Living in New York City is a beautiful thing. Everything and anything you could want is right around the corner or down the avenue from you. One day, a friend asked me if I ever felt suffocated or cramped knowing that (without a car and relying on public transportation) my life revolved around a six-mile island radius? To be honest, I didn't until he asked me that question.
Sometimes the biggest cities also stunt your growth as a person. When I moved away from Manhattan, I had a hard lesson in "non-New York adult problems" when my car was broken into after the holiday season. No longer was it about just about deadbolting my apartment door or hiding my purse in case I fell asleep on the subway; it was also about worrying about my car rental, insurance claims, and property. When traveling out of New York, you should keep in mind these situations and be prepared in how to handle them:
If Your Car Gets Broken Into
Last Christmas, my car window was smashed, and the belongings in the back seat were taken. Why? Because I had left packages on the back seat, not realizing the temptation I left behind. When you live in the city, you forget about car prevention tips, such as putting everything in your trunk. If your car gets broken into, you can find yourself in a pickle. Alert the authorities, and keep a detailed list of the belongings that were stolen. This will come in handy for the policy report and for insurance purposes.
If Your Car Gets Into an Accident
A car accident is not only scary, but a hassle. You have to wait for the insurance to come through in order to pay for your car to be repaired. In serious cases, you can become injured and have longer lasting affects than the dent in your bumper. After taking a detailed report and alerting authorities, consult a lawyer to discuss scenarios. If your injuries require additional care, it's best to seek alternate opinions.
If You Get a Ticket
Depending on the cost, tickets can become pricey. While traveling out of state, I received a speeding ticket and had to either pay up front or travel back 10 hours to show up in court. Consult a local lawyer in the local jurisdiction to see what they would recommend. According to Tariolaw.com, most "negligent or reckless driving is a misdemeanor in most states." To avoid the hassle, stick to the speed limit, put your phone down from texting/calling, and keep your eyes on the road.
If You Get A Flat
Many cell phone providers and car companies offer assistance programs that help with minor car issues such as a flat tire or running out of gas. Check into the make of your car and see if the company offers these programs. If not, check with your network service provider or insurance to make sure that you are covered.
Ashley Massis has been an international travel writer for the past few years. While loving to travel, she understands not everything goes smoothly. Check out her Huffington Post blog for travel tips and recommendations.