Comprehensive car insurance has amazing benefits but it’s not always everyone’s top choice. Comprehensive car insurance is recommended if you’re a first-time car owner or if you’re financing your new car with a loan from the bank. But what are the benefits? Here are seven benefits of purchasing comprehensive car insurance.

1.    Flood and Special Perils

Worried about damage to your car during hurricane season? You’re not alone but don’t worry we’ve got you covered.

When you purchase comprehensive car insurance, you automatically get flood and special perils coverage.

That means you’re covered for damage caused by:

• Flood
• Hurricane
• Earthquake
• Other convulsions of nature
• Civil War
• Strike
• Riot
• Civil Commotion

 

2.    Damaged Car Glass

Broken glass? You’re covered!

Comprehensive car insurance means you’re allowed to claim for a broken windscreen or window glass up to $3,000.00.

If needed, your windscreen limit can be increased at an additional cost.

Don’t worry, your existing No Claim Discount will not be affected by any windscreen damage claims made.

 

3.    Medical Expenses

If you or an Authorized Driver gets hurt in an accident, comprehensive car insurance can help you with your medical expenses.

The amount that will be covered is up to a limit that is specified in your policy schedule.

 

4.    Hospitalization Benefits

You or your spouse could get hospital benefits up to $15,000 in case of an accident.

Comprehensive car insurance includes hospitalization benefits in respect of the Insured and/or Spouse in connection with any bodily injury by violent accidental external means as the direct result of an accident to the Motor Vehicle.

 

5.    Clothing & Personal Effects

Did you know that purchasing comprehensive car insurance can provide compensation for clothes and personal effects in the event of an accident?

In the event of an incident such as a collision, fire, or theft, coverage is provided for loss of or damage to clothing and personal effects* that were in the vehicle, up to a limit specified in your policy schedule.

However, please note that personal effects exclude money, jewelry, and articles including motor accessories as well as samples carried in connection with any trade or business.

 

6.    Personal Accident

We hope you and your passengers are safe on your commute every day, however, accidents happen.

Comprehensive insurance provides coverage for you (the insured) and passengers of your vehicle for personal injury resulting in death or permanent injuries.

 

7.    Legal Charges for Manslaughter

If you ever need to pay legal charges for manslaughter, your comprehensive policy provides a maximum of $10,000.00 to defend against charges.

 

Bonus Benefits

You can pay for extra benefits when you purchase a comprehensive car insurance plan.

For example, you can pay for Loss of Use. This entitles you to a maximum of $250.00 per day for no more than 10 days if your car is laid up due to an accident.

Another great benefit you can add on is Waiver of Excess. By purchasing this benefit, no excess will be payable if you or your spouse are involved in an accident. Excess refers to the money you pay before your vehicle is repaired following an accident.

It pays to have comprehensive car insurance. Reach out to us at General Accident Insurance to find out more about our comprehensive car insurance policy.

Vacations allow us to unwind, spend time with family or explore new places. Leaving your home unattended, however, can make it vulnerable to potential security risks and you don’t want to worry about the safety of your property while you’re away. To ensure peace of mind during your travels, here are five ways to keep your home safe while on vacation:

1. Invest in a Home Security System:

One of the most reliable ways to protect your home is by installing a home security system. Modern systems are equipped with surveillance cameras, motion sensors, and even smartphone apps that allow you to monitor your property remotely. Some systems can also alert authorities or designated contacts in case of a breach, offering an added layer of protection. Knowing that your home is being watched over can also deter potential burglars.

2. Notify Trusted Neighbours or Friends

Informing a trustworthy neighbour or friend about your vacation plans is a smart move. They can keep an eye on your property, collect your mail, and even park their car in your driveway to give the impression that someone is home. Additionally, if any unexpected situations arise, they can call for help.

3. Avoid Advertising Your Absence

In this digital age, it’s essential to be cautious about what you share on social media. Avoid posting about your vacation plans until after you return home. Broadcasting your absence can be an open invitation to burglars, as they can easily identify when your house is unoccupied. Save the photo uploads for when you’re back from your trip and enjoy the memories without compromising your home’s security.

