Book Opener

Property Damage CoverageThe main types of property damage coverage are property damageliability, collision, and comprehensive insurance.Property damage liability insurance applies when you damagethe property of others, including such things such as another car, a house,a telephone pole, or a tree. The person bringing the claim must showthat the driver of the vehicle was at fault.Collision insurance covers damage to your vehicle when it is inan accident and pays for vehicle repairs, regardless of who was at fault.The amount you collect is limited to the actual cash value of the vehicle.The cost of collision insurance can be reduced if you carry part ofthe risk, known as a deductible clause. For example, under a $500-deductible policy, you pay for the first $500 of any loss and the insurancecompany pays the remainder of any loss more than $500. If you useFighting a Traffic TicketDeciding whether to fight a traffic ticket or simply take your lumps shouldbe based on the circumstances surrounding your case. When evaluating yourchances of winning, it’s a good idea to look at several factors. Determinewhether it’s worth the fight. If you’re a good driver with a clean record, youmay want to simply pay the fine and get it over with. Some states offer trafficschool as a way to keep your record clean.If you decide to fight a ticket, develop a proper strategy before going tocourt. Study the law under which the ticket was issued. Application of the lawis usually open to some interpretation. Knowing the exact wording may helpyou present your case in a way most favorable to you.Before coming to court, make a diagram or take photographs of the sceneto help you explain the situation to the judge. If you have witnesses, ask themto testify on your behalf. Present whatever evidence you can to help the judgeunderstand what happened.Research Find the traffic laws of your city or state and research U-turns. Afterreading the law, can you identify any circumstances under which making aU-turn would be legal? Explain your answer.Chapter 16: Owning a Vehicle 353