Autonomous Vehicle Day

01111001 01100001 01111001! In case you can’t read binary, that’s computer talk for “yay!” The reason why we’re excited about today is because it’s Autonomous Vehicle Day. The one day every year where we celebrate our computer overlords - uhm - drivers. With the rising publicity and manufacturing of autonomous cars, this year was a great stride forward for the industry. The popularity of self-driving vehicles is at an all-time high, thanks to their consumer accessibility. When there’s a holiday, there’s a celebration. You might not be familiar with the traditions behind Autonomous Vehicle Day, so we’re showing you the best ways to celebrate our robot chauffeurs. Here are the best ways to show your autonomous pride. [framed_box]

Dust the interior of your car

If you own a self-driving car, remember to keep its inside clean by dusting it regularly. Dust messes with computers, and when it piles up, it might wreck the systems no matter how sturdy they seem. While each self-driving car might be unique, there’s always a solid reason for spiffing up your car’s dirty interior. So don't wait around; pick up that duster!

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Write a “thank you” card in binary

It’s your autonomous car’s day. Therefore, you should tell it how you REALLY feel, with a handwritten card in binary. Your autonomous car can only understand numbers, so use the nearest binary translator to let your heart ooze with feelings. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Take your autonomous vehicle out for dinner

Tonight, treat your self-driving car well with a delicious dinner. For you, a salivating, seared steak dinner with a side of asparagus and fine potatoes. For your car, a quick oil change. That’s the autonomous vehicle equivalent to sautéed salmon. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Buy it a gift

Autonomous vehicles may be computers, but they still like to receive gifts. One present you can provide your car, this year, is something digital to go along with its computations. Since self-driving cars are computers that drive, it might make use of online traffic school. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Learn how to program the concept of love

A task that has plagued scientist, programmers, and ethics theorists is the process of computers comprehending the idea of love. Moreover, you might have expressed your love for your self-driving car without any reciprocal feelings. Learning how to program the concept of love will finally show your autonomous car how you feel.[/framed_box] [framed_box]

Print off pictures of autonomous cars to longingly stare at

There’s other ways to celebrate Autonomous Vehicle Day, if you don’t have access to a self-driving car. One way of doing this is to print off pictures of autonomous cars, then daydream which one is your favorite. You can even line your walls with the photos, in case you want people to think you lost your mind. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Buy a Roomba

If you don’t have the funds to purchase one, then buy the next best thing: a Roomba. It’s like a self-driving car, except it’s a small circular computer that cleans your floor. In fact, the best way to celebrate is to do yourself the favor of never cleaning your home again. Your Roomba will also help keep you company![/framed_box] [framed_box]

Spread the word

The easiest way to celebrate Autonomous Vehicle Day is to snap a photo of a self-driving car, then post it to your social media accounts with #AutonomousVehicleDay. That’s the official hashtag being used to celebrate. You should join in with the thousands of people who are partaking in the day. Let everyone know how much you enjoy autonomous vehicles. [/framed_box]

Are Car Subscriptions Better Than Buying?

For many years, the only way to obtain a car has been leasing, buying, or borrowing from family members. Now there is a new market emerging that seeks to change all that. Enter car subscriptions, which are a bit like leasing, but with less commitment. Let’s take a look at these services to see if they’re all they’re cracked up to be. [framed_box]

What Is A Car Subscription?

Car subscriptions have made themselves stand out in a few different ways. The most impressive is that they bundle everything together. Leasing or buying a car means also needing to have insurance and taking care of any maintenance issues. These new car subscriptions bundle all those things together. For a monthly fee, drivers get a car and insurance. Many subscriptions also take care of the maintenance. The more expensive subscription options, such as those offered by Cadillac and Porsche, allow drivers to switch between cars. For example, subscribers can have one car to get around during the week, then switch to something else for the weekend. This can’t be done every weekend, as the most generous policy so far is 18 switches per year. Still, for those with lots of money and a love of cars, this service sounds great. The less expensive options are more like leasing a car. They still bundle insurance and maintenance (in some cases), but the cars won’t be luxury vehicles. The cars will instead be gently used, and they can only be switched if something goes wrong with them.[/framed_box] [framed_box]

