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An SUV is a powerful automobile with four-wheel drive that can be driven over bumpy roads. It combines the features of passenger vehicles with the features of off-road vehicles. You can always find a used SUV with plenty of life still in it. The following examples of used SUV cars have top dependability scores from J.D. Power. J.D. Power's Dependability score is a mixture of quality and dependability scores.  It is a score out of 100 given to each model per year, and is determined by consumer insights, resale, dealership, experience, and performance ratings. more 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan The 2014 Volkswagen Tiguan is a small SUV with a J.D. Power Dependability score of 81 out of 100. SUV owners who dwell in the city will enjoy its accurate steering and compact design that makes it a good car to move through traffic and also to squeeze into close-fitting parking spots. 2015 Hyundai Tucson The 2015 Hyundai Tucson is diminutive and is another small SUV with a high J.D. Power Dependability score. This one received an 80 out of 100. Its small size and car-like handling make it easy to drive around town. It is very reliable and also very affordable. 2015 Audi Q3 The 2015 Audi Q3 is a small premium SUV with a J.D. Power Dependability score of 87 out of 100. The interior layout and the driving dynamics are all excellent are a great reason to single it out as a noteworthy option. 2014 Toyota FJ Cruiser The 2014 Toyota FJ Cruiser is a very compact SUV with J.D. Power Dependability score of 84 out of 100. It has a very rugged body that contributes to an overall blocky look which has a resemblance to the 1960s Toyota J40 Land Cruiser. Its off-road capability is also very good, and coupled with its high dependability score, this vehicle will appeal to SUV-lovers looking for a used SUV they can off-road in. 2015 Chevrolet Equinox The 2015 Chevrolet Equinox is another compact SUV with J.D. Power Dependability score of 82 out of 100. There are many models of this SUV on the road today because of the obvious merit of the vehicle. It has good fuel economy and lots of interior room. 2014 and 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLK Both the 2014 and 2015 models of the Mercedes-Benz GLK are compact premium SUVs. The 2014 model has J.D. Power Dependability score of 89 out of 100 while that of 2015 has J.D. Power Dependability score of 87 out of 100. These models of SUV cars have managed to hold on to the top dependability spot in the past two dependability ratings. You should understand that for used vehicles, maintenance history, repair history, and other factors can greatly affect the value and dependability of a particular vehicle, even a high-rated one, and turn it into an undesirable car. You should still follow the best practices to make a good choice when you shop for a used SUV. Image via Pixabay.com

Just because you're looking for a used car instead of a new one, doesn't mean you have to sacrifice quality and safety to stay within your budget. When you're shopping for your next vehicle, you can enjoy more peace of mind when you check out these safe used cars for every budget. Under $20,000 The Honda Accord proves you don't have to give up style or safety when you're shopping for a used car. If you choose the 2016 model of this sleek and modern sedan, you'll be looking at spending around $16,000. You'll also discover an impressive variety of safety features. Both the coupe and sedan models are available with Honda Sensing, which is a suite of safety technologies that include automatic emergency braking, road departure mitigation, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. more Even better, the 2016 Honda Accord received five stars from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Top Safety Pick+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Under $15,000 If you're searching for a used car that's under $15,000, consider the Mazda 3. This compact car offers a fun drive, yet it's still a sensible pick for anyone on a budget. Even though it's small enough to easily fit into tight parking spaces, you'll still find plenty of room inside to load up friends or family for an afternoon out. If you get a 2016 model, you can expect to pay around $12,000, and you'll enjoy standard safety features that include a rearview camera and dual front air bags. If you get a higher trim level, you might also find available safety features that include a blind-spot warning system, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic high beams, lane departure warning, and forward emergency braking. Under $10,000 If you think you're limited to a sedan when you're shopping for a safe used car, think again. The 2011 Kia Sportage is one good option you can find for around $9,000. This compact SUV comes standard with a 2.4-liter engine that pumps out 176 horsepower for an exciting drive. In addition to an engaging drive, the 2011 Sportage was also