Author: SM

It’s hard to imagine life without the different modes of transportation we have today. Transportation has been an essential part of daily living; it has provided us easy access to other parts of the world.

The Bureau of Transportation Statistics states that transportation plays a significant part in globalization. Modes of transportation such as jet aircraft and mega-ships have been major players in boosting the global economy. Products from around the world are transported fast and efficiently.

A Filipino immigrant, for example, can easily send packages to the Philippines from the USA. They have different options to choose from, making it a convenient way to provide for their loved ones.

Yet, transportation, as we know it now, is different from what it was years ago. Let’s take a look at transportation way back.

History of Transportation

In the beginning, people did not have access to the kind of motorized transportation we have today. They used resources that were readily available for them during their time. People’s first mode of transportation was their feet; they walked and traveled distances using their physical capability.

Eventually, humans learned that animals aren’t just for hunting and source of food. Animals can also be used as a form of transportation. This discovery happened from 4000 BC to 3000 BC. Since then, people rode camels and horses and used carts attached to these animals to place commodities. This mode of transportation is uncomfortable for animals and humans. It wasn’t fast, and it was not safe.

But things changed during the 1700s. In the 1700s, the first steamship and steam-powered train were introduced. This is the start of the era of modern transportation. As these new modes of transportation were introduced, trade became easier and faster. It gave people the convenience of transporting products easily to different places and parts of the world.

The 17th and 18th centuries saw the rise in various forms of transportation, including bicycles, motorcycles, cars, trucks, and airplanes. It was 1906 when the first car with an internal combustion engine was introduced. During the 1920s, three companies dominated automobile manufacturing in the US: General Motors, Chrysler, and Ford.

Aviation became the primary mode of transportation between the US and Europe in the 60s. Airplanes were starting to get faster, and airfares are beginning to become more reasonable. As transportation became more manageable and accessible for everybody, people’s lives began to change dramatically.

Present of Transportation

As the needs of people constantly evolve, transportation evolves with it, resulting in the need for mandatory training for DOT-regulated supervisors. Constant innovations are being discovered, and some businesses thrive on providing convenience to commuters from one place to another.

Ride-hailing services

With the introduction of ride-hailing applications, people do not need to wait by the street for a taxi anymore. Thanks to various ride-hailing apps, the stress of competing with a fellow commuter on the road is now eliminated. At the same time, these apps usually have integrated payment systems for more convenience. There is even electric car sharing as an option.

Pew Research Center shares its findings on current on-demand ride-hailing services in the US. Although these ride-hailing apps are popular in urban areas, people living in rural areas are less likely to use these applications. Most non-users have their cars; most people who use these services do not have personal vehicles and are most likely to use other modes of transportation like trains.

Despite fewer Americans using these ride-hailing services in rural areas, these services are here to stay because of the benefits it provides people. For one, as more people use the application, the chances of DUI incidents are decreased.

Wharton also discusses that these ride-hailing services have unexpected benefits. The university says that it is more than just providing efficient transportation. It provides job opportunities to drivers, and sometimes, mutual relationships are formed between passengers and drivers.

Future of Transportation

Looking forward, different advancements in transportation are foreseen. Let’s take a look at some of them.

Autonomous Cars

Autonomous cars are self-driving cars. Companies such as Google Car and Tesla strive to make this a reality. Specific laws are passed to push for the development and continuous research for this technology. However, some people still have concerns about autonomous cars.

As a self-driving car, it can operate without a driver. Operating without a driver eliminates human error, yet, some people still think that human control is better than a robot. But for autonomous car advocates, using the technology can reap economic and environmental benefits. Hence, the debate is still ongoing.

Light Vehicles

The lighter a vehicle is, the lesser gasoline or fuel it uses. This is why people are pushing automobile manufacturers to produce lighter vehicles using lightweight materials. From metals and steel, the future of car manufacturing sees magnesium-aluminum alloys and carbon fiber construction as lighter-weight alternatives.

