check engine light comes on and something smells funny in your car.
You hit a massive bug and it clogs your intake valve.

This stuff happens all the time (ok, maybe not the bug one)…and when it does you can react one of two ways; you can panic or you can be smart.

To handle roadside emergencies the smart way, follow these 10 steps:

1) Get off the road

First things first, if you’re driving and something happens to your car, move off the road quickly (and safely). Get out of the flow of traffic. Look for a wide shoulder, emergency lane, rest stop, exit, or parking lot. You always want to move towards the furthest right lane or shoulder. But even if it means destroying a blown tire or wheel well in the process, you need to pull over! Just remember to never stop in traffic or places that are hard to see, like blind corners, over hills, or on narrow roads and bridges.

2) Let people know there’s something wrong

Find the hazard button in your car (it’s the big one with the red triangle on it) and put your hazard lights on. This’ll let people know you’ve got car issues and not just taking a little mid-trip snooze.

3) Don’t leave the car until you’re out of traffic

Never get out of the car until you’ve safely moved it out of the flow of traffic. If you can’t get your car out of harm’s way, don’t get out, even to pop the hood or check out the damage.

4) Safely exit the car

If it’s safe, get out of the car on the opposite side of traffic, even if you have to crawl over the passenger seat. Like getting out of a taxi, you never want to open the car door on the traffic side! Once you’re out of the car though, go ahead and pop the hood, check out your tire, examine the damage and attempt any kind of repairs (if you know what you’re doing). Generally speaking though, it’s safer to keep everyone clear of the car and wait for help to come.

5) Increase your visibility

You may want to mark your location with flares or triangles. At the very least you’ll want to raise your vehicle’s hood. This’ll let everyone know that you’re having car problems and need help.

6) Call Farmers Roadside Assistance

We’re here to help, 24/7. So put this number in your phone and call (800) 435-7764 any time for a jump start or tow to the nearest vehicle repair location.

7) Stay with your car

It’s important not to leave your car. It may take some time, but it’s more practical to meet help, a tow truck, or the police at the scene of your disabled vehicle than at a nearby burger joint.

8) Keep some emergency supplies in your car

Take a lesson from the Boy Scouts and always be prepared! Keep a blanket and first aid kit (or at least some water) in your car. And if you know how to use them, it’s also a good idea to have a spare tire, jack, fix-a-flat, and other simple repair tools in the car.

9) Put your hood down

If you’re done changing the tire or the tow-truck is on the scene, put the hood down and store any flares or other emergency signals. Otherwise a driver may try to risk slowing down to help.

10) Be green! Clean up the scene

Clean up whatever packaging, trash, and debris you left around the area. Littering is bad news, and abandoning a broken car part is wasteful and could be a road hazard for other drivers.

The information contained in this page is provided for general informational purposes only. The information is provided by Farmers and its partners, and while we endeavor to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to this article or the information, products, services or related graphics, if any, contained in this article for any purpose. The information is not meant as professional or expert advice, and any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

Tire Maintenance Checklist

Welcome to the Inside Track, where Farmers comes together with NASCAR driver Kasey Kahne’s No. 5 Farmers Insurance team at Hendrick Motorsports and other NASCAR partners, to give you their professional advice on everything from auto maintenance to healthy living tips.

Tires are built to provide thousands of miles of excellent service, but like many parts of your car, they need to be properly maintained to avoid excessive wear, damage, or poor performance.

That’s why it’s important to run down this tire maintenance checklist, from the tire experts at Goodyear, every so often and have a professional check your tires regularly, to help keep them in top condition.

1) Regularly check inflation

Under inflation is the leading cause of tire failure. That’s why maintaining proper inflation pressure is the single most important thing you can do to help make your tires last longer. Inspect your tires at least monthly and before long trips to check for proper inflation pressure, damage, and tread wear.