a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Other safety features that come standard on the Sportage include anti-lock brakes, hill start assist, downhill brake control, electronic brake distribution, brake assist, stability control, and a tire pressure monitoring system. Under $5,000 The Toyota Sienna is another great option to consider if you're looking for a safe and budget-friendly used car. The 2010 models of this minivan tend to go for under $5,000. Some Sienna models come with all-wheel drive to help you handle a variety of road conditions. In addition to this great safety feature, you'll also enjoy plenty of room for everyone in the family since it seats up to seven people. Whether you're making the daily commute to work or driving your family around, you want a vehicle that's safe and reliable. Fortunately, you can stay within your budget and still get a safe vehicle when you choose one of these excellent options. Image via Pixabay.com

Fort Smith, Arkansas, has an awesome variety of places to grab a drink. Whether you want to watch a game, shoot some pool, hang out with friends, or go on a date night, the city has the perfect venue for you. Here are a few of the best bars in town. Core Public House For a great selection of craft beers and a friendly neighborhood vibe, head to the Core Public House on Rogers Avenue. It's the type of bar where you can walk in as a stranger and leave feeling like a local. You can sit at the tables or grab a spot at the sociable U-shaped bar. more All the beers are from the Core Brewing & Distilling Company, and the friendly and knowledgeable bar tenders are happy to describe the wide variety of different brews for you. They don't serve food, but you can buy locally-made popcorn or take in your own food. 906 Cocktail and Cigar Lounge The 906 Cocktail and Cigar Lounge on Garrison Avenue offers an upscale yet relaxed bar experience. The elegant decor and furniture make you feel like you're in a special place. The bar features a walk-in humidor offering some of the world's finest cigars. The personable staff will help you with your drink and cigar choices. They also offer a variety of food. Choose from a variety of expertly mixed cocktails, an extensive range of bourbons, whiskey, and cognacs, and 12 craft beers from around the country. Relax in the comfortable seating and enjoy the sophisticated ambience, have a game of shuffleboard, or enjoy the live jazz music Thursday through Saturday. The bar has excellent ventilation, so it doesn't get too smoky. Uncork'd Located on Phoenix Avenue, Uncork'd is a unique bar with stunning wood decor and a huge wine barrel ceiling that give it a cool modern vibe. You can relax by the fire in the main bar, chill out on the patio, or enjoy the cigar room with its self-serve bourbon taps and a clean air system that keeps it smoke free. Take advantage of happy hour served until 6 p.m. daily. Enomatic machines enable you to serve yourself from a selection of 32 wines in 1- to 6-ounce pours. More than 30 craft beers are available on tap. The unusual cocktails on offer include hibiscus margarita, blackberry smash, caramel apple cider mimosa, and the dark and stormy, which has dark rum, ginger beer, and lime. To satisfy your appetite, you can order from a choice of tapas dishes or full plates. Papa's Pub and Pizzaria Papa's Pub and Pizzaria on Garrison Avenue was voted as the best bar and pizza in Fort Smith in 2018. Papa's is a cool neighborhood dive bar with pool tables and many TVs showing sports. The friendly bar tenders make sure that you're looked after, even when the place is busy. They even have a cell-free zone where, if your phone rings, you have to buy a round of drinks. These bars all offer a very different experience, and there's sure to be one to suit your taste. Image via Pixabay.com

Fort Smith, Arkansas, has a great choice of restaurants serving awesome burgers. Here are just a few of the best. George's Restaurant Opened in 1982, family-owned and operated George's Restaurant on Grand Avenue has been a Fort Smith favorite for more than 37 years. The simple decor and welcoming servers give this family-friendly restaurant a down-home diner vibe, and the shop claims to serve “the best burgers in town.” For an appetizer, you could have nachos, quesadillas, or the homemade fries with cheese or gravy. There's a good range of salads, sandwiches, and wraps. The variety of hand-patted burgers includes mushroom Swiss, jalapeno, feta, chili cheese, and the salmon burger. Alternative dishes include catfish filet, Greek spaghetti, chicken fried steak, fried shrimp dinner, and hamburger steak. Save room for the homemade desserts. more Patrick's Butcher Boy Burgers Located at the Green Pointe Shopping Center on Rogers Avenue, Patrick's Butcher Boy Burgers is an unpretentious burger joint. The family-owned restaurant features some eclectic artwork and an amazing fish tank that creates a talking point. The burgers are made from top-grade beef that has