Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Diminished Value - Oregon Supreme Court backs policy holder for Diminished Value, November, 2008

Portland, OR- The supreme court held in Gonzalez v. Farmers of Oregon, et, al., SC S054486, . that the policy holder could recover diminished value from his first- party policy, Farmers insurance. Damages against Farmers insurance could be in excess of $30 million. Currently, there are class action lawsuits against Allstate, Progressive, and State Farm for diminished value as well in Oregon. The class action lawsuit could end up including-covered auto repairs in Oregon since 1993, states Dan Gatti the lead plaintiffs attorney.

In the state of Oregon, if a consumer is in a wreck and the accident was not the consumers fault the consumer is entitled to file a claim for diminished value. The following case is pertinent to the State of Oregon and Diminished Value as a 3rd party claim:

Dunmire Motor Company v. Oregon Mutual Fire Insurance Company, 166 Ore 690 (1941) the Oregon Supreme Court ruled that the insured was entitled to the difference between the pre and post-loss value of the vehicle and the proper repair of the car may not accomplish this result.

In order to recover the losses for diminished value the consumer must have a diminished value auto appraisal completed by a professional Automobile Appraisal Company, such as Appraisal Group of America inc.. Also, if the other party does not have insurance and the consumer carries uninsured/ underinsured motorist coverage the consumer may be able to claim diminished value under their policy. Appraisal Group of America can help the Oregon Consumer in many ways. Also, Appraisal Group of America’s Corporate Headquarters is in Oregon as well as the owner, Terry Fisher is a licensed Oregon Automobile Appraiser. Call 877-655-1661 or 503-655-1661 or go to www.autoloss.com to consult with a licensed appraiser at Appraisal Group of America.

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Wednesday, October 8, 2008

Bergamo Airport Car Hire Made Simple

With a million and one things to think of before you go away for some much deserved me-time, the last thing you want to do is have the stress of sorting out a hire car. That is why the Milan Airport Guide has put together a guide to make your life simpler when travelling to Milan Bergamo Airport.

There are 8 Bergamo Airport Car Hire firms in total throughout the airport area but only 2 have offices inside the arrivals terminal itself: SIXT and AutoEuropa. The rest are Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, Locauto and Maggiore which can be reached via a free shuttle bus. Although this service is relatively hassle-free, if you are laden down with kids and luggage, using one of the companies situated within the airport building makes more sense.

As all things German tend to be, SIXT is generally very efficient and their cars kept to a high standard. The fleet includes Smart Cars and Ford Focus through to the luxury vehicles, but these can only be rented by drivers over the age of 25 or 30 (depending on the vehicle). Autoeuropa´s selection stretches even further to include the off-road 4x4 variety of vehicle, great for scrambling up mountains on the way to a ski resort. Alternatively for an extra cost you can add a ski rack or snow chains to a family saloon or minivan.

A great one for deals is Hertz, which has teamed up with the two main flight providers to Bergamo, Ryanair and Jet2, to provide discounts and special deals for these passengers. There is even the option to rent for short periods from 3, 6 or 9 hours or use their Rent-It-Here/Leave-It-There option which means that the pickup and drop off destinations can be different. This is a good option if you just want to hire a car to get you from the airport to your accommodation and can work out cheaper than a taxi.

Locauto Tirreno and Maggiore are the two local Bergamo Airport Car Rental Companies within the group. They both offer long and short term rentals, a great selection of cars and larger vehicles and discounts and promotional offers for members. The three remaining firms, Budget, Avis and Europcar, all have something a little different to offer.

Budget have recently added new automatic vehicles to their already large fleet and their top end and 4x4 automobiles are on offer with CD players, MP3 players, Bluetooth systems and even automatic climatisation, a godsend on hot, clammy days. Europcar has snazzy little vehicles such as the Mini Coopers in their range, all the way through to removal vans for those planning on relocating. Optional extras include ski racks, snow chains, snow tyres and luggage racks, although these should be booked in advance.