With transportation being vital, society will see further changes and improvements as time passes. Using convenience and efficiency as a goal, the transportation industry will continue to evolve.

Do you have an old car just loitering in your space and have no idea what to do with it? Or you might be interested in getting an old car and revamping it for a cool project.

No matter what your reason may be, there are many ways to update an old vehicle.

Here are some ideas on what you can do to revamp your car:

1. Scrub every corner

The first thing one must do before revamping any car is deep cleaning. Make every part of the vehicle as clean as new as much as you can.

There is nothing quite like getting into a spotlessly clean car to make a positive impact. Consider taking your vehicle to a nicer car wash for a thorough cleanse that gets in to all the crevices and corners. The majority of accredited care car depots only execute a quick rinse of the vehicle. Concentrate on areas such as the interior, tire wells, electric motor bay, and so on. If at all possible, have the car’s interiors professionally cleaned by dry cleaning and scrubbing.

2. Wax

After cleaning, one can opt to wax the car for a shiny and luxurious look. Waxing not only makes it shiny, but it gives the old car a brand-new appearance. Waxing of cars is usually overlooked because people think that after washing the car, that’s it, you can add more shine to your old car when doing this.

3. Car paint

For those who want to create a 180-degree physical appearance, having the car painted with another color is an excellent way to do it. Not only will it look drastically different, but it will also tidy up the car’s look through the painting process.

This is a significant step up from simply giving your car a thorough carwash. Car enthusiasts firmly believe that a paint modification can make a substantial difference in the looks of your car. Any machine cleaning will make your car paint appear fresh, intense, and shiny and enhance your vehicle’s overall image.

4. Car wrap

A car wrap is an excellent idea for those who do not have the time and money to paint the car but still want to give the vehicle a new color. Car wrap and car paint each have different sets of pros and cons, so you should find out what works for you. Invest in a window film to ensure safety and privacy when parking outdoors.

5. Change up the wheels

Another way to improve the vehicle’s overall appearance is changing up the old wheels with new ones. Changing the car’s wheels is also for safety because the old wheels might be too worn out for the road.

When you install new tires, you will observe a considerable enhancement in the overall performance of your vehicle. You will notice substantial progress in the smoothness of your ride as you drive down the interstate, thanks to the deeper treads on the new wheels. New tires will also be significantly less loud than old tires, which is a huge advantage. And the chances are that you will feel safer than you have in a long time.

6. Choose cool looking rims

While choosing new wheels, take a good look at the rims. Finding a great set of rims will drastically improve the general physical appearance and overall feel of the vehicle. Take time to select the rims that match the car model.

7. Use better lights

Another way to revamp the car and improve its safety is switching the old lights with better options. One may change either the headlights, taillights, signal lights, brake lights, etc. One may even change all the lights of the vehicle.

8. Change up the car seats

If the car seats seem like they are no longer in good condition, it’s best to switch them up with a new set. When choosing new car seats, always consider the material, maintenance, and comfort. You can even try to invest in car seats that have a massage system.

9. Seat covers

To give the interior a different feel, one may change the seat covers for old vehicles with well-maintained car seats. Changing the car’s seat covers is also an excellent alternative for those on a tight budget or who don’t want to spend as much.

10. Give the car’s insides a final check

The final thing that one must do when revamping an old vehicle is to perform a last check. This process includes checking the engine, breaks, and the like. It is one of the most important things to do before taking the car out on the road because it avoids future problems that might risk one’s safety.

By Gary Heiting, OD

Circuit de la Sarthe, the route of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, is a combination of a racing stadium capable of accommodating 100,000 spectators, along with public roads in and around Le Mans that are used by local residents most of the year.

During the race, teams often cover well over 5,000 kilometers (3,100 miles).

Professional drivers know the importance of good vision and attention to details. Even a momentary lapse in vision or focus can be the difference between a triumphant finish and a potentially disastrous outcome.

