Killer Highways: 10 Most Accident Prone Roads in the Philippines
- By Venus Zoleta
- July 1, 2019
These days, you might be hard-pressed to think about the danger of driving in the Philippines, mostly because the traffic in Metro Manila has gotten to the point where main roads are congested even in the wee hours. Still, certain roads out there require extra care when navigating through them. Some of these roads are notorious for having high incidences of vehicular collision and fatalities. These roads can be considered some of the most accident prone roads in the Philippines. Table of ContentsEDSATop 5 Accident Prone Areas Along EDSAC-5 RoadTop 5 Accident Prone Areas Along C-5 RoadCommonwealth AvenueTop 5 Accident Prone Areas Along Commonwealth Ave.Quirino HighwayAlabang-Zapote RoadHalsema HighwayKennon RoadOld Zigzag RoadTagaytay-Talisay RoadSampaloc RoadFinal Thoughts EDSA In 2018, EDSA recorded the highest number of accidents—a whopping 17,276 (around 47 incidents per day)—that resulted in damage to property, injuries, and fatalities, based on the MMDA’s Metro Manila Accident Reporting and Analysis System[1]. As the longest and busiest thoroughfare in the metro, Epifanio Delos Santos Avenue (EDSA) is where a high volume of cars passes through, increasing the odds of a collision. Fun fact: the number of accidents on this road reached such a high that MMDA officials had it blessed in 2012, following a bus crash on the EDSA Ortigas flyover. According to the MMDA, most deadly road accidents on EDSA usually occurred before dawn when the road is less congested. Jaywalkers and overspeeding motorists ignore road signs and break traffic rules. Read more: 9 Driving Mistakes That are Most Likely to Kill You The Consequences of Not Getting Car Insurance 7 Types of Car Insurance Claims You Can File in the Philippines Top 5 Accident Prone…
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Car Maintenance Checklist to Curb the Summer Heat
- By Ricky Publico
- May 16, 2019
Summer’s here and you’re probably feeling the heat not only at home but also inside your car. With temperatures rising up to 42°C, driving your vehicle can be quite a challenge, especially during daytime. However, it’s not only you that’s suffering. Your vehicle experiences temperature changes as well, which may cause breakdowns and damages. Most of them aren’t visible so it’s important to check on your car before driving under the sun. Keep your car in tip-top shape this summer with this handy car maintenance checklist. Related Article: BLOWBAGETS: 10 Things to Check Before You Drive Table of ContentsCar Maintenance ChecklistCheck your ACChange your oil and oil filterInspect the radiatorPark in shaded placesDon’t forget the batteryBeware of smelly seatsCheck your tiresWatch out for overheatingFinal Thoughts Car Maintenance Checklist Check your AC If you think being stuck in traffic is the worst this summer, think again. Imagine being stuck in traffic at high noon with a broken air conditioner. Sounds like hell, right? This season, ensure that your auto air conditioner is in good condition by doing a system check. Start by feeling the air coming out of the AC and assess how warm, cool, or cold it is. If the air is not too cold as it should be, there’s probably an airflow issue. Ask a car maintenance professional to check your air conditioning system to prevent further inconvenience. Change your oil and oil filter When’s the last time you changed your oil? Take note of your oil changes because car oil works to keep your engine running smoothly. The oil…
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#AskJames: More Car Insurance Questions Answered
- By Ricky Publico
- April 26, 2019
Three weeks ago, automotive journalist and TV host James Deakin joined Moneymax on a Facebook Live session to answer burning motor vehicle insurance questions from their viewers. While they were able to answer most of the concerns, one hour simply isn’t enough to get through all the questions. And because we don’t like leaving questions unanswered, we compiled some of the best ones and answered them here. If your specific question didn’t make the list, feel free to drop us a message on our Facebook page. Let’s get the ball rolling! Table of ContentsHow long will it take to process my car insurance claim?What are the possible reasons for the delay or denial of my claim?Will my premium for next year increase if I made a claim this year?Is it possible to lower the price of my car insurance?Can I change my coverage whenever I want?Can my car insurance cover interior damage?How is Moneymax different from car insurance companies?Can I purchase insurance through Moneymax if I’m not in Metro Manila?