Last, but not least, is Avis who offer 24 hour assistance, extremely helpful when travelling in a foreign country, and a guarantee that you get the make and model that you book. All the Bergamo Airport Car Rental Firms offer optional extras such as child safety seats and have well-maintained cars that are generally no more than 8 months old. When driving in Italy always remember that as well as your driving licence, always keep your car hire documentation with you in the car at all times as it can cause undue problem if stopped.

For all the information on Bergamo Airport Car Rental in one helpful place or to get a quote, visit the Milan Airport Guide. Buone vacanze!

Friday, October 3, 2008

Thieves favourite cars - is yours on the most wanted list?

AA Insurance today revealed its list of the ten models of cars most attractive to thieves, following an analysis of theft claims made for vehicles insured by the company over the last four years.

Nissan Silvia heads the list, followed by the Subaru Impreza and the BMW 325 coupe, of cars stolen more often than average. To calculate theft incidence AA Insurance measured theft claims by model for cars on which it held policies. It expressed the data as a percentage of total cars of that model insured and then ranked models and identified the top ten targets.

Top 10 targets1
1 Source AA Insurance claims data for vehicles stolen between August 2004 and July 2008

1. Nissan Silvia

2. Subaru Impreza WRX

3. BMW 325 coupe

4. Nissan 200SX

5. Mazda Lantis

6. Subaru Legacy turbo

7. Subaru Impreza non-turbo

8. Nissan Skyline

9. Subaru Legacy non-turbo

10. Honda Prelude

"It's important to point out that this list is no reflection on the security features offered by the various vehicle manufacturers, but shows the model preferences of car thieves as experienced by AA Insurance policyholders who filed claims for theft," says Chris Curtin, CEO, AA Insurance. "It does not take into account other insurers' data, but we are a sizeable insurer of motor vehicles and releasing this information serves as a reminder that people need to take all reasonable steps to prevent theft." Contrary to popular belief, your car is at risk from thieves even when close to home. The 2008 AA Insurance Drivers Index, which surveyed 2,573 New Zealand drivers aged 18-75, found some 26 percent of thefts occurred when the car was parked at home in the garage, carport or driveway. Some 16 percent of thefts occurred when the car was parked at home on the street or a nearby street.

Over one third of people whose cars had been stolen (36 percent) thought they could have done more to prevent the theft. Yet when those who regularly don't lock their cars were asked about where they left them unlocked, almost a quarter said they don't lock their car at home, with 23 percent saying they don't lock their car when it's parked outside their house, and 22 percent say they don't lock their car when it's parked in the garage at home. Some 40 percent of New Zealanders don't bother to investigate security features when looking to buy a new car, according to AA Insurance.

The most commonly used security feature is a security coded or removable stereo system, with 26 percent of those surveyed using one of these in their car. The second most popular security feature was an alarm, used by 25 percent of those surveyed. And 23 percent of people used an immobiliser to increase their car's security. But a quarter of those surveyed don't have any added security at all to help keep their car safe. "Our message to car owners is that there are simple things you can do to make your car less attractive to thieves," says Chris. "Remember, thieves will always go for the easiest, fastest option. So if you make it just a little bit harder for them, the chances are they'll lose interest in your car and move on to an easier target. Install an alarm, consider an immobiliser and advertise them in your car - thieves are quickly discouraged by the flashing light or alarm sticker.

"Lock your car, even when you're at home. When parking on the street, park under a streetlight, making your car - and any potential thieves - easier to spot. And if parking in a car park, park near the attendant or in front of a security camera where you know your car will be seen."

Eliminating insurance surprises if your car is stolen
Make sure you are covered for theft. If you've purchased third party insurance only (rather than third party, fire and theft or full car insurance), your insurer can't help you.
If your car policy talks about Agreed Value, you know this is what you are going to get if your car is stolen or damaged beyond repair. If your policy talks about Market Value, this means your insurer will pay out what the car was worth at the time it was stolen or damaged - and you may be surprised how much its value has dropped.