But the stakes are equally high for all of us. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 1.35 million people are killed each year on roadways around the world.

The 24 Hours of Le Mans is an exciting opportunity to watch professional drivers navigate Circuit de la Sarthe, but it also offers valuable lessons for everyday drivers about vision and driving safety.

Beginning your day

Professional drivers at Le Mans know they can’t drive their best if they are tired and drowsy. Neither can you.

A recent survey of adults in 12 countries found that 62% of adults admitted they sleep only somewhat well and 44% stated that their sleep has worsened in the past five years.

Also, according to the World Economic Forum, drowsiness has been a significant factor in roughly 100,000 car accidents every year, causing an estimated 1,500 deaths annually.

Being a safe driver begins with getting a good night’s sleep. Go to bed early enough to sleep eight hours if possible. And don’t get behind the wheel in the morning if you’re still drowsy.

Morning drive time

Before getting in your car in the morning, make sure your glasses, contacts, and/or sunglasses are clean and comfortable and you’re seeing well.

In the 24 Hours of Le Mans, about 60 cars share the road. Cars are often bumper-to-bumper during the race — and sometimes in hazardous conditions.

During your morning drive to work or school: 

• Be aware of the cars, trucks, buses, motorcycles, bicycles and pedestrians you’re sharing the road with. 
• Check your mirrors frequently. 
• Anticipate — and be ready for — possible problems or sudden congestion.
• Pay attention to the road and avoid distractions (radio, coffee, others in the car, your phone).
• Never EVER text or read emails when driving.

Daytime driving

The drivers at Le Mans wear tinted visors on their helmets for good reason. Bright sunlight and changes in lighting conditions during the day can cause blinding glare that can be disastrous on the road.

Sunglasses are a must when driving in daylight — especially in full sun. Polarized sunglasses are especially good for reducing glare from road surfaces and the hood of your car.

Ask your eye care professional for advice on the best lens tints for driving — including tints for photochromic lenses that darken and lighten automatically depending on the light conditions around you.

Driving at dusk

Many people find driving at sunset can be visually challenging. The sun can shine directly into your eyes when it reaches the horizon and your eyes have to adapt to a decreasing amount of ambient light.

Driving at dusk can also be especially bothersome for older drivers, who are more prone to discomfort from glare due to aging changes in the eye (such as early cataracts).

A dirty or pitted windshield (one with natural wear and tear) can especially affect your vision at sunset, causing oncoming lights to scatter and reflect off the glass.

Make sure to routinely to check that:

• Your windshield is clean
• Your wiper blades are in good condition
• Your car’s windshield cleaning fluid dispenser is full

Wear sunglasses and use your car’s sun visor as needed to improve your line of sight, and turn on your headlights on the highway, before dark and when it rains to help other drivers see your vehicle.

Night driving

There’s no question that driving is more difficult and dangerous at night. According to the National Safety Council, we do only a fourth of our driving at night, but 50% of traffic deaths occur after dark.

Even small amounts of uncorrected nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism can cause significant vision problems at night. Even if you can pass a driver’s vision screening without your corrective lenses, it’s a good idea to wear them whenever you drive, and especially at night.

If you wear prescription eyeglasses, be sure your lenses include anti-reflective coating for driving at night. Anti-reflective (AR) coatings eliminate light reflections from the surface of your glasses lenses.

The American Optometric Association offers these additional vision tips for safe driving at night:

• Don’t wear glasses with tinted lenses at night. All tinted lenses — including those marketed as “night driving glasses” — reduce visibility in darker nighttime driving conditions.
• Never look directly at an oncoming vehicle, regardless of the type of headlights it’s using. Staring at headlights can make it harder for you to recover your vision after the vehicle has passed.
• Clean your windshield (inside and out). A dirty windshield can cause glare and reduce visibility when driving at night or during the day.
• Keep your headlights clean. Also, replace headlight coverings if they become fogged due to prolonged sunlight exposure, which can reduce the brightness and range of your headlights at night. 
• Make sure your car’s headlights are properly positioned, aimed and aligned for maximum visibility.