#AskJames Unanswered Lightning RoundWhat is the basis for a total loss claim? Can you provide us a list of insurance companies partnered with Moneymax? Why do insurance companies avoid high-risk owners?Final Thoughts How long will it take to process my car insurance claim? The length of the entire claim process really depends on the specific incident. Ideally, the evaluation of a minor accident should take three to seven days. For more crucial incidents, expect the process to last for a few more weeks. We understand that it can be frustrating at…
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Here’s Why You Should Visit Auto Show
- By Moneymax
- April 1, 2019
The Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) isn’t your typical auto show. Car enthusiasts all over the Philippines come together every year in this most anticipated and largest motoring event in the country. Now on its 15th year, the Manila International Auto Show 2019 carries “Experience Fun and Function” as its theme. Looking at its activity lineup, it definitely has the potential to excite and impress car lovers. Still thinking twice about going to this year’s auto show? We’re giving you seven reasons to drive to the event this year. Table of Contents1. Feast Your Eyes on the Latest Car Models2. See Epic Car Club Displays3. Marvel at Custom and Classic Cars4. Be Mind-Blown at Russ Swift’s Stunt Show5. Test Drive Your Dream Car6. Meet Fellow Car Junkies7. Enjoy Exclusive Deals and Promos from Moneymax!Final Thoughts 1. Feast Your Eyes on the Latest Car Models Just like the previous MIAS editions, automotive fans should look forward to the public debut of latest car models at the 2019 event. Be among the first people to view brand-new cars from the largest automakers in the country. Expect the hottest rides from Ford, Jeep, Subaru, Land Rover, Chrysler, Kia, Nissan, Mitsubishi, Chevrolet, Dodge, and more. Will fans get a first preview of Nissan Leaf, the Japanese brand’s top-selling electric car? Will the 2019 Ford Everest be launched at the MIAS? Is the iconic Chevy Camaro really making a comeback in the Philippines? Visit the MIAS to find out. Read more: 10 Movies to Watch If You Love Cars World Car of the Year 5…
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Car Won’t Start? Troubleshooting Tips for Each Car Breakdown Symptom
- By Venus Zoleta
- March 21, 2019
Just when you’re in a hurry to drive to somewhere important, your car won’t start after you turn the key on the ignition. What could be worse than a car that refuses to start? What to do when that dreaded situation happens? Either you fix it yourself or ask for help. Take note of what occurs when you crank the engine, as it indicates what could be wrong under the hood. Here are some of the common problems that come with a car breakdown and troubleshooting tips to fix each issue. Table of Contents1. No Sound When You Turn the KeyWhat’s Causing It?What to Do When Your Car Won’t Start2. Clicking Noise from the EngineWhat’s Causing It?What to Do When Your Car Won’t Start3. Spinning Sound and Very Fast CrankingWhat’s Causing It?What to Do When Your Car Won’t Start4. Slow CrankingWhat’s Causing It?What to Do When Your Car Won’t Start5. Grinding Noise When CrankingWhat’s Causing It?What to Do When Your Car Won’t Start6. Car is Silent But Dashboard Lights Come OnWhat’s Causing It?What to Do When Your Car Won’t Start7. Normal Cranking But Car Won’t StartWhat’s Causing It?What to Do When Your Car Won’t Start8. Rattling or Knocking Sound from the EngineWhat’s Causing It?What to Do When Your Car Won’t StartFinal Thoughts 1. No Sound When You Turn the Key What’s Causing It? When you turn the ignition key and you hear nothing, it’s a tell-tale sign that your battery is dead or its connection is loose. Read more: 7 Common Car Problems and How to Prevent Them What to…
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17 Car Essentials Every Woman Should Have
- By Venus Zoleta
- March 6, 2019