Car Subscriptions Reasonable Limitations

Despite how good these deals may sound, most of these services are provided by companies that need to protect themselves. That means many of these subscriptions come with understandable limitations that nonetheless may make them less appealing to potential subscribers. There are several of these that subscribers may see. Each company may use any or all of them. Some companies will impose mileage restrictions, only allowing a certain number of miles per month or year. Other companies will not allow their cars beyond the borders of the United States. Most cars are equipped with technology that allows the owners to track how and where the cars are used. People who defy the rules set by the company will probably face hefty fees, and the car will be revoked. All the companies will definitely also check a potential subscriber’s driving and credit history before handing over the keys. They want their cars back in good condition, so that means only allowing responsible drivers behind the wheel. If you got a ticket, hopefully you took some traffic school online so you can be eligible for these services. As for the credit checks, these companies do not want to have to fight for the money they’re owed. Without decent credit, these companies won’t allow the cars out of the lot.[/framed_box] [framed_box]

Are Car Subscriptions Better?

Ultimately, it’s up to personal taste, but there are a few situations in which car subscriptions are truly superior. If someone needs a car for three months, this service is better than just renting a car from the airport. If a driver is swimming in cash, the luxury car subscriptions can certainly be appealing. However, for mere mortals, the cost difference isn’t that impressive. The price of the bundle is rarely less expensive than a car payment plus insurance. At least when a car payment is finished, the driver is left with a car. At the end of a subscription period, a driver is left minus thousands of dollars and with nothing to show for it. [/framed_box]

NFL Draft: What Car the New Quarterbacks Drive

At the end of April comes one of the most anticipated events of the year: the NFL draft picks. As one of the most unforgettable season picks in recent history, we’re sure you’re asking yourself what car do the NFL quarterback drafts drive. That’s why we’ve conducted extensive research to answer this question. (Editor's Note: these are NOT the actual cars the athletes drive). [framed_box]

Sam Darnold

The USC quarterback now turned New York Jets can drive only one car. That is the 2018 Toyota Prius Eco. As the #1 draft pick, of course he would choose the #1 fuel-economy car. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Josh Allen

Josh Allen is no stranger to enrolling in traffic school online. Therefore, as the Buffalo Bills’ new quarterback, he drives a blue Kia Forte, which is a top safety pick for defensive drivers. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Baker Mayfield

The Cleveland Browns chose Baker Mayfield as their new quarterback member. It may be because of his career statistics, but it also could be because of his brown Chevy Bolt. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Josh Rosen

The next quarterback for the Arizona Cardinals is Josh Rosen, who will be arriving to his games in his 2010 Toyota Land Cruiser. The best car to beat the desert climate. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Lamar Jackson

From cardinals to ravens, Lamar Jackson is the new Baltimore quarterback. Similarly, the 2018 Toyota Corolla iM is the newest hatchback, which is what Jackson drives. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Mason Rudolph

Rudolph will now be playing for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Also, a major stealer is the great deal Rudolph got on his new Hyundai Elantra. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Luke Falk

Falk was an obvious choice for the Tennessee Titans, but the Toyota 4Runner was an obvious choice for Falk. With 1st, 2nd, and 3rd row seating, who would pass this pick? [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Kyle Lauletta

Giants fans are rejoicing with the choice of Kyle Lauletta. Also rejoicing is Lauletta in his fuel-efficient GMC Canyon compact pickup truck. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Chase Litton

Litton was chosen by the Kansas City Chiefs as their new quarterback. The Honda Accord is known as the Chiefs of all cars, which is what Litton drives. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Mike White

The Cowboys picked up Mike White as their new quarterback. What’s also white is the cargo van that Mike drives around town. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Nic Shimonek

The Los Angeles Chargers are bringing Shimonek onto their team. Which means, Shimonek’s Ford Focus will be right at home in the city with it’s great fuel range. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Tanner Lee

Tanner Lee is creating a bit of spur when he was picked by the Jaguars. We can only assume the buzz has to do with his 2017 Ford Mustang Convertible. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Kurt Benkert

