If you live by yourself and have animals

[CoyoteChris]

I thought of coming out of the drive nose first but that might have been worse in this instance damage wise (still awaiting the full collision report in this case) since the SUV was on me in a flash; there is a rise in the road on the right just before my drive where there is no view of what is ahead until the crest of the rise is cleared. Drivers unfamiliar tend to shoot over that rise at top speed; she was going way faster than speed limit and was, I fear, on her phone at the time. We residents on this road do constant battle with the commuters and (forgive me) motorcyclists.
My tiny 2011 Chevy has no bells & whistles and is a tin can but another car maybe in the cards, a financial stretch especially in these times. (The manager of my meager portfolio and I have this discussion regularly; after the annuity there is plenty of room to buy a car but, being a penurious sort, he argues I should have saved more to accommodate such a purchase so I have gone along with it. Now we shall see .)

No forgiveness necessary. It used to be bikers who were *** holes, but now alot of people who ride sport bikes have become ***holes also. Aggressive driving and expansion pipes. I asked one of my honorary adopted sons who is a state trooper what he does about bikers/motorcyclists who break the law in WA and he says he doesnt stop them....The law says you cant chase them if they take off and his Sgt doesnt want him back at the office writing tickets for people who take off anyway. Its like the wild west here....and its up to us to avoid getting clobbered.
My parents went through the great depression and showed me how to save and they taught me fiscal hygiene. It used to be you could fix cars so I drove old cars and fixed them till they were shot....then I retired and found out I had more money than I could spend so I attended figure skating events! LOL! The problem with modern cars is they are very expensive to repair, and many cant do it in the driveway. I have two great condition but ancient cars I use for around town and to keep milage off my main car...I can put in my OBD 2 reader and replace an O2 sensor or a Vtec actuation valve and pressure switch but that is about it. Many repairs are in the thousands now....too many complex systems and computers....that is one of the realities of retirement...you have to plan for a new roof or a well pump or a new car...no one saw the insurance rates were gonna go through the roof.....

 

[elbkup]

No forgiveness necessary. It used to be bikers who were *** holes, but now alot of people who ride sport bikes have become ***holes also. Aggressive driving and expansion pipes. I asked one of my honorary adopted sons who is a state trooper what he does about bikers/motorcyclists who break the law in WA and he says he doesnt stop them....The law says you cant chase them if they take off and his Sgt doesnt want him back at the office writing tickets for people who take off anyway. Its like the wild west here....and its up to us to avoid getting clobbered.
My parents went through the great depression and showed me how to save and they taught me fiscal hygiene. It used to be you could fix cars so I drove old cars and fixed them till they were shot....then I retired and found out I had more money than I could spend so I attended figure skating events! LOL! The problem with modern cars is they are very expensive to repair, and many cant do it in the driveway. I have two great condition but ancient cars I use for around town and to keep milage off my main car...I can put in my OBD 2 reader and replace an O2 sensor or a Vtec actuation valve and pressure switch but that is about it. Many repairs are in the thousands now....too many complex systems and computers....that is one of the realities of retirement...you have to plan for a new roof or a well pump or a new car...no one saw the insurance rates were gonna go through the roof.....

Yup
Most home repairs I can manage.. my Dad tinkered with cars all the time getting me to fetch and carry for him.. the good old days
Found out today: car is totaled - no surprise. I should see the value of it thru insurance but it ain’t worth much. My agent said I probably would be at fault, again no surprise but we’ll see. My age (79 in July) may be a factor in that decision; I guess 55 years of driving without incident does not mean much.. whatever. The motorcyclists here are real tear aways, love to burn rubber. It’s awful
Thanks for your insights and keeping me company thru this ordeal

 

[CoyoteChris]