Female drivers often get unfairly judged for their skills behind the wheel. If you are a woman and drive a car, you’re probably tired of hearing stereotypical comments about lady drivers being slow, reckless, and accident-prone. But studies prove otherwise[1]. Women are actually better drivers than men. They’re less pasaway and less likely to figure in an accident. So the next time you’re on the receiving end of another sexist remark, show who the girl boss is! Be a girl scout—before taking your car out for a drive, ensure you carry all car essentials to help you stay safe, comfortable, and prepared for any emergency on the road. Here’s a list of must-have items in every woman’s car (If you’re a guy who’s looking for a thoughtful gift idea for the most important woman in your life—your mom, wife, girlfriend, or sister—this list is also for you!). Table of ContentsCar Essentials for Road Safety and Survival1. Phone Charger2. Car Phone Mount/Holder and Bluetooth Headset3. Spare Tire4. Car Jack and Cross Wrench5. Jumper Cables6. Duct Tape7. Flashlight8. Reflective triangle9. Vehicle Documents10. Bottled Water11. Non-perishable Food Items12. First Aid Kit13. Baby/Toddler EssentialsCar Essentials for Travel Convenience and Comfort14. Spare Change15. Driving Shoes16. Period Protection Kit17. Oversized SunglassesFinal Thoughts Car Essentials for Road Safety and Survival 1. Phone Charger Forgot to power up your mobile phone last night? No problem—as long as you have a charger in your car. Even if your smartphone has a long-lasting battery, you’ll never know when it’ll run out of juice. You need enough battery life to make calls when your car…
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LTO Vanity Plate: The Pros and Cons of Customizing Your Plate Number
- By Moneymax
- February 11, 2019
You’ve probably noticed pimped cars out and about before, right? You know the type: kitted out with nice wheels, a fantastic paint job, and a license plate that’s out of the ordinary. In the Philippines, license plates for cars are segregated into private, public, and official use. Vanity license plates, officially called Optional Motor Vehicle Special Plates (OMVSP), are also available to the general public. Is getting a personalized plate number a good or bad idea? There is a cost to any vehicle owner who would like to get a vanity plate. So, before you get yourself a special license plate, consider its pros and cons. Read more: How To Insure Your Souped-up Car Table of ContentsThe Pros of Getting a Vanity Plate1. Ideal for Personal or Business Branding2. Great for Expressing Your Individuality3. Unique and Sophisticated Look for a Car4. Eligible for Most Vehicle TypesThe Cons of Getting a Vanity Plate1. Regular LTO License Plate Still a Requirement2. Steep Price for a Custom Plate Number3. Long Wait for LTO Vanity Plate Release4. No Exemption from Number CodingFinal ThoughtsGet a Free Car Insurance Quote! The Pros of Getting a Vanity Plate 1. Ideal for Personal or Business Branding Vanity plates can be an investment if you use it to promote your brand. If you can get one that resembles your company name, then it will serve as a mobile advertisement for your business. 2. Great for Expressing Your Individuality Want to add a personal touch to your ride? Installing a vanity plate is an option for some vehicle customization enthusiasts. When…
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Huwag Kang Pasaway: 10 Driving Tips for Kamote Drivers
- By Venus Zoleta
- January 28, 2019
Pasaway, kamote, balinghoy, kaskasero—Pinoys on online communities for motorists use different names to refer to the bad guys on the road. Hate them? Of course, who doesn’t? It’s frustrating to encounter drivers who forget road safety tips, lack driving etiquette or break traffic rules. How about you? How would you rate your own driving habits? Are you like what other motorists would consider a kamote driver? Each time you’re behind the wheel, you’re responsible for the safety not just of your own but also your passengers, pedestrians, and fellow drivers. As a driver, you definitely have room for improvement. These 10 driving tips for beginners (and even experienced drivers) should help you avoid being reckless on the road. Table of Contents1. Enroll in a Driving School2. Use Your Signal Lights Properly3. Always Check Your Blind Spots4. Don’t Drive When You’re Sleepy or Drunk5. Be More Courteous6. Keep Your Hands Off Your Phone7. Always Respect Road Lanes8. Stay Calm and Focused9. Drive Within the Speed Limit10. Observe the Number Coding SchemeFinal Thoughts 1. Enroll in a Driving School For driving noobs, it isn’t enough to just get a driver’s license. More than having the license to drive a vehicle, arming yourself with knowledge about how to do it properly matters a lot. Just one seemingly simple driving mistake can claim lives. Or if you and your passengers come out unscathed from an accident, you’ll bear the high costs of having your car fixed, unless it’s insured. So before you drive for the first time, get training from a reputable driving school. Attending…