2) Visually inspect for wear and tear

A tire’s tread directly affects how it grips the road, so it’s important to regularly inspect it for signs of uneven wear. Walk around your car and visually check your tires for irregularities in tread wear or tire wall integrity as these could indicate problems with alignment or inflation.

What you see and what it means:

  • Wear on both edges – Under Inflation
  • Wear in center – Over Inflation
  • Cups or dips in the tread – Worn Parts
  • Saw tooth edges – Misalignment
  • Cracks, knots, bulges, air loss – can be various causes. Requires tire removal and expert inspection.

3) Stay alert for any performance changes

You shouldn’t solely rely on the appearance of your tires to identify wear or changes. Be aware of other changes in performance such as increased air loss, noises, vibrations, or “pulling” to either side while driving. It could be a mechanical issue, or a sign that tires need to be replaced.

4) Rotate your tires regularly

Rotate your tires every 6,000 – 8,000 miles to help equalize tread wear and get more miles out of your tires.

5) Check alignment

Check tire alignment as specified in your vehicle owner’s manual, or if you feel the wheel “pull.”

Additional Info:

How to check your tires’ tread:

Take the Penny Test

Insert a penny into your tire’s tread groove with Lincoln’s head upside down and facing you. If you can see all of the head, it’s time to replace your tires.

Check the Tread Wear Indicator

All new tires have tread wear indicators which appear as smooth banks in the tread grooves when they wear to the 2/32” level. When the tread wears down to become even with this level, the tire should be replaced.

The information contained in this page is provided for general informational purposes only. The information is provided by Farmers and their partners and while we endeavor to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to this article or the information, products, services or related graphics, if any, contained in this article for any purpose. The information is not meant as professional or expert advice, and any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

3 Tips to Avoid Pothole Damage

Avoid Potholes and Avoid Pothole Stress!

Old man winter may have left the building, but he’s also left his mark on roads across the country. That’s right…we’re talking about potholes. And if you’ve hit one before, you know that dreaded feeling; the heavy thud, praying the flat-tire light doesn’t come on, listening for the telling grinding of some loose part in your car. It’s stressful!

But what can you do to avoid them, besides moving someplace warm or never driving again?

Instead, try:

  • Leaving more space between you and the driver ahead of you. This is just general good driving practice, but it comes in handy avoiding potholes too. After all, the more space between you and the other guy, the more likely you are to notice a pothole and calmly dodge it.
  • Slowing down. Ratchet your speed back a little bit to improve your reaction time. Also, hitting a pothole at lower speeds typically doesn’t cause as much, or as serious damage as hitting one at higher speeds.
  • Watching out for water. After a rainstorm or snow, potholes can fill with water. That makes them harder to see, and harder to judge how deep they are. That makes them even more mysterious and dangerous! So when in doubt, avoid them.

Pothole damage accounts for nearly 500,000 insurance claims every year!

So if you’ve been a victim of one, you’re not alone.

That’s why it’s important to stay alert, slow down, and keep an eye out, to avoid some costly damage and some serious stress.

The information contained in this page is provided for general informational purposes only. The information is provided by Farmers and its partners, and while we endeavor to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to this article or the information, products, services or related graphics, if any, contained in this article for any purpose. The information is not meant as professional or expert advice, and any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

Tips to Stop Your Car from Overheating

Welcome to the Inside Track. In our continued dedication to making you a smarter and safer driver, Farmers went to some of the smartest drivers we know, Hendrick Motorsports and NASCAR driver Kasey Kahne’s No. 5 Farmers Insurance team, and asked for their professional advice. Here’s what they had to say:

Even in the cooler temps of fall and winter, an overheated car can stop you in your tracks. When a vehicle overheats, the engine runs too hot and can potentially damage your vehicle or even destroy your engine.

Vehicle overheating isn’t just an issue on the road though. It’s something that Kenny Francis, crew chief of the No. 5 Farmers Insurance Chevrolet SS at Hendrick Motorsports, must also monitor during each of the 36 races on the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series schedule.