Falcons received Benkert from the draft, which means they also get to see him arrive to practice in his Chrysler Pacifica minivan. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Logan Woodside

Woodside will be playing with the Bengals. This is probably why he was seen placing their logo on the side of his Honda Civic. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Danny Etling

Etling signed to play with the Patriots this season. This may be because of his amazing college track record, but it could have something to do with the fact he drives a 2017 Jeep Patriot. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Alex McGough

Finally, McGough will be playing for the Seahawks come this season. That’s why McGough invested in a rain-resistant Lexus RX 450h to survive the Seattle weather. [/framed_box]

Driving Safe with Pets in the Car

This week, we celebrate National Pet Day, so in addition to giving your furry friends some extra attention, let’s go over some practices while driving with pets that will ensure their safety as well as keeping you safe from taking traffic school. [framed_box]

Use a Harness

The first time you put a harness on your dog, your dog may object. However, if you make it a habit, your pets will quickly adjust to the new system, especially as the proper harness for your dog will fit comfortably and will still provide some room to move around. Properly securing your dogs will also help protect them in the event of an accident, much in the way your seatbelt protects you. It will also prevent your dogs from jumping into your lap while you’re driving, which would cause an immediate distraction that could endanger both you and your fur babies.[/framed_box] [framed_box]

The Window: Up or Down?

Everyone knows dogs love sticking their heads out the windows of moving cars, and they just look so cute and happy when they do. However, what your dog wants and what is best for your dog are not always the same thing. First, breathing in all that rushing air can be bad for your dog’s lungs. There is also the danger of debris kicked up by wind or other vehicles. Driving at 65 miles an hour, a tiny rock can make a crack in your windshield, which is made of glass meant to withstand the impact. Your dog is not meant to withstand that impact, so the debris of the road can be a definite health hazard. Many dogs would enjoy a compromise instead. Keep the windows down an inch or two so they’ve got the fresh air coming in, but don’t roll the windows down so far they can stick their heads out.[/framed_box] [framed_box]

Driving with Cats

The absolute best advice I’ve ever heard for driving with cats is DON’T. But if you absolutely must drive with your cat to somewhere farther than the vet’s office, you’ll want to take some precautions. Your cat probably hates the cat carrier, but it’s still the best tool to protect him or her while driving. Even if the inevitable ear-piercing meowing drives you crazy, the cat carrier is necessary to keep your feline friend in good health. If you’re driving a long distance, you should also keep a small litter box in the car and allow your cat access to it whenever you stop, which should be frequently. You’ll also want to make sure your kitty has water available. Finally, be patient with your cat when the trip is over. He or she might not like you very much for a few days. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

DON’T LEAVE YOUR ANIMALS IN A HOT CAR

This is fairly common knowledge at this point, but it still happens, so it still bears repeating. A car that is not running air conditioning and has the windows up on a hot day can be twenty degrees hotter than the outside temperature within 10 minutes. As a human, you wouldn’t want to be trapped in a small space at 120 degrees. Now imagine doing that in a fur coat. Every year, thousands of pets (and children) die in hot cars. This can even happen with the windows cracked if the day is hot enough. Several states have even taken action about this issue by enacting “Good Samaritan” laws that will allow passerby to break the windows of unattended cars with dogs inside. So keep both your dog and your car safe by taking your dog with you when you leave the car, or leaving your dog at home, where it’s cool and safe. [/framed_box]

Top 10 Places to Live in Florida

Florida is home to beaches, breathtaking sunsets, and… you? If you’ve ever wanted to live in a state with amazing national and state parks, vacation destinations, and Disneyworld, then consider living in the Sunshine State. Below, we’ve created an extensive guide on the best places to live in Florida. [framed_box]

Sanibel Island

You have a chance to live out your deserted island fantasy while having all the perks of a nearby town if you move to Sanibel Island. White sand beaches without a person in sight and beautiful sunsets await you on this secluded island. It even has a lighthouse! [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Tampa

Tampa is Florida’s favorite midsize city. With comfortable neighborhoods, a sprawling business district, and a diverse art culture, Tampa is a fantastic place to live for people of all ages. Who could say no to the home of a Busch Garden's theme park? [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Destin