“Start your engine!”

Tomorrow, start your day by deciding to be a safer, more attentive driver.

The skills and endurance of Le Mans drivers are an inspiration, and not something to try at home. Weaving in and out of traffic at high speeds should be reserved for video games, race courses and your dreams — not on a standard roadway. 

Instead, focus on being a champion of safe driving — in your neighborhood, during your daily commute and wherever your travels take you!

Truck accidents are becoming increasingly prevalent nowadays. Nearly every day, you hear about individuals dying in traffic accidents, whether it’s a vehicle or a truck. If you are harmed in a truck collision, you’ll require the assistance of an expert claims adjuster. An attorney who has assisted customers who have been involved in commercial truck accidents understands what to do to get you properly reimbursed for their damages. Several people responsible are engaged in an industrial vehicle accident. You’ll need the assistance of a lawyer who can handle every part of your case and operate in your best interests.

Severe and devastating casualties can ensue from a vehicle collision. A person engaged in a mishap with such a semi-truck is frequently seriously hurt, and that the only issue they have to concentrate on is obtaining the hospital treatment they deserve. There are many truck accident legal tips available on the internet that you can look for.

Truck-passenger car collisions frequently result in significant injuries. However, they are not as easy as vehicle accidents combining various conventional automobiles from a practical perspective. Keep reading to find out how the procedure differs and what you should do in the event of a truck crash.

What is the common cause of a truck accident?

Qualified driving a truck necessitates a high level of expertise. Regrettably, operators who lack the knowledge or understanding necessary to perform their duties successfully frequently share this world with the remainder of the others. There seem to be a variety of other factors that contribute to tractor-trailer collisions.

Because drivers and designers are subject to better regulations than most other operators, the operator or the vehicle business may be liable for any damages if anything goes wrong.

Here are a few explanations why you should hire a lawyer to ensure that you receive complete justice-

• In either truck accident, it might be hard to identify all of the individuals accountable to the wounded party. The operator, the transportation business, the truck designer, or federal agencies might all be held responsible for your damages. The solicitor will support you in recognizing all parties accountable and ensuring that you demand benefits within the time frame specified.

• Frequently, victims of truck incidents are unaware of the identity of all possibly liable individuals or plaintiffs. You must identify all parties who might be held responsible for your damages so you can demand damages until the minimum sentence runs out.

• When you’re on the main freeway, and the cops haven’t arrived to manage traffic already, you wouldn’t want to be roaming about. Photographs, contact details for eyewitnesses and almost everyone charged in the case, and additional comments regarding highway or environmental conditions or even other variables that may have influenced the incident can all be included in the paperwork.

• If more than one personality is to accuse you of your accident, you’ll have to battle every one of these at the very same time and give the results you are looking for. And you’ll need to employ a professional attorney with expertise in multi-defendant situations for this. Ascertain that your attorney makes every attempt to maximize the worth of your claim.

Establishing a solid case for personal injury rests on two main pillars – the first is proving negligence of another party for causing the accident and injuring the victim. The second is to justify the claim amount by gathering the right kind of evidence.  According to a car accident lawyer serving the Portage area, the accident victim plays a critical role in gathering evidence from the accident scene and should be aware of the types of evidence that are most useful and relevant for the case. The evidence must help prove the point strongly and should mostly be physical so that it leaves nothing to chance. The evidence should be the best possible proof to pin down the defendant or the party at fault and recover the fairest compensation for the victim.

Since evidence is crucial for claiming compensation in personal injury cases, the plaintiff or victim needs to understand the evidence used in such cases.

Physical evidence

Car accidents are so physical that the stress is always on gathering physical evidence like the broken parts of the car that the lawyer presents in the courtroom. The vehicles damaged in the collision of a crash are the most significant evidence. The evidence of a car accident is especially crucial in verifying whether it was an incident of a crash or a hit and run case. It might even include the clothing that the victim was wearing at the time of the accident. To establish the weather condition, the lawyer might cite some meteorological events too. 