4. Secure Doors and Windows

Before leaving for your vacation, thoroughly inspect all doors and windows to ensure they are properly locked and secured. Consider investing in high-quality deadbolts and reinforce any weak points. Sliding doors can be vulnerable, so place a sturdy dowel or rod in the track to prevent them from being forced open. If you have a spare key hidden outside, remove it, as burglars often know common hiding spots.

5. Utilize Timers for Lights and Electronics

A dark and silent house is a telltale sign that no one is home. To create the illusion of occupancy, use timers for lights, televisions, or radios. Set them to turn on and off at different times of the day to simulate the presence of people in the house. This simple trick can discourage potential intruders and make your home less appealing as a target.

6. Check what your policy says about unoccupied periods

Some homeowner policies have limits to the length of time your home can be unoccupied. Be sure to review your policy for the coverage allotted to the vacancy before planning an extended stay.

While going on vacation is a time to relax and enjoy yourself, it’s crucial not to neglect the safety of your home. By implementing these five ways to keep your home safe, you can embark on your adventures with peace of mind.  Bon voyage and happy, worry-free travels!

Being involved in a car accident can be a traumatic experience, regardless of where it occurs. If you find yourself in such a situation, it’s crucial to understand the necessary steps to take to ensure your safety, protect your legal rights, and minimize any potential complications that may arise. In this blog post, we’ll outline a comprehensive guide on what to do after a car accident.

1. Prioritize Safety

The immediate aftermath of a car accident can be disorienting, but your safety should be your top priority. Move your vehicle to a safe location, if possible, and turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. Check yourself and your passengers for injuries and call for medical assistance if needed. It’s important to remain calm and avoid any arguments or confrontations at the scene.

2. Contact the Police

In Trinidad, it is mandatory to report all road accidents to the police. Call the police or emergency services (dial 999) to report the accident and request their presence at the scene. An official police report will provide an important legal record of the incident, which may be required for insurance claims or any legal proceedings that might follow.

3. Exchange Information

While waiting for the police to arrive, exchange relevant information with the other parties involved in the accident. This includes names, contact details, vehicle registration numbers, and insurance information. It is also helpful to gather contact details of any witnesses who can provide an unbiased account of the accident.

4. Document the Accident Scene

If it is safe to do so, document the accident scene by taking photographs or videos of the vehicles involved, the surrounding area, and any visible damages. These visual records can serve as valuable evidence when dealing with insurance companies or legal proceedings.

5. Seek Medical Attention

Even if you do not believe you have sustained any serious injuries, it is still advisable to seek medical attention after a car accident. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and a medical professional can conduct a thorough evaluation to detect any underlying conditions. Additionally, obtaining medical records will support any future claims related to injuries resulting from the accident.

6. Notify Your Insurance Company

Promptly notify your insurance company about the accident, providing them with accurate and detailed information about the incident. Be prepared to share the police report, photographs, witness statements, and any medical records related to the accident. Your GenAc representative will guide you through the claims process and advise you on the necessary steps to take.

7. Consult Legal Counsel

Depending on the circumstances and severity of the accident, it may be beneficial to consult with a qualified attorney experienced in handling motor vehicle accidents. They can provide valuable legal advice, help protect your rights, and navigate the complexities of the legal system, especially if you plan to pursue a personal injury claim.

Experiencing a car accident can be distressing, but knowing the appropriate steps to take afterwards can make a significant difference in safeguarding your well-being and ensuring a smooth resolution. Remember, staying calm, cooperative, and well-informed will help you navigate the situation with greater ease and confidence.

 

In the Caribbean the official hurricane season runs between 1 June and 30 November. While securing your home is typically a priority, it's equally important not to overlook the safety of your vehicles. Hurricanes bring strong winds, heavy rainfall, and potential flying debris, which can all pose a significant threat to your car. By following a few essential precautions, you can safeguard your vehicle and minimize potential damage during these powerful storms. In this blog post, we will outline some crucial steps to protect your car during a hurricane.

1. Stay informed and plan ahead
One of the first steps in preparing for a hurricane is to stay informed about the storm’s progress through reliable weather sources. Listen to local authorities and follow their recommendations and evacuation orders, if necessary. By staying informed, you can better plan for the protection of your car and make timely decisions.