Destin, Florida is a popular vacation spot for most American families. This large town offers wildlife centers, luscious golf courses, and scenic leisure trails. You won’t have to wait for your spring break getaway every year, because you can just vacation here forever. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Dogtown

Dogtown is known for its old mines, a few dinosaur fossils, and having the name of “Dogtown.” This small town offers a change of pace from what you’re used to in Florida. A major benefit here is the bragging right you'll have from living in a town named after man’s best friend. Despite the name, it’s apparently NOT a town ran entirely by dogs. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Key West

Located in a grouping of small islands, Key West stands out as a major destination for vacationers. There’s good reason for it, too. The relaxing atmosphere makes living conditions stress-free no matter what the circumstances. Be careful thought, you may get a traffic ticket for being anxious here. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Jacksonville

Forbes has ranked Jacksonville as the fifth fastest growing city in the U.S, making it a perfect location for young, business-minded people. At night, you’ll find electrifying nightlife, vibrant arts & culture, and the best restaurants in Florida. During the day, the city-wide hobby includes “watersports.” [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Naples

Naples is a retirement trap destination. Residents must cautiously avoid blowing their retirement savings on the high-end shopping centers and golf courses. However, residents over 55 can save on a mature driver traffic school Florida course for a lovely car insurance discount. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

South Palm Beach

One quaint town that stands out among the rest is South Palm Beach, Florida. The entire town’s district is less than one mile long. The best thing about working in South Palm Beach is not using your car - ever. You can walk or bike anywhere you go. If you need to drive, you can take the single road that travels through the whole, entire town. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Cassadaga

If what you’re missing from life are ghosts, then this is the town for you. Cassadaga is the unofficial psychic capital of the world. The town's entire economy is built on the backs of psychics and ghost hunters. Instead of going out for brunch, you can indulge in a late morning palm reading. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Osprey

Osprey, Florida is a town district off the Gulf of Mexico. It’s located south of Sarasota and has just about everything you need in a town. With high-grade educational systems, parks, and recreational areas, Osprey is a lovely town that will be great for everyone. The most challenging part about Osprey is starting a family. [/framed_box]

What is the Best Florida Commute?

Florida is home to white sand beaches, beautiful bayous, and 80% of the U.S’ citrus population. What people don’t know about Florida is the diverse means of transportation. With such a wide array of choices, it’s hard to choose the best Florida commute. That’s why we’ve broken down the best means of commuting in the Sunshine state. [framed_box]

Car

Commute by car is the most common mode of transportation in Florida. However, if everyone drives their own car to work, it could have negative impact on the environment, traffic conditions, and your bank account. Given the opportunity, choose to carpool to reduce the number of cars on the road and to split travel costs. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Ride Sharing App

Ride sharing apps, like Lyft and Uber, are a comfortable way to get around. The biggest problem is trusting a stranger to drive, and the price of the commute itself. The other downside is not having a reason to enroll in traffic school. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Alligator

Alligators are Florida’s most underutilized mode of transportation. They run on biodegradable fuel and can be lined up to mush, like a pack of Alaskan Huskies. Society doesn’t bat an eye at the sight of man’s best friend pulling a sleigh through the snow, but apparently, they think it’s “unnecessarily bizarre” when man’s best reptilian friend is used to pull your airboat to the office. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Bicycle

Bicycling is great for toning those quads and glutes. It’s also a cost-effective way to commute in Florida. With green advocates on the rise, more bikers than ever are commuting to work. Dust off that old bike and roll up those pant legs, because you’re going to want to show off those defined calf muscles. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Skateboard/Scooter

Skateboarding or taking your scooter is a great way to get around if your next stop is nearby and you have a rad personality. Taking your skateboard or scooter means you won’t spend money on gas or a ride sharing app. You might even have a chance of wall riding yourself through a montage of sick ollies. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Motorcycle

Commuting on your motorcycle won’t only show people how tough you are, but it’s also a great way to reduce costs on gas. The downside of commuting on a motorcycle is the dangers of rush hour traffic and reckless drivers. However, if you’re riding a motorcycle, you might be too tough to even notice you wrecked. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Bus