Yup
Most home repairs I can manage.. my Dad tinkered with cars all the time getting me to fetch and carry for him.. the good old days
Found out today: car is totaled - no surprise. I should see the value of it thru insurance but it ain’t worth much. My agent said I probably would be at fault, again no surprise but we’ll see. My age (79 in July) may be a factor in that decision; I guess 55 years of driving without incident does not mean much.. whatever. The motorcyclists here are real tear aways, love to burn rubber. It’s awful
Thanks for your insights and keeping me company thru this ordeal

Washington State is a "no fault" state but in reality, the insurance companies get together behind the scenes and play, "lets make a deal". Regardless, If I was clearly not at fault, there would be a risk that my insurance company would raise my rates a total of 1800 dollars over 3 years. My independant agent tells me to pay for all small claims out of pocket to avoid getting gigged. Some companies here have accident forgiveness once you have gone enough years without claims. My 2004 Honda CRV and 2006 Toyota Maxtrix are in great shape but are not worth much, so if they were totaled, I might not even put in a claim...I have had them from new and its crazy to have 3 cars but I like the fact I am keeping the miles off my 2018 Forester...and I am not risking the Forester in Spokane traffic.
It used to be you developed a relationship with your agent and insurance company over many years.....and that was worth something....not any more. The main thing is that you are on this side of the sod and avoided a dirt condo.....

 

[NanaPat]

there is a rise in the road on the right just before my drive where there is no view of what is ahead until the crest of the rise is cleared. Drivers unfamiliar tend to shoot over that rise at top speed; she was going way faster than speed limit and was, I fear, on her phone at the time. We residents on this road do constant battle with the commuters and (forgive me) motorcyclists.

Is there a "hidden driveway ahead" sign? I have certainly seen those, though I can't tell you where! If there isn't, could you and your neighbors lobby to get one installed? Or could you lobby for a lower speed limit, better enforcement of the existing speed limit, or traffic calming devices like speed bumps or even judiciously placed cement planters to scare the daylights out of inattentive motorists?

The authorities may not want to listen to you, but you can point out to them that waiting till someone dies is waiting a bit too long!

 

[elbkup]

Is there a "hidden driveway ahead" sign? I have certainly seen those, though I can't tell you where! If there isn't, could you and your neighbors lobby to get one installed? Or could you lobby for a lower speed limit, better enforcement of the existing speed limit, or traffic calming devices like speed bumps or even judiciously placed cement planters to scare the daylights out of inattentive motorists?

The authorities may not want to listen to you, but you can point out to them that waiting till someone dies is waiting a bit too long!

Many thanks!! All great suggestions, arguing points (if you know me from GS you know I hate to argue.. could never be a lawyer! tho I am a strong self advocate). I will definitely try these once I find my feet after this incident. The Town is odd; it is called Connecticut’s Ouiet Corner for a reason. I have lived here 8 years but most residents have lineage going back 100 years or more. The Grandmother of the young woman who hit my car is likely one such person (cordial, she dropped a couple of names as we were talking); they have influence. Your last comment should carry weight. Speed bumps, sign.. anything requiring a financial investment from the Town may not go down too well.
Speed limit is already low at 30-35 mph and commuting motorists blatantly ignore it. I may install low-lying heavy barriers on my own property on the edges at the end of my driveway.. large stones etc to act as visual diversion. Appreciate the tips!

 

[elbkup]

Washington State is a "no fault" state but in reality, the insurance companies get together behind the scenes and play, "lets make a deal". Regardless, If I was clearly not at fault, there would be a risk that my insurance company would raise my rates a total of 1800 dollars over 3 years. My independant agent tells me to pay for all small claims out of pocket to avoid getting gigged. Some companies here have accident forgiveness once you have gone enough years without claims. My 2004 Honda CRV and 2006 Toyota Maxtrix are in great shape but are not worth much, so if they were totaled, I might not even put in a claim...I have had them from new and its crazy to have 3 cars but I like the fact I am keeping the miles off my 2018 Forester...and I am not risking the Forester in Spokane traffic.
It used to be you developed a relationship with your agent and insurance company over many years.....and that was worth something....not any more. The main thing is that you are on this side of the sod and avoided a dirt condo.....