“In a racecar, there is a radiator system that basically serves as a water cooler,” says Francis. “Air passes through aluminum tubes and fans, and water is going through those tubes, so the air that is going through the cooler is taking the excess heat away from the engine. If we didn’t do that, the engine would overheat and melt after a few minutes – it would burn right to the ground.”

Francis knows engines, and has his own pro tips for every day drivers, in case you’re ever in a situation where your car starts to overheat:

1) Turn the engine off.

“If your car overheats on the road, the first thing you need to do is turn it off, open the hood and let it cool off on its own.”

2) Never take off the radiator cap.

“You definitely don’t want to uncap the radiator system or the water system. It will be under high pressure and will blow off and burn you if you try to do that.”

3) Let the engine cool off before you do anything.

“Normally your car will have warning lights and a pressure relief valve. If your engine starts to overheat, it will give you plenty of warning before you could actually damage anything. You really can’t address any of the problems though until the engine cools off on its own.”

4) Refill antifreeze / coolant.

“In the race car, the rules say we have to use water, but in your car you should use antifreeze. Once everything cools back down to roughly room temperature, open the system up and fill it back up with new antifreeze.”

5) Check hoses for leaks, blockages or bursts.

“Inspect to see if you have a leak or something that caused your engine to overheat, because normally, the car doesn’t just overheat on its own. Chances are you either have a leak in the coolant system, or a thermostat went bad, which can happen a lot. On older cars it was much more common, but on newer cars you sometimes need to have a professional technician take a look. Regardless of the age of your vehicle, the number one rule is to just let your engine cool off. ”

6) Carefully monitor the temperature gauge.

“If the gauge crosses over to hot, pull over to a safe location and turn the engine off.”

7) Keep a safety kit in your car.

“Have a kit that contains coolant, a tool kit, a blanket, a working flashlight, non-perishable foods and water in the car at all times, just in case.”

Francis also knows there are ways to prevent your car from overheating in the first place, with proper maintenance. He suggests:

  • Making sure your coolant system is topped off with antifreeze.
  • Checking that all hoses are in good shape so they don’t corrode or leak.
  • Changing your oil regularly. “If you change your oil yourself, check the water system, hoses, and belts. A good visual inspection can go a long way.”
  • Having your fan checked when getting an oil change. “Sometimes fans go bad and can cause the engine to overheat, so keeping that maintained is important.”

Overheating can slow you down or stop you like a red flag on a track. To be sure there’s nothing but green flags waving on your trip, be sure to remember these tips and keep your vehicle cool.

With 11 Sprint Cup Championships, Hendrick Motorsports is the most successful racing organization in NASCAR history. Kasey Kahne’s No. 5 Farmers Insurance Chevrolet SS is supported by some of the most talented engineers, mechanics and race strategists.

The information contained in this page is provided for general informational purposes only, and is not meant as professional or expert advice. Every attempt is made to ensure accuracy and timeliness, however all content is presented without guarantees.

4 Pro Tips for Driving Long Distances Safely

Welcome to the Inside Track. In our continued dedication to making you a smarter and safer driver, Farmers went to some of the smartest drivers we know, Hendrick Motorsports and NASCAR driver Kasey Kahne’s No. 5 Farmers Insurance team, and asked for their professional advice. Here’s what they had to say:

The NASCAR Sprint Cup Series travels to 36 events annually, and the one person making sure the No. 5 Farmers Insurance team’s hauler arrives safely to each of those events is Hendrick Motorsports employee, Dave Radney.

Radney is no stranger to long trips across the country. With Hendrick Motorsports, he drives thousands of miles a year, from city to city, all across the country.