Buses are a great way to relive those precious memories of going to grade school. But, what people don’t realize, they’re also an effective way to get around the city. If you pretend all the sick, angry people are lifelong friends you met in grade school, the commute doesn’t seem that bad. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Vanpool

A vanpool is similar to a carpool, but, instead of 3-4 people, you have around 6-8 people in a van. This commuting method is popular for people who work in the same office. Vanpools are like taking a small bus, but you know the sick, angry people. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Airboat

Thick, overgrown waters aren’t very conducive for driving a car. But, airboats have no issue gliding across those Floridian bayous and swamps. Swamp people can get to and from their bustling nine to five in the city while coasting over murky, alligator infested waters in a compact airboat. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Train/Subway

Commuting by train or the subway is a smart choice if you live in a metropolitan area. If you don’t mind close quarters with strangers, and the risk of getting sick from slimy surfaces, then the train is a great economic commute. [/framed_box]

How to Keep Your SUV Safe

SUVs are built to survive punishing roads, reckless drivers, and family road trips. Therefore, you should do everything you can to keep your SUV safe. That way it can withstand the biggest challenge: time itself! Below is a guide to keeping your sport utility vehicle as safe as possible, without locking it in your garage for the rest of eternity. [framed_box]

Be wary of road conditions

You don’t want to be caught off guard when you encounter strange and unusual road conditions. Whether it’s ice on a bridge or construction detours, always be cautious of the roads you drive on. Also, never underestimate the relentless, destructive power of a single pot hole. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Check your brakes

Brakes are - arguably - one of the most important features of an SUV. They can prevent you from driving through your garage or plunging off the side of a cliff. Routinely check your brakes and replace them if they’re bad. Knowing your SUV is safe will give your conscious a much-needed break. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Know the weather forecast

You don’t need to be a meteorologist to drive your SUV. But, it couldn’t hurt! Checking the forecast for storms, snow, acid rain, or fog, before you leave your home can mentally prepare you to drive in extreme weather conditions. The last thing you want is to be caught outside in acid rain without an umbrella! [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Keep a spare tire

Always keep a spare tire in your SUV. In the instance you blow out a tire on the road, you will always have a back-up to keep you from being stranded. Also, something you should add to your repertoire: learn how to change a tire! [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Lock your SUV

Locking your SUV is a quick and simple way to ensure its safety when parked. Just like your front door, keeping it locked-up will keep people locked-out. It’s hard to steal an SUV from the outside. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Use a turn signal

You may know this from acing your online traffic school course, but using turn signals is the best means of communication with fellow drivers. However, turn signals often are the car’s most underutilized feature. They’re the most important way two drivers can communicate - outside of giving each other the middle finger. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Don’t Rage

While driving, never let yourself fall into a fury that makes Mad Max jealous. Staying cool behind the wheel is just as important to your SUV’s safety as it is to other’s safety. It could feel cathartic to rear-end the person who just cut you off, but the ones that suffer will be your SUV and your driving record. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Know where you’re going

Always know where you’re going. You can drive the same route to work every day or map your road trip in advance with a GPS. When you know where you’re going, you will have a better idea of what to expect. This is also helpful advice for living your life. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Headlights and brake lights are important

Double check those headlights and brake lights with a friend before long road trips. Broken lights make it difficult for other drivers to see you. More importantly, it’s a reason to get pulled over by the police. Driving without lights isn’t a bright decision. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Keep an emergency kit

First aid kit, flashlight, road flares, blanket, and a gallon of water is a recommendation of what to include in your emergency kit. Being prepared for the worst is always the smart decision. Accidents are unpredictable and can happen anytime and anywhere, but that doesn’t mean you can’t be prepared for them. [/framed_box]

What to Do When Your Car Gets Trapped

Loving your car is one thing but being buried alive as it sinks in quicksand is another. When you’re traveling on tough terrain, you can run the risk of getting your car stuck in anything. When your car gets trapped in snow, mud, or a bayou it can cause serious damage to your vehicle and your self-esteem. We’ve compiled a guide to aide you whenever you’re stuck in a sticky - or snowy - situation. Following the guide below, will help you escape any entrapment - except for quicksand. You’ll need a whip and a low hanging branch to get yourself out of quicksand. [framed_box]