Absolutely.. would have avoided a claim “had I but known”. So now in a rental looking to buy another vehicle.. , something with more safety features.

 

[CoyoteChris]

Absolutely.. would have avoided a claim “had I but known”. So now in a rental looking to buy another vehicle.. , something with more safety features.

I wouldnt wait too long. With the tarriffs, good used cars are going to increase in value and new cars will go up. Personally, unless you are a gambler, I would buy a "guarenteed' used car...maybe with a 30 day warrenty...so you can check out all the systems and have anything fixed. My wife's car had its horn go out....getting on the internet to the Subaru forum and doing some trouble shooting, it was clear the clock spring was broke...very common in Subarus. The clock spring is slang for the assembly that takes all steering wheel switch inputs like the horn and transfers them from a moving object like the steering wheel to the car proper. Its many hundreds to replace...as in $500-$1000.

 

[NanaPat]

I would also seriously consider arranging it so I could drive out instead of backing out. It might not have made any difference in this case, but it would improve your vision and get you out onto the road faster. If you went out nose first, you might even be able to turn onto the shoulder of the road before pulling onto it.

 

[elbkup]

I would also seriously consider arranging it so I could drive out instead of backing out. It might not have made any difference in this case, but it would improve your vision and get you out onto the road faster. If you went out nose first, you might even be able to turn onto the shoulder of the road before pulling onto it.

Yes I will likely do this from now on but it is still dangerous backing into the driveway from the road needing a 3-point turn into on coming traffic both sides backing into my drive up to the garage. I have done it no problem but if a fast moving car comes at me in either direction when making that turn in the road I’m a sitting duck. But will definitely try this going forward.. if I should suddenly disappear from GS you guys will know what happened to me. ALL suggestions are welcome at this juncture; many thanks!

 

[elbkup]

I wouldnt wait too long. With the tarriffs, good used cars are going to increase in value and new cars will go up. Personally, unless you are a gambler, I would buy a "guarenteed' used car...maybe with a 30 day warrenty...so you can check out all the systems and have anything fixed. My wife's car had its horn go out....getting on the internet to the Subaru forum and doing some trouble shooting, it was clear the clock spring was broke...very common in Subarus. The clock spring is slang for the assembly that takes all steering wheel switch inputs like the horn and transfers them from a moving object like the steering wheel to the car proper. Its many hundreds to replace...as in $500-$1000.

I am aware; great advice. Will visit the local Subaru dealer, and two repair shops near me that may also have a car for sale.. all I need is 4 wheels to get my groceries and other basics.

 

[CoyoteChris]

I am aware; great advice. Will visit the local Subaru dealer, and two repair shops near me that may also have a car for sale.. all I need is 4 wheels to get my groceries and other basics.

Depending on where you live, a Subaru may not be needed. It is the number one car in the Pacific north west due to the snow and ice and hills, but not needed in Southern Illinois. I hear you about just needing an around the town car. I would consider a small Honda or Toyota, personally.

 

[Diana Delafield]

Depending on where you live, a Subaru may not be needed. It is the number one car in the Pacific north west due to the snow and ice and hills, but not needed in Southern Illinois. I hear you about just needing an around the town car. I would consider a small Honda or Toyota, personally.

I had three Honda CR-Vs in a row. They were all AWD and I loved them. My SIL in northern Alberta has driven Subaru Foresters for years. Her climate is much more extreme than mine, with a great deal more snow, whereas my corner of the Pacific Northwest in Canada is mild and rainy year round and Richmond is completely flat. My husband's last car that he used on his camping trips the last years before he died was also a Subaru Forester. I tried driving it a few times but never felt my feet were securely reaching the pedals unless I sat right up against the wheel, too close to be safe with the airbag. (I used to be 5'3" but am probably 5'2" by now with aging. He was 5'10" and his sister is at least 4 inches taller than I am.