When looking to buy a new car
When looking to buy a car, you can call your insurer to get car insurance quotes before you buy it. Don't wait until you have paid and are ready to drive away. "We've had a number of cases where young men have bought a high-powered, late model car and then been shocked at the cost of insuring it, particularly if the car has modifications like mag wheels, and the car owner is a relatively young driver," says Chris. "There's even been instances when the person has actually found it very difficult to get insurance."

For more information please contact:
Amelia Macandrew,
AA Insurance,
(09) 966 8445
email amelia_macandrew@aainsurance.co.nz

Victoria Spence,
Botica Butler Raudon Partners,
(09) 303 3862
email victorias@botica.co.nz

www.aainsurance.co.nz

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Tuesday, September 2, 2008

Benefits of Visiting Car Auctions

Not many of us are aware of seized car auctions. Car auctions are a good alternative to purchase a car that too in very economical price range. In such auctions, usually cars seized by banks, police, agencies, or government, are sold at relatively lower prices. Car auctions provide an incredible way to acquire branded cars that you have always dreamt of. Looking for good car auctions online? Searching through automotive directory and get all information about auto guide.

Apart from physical auction, online car auctions are also gaining popularity. They have provided so many choices for interested car buyers. In fact, buyers can get a discount of thousands of dollars and they can get their preferred cars in far less than the orginal retail price. If saving is on your mind without compromising on quality, a car auction will satisfy your needs. Here are few benefits of checking out in online car auctions:

Fun Arrangement:
Visiting seized auto auctions can be an entertaining activity. While you are free from bidding, look around the for other car varieties and enjoy their make and styling. Who knows, some even allow you to test drive one from the display. However, riding a car in an auction is only possible on a real world auction scenario.

Source of great Information:
Car auctions websites provides great information about ongoing deals. In order to maintain a good rating, they feature interesting news like history of cars, trends, discussion of car models and such others.

Saves Time and Efforts:
Signing for online car auctions saves a lot of time and efforts for buying your dream car. You can go through a wide choice of cars and get the most economical one. Research well and reap the benefits.

Helps in setting up a Budget:
There are times when you want to extend your budget to get your desired car. Stretching the budget may prove problematic for you. However, participating in car auctions can help you to stick to a budget so that your pockets do not feel the burden.

Bargain Price:
At car auctions, you can enjoy a great deal of bargain on your favorite brand. A little research will help you to bargain a profitable deal.

About Author:
Myself webmaster of www.automotive-portal.info, a free automobile guide offers auto parts & vehicles listings, cars, motorbikes reviews, automotive dealership resources and more.

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Get Your Perfect Car From Government Car Auctions

It is no secret that government agencies at the local, state and federal levels regularly hold used car auctions. However, most people do not know where to find these kinds of auctions or how to be a participant. The government car auctions can be a wonderful source for getting your hands on a tremendously discounted vehicle. It is well worth the time to learn about them.

Many people are only interested in a government car auto to get a reliable car for the family and save some money in the process. However, there are some people who turn big profits by frequenting these government auctions, snapping up all the deals they can, and then turning around and selling these same vehicles at their used car dealership for twice the price, or more, of what they paid at the auction.

However, it should be noted that these dealers don't always make a windfall profit when they buy vehicles from government car auctions. This is because the cars sold through these public auto auctions are sold on an "as is" basis and they do not have any kind of guarantee or warranty on the condition of the vehicle; all sales are final.

For the car dealer who uses a government car auction to get a number of cars for his dealership on a regular basis, this means that there will be a percentage of the cars that are in need of a considerable amount of repair work before they can be resold. Most of the time, these dealers have a staff of mechanics that can deal with these problems, so in many ways it can be better that the dealers get these cars that have hidden problems because they can handle these issues more easily than an average consumer can.