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Accredited Clinics and Physicians in Metro Manila for LTO License Registration and Renewal
- By Venus Zoleta
- January 21, 2019
The Land Transportation Office (LTO) has been implementing several changes to its driver’s license renewal and registration processes. Last year, the government agency launched an online appointment system called the LTO Online PASS for quicker car registration and license renewal transactions. This initiative elicited praises, criticisms, and confusion among vehicle owners in the Philippines. Starting January to February 2019, LTO offices all over the Philippines will accept only medical certificates issued by accredited physicians and submitted online. A medical certificate is one of the requirements for student permits, LTO license applications and renewals. Table of ContentsLTO Accredited Physicians and Clinics in Metro ManilaList of LTO Accredited Physicians and Clinics in Quezon City, Pasig, Taguig, Mandaluyong, and MarikinaList of LTO Accredited Physicians and Clinics in Manila, Muntinlupa, Malabon, Caloocan, Las Piñas, Parañaque, Pasay, and MakatiFinal Thoughts LTO Accredited Physicians and Clinics in Metro Manila How to know which clinics and doctors you can visit for your medical exam? If you’ll be applying for or renewing your LTO license in Metro Manila, check out this list of LTO accredited clinics and physicians (Updated as of January 18, 2019). List of LTO Accredited Physicians and Clinics in Quezon City, Pasig, Taguig, Mandaluyong, and Marikina NCR – East Clinic Address Contact Number Physician Name ANC Halili Medical Corp. Brgy. Kaligayahan, Novaliches, Quezon City (0915) 245-7637 Saises, Godofredo ANC Halili Medical Corp. Ynares Sports Arena Cmpd., Shaw Blvd., Pasig City 631-3675 Untayao, Wye Avenion Medical Services Inc Level 2 Alimall, Cubao, Quezon City 930-6174 Redada, Jenel Arugain Anm Medical Testing Center 151 San Roque 20th Mirasol, Cubao, Q.C Flores, Francis Eugene Aguilan…
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3 Sustainable Traffic Solutions the Philippines Can Learn From Other Countries
- By Venus Zoleta
- October 1, 2018
Driving isn’t more fun in the Philippines for motorists who battle it out on EDSA every day. The Philippines is the worst country to be a driver, ranking at the bottom of the Waze’s latest Driver Satisfaction Index. Metro Manila, in particular, is sorely lacking in urban planning and development. The government’s band-aid traffic solutions, such as the number coding scheme and the driver-only vehicle ban on EDSA, aren’t of much help. Also, several driving laws need to be updated to address road safety issues in the Philippines. To its credit, the government has been fast-tracking major infrastructure projects like new roads under the Build Build Build program. We also need more sustainable solutions to the country’s traffic problems. Let’s take a look at some traffic solutions implemented by other countries. Table of Contents1. Scramble CrossingsHow Scramble Crossings WorkCase Study #1: Tokyo’s Shibuya CrossingCase Study #2: LA’s Hollywood and Highland Intersection2. Bike Boxes at Traffic LightsHow Bike Boxes WorkCase Study: Taipei’s Motorcycle Boxes3. Public Bicycle-Sharing ProgramsHow Bicycle-Sharing Programs WorkCase Study: Hangzhou’s Public Bike-Sharing ProgramFinal Thoughts 1. Scramble Crossings Countries that implement this road rule: Australia, Canada, England, Japan, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Singapore, Taiwan, U.S., etc. Crossing in busy intersections in the Philippines (except those with overpasses or underpasses) is like playing patintero with death. But in other countries, pedestrians can rest easy knowing that no car will hit them while crossing the street, thanks to scramble crossings. How Scramble Crossings Work A scramble crossing keeps pedestrians safe by temporarily shutting down all traffic to vehicles for 15 seconds, allowing…
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Experience Hassle-Free Claims Processing at MoneyMax.ph!