2. Secure covered parking
If you have access to covered parking, such as a garage, carport, or parking structure, make use of it. Parking your vehicle in a sheltered area can offer a significant advantage during a hurricane. It provides protection against flying debris, hail, and heavy rainfall, reducing the risk of damage.

3. Park away from trees and power lines
If covered parking isn’t available, find a safe location to park your car away from trees, power lines, and objects that may fall during strong winds. Falling branches and debris can cause severe damage to your vehicle, including broken windows, dented bodywork, or even structural damage. Seek an open area away from potential hazards to minimize the risk.

4. Use storm shutters or blankets
If you anticipate that your vehicle will be exposed to flying debris, consider using storm shutters or heavy blankets to protect it. Securely cover your car, paying special attention to the windshield and windows. This precaution can help prevent damage from projectiles propelled by hurricane-force winds.

5. Remove loose objects and valuables
Before the hurricane strikes, take the time to remove any loose objects, tools, or equipment from both the interior and trunk of your vehicle. These items can become projectiles during high winds, potentially damaging your car or causing harm to others. Additionally, remove any valuable items to protect them from theft or water damage.

6. Maintain a full tank of fuel
As a hurricane approaches, it is advisable to keep your vehicle's fuel tank topped up. A full tank can be beneficial if you need to evacuate quickly or if fuel becomes scarce in the aftermath of the storm. It also adds weight to your car, making it more stable during high winds.

7. Consider comprehensive insurance coverage
Review your insurance policy and ensure you have comprehensive coverage that includes protection against natural disasters. Confirm the details of your coverage, deductibles, and the process for filing a claim. Being adequately insured can provide peace of mind during the hurricane season. If you are not already comprehensively insured speak with a GenAc representative to get started.

Protecting your vehicle during a hurricane requires thoughtful planning and proactive measures. Taking these precautions will help safeguard your vehicle and ensure you’re prepared to weather the storm.

You just bought a new car and the shiny new finishes and drive quality are a delight. You’re insured with General Accident Insurance to handle unforeseen events, but you are looking for ways to prolong that new car feel. Fortunately, many newer model vehicles have simplified the maintenance process. With spark plugs lasting longer and factory rust-through warranties typically running six years or longer, a few simple upkeep habits can keep your car running like new.

Here are a few tips to help you maintain your new car.

Keep it clean

Whether you do it personally or use a good car wash, one of the best ways to maintain your new vehicle is to wash and vacuum it as often as the manual prescribes or as needed. Regular washing removes everyday contaminants like dust, road debris, and
bird droppings that can ruin your car’s paint job over time.

Service your vehicle

Do not miss servicing appointments. Servicing your vehicle is like a health check for your car. Regular servicing helps identify issues in their early stages before they become significant problems.

Insure it with General Accident

Get a motor vehicle insurance policy that suits your needs when you insure with General Accident. Insuring your vehicle is mandated by law and helps to cover repairs in the event of an accident.

Choose between the available comprehensive, third party and third party, fire and theft policies at GenAc. Whichever policy you choose, familiarise yourself with its terms and conditions.

Ensure motor vehicle documents are up to date

Your car’s inspection certificate, motor vehicle registration, and insurance certificate are required by law to prove to the police that the vehicle is licensed, road-worthy and insured. The person driving the vehicle should also be able to show a valid driver’s licence to the police if requested.

Set reminders to notify you of upcoming expiration dates for these documents.

Park in cool or shaded areas

Whenever possible, park in the shade. Overexposure to the sun may cause premature paint wear on your vehicle. Use a windscreen shade/cover if you must park in direct sunlight.

 

Driving at night can be a daunting task. Poorly lit roadways combined with dazzling lights from oncoming vehicles often result in impeded vision, increasing the risk of accidents at night.

Stay safe while driving after dark with these seven tips for driving at night.

Tip#1 Don’t drink and drive

Driving under the influence of alcohol is dangerous and illegal. Even small amounts of alcohol slow reaction time and impair judgment. Enjoy socializing with friends or partying by designating a driver who is not drinking.

Studies have also shown that drunk drivers are more likely to be present on the roads at night. When driving, always be aware of the other motorist’s car speed, position in their lane, and reaction time. Stay away from drivers displaying erratic behaviour.