For people who have the skills and equipment to work on cars themselves, a government car auction can be the perfect way to get a car at a price that is almost a steal. But, if you don't know a lot about the mechanical workings of a car, then it might not be quite as wonderful.

The car you end up bidding on and winning may be reliable, or it could be a lemon. Just keep in mind that it is the responsibility of the bidder to determine the condition of the vehicle before they start bidding on it. Once you are awarded the winning bid, you are committed and the car is yours.

If you can get a hold of a government car auctions listing that isn't publicize widely, then you will have the best opportunity for getting the best possible price. This will entail undertaking a bit of sleuthing work to track down the government auto auctions that are local to you, instead of waiting to hear an advertisement about it, but the extra effort you put in could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars when you go to the car auto auction.

Educate yourself further about government car auctions from Mike Selvon articles portal. Your feedback is valued and appreciated at our wholesale auto auction blog where a free audio gift awaits you.

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A guide to gas driven RC vehicles

RC or radio-controlled automobiles, which run on a nitro methane-based fuel or glow fuel, allow enormous power and performance. Gas powered RC cars are often highly customizable, allowing hobbyists to utilize a array of engines and design category. There are even different types of transmitters available depending upon how you would prefer your car to work.

Engines obviously, one of the more significant aspects of gas powered RC automobiles is the engine. A array of different engine models are available for you to choose from. Instead of the spark plugs that a full-size automotive engine would have, these engines have a “glow plug” that is heated by what is known as a “glow starter”.

Fuel it’s a particular fuel that is nitro methane-based and formulated for the vehicle’s engines. Special lubricants are added to the fuel mixture to protect the engine from extreme heat and wear.

Radio The radio that you use to control your gas powered RC automobiles can be the same category that is used to manage an electric model of RC car. In addition to the battery that powers the radio controller, you might find yourself in require of batteries to provide power to the radio receiver in the automobile itself.

Sport vs. Competition a range of different options and body styles exist for gas powered RC automobiles. You can choose from trucks, sedans, buggies, popular car models, and even stock cars. Many of the automobile models available commercially come in two distinct version; a sport type, and a competition type. Sport cars tend to cost less, and offer basic options that are popular with beginners and casual hobbyists. Robert is the owner of Flat Fee MLS articles. You can find more articles at CheapMLS4u.com.

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Thursday, August 28, 2008

Humor: Joys Of A Used Car

My 1988 VW is not just a used car. It is also a previously abused car. There's bits of airconditioner left bolted on in the engine compartment with big gaps where the working bits should have been. My mechanic tells me that the engine's got piston slap, and needs a major transplant. My kids tell me that if I gave them the car for free, they would still walk.

Which isn't a bad idea. They need to get some exercise and fresh air.

But hey, there are some advantages in owning a beat up relic of a bygone era. For one thing, I don't fear shopping trolleys banging into my car, or people opening their car doors onto my car, because it actually makes it look better. Knocks some of the rust off as well. Putting the gearlock on is like locking up your used teabags. I mean, who wants the thing anyway? If a thief steals my car, it's his own fault. He musn't come crying to me when all his robber buddies laugh at him, and the thing squirts oil on his freshly stolen shoes. And when the starter motor drops out on the freeway, that's not my fault. The car forgot long ago what a freeway is anyway. It shakes too much at speed, and I can't hold the steering wheel. When it sees an on ramp, it says "Let's not go there!"

In between all the body filler and rust nestles little oases of virgin metal. Where these are is not known to man, but they must be there or I'm sure the car would collapse like a pile of dry sand. With no airconditioner, I would normally open the window on hot days, if the window winder hadn't broken off. Luckily the rust holes provide quite a lot of ventilation. In rainy weather I use a small mop to clean the rainwater off the inside of the windsheild. Otherwise it drips on my feet.