never been frozen and is fresh ground daily, and the fries are hand cut. The menu offers burgers alongside the Coach's Combo, Kid's Combo, Chicken Combo, Salmon Combo, grilled cheese, and BLT. You can add your choice of cheese, bacon, onions mushrooms, jalapenos, pineapple, or egg. As a healthy option, try raw or grilled broccoli and carrots. Yellow Umbrella The Yellow Umbrella is a great old fashioned carry-out burger stand on South Greenwood Avenue. It offers a complete change from the typical fast food places with its friendly personal service and high quality food. There are a few covered picnic tables to eat at. The simple menu features a variety of burgers, including the double meat, barbecue, chili, and bacon burgers. You can also get hot dogs, chili dogs, corn dogs, sandwiches, and specials like the Frito chili pie and chili fries. For dessert, try the shakes, ice cream, or snow cones. Ed Walker's Drive-In Ed Walker's Drive-In on Towson Avenue opened as a gas station in 1943. The owners saw the potential to feed hungry customers and added a hamburger stand. The current owners have retained many of the original features of this old-style diner, and it looks much the same as it did in the 1950s but with all the modern amenities. If you park outside and flash your headlights, you'll get some good old-fashioned curbside beer service. The handmade burger patties are served in 1/3 pound, 1/2 pound, and the biggest burger in Arkansas at a whopping 5 pounds. Sides include curly Q fries, jalapeno poppers, and Texas toothpicks. On the “Something Waaay Different!” menu are treats like Captain Ted's Fish on a Bun, the Big Red Burger, and the Bison Burger. Another specialty is the French dipped sandwiches. Each of these restaurants put its own unique twist on the classic American burger, but they will all leave you feeling satisfied. Image via Pixabay.com

Fall is a wonderful time to get out and enjoy some fun activities in Fort Smith. Grab your friends and family and enjoy these upcoming events in town. 1. Taste of Fort Smith Upgrade your everyday lunch at a Taste of Fort Smith on Tuesday, October 29. The event is held from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m. at Exhibit Hall ABC. While you walk around, interact with a variety of local vendors that offer unique takes on food and drinks. The lunch session runs from 11 a.m.-1 p.m, while dinner service is from 5:30-7:30 p.m. All attendees over age six need tickets for both sessions. more 2. 2019 Murder and Mayhem Haunted Trolley Tour Start your Halloween celebration with a spooky and fun trolley tour through town. The 2019 Murder and Mayhem Haunted Trolley Tour is open to participants 21 and over. It costs $100 per person and starts at 5:30 p.m. on October 25, 26, 29, and 30. During the tour, enjoy a variety of haunted stories while indulging in snacks and cocktails or wine. As the trolley makes its way through town, it will stop twice, once for dinner and drinks and a second time for dessert. 3. Vintage Masquerade Ball Wrap up your Halloween celebration at the second annual Vintage Masquerade Ball on Saturday, November 2 at 6:30 p.m. Ball attendees must be at least 21. The proceeds from the evening benefit local charities. During the event, enjoy dancing in addition to door prizes and delicious food. Alpha Audio and The Allison Grace Band will perform in the upstairs space, while a performance by the Community School of the Arts can be enjoyed in the first floor lobby. 4. Fort Smith Symphony: The Sounds of Hollywood If you are not going to the Masquerade Ball, check out the Fort Smith Symphony playing the Sounds of Hollywood instead. The concert takes place on Saturday, November 2 at 7:30 p.m. in the Arc Best Performing Arts Center. During the show, enjoy selections from hit movies including Interstellar, Pirates of the Caribbean, Back to the Future, and Batman The Dark Knight. There will also be multimedia presentations throughout the evening. Tickets for the event cost between $45 and $50. 5. Konsplosion! Fort Smith hosts the River Valley Comic-Con Konsplosion! November 15-17. It takes place at the Fort Smith Convention Center, weekend passes cost $35 for adults and $25 for kids. During the event, enjoy a nerf-style battle arena. There is also a Crossplay Conquest, a cosplay drag show. Fire and Poi Spinning shows will take place throughout the event. You can also meet Bill Blair from Alien. The Texas Heart Nerdlesque is also scheduled to appear. The convention is open to all ages and will feature a variety of panel discussions throughout the weekend. There is also a vendor room to check out as well as an artist alley. As you plan your events calendar, you may want to keep an extra jacket handy in case the weather cools. Don't forget your camera to capture these memorable events! Image via Pixabay.com