Tip #2 Maintain your car

Ensure that your car is in good condition. Do regular oil changes and check tyre pressure. Before driving at night, clean headlights, signal lights and taillights, as well as the windshield and other windows to remove streaks.

Also, dim your dashboard and switch off the interior lights as any light on inside the vehicle makes it harder to see outside.

Tip #3 Be well rested

Stay alert. Avoid driving after taking prescription drugs which can cause you to become drowsy. If you begin to feel sleepy, find a safe spot to stop and take a 20-minute nap in a well-lit space. Many serious accidents occur because the driver has fallen asleep.

Tip #4 Look after your eyes

Driving at night can cause eye fatigue and older drivers often find they see less well in the dark. Eye doctors recommend that you keep your eyes moving by scanning your field of vision rather than focusing on one area. The American Optometric Association recommends starting with an annual exam at the age of 19 and then getting them every two years at the very least until the age of 40. Past 40, adults aged 55 to 64 should get an eye exam every one to three years.

Tip #5 Exercise due care 

Drive cautiously at night. Obey speed limits and leave enough space between your car and the vehicle in front of you.

Tip #6 Be ready for emergencies

Even if your car is maintained well, you must be prepared for any type of emergency at night. Items that you should have in your vehicle include a cellular phone, charger, first aid kit, flashlight, jumper cables, tyre gauge, and extra windshield washer fluid. Planning your route in advance is also helpful in emergencies. With your route planned you will have a clear idea of possible stop points for any eventualities.

Tip#7 Focus

To ensure your safety and the safety of your passengers, drivers should be focused solely on driving. Avoid using your cell phone, eating or drinking. If you are hungry or thirsty or need to make a call, find a safe place to stop.

Follow us at @genactt on Instagram and Facebook for other helpful driving tips.

 

 

 

It can be challenging to know the ins and outs of insurance. Property insurance is no different. Whether you are a renter or a home or apartment owner home insurance policies were created to help protect one of the biggest investments that you will make in your life. But there are a few popular misconceptions about these kinds of insurance policies. To help differentiate fact from fiction when it comes to property insurance let’s debunk four myths about home insurance.

Purchasing home insurance isn’t worth it

Homeownership is a rewarding yet emotionally and financially stressful process. You’ve signed all the sales contracts and the home is finally yours but how do you protect this new major purchase? Without insurance owning a home leaves you susceptible to costs associated with damages the home may incur from natural disasters or otherwise.

To minimize the effect of these sorts of disasters on your finances it is necessary that you obtain coverage that is tailored to your specific needs. Imagine a disaster strikes and you are forced to pay out of pocket because you have no home insurance. Home insurance allows you to protect your home and personal possessions. Plan ahead and speak with a GENACTT customer service representative to get the right coverage for you and your property.

No need to create an inventory list

To file an insurance claim, you will need an inventory list detailing the items in your home. When you file a claim, you must provide a list of everything you have lost. To avoid forgetting items that you are missing, it is advised that you write your inventory list with sum insured attached.

Home insurance is expensive

Home insurance doesn’t have to be expensive. There are different types of insurance policies that can be put together to provide the right coverage for your needs. With General Accident Insurance, we offer several ways to customize your property insurance policy. Get a quote today and choose the best insurance for your home.

Home insurance will cover your medical expenses

It is important to note that in most home insurance policies in the event that you are injured in your home, your policy will not cover your medical bill. Typically, your home insurance will only cover the medical expenses of your guests who may get injured at your home or on your premises.

When you are thinking about purchasing home insurance, speak with a General Accident representative to learn the facts.

 

As schools reopen this week, drivers in major towns and cities can expect heavier traffic and longer delays. Driving with young passengers requires particular caution. Here are 10 road safety practices to remember for back to school.

1) Drive carefully
When driving through school zones, slow down and drive with caution. Remember, children may not pay sufficient attention to traffic. Morning drop-offs and afternoon pick-ups are particularly busy. Always observe the speed limit.

2) Keep your attention on the road
Drivers can be distracted by conversations with passengers, cell phones, eating, listening to the radio and other activities carried out in slow-moving traffic. It only takes a few seconds for a life-changing accident to occur so keep distractions to a minimum.