- By Mayee Gonzales
- August 18, 2018
Got into a car accident? Get the most out of your insurance policy by filing a car insurance claim. Prepare necessary documents and head to our claims assistance form for a quick and hassle-free claims request. Below is a step-by-step guide in processing your claims request with MoneyMax.ph. *Please note that this service is ONLY for existing MoneyMax.ph car insurance customers. If you didn’t buy your policy from us but still push through with the assistance form, we will direct you to your provider. Table of ContentsPrepare RequirementsSecure a copy of the following documents:Head to Our Claims Assistance FormWait for Our Claims Team to Contact You Prepare Requirements Secure a copy of the following documents: 1. Unit Certificate of Registration (CR) 2. Annual Registration OR 3. Driver’s License of the driver in the accident 4. Incident Report (Police Report or Notarized Affidavit) 5. Pictures from the accident: – Damaged portion unit showing plate number – Side full view (damaged portion) – Focus on damaged portion 6. Repair estimate (preferably from an accredited shop of your provider) 7. Medical certificate and OR of treatment (for CTPL/Bodily Injury claim) 8. Towing OR (for Towing Reimbursement) Related: What You Need To Know About Your Towing Coverage Head to Our Claims Assistance Form Use our CLAIMS ASSISTANCE FORM when submitting your claims request. Just provide your complete name, email address, phone number, and answer other required fields so we can start processing your claims request. Wait for Our Claims Team to Contact You After submitting your claims request, expect a call from one of…
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I Got Into a Car Accident: Where Should I File a Vehicle Claim?
- By Venus Zoleta
- July 16, 2018
Filing a claim for car insurance can be inconvenient and stressful, especially when you’ve just figured in a road accident. Yet it has to be done. You need money for the auto repair and medical expenses, and so you must report a vehicle claim immediately. Where should you go after documenting the incident and getting a police report or a traffic-accident investigation report? The next step is to report the loss or damage either directly with your car insurance provider or through your agent or broker. Keep reading to learn the specifics of where you can claim car insurance in the Philippines. Read more: Road Accident Laws Motorists Should Know The Anti-Distracted Driving Act: How Helpful Is It in Preventing Road Accidents? Table of ContentsFiling a Claim Directly with the InsurerHow to Contact a Car Insurance Company When Filing a Vehicle ClaimFiling a Claim Through Your Car Insurance Agent or BrokerPAMI (for TNVS Operators)Final ThoughtsGet a Free Car Insurance Quote! Filing a Claim Directly with the Insurer If you prefer to handle everything in your claims processing—from filing a claim to getting an approval—then it makes sense to deal directly with the car insurance company. To file a vehicle claim, call, email, or visit your insurer’s claims services or customer service department. You’ll need to provide important details such as the nature and date of the incident, and your contact information. A claims service officer will guide you through the process, explaining the steps to filing a claim. You’ll also be provided with a list of requirements to submit, forms…
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New Ride-Hailing Apps You Can Use Besides Grab
- By Venus Zoleta
- May 22, 2018
Do you sorely miss Uber? That #sepanx feeling may soon be over because more ride-hailing choices have now become available for the frustrated commuter. The LTFRB recently accredited some TNVS companies to compete with Grab. The ride-hailing giant may still be the dominant player in the TNVS industry, but new ride-hailing companies promise lower fares and better services. Could we finally say goodbye to overpriced fares and choosy, rude drivers soon? A recent Boston Consulting Group study[1] found that one in five (19%) commuters in Manila use ride-hailing apps for their daily commutes, with the city being the most reliant on TNVS in Southeast Asia. This means a huge demand needs to be filled—and Grab can’t do it alone. The new ride-hailing companies couldn’t come at a better time. Get to know the six new ride-sharing apps you can use as alternatives to Grab. Table of Contents1. Go Lag2. Hirna3. HYPE4. Micab5. OWTO6. U-HOPComparing Ride-Hailing ServicesFinal Thoughts 1. Go Lag Type: Ride-hailing service Base fare: PHP 40 – PHP 90 Rate per km: PHP 14 – PHP 18 Rate per minute: PHP 2 Surge rate: Up to 1.5x Cancellation fee: None Service areas: Metro Manila, Laguna, Bulacan, Cavite, and Rizal Start of operation: Not yet announced Go Lag[2] is a transport network company that’s similar to any regulated taxi or rent-a-car company in the Philippines. Its name is a shortened version of “Go Laguna,” the province where the ride-hailing service is based. In media interviews, Go Lag said it would charge lower rates[3] than other TNVS companies, especially during rush hour….