According to Radney, here are the best ways to safely travel across the nation’s more than 40,000 miles of interstate:

1) Take Breaks

“The biggest thing on the road is staying alert,” says Radney. “Fatigue can be a big problem on long hauls, so we frequently take breaks. We can drive 11 hours on a 14-hour day, so taking a lot of breaks is an important way in helping us stay alert during those long drives.”

Frequent breaks from the car allow a driver to stretch and move, which can also help to avoid fatigue on the road.

“As a driver, you never want to get into a zone where you’re experiencing aches from sitting in the same seat for 500 miles. It’s very important to take breaks, walk around, and do your exercises outside to help stay alert.”

2) Stay Focused

Depending on where you’re driving, you may encounter repetitive scenery like long stretches of flat roads or endless fields. In those instances, it’s important for your mind to stay focused and not wander.

“I listen to a lot of country music and have a lot of bad karaoke sessions in the truck,” says Radney. “We see a lot of this beautiful country on the roads we travel, so it’s pretty easy to be entertained.”

3) Share the Road and Drive around Big Vehicles

When driving across the country, you share the road with many different types of vehicles. It’s important to know how to safely navigate around all of them, especially large trucks. The maximum gross vehicle weight for a commercial vehicle is 80,000 pounds, so when you’re driving around one of these in your passenger vehicle, there are some behaviors you should consider integrating to safely share the road with them.

“The front right of the truck or the passenger side are definitely really bad blind spots,” according to Radney. “If you’re driving by a truck on the road and can’t look up into the truck’s driver side mirror and see the driver themself, they can’t see you.”

4) Plan Ahead

No matter how safe you play it on the road, it’s smart to plan ahead and be prepared for the unexpected. The last thing you want is to find yourself stranded on the side of the highway, unprepared.

“Depending on the places you’re driving and the weather conditions you may encounter, there are a lot of different safety kits that you can buy to keep in your car,” says Radney. “You should always have those kits plus a first aid kit, flashlights, blankets, candles, water and food.”

Whether you’re a team hauler driver carrying Kasey Kahne’s No. 5 Farmers Insurance Chevrolet SS to Daytona International Speedway or travelling across the country to visit family, being safe, prepared and focused are all key to ensuring a successful arrival to your destination.

With 11 Sprint Cup Championships, Hendrick Motorsports is the most successful racing organization in NASCAR history. Kasey Kahne’s No. 5 Farmers Insurance Chevrolet SS is supported by some of the most talented engineers, mechanics and race strategists.

The information contained in this page is provided for general informational purposes only, and is not meant as professional or expert advice. Every attempt is made to ensure accuracy and timeliness, however all content is presented without guarantees.

How to Take Care of Your RV Like a Pro

Welcome to the Inside Track. In our continued dedication to making you a smarter and safer driver, Farmers went to some of the smartest drivers we know, Hendrick Motorsports and NASCAR driver Kasey Kahne’s No. 5 Farmers Insurance team, and asked for their professional advice. Here’s what they had to say:

Dave Radney, truck driver for the No. 5 Farmers Insurance Chevrolet SS team, takes pride in keeping the team’s hauler clean and well maintained as they travel from race to race. He knows the value of a well-cared for RV, and sees every day how maintaining what serves as a home away from home for many is all part of proper travel planning.

“Safety always comes first, so there is quite a list that we go through before each trip to make sure the hauler is in tip-top shape,” says Radney.

Each week, his team checks for:

  • Pressure in all tires.
  • Fluid levels.
  • Performance of the lights inside and outside of the truck.
  • Air leaks.

The Importance of Your RV’s Tire Pressure

While all these checks are important for any vehicle, for your own RV, Radney recommends you keep tire maintenance at the top of your list.

“The best thing you can do for your RV is to maintain tire pressure and make sure all your tires are in good shape,” says Radney. “RVs and trailers are heavy vehicles, so it’s very important to regularly monitor tires.”