3) Look out for crossing guards
Some schools use crossing guards to help students across the road – look out for them. They’re usually easy to spot with high-visibility gear or handheld stop signs. Obey their signals.

4) Do not stop on pedestrian crosswalks
Never, ever block a crosswalk; doing so requires pedestrians to move around you, putting them in the line of moving cars.

5) Double parking is a no-no
No matter the rush to drop off children or pick them up from school, always ensure that you do not double-park on a public road. Doing this puts other parents, children, and other road users at a disadvantage.

6) Carpooling
Carpooling is an arrangement between people to make a regular journey in a single vehicle, typically with each person taking turns driving the other. If possible, parents of schoolchildren attending the same or nearby schools can practise carpooling to reduce the number of cars journeying to school.

7) Use designated areas for drop-off and collection
When dropping your children off, make sure to do so at a safe place and try to avoid areas where they will have to cross a busy road without assistance. If the school has designated drop-off areas, use them. If not, work with the school to improve this.

8) Always use seat belts and car seats for younger children
Before starting your car, ensure that you are wearing your seatbelt and younger children are in car seats. Serious injuries can occur at slow speeds if drivers, passengers and children are not properly secured.

9) Maintain your vehicle
Routinely check your car to ensure it is working efficiently.

10) Be patient
Back-to-school traffic can be particularly heavy, especially during the first few weeks after schools reopen. Begin your journey with plenty of time to spare and be a patient and courteous road user.

Your home is your sanctuary. Whether that space is owned or rented, this is the space that ensures your peace of mind. But what happens when your home is also the office, but it isn’t insured? What protection does your home office have against natural disasters, fires, burglary, or other unforeseen risks to valuable business tools and resources? 

Property Insurance Guarantees Peace-of-mind 

Business owners are no strangers to working at home, and with the advent of an unprecedented pandemic, far more business owners began operating from the home space. A decision like this is undoubtedly a smart move, considering the operational cost of a business. 

However, in trying to cut costs, don’t forget the importance of insurance. While your home allows you to save on a separate business space, it multiplies the risk of potential loss of business contents and valuables.  

Homeowners insurance provides comprehensive coverage, protecting your home and its contents against: 

• Fire & Lightning
• Hurricane, Cyclone, Tornado, or Windstorm
• Flood
• Earthquake & Volcanic Eruption
• Riot & Strike
• Malicious Damage
• Explosion
• The impact from Aircraft & other Aerial Devices
• Impact by Road Vehicles, Horses or Cattle
• Bursting or Overflowing of Water Tanks, Apparatus, or Pipes
• Theft
• All Risks cover certain items
• Burglary
• Legal liability to third parties

The peace of mind that this coverage secures is worth the investment. 

It Doesn’t Matter if your Property is a Rental 

You may be thinking that this kind of insurance coverage doesn’t possibly apply to you if you’re living in a rental property – wrong. The “Property Protection Insurance” doesn’t stop at homeowners insurance. It includes Commercial All Risks and Fire and Allied Perils; all of which provide coverage to your rental space and its valuable contents.   

A “All Risks” policy is a type of insurance coverage that can exclude only risks that have been specifically outlined in the contract. “All risks” means that any risk that the contract does not specifically omit is automatically covered. 

“Consequential Loss/Business Interruption” insurance is also available under the “Property All Risks” insurance and is very popular among business owners. When a financial loss occurs from unforeseen events like natural disasters or losses due to an insured peril like fire or burst pipes this insurance protects your business and your peace of mind. It covers the temporary loss of income that a business suffers after a disaster leads to its operations coming to a standstill. 

Whether you’re operating from your home or someone else’s through rental, this insurance plan will work for you so that your business works. 

Getting your Property Protection 

Securing property insurance is simple. Email General Accident at infott@genac.com for more information on the property insurance coverage that is right for you as work to take your business to the next level. You may also visit genac.com and request a quick quote for the best insurance package for you. 

At General Accident, getting the insurance coverage you need doesn’t mean emptying your pockets. As a part of the Genac promise to you we offer payment plans to help you stay covered without breaking the bank. Getting the coverage you need is possible with a payment plan from General Accident.