Remain Calm

A trapped car can launch you into panic mode. Even more of a panic than trying to pass your online traffic school course. Keeping calm helps you make smart, rational decisions without the frenzy of being in panic mode. You want to stay cool, like the snow you might be trapped in. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Keep the Tires Straight

When you’re stuck in mud or snow, you can make your escape easier by keeping your tires straight. Twisting your wheels back and forth will cause your car to sink deeper, which will make it a challenge to become unstuck. The more you move, the worst it gets. Yes, we’re getting all our advice from watching movies about quicksand. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Clear the Exhaust Pipe of Debris

By clearing the exhaust pipe of debris, you can prevent engine fumes from filling up your car. We don’t need to tell you the repercussion of a car full of exhaust. But, it’s your death. The repercussion is your death, because there is too much carbon monoxide. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Light Your Car on Fire

If your car is trapped, one quick way to get it unstuck is lighting it on fire. The billowing smoke from your car’s raging fire should alert nearby emergency personnel, which will lead them to aid you. When they see the scorched remains of your car, they will assist with calling a tow-truck. It’s the perfect plan. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Life Hack: Use Your Floor Mats as Leverage

One quick and simple life hack tool, to help you escape the perils of being trapped in mud or snow, are the floor mats in your car. When your wheels are spinning, but you’re not going anywhere, you need more friction. Placing a floor mat under your wheels can supply enough friction to leave your trap. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Accelerate Slowly

Accelerating slowly helps you gain some much-needed traction. Your first reaction to becoming trapped is to peel your way out. However, that’s one of the worst things you can do in this situation. Calmly place your foot on the gas and let your car build up traction to escape. Bonus points if you get your friend to push the car while you do it. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Get a Chain and Big Truck

If you got a friend with a big truck, a chain, and, potentially, a red neck, then give them a call. Getting help from someone else is extremely beneficial, such as a tow truck, an emergency personnel, or your friend who just installed semi-truck wheels on their pickup. We’re not yanking your chain, but your buddy might, because they want to help you get unstuck. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Be Prepared for the Worst

Always be prepared for the worst situation possible. Keep snacks, bottled water, first aid kits, and blankets in your car in case you are ever trapped and can’t get out. Whether you’re caught in an avalanche, stuck in a bayou, or slowly sinking in a quicksand, having a preparation kit can help make the situation better. You don’t want to be stranded in a quicksand without a granola bar! [/framed_box]

Beaumont, Texas Traffic VS Houston, Texas Traffic

I'm sorry, but it seems there is no text provided for rephrasing. Could you please provide the text you need rephrased? Every Texan knows the horrendous stories of driving around Beaumont, Texas or Houston, Texas. The terrifying road conditions and gridlock traffic would leave anyone turning in their sleep. Moreover, when two cities in Texas are similar, in whatever way possible, they must duke it out to discover who’s the best. In this case, which city is the best at having the worst traffic: Beaumont, Texas or Houston, Texas? To answer this perplexing question, we have to weigh the contributions to traffic build up. Below is your guide on which city has the worst traffic conditions in Texas.

Beaumont, Texas Traffic

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Rush Hour

Rush Hour traffic is a plague on the idea of a timely arrival. For several hours in a day, the roads of Beaumont fill up with anxious drivers leaving for work or speeding home. Between 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM, Beaumont experiences high volumes of traffic, because, apparently, a lot of people work the ol’ 9 to 5 grind. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Traffic Accidents

Traffic Accidents can cause major congestion and worsen peak busy hours. In 2014, Beaumont experienced nearly 642 traffic accidents. It could have been less, but people didn’t enroll in their Texas online defensive driving course. With statistics like this, the biggest accident is choosing to drive in the city. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Road Conditions

Road Conditions can bring traffic to a screeching halt. Whether there’s hindering construction, or you drive over a camouflaged pothole that destroys your tires, the condition of the road contributes greatly to the flow of traffic. Beaumont receives countless complaints of the poor road conditions and not enough on the lack of Whataburgers. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Speed Traps

