Owning a car is no child’s play, well, it can be, if it’s a toy car. It takes some level of responsibility to own a vehicle, just because you can buy one doesn’t mean you can afford one or that you should own it.
The fact that owning/driving a vehicle could constitute a problem to a person, his/her finances, well-being, and do exact same to other road users. Anyone that chooses to own a vehicle has to be prepared for the responsibility that comes with it. Beside the economics of owning a vehicle, it is important other factors are considered when determining one’s capacity to own one. Better still, there are certain things that must be known about owning/driving a vehicle.
Learn to drive
Whoever intends to operate a motor vehicle must first learn to drive. Not just about learning but knowing how to drive properly. In Nigeria, there are laws that guide everything and everyone involved in road traffic. Same law stipulates the stages that an intending driver has to go through to obtain a driver’s license.
- He/She must have gone to a driving school, learn how to drive, have adequate knowledge of road signs, road safety rules, be an adult of at least 18 years
- The driving school will then present candidate to the Vehicle Inspection Officer (VIO) for a driving test.
- Pass the driving test and obtain a certificate of proficiency from the VIO.
- Complete the driver’s licence application form at the Driver’s Licence Centre (DLC).
- Pay the licence fee online or at the Bank.
- Present application form to the Board of Internal Revenue (BIR) Officer and VIO at the DLC for endorsement.
- Proceed to the FRSC Officer at the DLC for biometric data capture.
- Obtain a temporary driver’s licence valid for 60 days.
- Pick up original driver’s licence at the BIR Office after 60 days.
Passing this test and fulfilling all requirements of obtaining a driving license, makes anyone eligible to obtain operate a motor vehicle in Nigeria and some other countries.
Should a car be purchased for its reputation?
A few weeks back, we extensively discussed “how to purchase a vehicle”. Should a car be purchased for its reputation, because it is popular or trending? Yes! However, one must ensure that there is professional guidance in doing so. It is okay to buy a car for its reputation, be it safety record, maintenance record, fuel efficiency, second-hand value and general cost of ownership. All these are valid reasons to choose a vehicle, it is however also important that there are empirical facts to back such claims, not sensational hype.
Have a budget
In my opinion, one should avoid any vehicle that he/she cannot afford to replace all the tires at once, as this is one of the most basic maintenance item on the vehicle. It is essential to have a budget which will guide in scrutinizing various options and have the knowledge of what is intended for acquisition of the vehicle, while keeping in mind the cost of ownership.
Options could vary from a Sedan, Crossover SUV, Full SUV, Trucks, Sports Car among others, one should be able to make conscious decision about which to acquire after every consideration.
Unforeseen vehicle-related issues
Be prepared to encounter unforeseen challenges related to the vehicle. To be able to manage these issues, vehicle owners should endeavor to carry out some research before acquisition, this enables clear understanding of the make, model and brand. There is access to online forums or manufacturer recall documents if one digs deep enough on the internet. Talk to specialists, experts and well informed people about the vehicle, listen to their take and opinion, even if it comes at a fee!
Incidental expenses
Owning a vehicle comes with unplanned and incidental expenses. This is imminent, especially in a clime like ours. Bad roads could cause unreasonable wear and tear on the vehicle thereby shortening the lifespan of components, when it occurs, it has to either get fixed or it gets grounded. A vehicle is indifferent about the state of affairs, especially finances of its owner. Sometimes, a fault develops due to lack of proper maintenance or just pure negligence on the part of the owner, this is why preventive maintenance is extremely important . Ask specialists to minimize or eradicate the possibilities of incidental expenses.
Convenience is guaranteed
There is usually an upside, one can be assured of convenience and comfort as a car owner. However, it can be discomforting to own a vehicle that is defective or plagued with perennial problems. Though it is quite enjoyable to get into one’s vehicle whenever desired, as well as the comfort of not having to hitch-hike, it does not come cheap. One must thrive to maintain it in order to keep it reliable and if able to keep it in a good condition, one is guaranteed safety, fuel efficiency, and a vehicular asset beholds the person.
Insurance
As a car owner insurance is a must. The basic minimum required by law, is the 3rd Party. 3rd Party Insurance only covers repairs and few other things on the 3rd party vehicle, not insured’s vehicle. Comprehensive insurance cover will take care of both vehicles and other ancillary costs, this is known to save any vehicle owner so much in the event of an accident.
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