What is a payment plan?

A payment plan is an agreement where payment is spread across a period of time.

What’s the benefit of a payment plan?

• Coverage upfront with manageable payments

We know how important insurance coverage is, so having access to the coverage you need, even when you can’t afford a full premium payment, is a great way to stay covered no matter what. 

• Set your own priorities/ Plan your cash flow

With monthly payments, you can set your own priorities. Choose the payment plan that provides the best opportunity to pay with ease and fits within your budget. Stay on top of your finances by creating your own priority list. 

• Upfront costs are lower 

Thinking about paying for your insurance is not so scary when you know it can be broken into smaller, manageable payments. There’s no big figure looming over your head to be paid immediately. Instead payment plans make huge upfront costs a thing of the past. Weren’t able to save your full insurance premium?  If you opt for a payment plan the amount you did save could cover the first monthly payment of your plan and buys you time to gather the rest.

How to make payments using a payment plan?

To make your insurance premium monthly payments, you have two options. You can speak with a Genac representative to get started and make your payment at any of our twelve conveniently located offices or use the online payment option at genac.com.

To start a payment online, visit the General Accident website, genac.com. Select the pay online button. Insert the details requested on the payment page. You’ll need your policy number and credit card details to complete the process. 

Insurance is a smart investment everyone can afford with the payment plans offered at General Accident. Whether it’s insurance for your home or motor car, you can stay covered with Genac. The process is simple and with lower upfront costs you can plan for your expenses on your own terms.

Speak with a Genac representative today by calling 22GENAC or visit any of our twelve locations throughout the country.

The pandemic, slump in the market, changes in your personal life, or a reworked business outlook are among the multiplicity of reasons why your business may have experienced  a downturn. 

The good news is, there is hope for you. And while for some this may not be any consolation, the truth is you are not alone.

Thousands of small and medium-sized enterprises experience an economic downturn on a regular basis, but SMEs have several options for getting business back on track. 

Make your market aware you’re still in business

A key factor is making your market aware that you are still in business and ready to serve.

Start pounding the pavement to boost your marketing and brand awareness. These days social media is an effective and ever-present means to get your message out there. Maintain contact on multiple platforms such as Twitter, YouTube, Instagram or Facebook, to help you reach your audience.

Having been in a slump, communication is key to providing your market with not just the news that you are open for business, but to keep them abreast of new offerings or products, as well as listen to their needs and see how you can best serve them.

Be ready to deliver 

Make sure you are ready and able to deliver what you said you would. 

Flashy promotion and marketing can never cover for unreliability or poor customer service experience. Ensure all your goods and services are available in sufficient quantity, just in case there is a surge in demand.

Provide after sales service

Once you have earned a new client or benefitted from return business, work hard to keep the same. 

After-sales service and follow up are critical in this fast-paced, unforgiving marketplace. A rule of thumb is if you have worked hard to earn a customer, work even harder to keep that customer.

Be Introspective

Look inside and take stock of the areas of the business that can be tightened. 

Educate yourself on tried and proven best practices which relate to your line of business and the size and scope of your operations.

Network

There is the African proverb: If you want to go fast go alone; if you want to go far go together. 

Draw on the strength of those around you, especially those making the right moves.

With these five tips for small to medium sized enterprises forming the pillar of your business, overcoming economic slumps is possible. Remember to keep your potential and current customers aware that you’re still in business, deliver the product or service as promised, follow up with  your clientele and reflect on the progress or inefficiencies of your business. And lastly, never forget to network and learn from those around you.

The current pandemic brought on by the spread of the novel coronavirus has brought the home office into sharp focus.

The office landscape shifted dramatically in early 2020 when more and more persons were required, or opted, to work from home given the gravity of this highly contagious virus.

Once the idea of not going into a physical office settled and both on-line meetings and remote access became everyday practice, people began seeing working from home long term as a viable permanent option for their businesses.

There are a number of benefits to having things right at your fingertips and in the comfort of home. The most obvious is the economic benefit. The consolidation of operating costs should prove beneficial. There is also the convenience of not losing productive hours usually lost during the preparation for, and commute to, the office. There are also flexible work hours which can redound to the benefit of the business.