Evidence gathered from the scene of an accident

Most evidence related to accidents is available at the site, and why victims should take note of everything around them soon after the accident. When a person traveling in a car or walking on the road is hit by another vehicle or trips over some object or debris, the vehicle or the object that the person tripped upon are valuable pieces of evidence gathered from the accident scene. From broken glasses of car windows to the skid marks on the road, all are valuable pieces of evidence to prove the point about the victim’s harm.

Documents for the injury

Documentation constitutes a significant part of the evidence used in accident cases. From important forms of insurance to medical data, as well as statements, incident reports, and medical bills, are all evidence that lawyers make the best use of to build a solid case. The victim must sign on all such documents to lend authenticity to the documents and the claim. The pay stubs are useful as evidence to establish loss of earnings. Receipts and bills for repairing the damaged vehicle are other evidence to convince the court about the extent of the damage.

Photos and videos

Photos and videos of the accident scene are the most substantial evidence for the plaintiff. By arranging the photographs in sequence, it becomes easy to mail the defendant by pointing out the negligence on their part that caused the accident and harmed the victim.

Witnesses who provide testimony are the most impressive evidence as long as they remain truthful to serve the plaintiff’s purpose. 

Most people enjoy driving and they want to continue it for as long as possible. Having your own car provides an easy and convenient way to get around.

However, there are certain situations where driving is probably not ideal. It’s not only aging that can cause problems behind the wheel.

Here are four signs that indicate it might be time for you to stop driving. If you notice one or more of these signs in yourself or in a loved one, consider taking a driving booster course or search for alternative travel options.

You’ve Had Several Car Crashes in the Past Year

This is a pretty obvious sign that driving might not be for you, or that you need additional support. Road traffic accidents not only put you at risk of injury, but they are also a safety concern for other drivers around you.

Crashes can be caused by a number of reasons. You may be struggling to see the road ahead, you might be lacking concentration, or you might just be a bad driver! Either way, if you’re finding yourself in car accidents every month, you might need to retake your test or find another way to travel.

If you’ve been in a crash that somebody else is responsible for, consider contacting BC Law Offices to chat to an expert attorney who can work with you to create a detailed claim.

Your Reactions Are Slower Than Usual

Slow reactions times increase your risk of getting into an accident or hurting somebody. If you find your reactions are not as fast as they used to be, it might be time to stop driving.

If you’re unsure whether or not your slowing reaction times warrant any action, ask a family member or friend if they’d be happy getting a lift from you. Alternatively, there are facilities that enable you to be assessed by a professional who will provide expert advice regarding your driving.

You’re Having Trouble Seeing Road Signs or Road Markings

For those whose eyesight is deteriorating, it can become difficult to see road signs, road markings, and number plates as you’re driving. There is a legal minimum vision requirement that you must meet in order to safely drive. This can be checked by your local optician.

It’s not just the elderly that suffer from poor eyesight. There are a number of medical conditions that can affect your vision, such as cataracts, glaucoma, and even diabetes. To stay safe, always consult a healthcare practitioner and take regular eye tests every two years.

You’re Getting Lost in a Familiar Area

If you’re getting lost in areas that you’ve been driving around for years, this might be a warning sign that your health is deteriorating. Health conditions like dementia can affect your memory and coordination, which may increase your risk of getting into an accident while driving. Seek medical help if you or a your loved one is starting to get lost or confused while driving.

Unfortunately, we all make mistakes. Nobody is perfect after all. However, one mistake that can be quite costly is to drink and drive. If you are out with a few friends, it can be very easy to lose track of how much you’ve had to drink and end up behind the wheel when you shouldn’t.

Hopefully, if this happens to you then the only thing that happens is that you get caught and get a DUI and nobody gets hurt, or worse. What happens when you get a DUI? Well, it all depends on the state in which it happens. You can expect certain things to be universal like losing your license but each state has its own laws. 