 

[elbkup]

Depending on where you live, a Subaru may not be needed. It is the number one car in the Pacific north west due to the snow and ice and hills, but not needed in Southern Illinois. I hear you about just needing an around the town car. I would consider a small Honda or Toyota, personally.

Super thanks!! Everyone here has a Subaru.. Would love a Crosstrek or Forester.. a safe car and friends here advise me to get one. I am considering a Honda Civic. My sister owned a Fit for years but they are discontinued, I believe? I don’t like the Toyota Corolla, maybe the Crosstrek tho US News gives it a low rating. In the end just the wheels matter… a back-up sensor and camera would be nice Appreciate the input

 

[CoyoteChris]

Super thanks!! Everyone here has a Subaru.. Would love a Crosstrek or Forester.. a safe car and friends here advise me to get one. I am considering a Honda Civic. My sister owned a Fit for years but they are discontinued, I believe? I don’t like the Toyota Corolla, maybe the Crosstrek tho US News gives it a low rating. In the end just the wheels matter… a back-up sensor and camera would be nice Appreciate the input

OK, so you live in a part of the country with snow. I am considering a crosstrek and have a Forester now, as does my wife. Are you thinking new or used? I considered waiting for the Fit to come out but bought a Toyota Matrix in 2006, which is a Corolla station wagon. 38 mpg on gasoline and only 2800 lbs. Bigger inside than a Fit. Subarus are the safest cars out there, with their eye site system/collision avoidance. If you are thinking used, avoid the 2014 Subaru. Defective oil rings. I have no idea why US nEWS would pan the crosstrek. I would like to know. Collision avoidance and back up camera are so worth it!

 

[CoyoteChris]

I had three Honda CR-Vs in a row. They were all AWD and I loved them. My SIL in northern Alberta has driven Subaru Foresters for years. Her climate is much more extreme than mine, with a great deal more snow, whereas my corner of the Pacific Northwest in Canada is mild and rainy year round and Richmond is completely flat. My husband's last car that he used on his camping trips the last years before he died was also a Subaru Forester. I tried driving it a few times but never felt my feet were securely reaching the pedals unless I sat right up against the wheel, too close to be safe with the airbag. (I used to be 5'3" but am probably 5'2" by now with aging. He was 5'10" and his sister is at least 4 inches taller than I am.

Great story. I love my second generation 2004 CRV with a stick. 30 mpg on gasoline. Picknic table rear floor. The rear seats come out and stay in the basement. Bullet proof engine. Full duty spare on the back of the coffin door. The AWD system is simple and reliable. But you do have to keep the rear differential fluid changed every 40 K if you are wise...it is very special dual pump fluid. Right now, we have two foresters. We have had two other Subarus...My wife drives them to 250,000 miles. She goes to hundreds of dog events.
You are wise to be aware of the air bag. At our state patrol driving acadamy, they now teach holding the steering wheel at 9oclock and 3 oclock. Too many troopers getting broken wrists in accidents at 10 and 2 pm. Some car companies make telescoping steering wheels ....

 

[elbkup]

OK, so you live in a part of the country with snow. I am considering a crosstrek and have a Forester now, as does my wife. Are you thinking new or used? I considered waiting for the Fit to come out but bought a Toyota Matrix in 2006, which is a Corolla station wagon. 38 mpg on gasoline and only 2800 lbs. Bigger inside than a Fit. Subarus are the safest cars out there, with their eye site system/collision avoidance. If you are thinking used, avoid the 2014 Subaru. Defective oil rings. I have no idea why US nEWS would pan the crosstrek. I would like to know. Collision avoidance and back up camera are so worth it!