Are you looking to expand your palette for Asian cuisine? Fort Smith has some delicious options to choose from for both lunch and dinner. 1. Asian Bistro The Asian Bistro is on Market Trace. This relaxed restaurant is open seven days a week for both lunch and dinner. Monday through Saturday they are open from 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. On Sunday, they open at 11:30 a.m. There are tables if you want to stay and enjoy your meal. You may also order online or over the phone to enjoy your meal at home. One menu highlights include the spring roll appetizers. They also have a pu pu platter, a variety of appetizers including egg rolls, chicken on a stick, and crab rangoon. more The main menu features both lo mein and mei fun noodles mixed with a variety of meats and vegetables. Seafood fans can enjoy shrimp-heavy dishes such as spicy curry shrimp, shrimp with cashew nuts, and shrimp with mixed vegetables. Kids can choose from sweet and sour chicken or fried chicken with fries. 2. Tassanee's Thai Cuisine Enjoy a night of Thai food at Tassanee's Thai Cuisine on Dodson Avenue. The location is open six days a week, from 10:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m. They are closed on Sunday. Some of the menu highlights include a variety of Thai salads like Yum Nor, which is a spicy beef salad. They also have the Yum Talay, a Thai salad with mixed seafood. Sticky rice fans have a choice between fried pork and chicken wings. They combine all of the rice dishes with chili sauce. If you are looking for a vegan option, consider their soup offerings. The coconut soup known as Tom Kha has a rich, creamy coconut broth infused with lime juice, fish sauce, and chili oil. It comes with steamed rice. Other vegan and gluten-free options include the yellow curry and pad broccoli stir-fry. Pair your meal with a Thai ice tea to finish off the experience. 3. Smile Bull Smile Bull is a delicious Asian option with a three-mile delivery range. They are located on Rogers Avenue and are open seven days a week. Monday they only have lunch service from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, they offer lunch and dinner service from 10:30 a.m.-9:00 p.m. The menu features a mix of Vietnamese, Japanese, Chinese, and Thai dishes. Enjoy crispy duck or roast duck as an entree. Both dishes are a half duck with steamed rice. Try a Vietnamese rice bowl with chicken, beef, or shrimp and noodles. The Thai curry selection includes a Thai pineapple curry or Thai peanut curry. The peanut curry includes peanut sauce stir-fried with broccoli and bell pepper. Save room for a fried ice cream dessert to finish your meal. Bring your friends or family along with you to each location. The meal will give you a chance to connect with them as you both try new cuisine for the first time. Recommend your favorites to a friend. Image via Pixabay.com

Buying a used car is an exciting process, but it can also be a little nerve-wracking. You want to make sure you buy the best vehicle at the best price, and that you have all the information required to make an informed decision. Next time you're in the market for a vehicle, keep these questions on the top of your mind. They will make the shopping process easier and more enjoyable. 1. Can you test drive the vehicle? You should always take your potential vehicle for a test drive. Before talking price with the dealer, make sure you can take the car for a test drive. You might even be able to take an extended or overnight drive. Offer proof of insurance and put it in writing that you'll bring the car back with a full tank of gas and less than 100 new miles on the odometer. The longer the test drive, the better. That's how you can find out if it's really the used car of your dreams...or a dud. more 2. Has the dealer done any service on the vehicle? You could be test driving a car that has sat on the dealership's lot for weeks or months. Ask the dealer if they've done any repairs or maintenance since they received the vehicle. This could help you save money. If they have serviced the car recently, you won't have to deal with repairs soon after purchasing the vehicle. Additionally, you should ask if the car has ever been in an accident. Even if it looks fine on the outside, it could have issues inside. 3. What about the certification? For a vehicle in the best possible condition, you want to look for a manufacturer-certified pre-owned car. These have gone through an extensive investigation and inspection process. Ask to see the certification paperwork so you can look over the inspection notes, check the mechanical condition, and understand future service needs. Certified pre-owned cars have become more and more popular, as they are often low-mileage lease returns that have been maintained by the dealer. 4. Does the dealership accept trade-ins? If the dealership will handle this for you, selling your old vehicle is one more thing you can check off your to-do list. This will save you the hassle of selling your car and help pay for your new used car. Remember, you can get a better price and a smoother transaction if you trade in a car similar to the ones the car dealership stocks. 5. Are there any finance or lease agreements available? This answer to this question will depend on the dealership. Many newer franchise dealers offer manufacturer-backed financing. Make sure the rate is equal to or lower than what your bank or credit union would offer. Alongside the natural stress of searching for a new car, the process should be enjoyable. Hopefully these questions will help you feel more confident and clear-headed the next time you are visiting used-car dealerships. Good luck, and happy car shopping! Image via Flickr by Jackie.Ick

