The MTV show Pimp My Ride inspired many to go all-out on their vehicles, turning them into flashy boomboxes and mobile multimedia arenas. But before you go modifying your car, think about the implications of these changes to your insurance policy. Depending on the insurance company, mods can render your policy void and invalid. If you file a claim, the coverage will only go as far as restoring your car to its pre-mod state, as stated in the policy. Look for specialist insurers who are keen on carving their niche in the business. If the rumors are true, there could be a company with cheaper premiums for modified cars, with the rationale being that special cars will get special attention and care from their owners, which makes a lot of sense.

With gas prices constantly rising, hybrid cars have become feasible alternatives to automobiles that run on regular fuels. Hybrids have been shown to have a higher fuel efficiency because of the electric motor, hence greater gas mileage. While mileage varies from one car model to another, hybrids get more miles per gallon compared to other vehicles in the same range. The best incentive is perhaps the auto insurance discount. Some companies offer up to 10% less on auto insurance premiums for a leased or purchased hybrid. Travelers auto insurance gives this 10% discount, as well as other discounts and credits in most of the states. Policyholders can get additional savings by signing up for homeowners insurance with Travelers as well.

Older drivers can shop around for cheaper car insurance policies that are available to them. Drivers over 50 should have discounts on their premiums. The longer you’ve been driving claim-free, the greater your discount. Specialist insurers like Senior Car Insurance UK allows the no claims bonus to remain for a small fee to offset a given number of claims.

Lower mileage per annum means lower insurance costs. The car type also matters, as certain older makes and models are less prone to theft and have lower repair costs. Sometimes it is also not worth getting comprehensive or collision cover for certain cars. Installing safety features might also be a good idea, as are group or corporate discounts from former employers.

The summer months are here again and it’s time to bring the family across the country in an RV. Robin Williams’ 2006 film may not be the most realistic model for your cross-national park holiday, but there are a few truths to be gleaned from that movie. One is that many things can go wrong on a trip, and two, you need to spend quality time with your family. So, what to do? Take out specialized RV insurance and have peace of mind while traveling with your loved ones. Insurance for motor homes is not quite the same as regular vehicles because of the various accessories, appliances and even plumbing that is in the RV. Even fifth wheels and travel trailers are built differently and require a different insurance policy. Look up RV insurance and enjoy your summer.

The Motor Insurance Repair Research Centre, also known as Thatcham because of its location in Thatcham, Berkshire (England) was established by British Insurers in 1969 to conduct research related to motor insurance claims. They are known for testing security systems and crash testing motor vehicles. They also train insurance engineers and repairers.

Thatcham groups security systems into five categories: electronic alarm and immobilizer, electronic/electromechanical immobilizer, mechanical immobilizer, wheel locking devices, and after-theft systems for vehicle recovery. Having a combination of approved devices in these categories is ideal for theft prevention and recovery. They could likewise lower your insurance premium. Ask your insurer about it.