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Carpooling in the Philippines: Weighing the Pros and Cons
- By Venus Zoleta
- May 5, 2018
Thinking of cutting your car ownership costs? Carpooling is the way to go, especially now that your options for ride-hailing services in the Philippines have become limited. When you carpool, you either gather or join a group of people living in your area to take a single car to a common destination or to several stops along the route. A great transport option as it may be, carpooling is not for everyone. Before jumping on the carpool bandwagon, consider its pros and cons first. Table of Contents6 Carpooling BenefitsLower Car-Related CostsConvenient and Comfortable CommutesFewer Cars on the RoadLess Air PollutionSystematic and Organized CoordinationSocializing and Networking Opportunities4 Carpooling DisadvantagesResponsibility for Passenger SafetyNot FlexibleLonger and Unpredictable Travel TimeNo Privacy and Quiet TimeFinal Thoughts 6 Carpooling Benefits Lower Car-Related Costs Cutting down the costs of owning a car is the biggest motivation for Pinoys to try carpooling. Riders typically share the expenses and in some carpool groups, cars get rotated daily or weekly, so you don’t have to drive your car every day. You’ll save money on fuel, parking, maintenance (driving less often causes less wear and tear), and other expenses. Saving on car expenses from carpooling is one thing; earning profit from it is another. If you are the designated driver in a carpool and accept payment from riders for your services, you’ll need to get a franchise from the LTFRB[1]. Otherwise, you’ll run the risk of paying hefty penalties for colorum or illegal operation. Convenient and Comfortable Commutes Compared to riding public transport or driving your own car, carpooling provides more convenience and comfort. No hulas and buwis-buhay moments…
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What Should I Do If My Car Breaks Down on the Road?