Traveling with your family is the perfect time to make memories. Before you leave on your next adventure, consider the vehicle you are driving. If you like the idea of a minivan, the 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan is perfect for your next trip. Buying a  used van saves money that you can use during your vacation. Seating There is no reason to leave anyone home from the road trip. The 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan has plenty of space for seven people to ride comfortably. The seats are spread out over three rows. The back row is a bench seat that helps with cargo space when it is not needed. You have your choice between either cloth or leather seats. If you're planning a road trip during colder months, enjoy the heated front seats. more Cargo Space All four trim levels of the Grand Caravan have plenty of cargo space for anything you need on your trip. With all seven seats occupied, 33 cubic feet of space is available. If you don't need seating for seven, the third row folds flat into the floor. You can use the extra space for a cooler, more bags, or anything else you need for your trip. If you are only traveling with one other person, the second row also folds down for a maximum cargo capacity of 143.8 cubic feet of space. Technology for the Driver The van is full of plenty of technology to help you enjoy your road trip. It starts with a heated steering wheel to keep you comfortable in colder months. Take advantage of the remote start system during lousy weather so the van is ready to go as soon as you step inside. It also includes cruise control standard for open roads that allow you to take your foot off the gas. Many of the trims also feature a power liftgate, making it easier to load and unload all of your gear. Use the rearview camera to get a good look at your surroundings before leaving a parking space. The Bluetooth audio connection means you can make hands-free phone calls and keep you eyes on the road. Keep Everybody Entertained One of the most important aspects of planning family travel is entertainment. Luckily, the van takes care of everyone's entertainment needs on the road for you. Use your steering wheel-mounted controls to find the perfect radio station to fit the mood, whether you want something fun during the day or slower for an overnight drive. All of the trims except for the SE include satellite radio. Ask the kids to bring a movie or two to watch along the way. A DVD player and video monitor are standard equipment in the GT and SXT trims. USB connections for charging or playing music from your MP3 player are standard in all four trims. All of the vans also include an auxiliary audio plug. Stop by Rath Auto in Fort Smith today to explore our 2018 Grand Caravans in person. We'll help you find the perfect minivan before you start making memories on the road. Image via Flickr by nybuspics

Shopping for a vehicle, whether it's new or used, can be a stressful experience. It's a large purchase, and since there are so many vehicles available, you want to do your research but still get a good deal. Shopping for a used vehicle is a smart financial decision, but there are several tips you should consider before signing on the dotted line. Research the Vehicle If you're looking to save money, look at several different manufacturers. Think about making a list of three vehicles that fit your budget and meet all of your needs. There are numerous websites that offer reviews of specific models and trims. Utilize these resources so you can learn more about the vehicle before purchasing it. Kelley Blue Book is a valuable resource that can help you know how much to expect to pay. more Review the Vehicle History Report With used vehicles, you don't know for certain what happened to the vehicle before it landed on the car lot. Was it involved in a fender bender? Are there serious issues pertaining to the vehicle's engine? Was the vehicle deemed totaled by the insurance company? One of the best places to research the vehicle's history is Carfax, as it provides you with the history of the vehicle. Some dealerships will run this report for you, but you can run the report yourself as long as you have the vehicle identification number (VIN). Take a Test Drive It's important to get behind the wheel of the vehicle you're looking to purchase. This gives you a chance to see if you're comfortable driving it and how well it handles. Try