But having decided to stay home there are risks and that’s where having the most comprehensive property insurance comes in handy.

Having decided to work from home full time, the last thing you want is an unfortunate fire sweeping through your house and destroying everything in its path including your home office and taking important documents and equipment not covered under your policy. This can not only leave you without house and home, but a livelihood as well.

Ensure that your house, contents and valuable property, which includes the home office, are covered against risks such as fire and lightning, hurricane, cyclone, tornado or wind storm, flood, earthquake, volcanic eruption, malicious damage, and burglary.

In addition, speak to your property insurance provider about consequential loss/business interruption insurance packages to see you through this period of instability should the unfortunate occur.

Getting a flat or a punctured tyre can put a damper on a trip.

And, changing a tyre always looks so easy, but that is usually when someone else is doing it. Even as a passenger, it is a good idea to know how to change a tyre.

Here are some dos and don’ts:

DO

Travel with a spare ALWAYS: Getting back to your trip as soon as possible is only possible if you have a spare. It does not have to be a full regulation type but it must be in good condition, and correctly inflated, so that it can take you to your destination.

Have a well-stocked toolkit: The kit must include the car-jack and locking wheel nut key and flashlight for night time breakdowns. You may want to have a sturdy piece of board or stone to ensure the stability and safety of the vehicle. Safety cones with reflective lights are a bonus.

Ensure your vehicle is in a safe area and on stable ground: This is two-fold, as flats can happen in the most inconvenient and unsafe places. If it’s in an urban area, ensure that you secure the area around you with traffic cones or have someone standing by you to alert other road users that you are changing a tyre. Secondly, if it is dark and you are alone, drive to a well-lit area before you start to change the tyre.

Remain calm: If there is a tyre blow-out, slamming the brakes or attempting to swerve the road immediately is not ideal. Panicking may also cause you to lose control of the vehicle. Accelerate slightly and steer the vehicle as straight as possible. Slowly remove your foot from the accelerator. Turn on your hazard lights and steer the vehicle to a safe area to change the tyre.

DON’T

Overtighten your lug nuts: This happens often and leads to damaging the nuts, making them difficult to remove later on. If you can’t move the wrench around, that is tight enough.

Cross-thread your tyres: When the lug-nut and stud threads do not mesh up together, you have cross-thread your tyres. This can happen if you over-tightened the nuts or have fastened the nut at a wrong angle. Avoid cross-threading by using the correct lubricant on your threads.

Drive on your spare any longer than is absolutely necessary: Spares are for emergencies; so return to a full-sized tyre as soon as possible. Also, remember to fix the damage on the original tyre.

Every vehicle owner should be able to do some basic checks before they drive out, especially on a long trip. And a good part to check them every once in a while are TYRES.

Do you know the type of tyres you use; their appropriate pressure and importantly, when to upgrade and change a worn tyre?

1. Identify the various types of tyres

Depending on the vehicle, tyres fall under different groups. Vehicles such as sedans and minivans require tyres that offer a smooth and reliable ride like “all-season” or “touring” tyres. A truck or a sports utility vehicle (SUV), however, may require more aggressive tyres such as “Highway”, “All-Terrain” or “Ribbed” tyres.

In the Caribbean, we do not need snow and ice tyres, so they should be avoided as they may lead to fatal accidents. Meanwhile, you can identify tyre sizes by looking at the side of the tyre; on each tyre, there is a series of numbers and letters. The letter may identify the speed rating, while the numbers refer to width, profile and rim size.

2. Appropriate tyre pressure

Knowing the correct tyre pressure ensures your tyres last longer and secures a comfortable and safe ride.

To be clear, what is best for a sedan may be different when compared to a luxury SUV. Find your vehicle’s recommended tyre pressure on a sticker somewhere inside the driver’s door, on the lid of the car’s trunk, in the console or even on the fuel door.

 3. Know when to upgrade your tyres

This is always important as upgrading (or changing) your tyres improves the safety, performance and look of your vehicle. Depending on the frequency of use, tyres tend to last three to four years before the threads begin to wear. You should routinely check your vehicle and its tyre health; also considering the journeys it has taken you on. Quick dashes around town will have less impact on your tyres when compared to weekly business trips to the countryside.