- By Venus Zoleta
- April 28, 2018
Looking stressed and helpless while stranded on the highway with a busted engine or flat tire is every motorist’s worst nightmare. But car breakdowns do happen, and they’re both dangerous and costly. So how do you ensure your safety during a roadside emergency? Here are some life-saving tips to keep in mind when your car breaks down on the highway. Table of ContentsGet Your Car Safely Out of TrafficGive Emergency Signals to Other DriversCall for HelpBe Careful When Talking to StrangersFinal ThoughtsGet a Free Car Insurance Quote! Get Your Car Safely Out of Traffic At the first sign of a car breakdown[1], like a squealing or hissing sound while you drive, pull over to the roadside immediately. Don’t stop in the middle of the road and try to fix your car or change your tire. You’ll just put yourself at risk, block the flow of traffic, and cause hassle to fellow motorists. Also, the MMDA doesn’t allow it on Metro Manila roads. Just keep your cool while slowing down, smoothly taking your foot off the accelerator. Don’t brake hard or suddenly. If you can drive to the closest emergency bay, do it to avoid getting your car towed and issued a ticket for a traffic violation (e.g., illegal parking). Carefully watch oncoming traffic through your car mirrors if you have to switch lanes. Remember to turn on your signal lights to warn drivers behind you that you’ll change lanes[2]. Be extra cautious when a truck, bus, or any huge vehicle is trailing you. As much as possible, stay away from…
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Motorists, Watch Out for Wheel Clamping in Makati and BGC
- By Mayee Gonzales
- April 21, 2018
Your days of parking-wherever-you-want is over, especially when in Makati and Bonifacio Global City. In an effort to prevent congestion, enhance traffic flow, and support pedestrian priority programs, the Fort Bonifacio Development Corporation (FBDC) started to implement wheel clamping operations last Sunday, April 15. Makati, on the other hand, has set stricter wheel clamping rules this year as support to a city ordinance passed in 2014. Table of ContentsWhat is wheel clamping?Illegal parking? I was just running an errand.What should I do if an officer clamps my vehicle?When your vehicle is clamped in BGC:When your vehicle is clamped in Makati:Will wheel clamps damage my car?Final Thoughts What is wheel clamping? Wheel clamping is a less obstructive way of “towing” a vehicle. It was first employed in Denver, Colorado as a mean to punish drivers with outstanding parking tickets. Thus, it’s nickname “Denver Boot.” In the Philippines, designated officers and MMDA personnel attach wheel clamps to unauthorized or illegally parked vehicles. Wheel clamps are made of steel and rubber, and are typically color orange or yellow. Illegal parking? I was just running an errand. Makati and BGC officers aren’t lenient when it comes to unauthorized parking. Motorists should always park their vehicles in authorized parking spaces even if they are only dropping by or running a quick errand. FBDC General Manager Jun Galvez also said that despite reprimanding illegally parked vehicles[1], motorists still commit the violation ultimately contributing to traffic build up in the city. When in Makati, keep in mind of the following street parking rules[2] to avoid wheel clamping….
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7 Dos and Don’ts to Remember When Your Car Gets Towed
- By Venus Zoleta
- April 18, 2018
Has this ever happened to you? You park your car on the street for a quick errand or to find someone to help you change your flat tire. A few minutes later, you return to the spot where you’ve left your car. Much to your surprise and dismay, your car is no longer there. Isn’t that frustrating? And, as if life is making a mockery out of it, you’ve just noticed a “No Parking” sign near the place where you parked your now-missing car. Oh, snap. Your car got towed! While towing isn’t as bad as carnapping, it’s a situation you don’t want to be caught in. But then you have to deal with it—the hassle and expenses included. What to do and not to do? Read on to know how to properly handle an unexpected car towing incident. Table of Contents1. Know Your Rights as a Motorist2. Call the MMDA Hotline3. Gather All Relevant Information4. Document the Towing Incident5. Don’t Offer Bribe or Agree to Bribery6. Get Your Towed Car Back7. File a Formal ComplaintFinal Thoughts 1. Know Your Rights as a Motorist If your vehicle is towed without your knowledge, it’s likely because you parked it illegally. Of course, you have to own up to your mistake—it’s a traffic violation, after all. But know that even if you’ve broken a traffic rule, you’re still entitled to your rights against unfair practices such as illegal towing. One of the first things you need to do after your car has been towed is to check if any towing rule was violated….