to take the vehicle through a variety of situations, such as on the highway, up and down hills, and along rough pavement. Determine if the brakes respond correctly, pay attention to blind spots, and listen for any unusual noises that could indicate worn tires. After the test drive, go into the back seat and check leg- and headroom. Don't forget to look in the trunk as well. Get the Vehicle Inspected Take the vehicle to a trustworthy mechanic to make sure it operates as it should. You might be able to look at the vehicle's frame and engine on your own, but the mechanic can run basic tests for about $100. Even if the seller claims there are no issues with the vehicle, you should take the vehicle to get a second opinion. However, if you're purchasing a used vehicle that's part of a certified pre-owned (CPO) program, these vehicles are thoroughly inspected and include an extended factory warranty. You don't necessarily need to take CPO vehicles to a mechanic. A used car is just as important a purchase as a new vehicle, as it provides you with transportation to get from one place to the next. If you're interested in purchasing a used vehicle, contact the professionals at Rath Auto Resources. They can answer any questions you might have so that you can drive off in an affordable and durable used vehicle. Image via Flickr by Crown Star Images

Finding the perfect date night spot can be difficult. Do you opt for something outdoors, not knowing what the weather will be like in a few days? Do you select a restaurant, even though you aren't sure what type of food your date prefers? Why not have a list of places so you can keep your options open. If you find yourself in the Fort Smith, Arkansas, area in need of perfect date night spots, keep this list handy. Ben Geren Park If you're an outdoorsy person, consider bringing your date to Ben Geren Park, which is found on Zero Street. Bring your tennis rackets and play a set or two of tennis on the six lighted tennis courts, or try your hand at the disc golf course, which is the largest in the area thanks to two 18-hole courses. If traditional golf is more your style, play a round or two at the area's only 27-hole mini-golf course known as Gator Golf. Consider starting your date during the day to play a round or two of golf at the park's premier public golf course. more Bowling World Located on South 36th Street, Bowling World is a 72-lane bowling center that also features arcade games, pool table, and pro shop. The bowling alley offers numerous specials throughout the week, including $2 bowling and $2 shoe rental on Mondays. On Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays from open until 7 p.m., you can receive two games of bowling with shoe rental for $8, tax included. You can also get this $8 deal on Wednesdays all day and Fridays from open until 5 p.m. Also, every Tuesday and Thursday night from 7 until 10 p.m., you receive half-price games and shoe rental. Malco Fort Smith Cinema Found on South Waldron Street, Malco Fort Smith Cinema is a 16-screen movie theater that shows first-run feature films. Order your tickets online so you can secure your perfect spot. It offers stadium seating and curved screens so that you and your date can have the best views possible. Don't forget to grab some food and drinks at the theater's concession stand. Park at West End Found at North Second Street and Garrison Avenue, the Park at West End is home to an amusement park that features an iconic 56-foot Ferris wheel that holds up to 32 passengers. Taking a spin on the Ferris wheel will give you and your date a stunning view of downtown Fort Smith and the Arkansas River. Afterward, board the park's hand-painted carousel that was constructed in Italy. 21 West End Serving an eclectic menu, 21 West End is a perfect place to grab a bite with your date. Located on North Second Street, this restaurant showcases classic dishes with a blend of modern creativity, such as bacon-wrapped quail, braised short ribs, and yellow curry spaghetti squash. Reservations are strongly recommended. No matter which one of these date night spots in Fort Smith you choose, you're bound to have a great time. The hardest part might be choosing which one to try first. Image via Flickr by bluesbby