2025 Chevy Crosstrek US News rating is better than the 2024..

https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/chevrolet/trax/prices

 

[NanaPat]

Super thanks!! Everyone here has a Subaru.. Would love a Crosstrek or Forester.. a safe car and friends here advise me to get one. I am considering a Honda Civic. My sister owned a Fit for years but they are discontinued, I believe? I don’t like the Toyota Corolla, maybe the Crosstrek tho US News gives it a low rating. In the end just the wheels matter… a back-up sensor and camera would be nice Appreciate the input

A dissenting voice about Subaru: we had a Forester and had nothing but trouble with it. Replaced it with a Toyota RAV4 which we love (though not for parking!) Our town car is a 1998 Honda Civic. That is not a typo!

At this point, Honda and Toyota are our car companies of choice for the Civic's replacement. Really like the FIT, but it came and went during the Civic's lifespan. I would like a car the length and wheelbase of the Civic but the height of the RAV4.

 

[Diana Delafield]

Great story. I love my second generation 2004 CRV with a stick. 30 mpg on gasoline. Picknic table rear floor. The rear seats come out and stay in the basement. Bullet proof engine. Full duty spare on the back of the coffin door. The AWD system is simple and reliable. But you do have to keep the rear differential fluid changed every 40 K if you are wise...it is very special dual pump fluid. Right now, we have two foresters. We have had two other Subarus...My wife drives them to 250,000 miles. She goes to hundreds of dog events.
You are wise to be aware of the air bag. At our state patrol driving acadamy, they now teach holding the steering wheel at 9oclock and 3 oclock. Too many troopers getting broken wrists in accidents at 10 and 2 pm. Some car companies make telescoping steering wheels ....

I had to drive a stick shift car when I took my driver's test as a teenager, but haven't driven one since then, and when AWD cars became a thing I started buying those. I only kept a car for about three years and traded it in whenever newer safety features like birds-eye view cameras and cross-traffic warnings were added. Since I've never driven outside any city I've ever lived in, I never put as much as 1,000K on any of them. Finally, being a reluctant driver anyway, although the last car only cost me about $10 a month for gas, I figured out that it was cheaper to take taxis rather than pay insurance and to have seasonal tires changed (in BC it's illegal to drive in winter without snow tires) and annual maintenance, etc, so I sold my last CR-V to a neighbour in my building and exchanged my licence for a provincial ID card.

Whenever I picked up a new CR-V, I'd get the salesman to fold the back seat flat into the floor and then never had it put back up until it was traded in again. To take my cat to the vet I'd fasten his carrier into the front passenger seat and he was happier being close to me.

We were taught the 10 and 2 hand position in driving lesson class at high school, but I've heard the 9 and 3 positions are recommended now for everyone. My husband used to hold his hands at 11:59 and 12:01, resting his forearms on the wheel, which was, shall we say, a small bone of contention between us . He was a research chemist during the day but a pianist and church organist evenings and weekends, and I couldn't convince him he was going to get his "playing arms" broken by the airbags that way.

 

[elbkup]

A dissenting voice about Subaru: we had a Forester and had nothing but trouble with it. Replaced it with a Toyota RAV4 which we love (though not for parking!) Our town car is a 1998 Honda Civic. That is not a typo!
At this point, Honda and Toyota are our car companies of choice for the Civic's replacement. Really like the FIT, but it came and went during the Civic's lifespan. I would like a car the length and wheelbase of the Civic but the height of the RAV4.

My nephew, wife and daughter live in London Ontario, just got a RAV 4 and loves it, after a long string of “junk” Nissans.. he said “never again”. So much great advice here for which I am thankful. I am well armed for the shopping battle ahead

 

[CoyoteChris]

My nephew, wife and daughter live in London Ontario, just got a RAV 4 and loves it, after a long string of “junk” Nissans.. he said “never again”. So much great advice here for which I am thankful. I am well armed for the shopping battle ahead

Nissan is in trouble.......Rav4 is a good car but in our world the inside available volume is critical. With the Subaru, I took out my wife's rear seat and built a carpeted plywood platform so the back was entirely flat for dog crates. Love the Covenant Gardens in London.