To give you an idea of what to expect, we will use Illinois as an example and go over the DUI laws there. 

What happens to first time offenders?

Just like in any state, you may be pulled over while driving simply by giving an officer the impression that you may be impaired. Once pulled over you will be asked to do a sobriety test. In Illinois, if you refuse to do the breathalyzer test, then you will likely be arrested and brought in to the local police station. 

You can refuse the breathalyzer on the road without consequence as they are very unreliable and the results can’t be used in court as a result. However, back at the station, the breathalyzer is more reliable and you have to submit to that, or refuse and get a court date set for a DUI. 

At this point, you will need to have an Illinois DUI attorney on your side because it will get very complicated from here. 

Your court date is set

Now that you’re charged with a DUI you will get a court date for up to 46 days in the future. During this period, you can still drive your car if your license was valid at the time you were stopped. 

If your date is set for more than 46 days later, then you will have your license automatically revoked at midnight on the 46th day. 

During this time a lawyer can petition the court to not suspend your license but it will require a court date before the one that is already set. This isn’t likely to happen unless there are some extraneous circumstances. 

What happens at court?

You will probably have multiple court dates, but the first one is where discovery happens and your lawyer will get all of the evidence. It is also during this time that your lawyer can ask that your license be reinstated while you await your next court date. Some judges may agree when this is your first time offense. 

You may be given the offer of supervision for a specified period of time at this point. This is similar to a continuance without a finding which means you won’t have a conviction and may be able to keep your license. It does go on your record, however and if you reoffend in the time frame then you will end up with it becoming a conviction. 

Read this blog to know why you should use an auto broker to purchase your dream car.

Why you should use an auto broker?

Not everyone has a pleasant and exciting feeling about purchasing new cars. Not only has it required prior knowledge about automobiles but also extensive researching skills, which is why you should use an auto broker. An auto broker also known as a car broker, will not only help you to find a great car in your budget but will also see to it that you are not falling prey to fraudulent schemes and offers. He or she will not only help you in the vast world of automobiles but will also ensure you get to purchase your dream car within your budget. In this blog, we are going to talk about why you should use an auto broker when to avail services of one and where to find the best auto broker in Colorado Springs.

Who is a car broker?

An auto broker is a professional car buyer who happens to be aware of the tactics and strategies required for an individual in getting their dream card at the lowest possible price. There are auto brokers who work as freelancers while some auto brokers work for companies such as the one called Auto Search in Colorado Springs.

How do Auto brokers make money?

There are two ways by which car brokers make money every time their client purchases a vehicle. Either by a flat rate or by a percentage, a flat rate is charged by the auto broker every time a vehicle is purchased by his or her clients. The rate is the same for every client regardless of the vehicle they are purchasing. Other auto brokers who do not charge a flat rate, charge a percentage of the amount he or she helped a client in saving. You will be asked to pay a retainer after you have made a deal with an auto broker.

Why you should use an auto broker?

There are two main reasons why you should opt for an auto broker. You save both time and money. Since you are availing services of a professional who will connect you with the car which has all the features that you require and is within your decided budget, you get to save a significant amount of time. Now instead of surfing the internet to check out different cars, note their features, and look for their prices all you have to do is convey your budget and requirement to your auto broker and he will see to your needs.

If you are yet to connect with an auto broker who will help you to purchase your dream car, then you might want to consider hiring one now. Autosearch offers some of the most experienced and competent auto brokers who will help you to connect with some of the best Volkswagen vehicles within your budget.

For more information on auto brokers, you can visit their website. make car buying a pleasant experience and avoid pushy and inconsiderate salesmen by hiring a reliable and genuine auto broker.

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and this applies to both people and cars. Everyone has their idea of a perfect vehicle – a ride with a perfect balance of aesthetics, performance, and status symbol.