I took the car in last week to see what I could get as a trade in. It was quite funny looking at the saleman's expression as it changed. "Where is your car sir?" "Uh, it's that VW over there, that dirty cream colored one." "Oh. Uh... Oh I see. Have you tried the scrap dealers, sir?" "Yes I have, but they say it's mostly body putty and filler, so there's not much metal to sell..." At this point the conversation becomes somewhat predictable, as the salesman suddenly remembers a previous engagement and disappears from view.

Well, at least I have no onboard computers to worry about. Or electric windows. Or windows. The windows are there, but that's about it. I don't have to worry about getting puffed up with pride. And speeding fines are only a distant fantasy. Hitch hikers put down their thumbs when I approach, and then put them up again for the garbage truck that is trying to overtake me.

I'm thinking of selling the car, so if you want it you gonna have to be quick. I may decide I like a car with character, and change my mind!

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The Magic Of A Great Musclecar

I am a very logical person and I really dislike anything supernatural or metaphysical. I am more into things I can see and touch, such as car parts and engines. My roomate Joe on the other hand, is the exact opposite. While I’ll be restoring my latest beloved muscle car, Joe will be researching some new mystical art or ancient mystery.

His latest obsession was stage magic and he began practicing it with gusto. Last week, he tried to impress me with his newest tricks.

“Take note, oh simpleminded audience,” he said flourishing his arms, “that there is nothing up my sleeves.”

“What about that pulley system?” I pointed out after noticing some suspicious wires. “And that hidden deck of cards, and… my god! Is that a dove?”

“Squeaky!” screamed Joe, and he shook his sleeve until the body of his dove fell out with a thud. Unfortunately, poor Squeaky had suffocated in Joe’s armpit—not a good way to go by any means…

Joe was feeling remorseful, so after the funeral, we decided to go to see a real magic show in Squeaky’s honor.

“It’s what he would’ve wanted,” said Joe, “After all, he lay down his life in service to the craft.”

We hopped into my restored ’65 Corvette Stingray and moseyed down to the magical theatre. Inside, it was dark and packed with people. They had all come to see the Great Magnifico, who was in town for one night only.

Magnifico stepped onstage, dressed in a flowing cape and top hat. He began his act by pulling a mile of colored scarves out of his throat.

“Yawn!,” I shouted, “It’s been done!”

Magnifico scowled and moved on to his next trick, the Chinese linking rinks.

“You suck!” I bellowed, “Boo! Boo!”

Magnifico scowled harder at me and announced that it was time for his final act. He clapped his hands and a lion appeared onstage, prowling around. Magnifico covered the beast with a cloth and shouted the magic word. There was a huge puff of smoke and lights. When the smoked cleared, the audience cheered loudly, for there, onstage, was a ’65 Corvette Stingray—my Stingray! And the lion was in the driver’s seat, revving the engine!

Magnifico clapped his hands again and the lion floored the gas, driving around the stage madly and roaring in triumph. “Magnifico!” I shouted, “This time you’ve gone too far!” And I raced out of my seat and toward the stage.

But Magnifico was one step ahead of me, and he called out to the lion. “Simba, attack!”

I took a flying leap onto the stage while the lion flew at me. We met in mid air and fought fiercely. But, we finally agreed to a draw and went our separate ways…

As we drove home, Joe said it was the greatest magic show he had ever witnessed. I was still not impressed with the magical arts, but I was glad to get my Corvette back.

I feel bad that my car had to go through that terrible ordeal. I’m going to reward it with one of those B&I Wood Dash Kits and some other accessories. I’ll also buy some seat covers and floormats in addition to the wood dash kits…

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3 Steps to Picking the Perfect Motor Scooter

So you're ready to get started in the world of motor scooters? I can guarantee that the trip will both save you money and expand your travel experiences in some fun ways. But buying a motor scooter can be a big investment, and you want to make the right choice.

So how do you find the scooter that's ideal for you? How do you choose the right model and type? The scooter market can seem intimidating at first glance, but have no fear! By answering three simple questions, you'll be well on your way to discovering the perfect scooter.

