Drivers throughout North Carolina are bringing out their collectible cars now that warmer weather has arrived. To ensure these cars are ready for the road after winter storage, you should take these safety measures.
First Safety Precaution: Insurance
The first safety precaution you should take is to ensure your auto insurance is up-to-date. Typically, you don’t drive classic and collectible cars regularly. Therefore, the insurance for these vehicles is different from standard vehicle coverage.
Classic or collectible vehicles are investments. You want to make sure your asset is appropriately protected. A typical classic car insurance policy may include:
· Agreed value coverage. This pays for your car’s full-insured value with no depreciation in the event of a total loss, less your deductible.
· Inflation guard. This compensates for how classic car values increase. Your car insurance policy adjusts to accommodate the increase in your vehicle’s value.
· Spare parts coverage. This provides you with backup parts if your vehicle’s parts are stolen or damaged.
· Flexible usage. This enables you to drive your vehicle up to 2,500 to 5,000 miles annually.
Auto insurance gives you financial protection if you have an accident or experience another covered loss. The Peterson Agency can help ensure you have the appropriate insurance policy for your classic or collectible car.
Additional Safety Precautions Make Your Car Roadworthy
You can take additional steps to make sure your car is ready for warm-weather rides. These extra measures include:
· Inspecting your car. Before going anywhere, look around your vehicle, including under the hood. Look for fluid leaks, cracked hoses or anything that appears loose-fitting. Inspect your battery, oil levels, air filter and coolant.
· Checking your tires. Examine your tires for wear, cracks, oxidation, bulges or anything that could lead to tire failure. Replace your tires with new ones if you notice anything that could make driving unsafe.
· Going for a short drive. Drive your car for at least 30 minutes, stopping for an oil change. It’s good to change your oil after storing it for the winter months.
· Bringing your car in for a check-up. After you have performed your initial inspections, take your vehicle to your mechanic, who can ensure your car is ready for the road. Tell your mechanic about anything you found in your examination of your vehicle.
Regardless of the type of car you drive, you need to be safe when behind the steering wheel. By ensuring your vintage car is road-ready with a thorough inspection and the appropriate insurance coverage, you can enjoy many summertime rides after a long winter.