Follow Your RV Maintenance Checklist

When preparing for a trip, the No. 5 Farmers Insurance team follows regulations and checklists from the Department of Transportation (DOT) for their vehicles. While your vehicle may not be regulated by the DOT, its good practice to have a pre-departure checklist before heading out with your own RV or trailer.

Inside the RV:

  • Check all appliances and clean any dusty or dirty areas (especially behind the refrigerator).
  • Inspect door seals.
  • Clean air filters and air conditioning unit.
  • Clear vents of any debris or nests.
  • Inspect your gas line and any burner tubes and stove issues.
  • Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

Outside the RV:

  • Look for cracks in the body or the roof.
  • Check all lights and signals.

Performance:

  • Check the engine oil, transmission oil, brake fluid, coolant, and washer fluid.
  • Check the tire pressure.
  • Make sure your battery is charged.
  • Check for any plumbing issues.

“It takes about 30 minutes to go through the checklist we use before we actually leave the shop to head out to a race,” says Radney. “When we arrive at our destination, we have to go through that list again to make sure everything is still operating as it should.”

Cleaning Your RV

In addition to functional maintenance, RVs, trailers, and race haulers all experience a high amount of foot traffic. Having that much movement in a small space can create quite a mess, so frequent cleaning is important to lengthen the life of your vehicle.

“We have 20 or 30 different people in and out of the race hauler during the weekend, so I’m constantly cleaning throughout the day,” says Radney.

“We make sure to wipe down the counters, vacuum the floors and organize the tools and parts in our storage cabinet.”

Prepare for Anything

On an average weekend, the No. 5 Farmers Insurance team is at the track for three days. Anytime you’re traveling away from home, you hope for the best. But, it’s smart to prepare for the unexpected.

“Having spare tires is important in case of an emergency because it’s not always easy to locate the specific tires you need for your RV or trailer,” says Radney. “If you’ve broken down on the side of the road, it’s also ideal to have flares and triangles in place so you can warn oncoming traffic that you’re off the road.”

Whether you’re hauling a race car to the track or your family to the state park, your RV serves as a second home and it deserves the best care and maintenance to ensure it’s around for years to come.

With 11 Sprint Cup Championships, Hendrick Motorsports is the most successful racing organization in NASCAR history. Kasey Kahne’s No. 5 Farmers Insurance Chevrolet SS is supported by some of the most talented engineers, mechanics and race strategists.

The information contained in this page is provided for general informational purposes only, and is not meant as professional or expert advice. Every attempt is made to ensure accuracy and timeliness, however all content is presented without guarantees.

5 Car Buying Do’s and Don’ts

Take the guesswork out of car shopping with Farmers Car Shopping Series. Whether it’s finding the right car for you, estimating what you can afford, or finding the best deal, we’ve got you covered with practical advice and tips!

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of buying a new car. Doing your homework before you visit the dealership though, can mean the difference between overpaying or getting the deal you want.

Brush up on these car buying dos and don’ts so you don’t end up with buyer’s remorse.

1) Do Know What Kind Of Vehicle You Are Shopping For!

With so many cars to choose from, how do you pick one that’s right for you? Start by selecting the type of vehicle that best suits your lifestyle needs; sedan, minivan, compact car, convertible, coupe, etc.

2) Do Your Research Ahead Of Time!

Doing your research ahead of time can help you get the best possible price. Spend a bit of time investigating features, options, and trim levels available on the cars you want to buy.

It’s important to know how these features stack up because they can really drive up the cost of your new car. Identify the “must-have” or “good-to-have” features that interest you, and the “can-do-without” features you can’t afford to waste money on.

(Keep in mind that most vehicles are packaged according to specific trim levels, and can’t always be purchased to specific requirements without a special order.)

3) Do Know How Much You Can Afford.

You’ve narrowed down the list of potential cars to buy. Now comes the hard part: creating a budget. Don’t make the common mistake of splurging on a premium car, while living on an economy-car budget!