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Car Towing Rules Motorists Should Know to Avoid Illegal Towing Scams
- By Venus Zoleta
- April 17, 2018
Has your car ever been towed? If you’ve never experienced it, consider yourself lucky. Getting your car towed could be very stressful and nerve-wracking, more so if your rights as a motorist are violated. Illegal towing isn’t uncommon in Metro Manila roads. Several times every day, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) receives complaints about illegal towing activities, ranging from tow units with no license plates and rude behaviors of towing personnel to extortion and charging of high fees. Protect yourself and your vehicle against unscrupulous tow truck companies. Know the towing rules and your rights when your car is towed. Table of ContentsWhy Do Cars Get Towed?Towing Due To Illegal ParkingTowing Due To Vehicle Stalling or AccidentWho Can Tow Cars?What’s the Proper Towing Process?Towing Illegally Parked VehiclesTowing Stalled VehiclesHow Much are the Towing Fees?Who’s Liable For Any Damage to the Towed Car?Final Thoughts Why Do Cars Get Towed? To prevent your car from getting hauled, you must avoid these three situations: illegal parking, vehicle breakdown, and road accident. MMDA or any of its accredited companies can tow your car under one of these circumstances. Towing Due To Illegal Parking Of the three reasons for car towing, illegal parking is the one you have the most control over. Even if it’s difficult to find a parking spot, never park your car on the street, especially one with a “No Parking” sign. This is what a motorist learned the hard way[1] when his vehicle—with his two kids inside—was towed in Makati last year. A mistake as simple as parking one’s car in the…
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9 Driving Mistakes That are Most Likely to Kill You
- By Venus Zoleta
- March 18, 2018
1,380—that’s the number of deaths from 19,000 road accidents in the Philippines in the first eight months of 2017, based on a Philippine National Police-Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG) report. That means five people are killed on the road every day. The culprit? Human error[1]. Yes, driving mistakes can cost lives. If these facts don’t alarm you, what else will? You don’t want yourself and your family to be part of the statistics. Make road safety a priority. It all starts with self-awareness. Are you a bad driver? Are you mindful of your own driving habits? Before honking again at a fellow motorist, make sure the person behind your steering wheel isn’t guilty of these deadly driving mistakes. Table of Contents1. Forgetting to Check Your BLOWBAGETS2. Failing to Buckle Up3. Drunk Driving4. Bad Overtaking5. Bad Turning6. Texting While Driving7. Overspeeding8. Going Beast Mode9. Ignoring Car InsuranceFinal ThoughtsSources: 1. Forgetting to Check Your BLOWBAGETS Ensuring road safety starts even before you take your car out of the garage. Ever heard of the motoring term BLOWBAGETS? Coined by the PNP-HPG, it stresses the value of checking your vehicle’s condition, specifically the following: Battery Light Oil Water Brakes Air Gas Engine Tools Self Failure to spot early signs of damage may cause some parts of your car to suddenly explode. Check your owner’s manual for the maintenance schedule of each car component. If you detect a problem, have it fixed at the nearest mechanic. 2. Failing to Buckle Up Everyone knows that wearing a seat belt is crucial to road safety. This is one of…
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Best Stores in the Philippines to Get Car Accessories
- By Mayee Gonzales
- January 9, 2018
Experienced car owners know that a little wax and customization can do a lot even on the dirtiest and oldest vehicle. However, when service centers aren’t enough and you want to do these by yourself, you need to invest on products that can make your vehicle look (and feel) brand new. Sounds great, right? For rookies, the first step is to find an establishment that can provide your automotive needs. Thankfully, there’s a considerable amount of car accessory stores in Metro Manila. From big names to small establishments, we listed the notable ones below. Related: 6 Reliable Auto Repair Shops in Metro Manila for Car Repair and Maintenance Table of ContentsBig Names in the MarketBladeConcordeAce HardwareTrue ValueSmall Businesses for Car AccessoriesAudionel Car AccessoriesAutoline PhilippinesAutoworkz Car AccessoriesCopperblue Car Accessories CenterL.A. Car Accessories and Tint RoomShark Philippines Car AccessoriesFinal Thoughts Big Names in the Market Finding a store that sell quality car accessories can be daunting, especially when you don’t know where to look. Don’t be intimidated by this. Here are four of the best car accessory shops that you can find in malls. Blade Blade, undoubtedly, is one of the biggest names when it comes to car accessories in the Philippines. Established in 1994, the company offers a wide selection of car products, including auto electronics, cleaning materials, oils and fluids, and interior and exterior accessories. They also offer performance parts, wheels, and tires, making them the one-stop-accessory-shop of car owners in the country. If there’s one thing that sets Blade apart, it’s their own line of car accessory products. Their…