First, who will drive the scooter? Will it be you (the homeowner, vacationer, urban professional, retiree, student, etc.)-or will it be your children? Or maybe a variety of people? Motorized scooters designed for kids are intended to bear a lot less weight and travel shorter distances. As a result, they cost considerably less. When you start shopping for motor scooters, make sure you're in the appropriate market, kids or adults.

Second, how far do you want to ride? Will you use the scooter mostly on off-road trails? On a campus? For an urban commute? In a residential neighborhood? If you need to drive further than 12-15 miles at one go, you may need to look at gas powered scooters, because electric scooters beyond the 12-15 mile range become very costly and somewhat difficult to find. A number of factors influence range ratings for motor scooters (rider's weight, hilly terrain, tire pressure)--but usually the manufacturer will list a "range rating" that reflects the scooter's ability under optimal conditions.

Third, how fast do you want to drive? I'm serious! The ability to put the pedal to the metal may seem like an afterthought for scooter use--until you're sitting on your scooter, watching joggers pass you. Electric scooters aren't known for their speed, and usually fall in the 8 mph to 25 mph range. If you want to go much faster than that, or ride on highways, you'll probably want to consider a gas powered or hybrid model. Otherwise, prepare yourself to shell out some cash for a speedy electric scooter. Again, a number of factors come into play when companies hand out speed ratings. But as you would guess, a manufacturer's rating will reflect the scooter's speed under ideal conditions.

Starting to make sense of your options? If so, you're getting closer to choosing the right scooter--just make sure you also take things like carrying capacity and terrain into account. That's right, there's more stuff to consider! But don't worry. By thinking through these questions, you're moving toward a motorized scooter purchase you won't regret.

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Classic Car Auction Is A Memorable Event For Car Enthusiasts

Many people find that the sight of a restored vintage car rolling along the highway, with a fresh coat of shimmering paint and chrome accents gleaming in the sun, brings a huge smile to their face as they recall wonderful memories of earlier times. For people who appreciate the workmanship and attention that goes into bringing these beauties back to life, a classic car auction might be a memorable event that could even tempt one to start bidding so that they can claim the classic collectible for themselves.

Classic car auctions have long been a favorite type of event for car lovers of all ages to attend. Before the bidding gets underway, which can get rather heated with an enthusiastic crowd, there is a period of time when people can meander through the displays of the vintage models and appreciate the timeless and elegant lines of the cars that will soon be offered on the auction block.

You will find that attending a classic car auction is very different from going to a public auto auction. While the general, public auctions are more plentiful, they will offer very different types of vehicles, such as salvage car parts, to seized and repossessed cars. They will not have the classic, restored vehicles that are part of a collector car auction.

In the case of public auto auctions, people hope to find a decent car at a good price that will get them to and from work. Seldom will there be much of a bidding war on the very average and ordinary vehicles that are seen at government auto auctions and the like. But all the rules change when attending a collector car auction with an enthusiastic group of avid car collectors who know all about every model and who are looking forward to either starting their own collection or adding to one they already have.

Even if you are not planning to bid on any of the vintage models that are being sold at an auction for classic cars, they are wonderful events to attend. In one place you can check out a wide range of cars from many different eras, which are in immaculate shape, having been lovingly and attentively restored, and are sometimes an improvement over the original model.

Because the market for the classic, collectible cars is a fairly tight market and there is so much interest in the vintage vehicles that are either still in great shape or that have been restored, a collector car auction is not the place to look for a bargain. If a particular model of a classic car is rather rare or in high demand, then there could be an intense bidding war that will drive the winning bid much higher than any Blue Book estimate.

At the same time, sometimes you can get a better deal through a classic car auction than if you were to buy directly from a private owner. It all comes down to who else happens to attend the collector car auction and how determined they are to have that vehicle in their garage, instead of yours.

Educate yourself further about classic car auction from Mike Selvon articles portal. Your feedback is valued and appreciated at our wholesale auto auction blog where a free audio gift awaits you.

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