So what do most Americans consider as the ideal car? And what are they willing to give up to get these rides?

America’s Dream Cars

The top dream cars vary from state to state, but research shows that most vie for a chance to own the Tesla Model S.

Autowise, an online automotive and motorcycle magazine, used geotagged Twitter data to gain insight into America’s dream cars. For three months, researchers monitored mentions of dream car along with the make and model mentioned with those terms.

Tesla Model S

The Tesla Model S ranked first in most states. According to the Autowise study, it’s the top dream car for 20 states, including New York, Rhode Island, California, Florida, and Arizona.

The result, however, comes as no surprise. Supreme performance, a high-tech minimalist cabin, and sleek looks easily propel the model to the top spot. In fact, in 2019, the Model S was named the “Ultimate Car of the Year” by Motor Trend, beating popular contenders from Cadillac and Toyota. Motor Trend hails it as the best car ever produced in 70 years.

Other Popular Dream Cars

The Autowise list includes:

• Ford Mustang. This is the favorite vehicle in 13 states, including Georgia, Michigan, and Pennsylvania.
• Range Rover. The best car in 6 states, including Alaska, Maine, and Wyoming.
• Jeep Wrangler. The ideal car in 4 states, including Alabama and Tennesee.
• Chevrolet Corvette. Tied with Jeep Wrangler as the ideal car in 4 states, including Indiana and Ohio.
• Chevrolet Camaro. The favorite in 3 states, including North Carolina and Texas.

The Cost of Owning a Dream Car

Dream cars come with a steep price, with price tags that get steeper by the day.

Tesla price increases are an outlier, even among luxury carmakers. Business Insider observes a sharp upward trend in Tesla prices, unlike the consistent and predictable price increase of its peers. This is because Tesla changes its prices whenever it sees fit.

For instance, the coveted Model S costs $15,000 more in 2021 compared to its 2020 prices. Tesla also raised the prices of some Model 3 and Model Y vehicles by $1,000.

Customization and Maintenance

Aspiring dream car owners also need to think about the maintenance costs of owning a luxury vehicle. In most cases, these cars require specialized tools and services. The prices of paint jobs, check engine services, or window tinting, for instance, are higher than the same services for non-luxury cars.

The coveted Tesla Model S is no exception. According to Business Insider:

• Installing a white or off-white interior will set you back about $2,500
• A paint color other than white will cost you anywhere between $1,500 and $2,500
• The 21-inch wheels will run you $4,500

What Are People Willing to Forego to Own It?

Owning and keeping a dream car will require some financial compromises. The Zebra, a leading independent insurance comparison site, studied the money habits of 2,000 Americans and what they would give up to have their dream cars.

Because of the steep prices, 44% of people believe they won’t be able to purchase their dream car. But there is a lucky 32% who already own their dream car, while 24% believe they’ll get theirs in the future.

So what are the hopefuls willing to give up to attain the car of their dreams?

• About 41% of Americans are willing to give up alcohol just to get a luxury vehicle. It’s a hypothetical bargain, but it makes practical sense. The average household spends $565 a year on alcoholic beverages. This amount could go to car payments.

You can also add drunk shopping to the equation because, admittedly, people make better money decisions when they are sober. The average shopper spent $423.73 on drunk purchases in 2021.

• Social Media. Surveys consistently show the benefits of quitting social media altogether. Those who are outside the digital space report better mood, better sleep, and greater productivity. There’s a money factor, too. In 2019, about 49% of people ages 23 to 38 report that social media influence them to overspend – money that could go to dream car payments.
• The Motley Fool reports that a third of Americans spend more on coffee than investing, but this isn’t a surprise. Coffee is a staple, used by employees to power through the day. But for 30% of the population, they can power through life without coffee if it means they can drive their dream car.

Hypothetical bargains aside, there are many ways to save up for a dream car. But owners have to be savvy about the purchase and acknowledge that the expenses and responsibilities of owning a luxury vehicle go beyond the price tag.