Usually, the rule of thumb when buying a new car is to put about 20 percent down, limit the term to no more than five years (60 months), and keep your monthly payment below 10 percent of your income.

Consider these key factors when calculating costs:

  • Don’t forget to factor in annual maintenance; some cars can be quite spendy.
  • If you know your average commute, figure out in advance what you’re likely to spend on gas by comparing your mileage to the EPA Fuel Economy Estimates on the window sticker.
  • Consider the total purchase price after sales tax and dealership fees, and THEN evaluate the monthly cost, otherwise, you might just wind up extending your financing terms to keep your payment low.
  • Once you know your total price, financing the car should cost about $20 a month for every $1000 financed over 60 months (for buyers with good credit), so keep that in mind when you’re looking at the bottom line.
  • Finally, it’s important to know your credit score before you take a test drive. You don’t want to be surprised by high rates when you reach the financing department; otherwise, you risk being told you don’t quality to finance that gorgeous new ride.

4) Do Contact Your Insurance Agent To Learn About Premiums Ahead Of Time.

It may seem backwards to check with your insurance agent before you actually purchase a new car, but if you knew the premiums were going to be prohibitive for a certain model, would you be inclined to choose a different vehicle or trim level?

For example, you may discover that one trim level costs less to insure than another, or that there’s a difference in the premium between the two- and four-door versions of a specific model.

Don’t forget to consult with your agent before you commit! Your Farmers agent can help you compare insurance rates on different models.

5) Don’t Trade In A Car That’s Worth Less Than You Owe On It.

Why? Because the balance of your old loan may be consolidated into the new car’s loan amount, combining the debt of two cars into one, larger, loan.

And while we’re on the topic of trade-ins, save your trade-in until the end of your negotiation process; consider that a separate transaction.

Only after you settle on a purchase price for your new car should you start negotiating the terms of the potential trade of your used car.

Not sure what your vehicle is worth? Look it up using ClearBook, a comprehensive source for used car market list prices. As part of the Farmers Car Shopping Service, you can research your car against millions of used car listings and sales transactions to help determine your used car’s trade-in and expected selling price.

Looking for a Streamlined Car Buying Experience?

The Farmers Car Shopping Service is a great tool to price your new vehicle. Our pricing guides allow you to configure a vehicle you’re interested in buying by make/model/trim and down to the options and packages, giving you an idea of what the final cost of the vehicle will be (subject to availability and based on dealer inventory).

Source: Truecar.com

The information contained in this page is provided for general informational purposes only. The information is provided by Farmers and while we endeavor to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to this article or the information, products, services or related graphics, if any, contained in this article for any purpose. The information is not meant as professional or expert advice, and any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

Protecting Stuff in Your Car

Window-Shopping Car Thieves are Powerless to Stop Home Insurance!

People leave stuff in their cars every day. We drop our cell phones in the cup holder, leave a bag on the floor, and throw our golf clubs in the back seat. We’re human, so we forget about this stuff, park, and go inside. It happens. The thing is, sometimes when we come back to our cars, the things we left aren’t where we left them.

So what if you didn’t know that your Homeowners’ insurance could cover things stolen from your car too?

Some Homeowners’ insurance policies treat your car as an extension of your house. That means your personal property coverage would protect almost anything (purses, luggage, camera equipment, electronics…all kinds of things) stolen from your car. This coverage may even be better than what’s offered by comprehensive car insurance! For instance, did you know comprehensive coverage usually doesn’t cover jewelry, clothing, and accessories kept in your car?

So if you’re prone to leaving your jacket, watch, or cell phone in the car…it may be something to look into.

Speak to your agent to learn the extent of your Homeowners insurance coverage, and make sure your limits protect your stuff inside and outside your home.

The information contained in this page is provided for general informational purposes only. The information is provided by Farmers and its partners, and while we endeavor to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to this article or the information, products, services or related graphics, if any, contained in this article for any purpose. The information is not meant as professional or expert advice, and any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.

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