Driving abilities change as we age. When you first started driving, you were probably fearless and taking risks you shouldn't have. When you became an adult, you probably became more cautious, especially if you were carting around children. As you enter your senior years, you might find that physical changes might impair your reaction time behind the wheel. Keep reading to learn more about six tips you can follow when driving if you're a senior citizen. Wear Your Seat Belt Although this is a given, make sure you buckle your seat belt before you start the vehicle. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), seat belt use in passenger vehicles saved 14,955 lives in 2017. The NHTSA also states that the most effective thing you can do to protect yourself in a crash is to wear a seat belt as it keeps you from being ejected from the vehicle. more Stay on Familiar Roads It's easy to get confused while driving, so you might want to drive only on roads that you're familiar with. Staying on familiar roads can decrease the chances for you getting lost. If you must drive on unknown roads, try to map out your route before you leave the house. Try to memorize the route as best you can so you're not relying on a map while you drive. Be Cautious While Driving at Night You might experience changes in your vision that affect your vision when it gets dark. General darkness and the glare from oncoming vehicle headlights might make it more difficult to see. If this is the case, avoid driving at night. However, if that's not possible, use well-lit streets and consider having a family member or friend accompany you. Take a Refresher Course It's okay to know your limitations and ask for help. Consider taking a refresher driving course through local organizations or community education program. Updating your driving skills might also provide you with a discount on your car insurance. Visit a Physician It's important to continue regular checkup with your physician who can determine if you're physically able to drive. This includes having your eyesight and hearing checked. Wearing glasses or contacts with the correct prescription can help you see the road better, and outfitting your ears with hearing aids can ensure you hear properly. Know Your Medications You might take medications to deal with chronic illnesses such as heart disease or diabetes. Check to see if these medications you're taking can make you drowsy or less alert than usual. If you take more than one medication, they might conflict with each other. Taking these medications that have certain side effects and then getting behind the wheel can inhibit your driving ability. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, in the United States, there were almost 42 million licensed drivers age 65 or older. It's imperative that you take great care when driving, especially in your later years. By following these six tips, you can continue driving well into your golden years while keeping yourself and others on the road safe. Image via Flickr by RichardBH

If it's time for you to purchase a vehicle, you might be wondering if you should buy a new car or a used car. While a shiny new "fresh off the factory floor" car is appealing at first, in the long run, it's much better to buy used. Let's discuss the benefits of buying a used vehicle. Depreciation It's an unfortunate fact of life that all cars depreciate in value. If you purchase a new car, it will have decreased in value by at least 20 percent by the time you've driven away from the dealership. In other words, if you purchase a new vehicle for $25,000, you end up throwing away $5,000 by the time you get home with your new purchase. If you can buy a used car that is one to three years old, its depreciation rates will have stabilized. This makes it a much better value than a brand new vehicle. more Of course, if you plan on driving your new car until it falls apart, depreciation might not be a concern. However, if you buy a used car and then decide it's not for you, the stabilized depreciation rates will ensure that you can resell the car and get most of your money back. Lower Fees Depending on the state where you live, you may have to pay a higher sales tax rate and higher registration fees if you purchase a new car. If you buy a used vehicle, the base price will be lower, meaning that taxes and fees will also be lower. If you're financing your purchase through a lender, buying used could also mean that interest rates on your loan are lower. A lower sticker price, in addition to lower fees, allows you to stretch your dollar even further. You can buy the luxury car of your dreams if you opt for a slightly older model. Insurance In most instances, your insurance company will charge you higher rates to insure a new vehicle. If you choose to purchase a used car, not only will your company offer you lower rates, but you may also be able to drop some components of your coverage. Many used-car drivers choose to opt out of collision and theft coverage, meaning they save even more money. Vehicle History Before the Internet Age, it was risky to buy a used car. Buyers could never be sure if the previous owner had kept the vehicle properly maintained. However, there are now services available to potential car buyers that let them know about a used vehicle's history. You can learn everything from the vehicle's maintenance regimen to whether the car has ever been involved in an accident. Taking advantage of these reports will give you peace of mind and also some leverage at the dealership. These are just some of the benefits of buying a used car. By doing a little bit of research, you can buy a car that you'll love without breaking the bank. Image via Flickr by 401(K) 2013