It is important you check the tyre tread depth — each tyre should have a minimum of 6mm — if the tread is below that, it is recommended that the tyre/s are replaced before a long journey.

BONUS CHECK

4. Wheel Balancing and Alignment

Imbalanced or misaligned tyres make the journey uncomfortable and possibly unsafe.  A shaky or juddering vehicle could mean that your car needs wheel alignment, especially if the areas you traverse have a lot of potholes.

Wheel balancing allows smoother rides at higher speeds. The process involves equalisation of the combined weight of tyre and wheel. The weights are added to the wheel to reduce the imbalance.

Front tyres always wear a little faster than rear ones as they experience more stress/wear. Be sure to rotate tyres, to the rear, so that the tyres can wear evenly.

Accidents do happen, but always bear the above tips in mind to ensure safety and efficiency wherever and whenever.

Knowing your car’s levels before heading off on a long journey is a great idea. When you drive your vehicle every day, there are some oils and fluids that will be used more than others. While running out wiper fluid might not be detrimental to your trip, the ‘check oil’ light halfway up a mountain can.

Driving Legally

It is illegal to operate a vehicle without a current driver’s licence, proper road licence/registration, certificate of fitness and insurance.  A quick, simple check could save you the embarrassment, the possible police stop and the (possibly quite substantial) fines for committing this criminal offence.

Gas/Petrol levels

Running out of fuel can actually damage your car. The fuel injectors (and the fuel pump in diesel engines) can be harmed if a car draws in air instead of fuel. If the vehicle runs out of gas/petrol it can cause blockages to form in the filters due to debris from the fuel tank. This will deteriorate  and reduce your car performance and life-expectancy.

Engine oil level

One of the most important things to check before a long journey is the engine oil.  As the blood pumping through the heart (engine) of your car, engine oil is essential for the health of the moving internal parts and preventing wear from friction. Ensure that the correct engine oil is used as the wrong lubricant can cause chemical reactions such as corrosion or could damage key components.

Brakes

Checking your brakes before a long trip is very important to the safety of the people in the car and other road users.  Safely stopping and controlling the speed of your vehicle is compromised if there are worn brake pads or discs. You should also check the brake fluid levels. Brake fluid should be a light golden brown colour and the level needs to sit between the MIN and MAX marks.

Here are some other checks:

1. Windscreen for damage
2. Tyre condition for damage tread depth
3. Correct tyre inflation levels
4. Spare tyres
5. Car jack and locking wheel nut key
6. Battery levels
7. All lights, indicators and hazards are working
8. Working wipers
9. Coolant and radiator fluid levels
10. Power-steering fluid

Planning to buy a car is a big step. But before you lay down the coins, make sure the vehicle is properly registered.

Here are some things you need to know:

For new vehicles, the owner or applicant must be at least 17-years-old.

The agent must present the following:

• A Pro Forma Invoice (issued by the Motor Car firm)
• Completed Motor Vehicle Tax Form (issued by the motor car firm)
• Completed Registration Form No. 6
• Certificate of Insurance
• Payment of weighbridge fee:
  • Vehicle is weighed and inspected
  • Registration is approved once it complies with the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Act Chapter 48:50 and Motor Vehicle Insurance Third Party Risk Chapter 48:51
  • A registration number will be issued once the Motor Vehicle Tax and associated fees are paid
• Associated fees:
  • Registration Fee -$100.00
  • Motor Vehicle Tax is calculated – To be paid before registration
  • Weighbridge Fee- $20.00

The applicant must produce the following documents to register foreign used vehicles:

• Customs and Excise Division (CED) Official Receipt
• C82 Form
• Assessment Notice
• Record of Payment of Motor Vehicle Tax
• Bill of Lading (BL)
• Commercial Invoice
• CARICOM Invoice
• Cancellation Certificate
• English Translation
• Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards Inspection Certificate
• Ministry of Trade and Industry Trade Import Licence
• Completed Registration Form
• Driver’s Permit
• Identification Card or Passport (Accompanied by Utility bill as Proof of Address)
• Valid Vehicle Insurance
• Fee- $120.00