Speed Traps will ruin anyone's day. Getting slapped with a speeding ticket will force you to cough up hundreds of dollars. It will also make getting through traffic worse. Littered along I-10 are traps set to catch anyone exceeding the speed limit. Drive the speed limit or break your wallet’s limit. [/framed_box]

Houston, Texas Traffic

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Rush Hour

Rush Hour is expected in large cities. What isn’t expected is how much longer it lasts in Houston than it does in smaller cities, like Beaumont. From 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, the city of Houston experiences massive delays in traffic, because of car congestion from busy commuters. Rush hour is longer in the evening, because Houston has a great selection of Whataburgers. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Downtown Traffic

Downtown Traffic is a whole other story. When rush hour stops everywhere else, downtown traffic continues to persevere. Instead of calling it “rush hour,” in downtown Houston, they just call it “rush forever.” [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Road Conditions

Road Conditions in Houston are… not the worst. Despite the massive number of commuters, the infrastructure around Space City is in pretty good condition. However, that doesn’t account for road construction, which adds time to anyone’s commute. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Speed Traps

Speed Traps are set up around the city. Except trapping season is all year long. Specifically, police like to target highways when setting up a speed trap. This is to catch people running late for work or trying to get home in a hurry. If you have a honey butter chicken biscuit from Whataburger in your passenger seat, who wouldn’t be in a hurry. It’s hard to compare the two cities. However, when it comes to traffic, they both have a notorious reputation. The only true way to discover which city has the worst traffic is by visiting the areas. Except we’ve been checking the traffic radar for downtown Houston all day and it’s STILL considered rush hour. [/framed_box]

What CA Uber Won’t Tell You About Ratings

Does it seem like it takes forever for your CA Uber driver to pick you up? It could be because you live far from most Uber drivers, and they’re hesitant to make the trip. But it could also be because your rating is low! A cab driver in a bad mood doesn’t really impact his rider’s life, unless he proceeds to take the passenger on a…“newsworthy” ride. However, a CA Uber driver has a tiny bit of power to do so. They rate the passengers. That means you! Passengers can also rate the drivers, but it’s optional. Drivers are required to rate the customers before they can get back online and accept another fare. If a passenger is bad enough on one of their first rides (or is consistently awful), a one-star rating from a driver can destroy that rider’s odds of being picked up by a nearby driver the next time they call Uber. Of course, there will always be CA Uber drivers desperate enough that they’ll pick up anyone. But a rider with a 1.4 rating may get ignored by the 20-closest drivers before finding someone in the mood to pick you up. Last week’s blog had some tips and tricks to keep your rating high. Here are a couple little known facts about the rating system. [framed_box]

Rate Your Driver

There are a lot of things Uber doesn’t tell passengers, including what their rating really means to a driver. Most riders assume that a five-star rating system is like a school grading system. So five stars is like an A, four stars is like a B, and so on. And a B is above average, right? So, four stars means the ride was good but not the best, but the driver is still pretty decent. Better than most, right? Wrong. Drivers get de-activated and kicked off the system if their rating falls below 4.7. This means that any rating other than five stars is actually a vote to have a driver fired. Now, if your ride was an absolute nightmare that had you fearing for your life, then your rating should definitely reflect that. Give that driver the one-star rating he or she deserves so we can get the bad drivers off the streets, send them back to drivers ed, and give more business to the drivers that won’t traumatize you. However, if your driver was good and your only complaint is that there was no free water available (which comes out of drivers’ meager paychecks, by the way), or your driver was just a little more talkative than you would have liked, then maybe reconsider that four-star rating you were thinking of giving and make it a five. True, one bad rating won’t matter to a driver that’s been with Uber for a while, but it could devastate a new driver’s overall rating. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

The 5.0 Dilemma

As a rider, you want to get five stars on every ride so that your rating remains a shiny 5.0, right? Well, mostly… Personally, as a female driver on the streets of Los Angeles during what I lovingly refer to as the “Drunk Shift,” I would not pick up anyone with a rating lower than 4.6, ever, under any circumstances. In areas where I didn’t feel completely comfortable, either because I was less familiar with the neighborhood or because it felt unsafe in some way, the required rating would jump to 4.8. In those areas, I also wouldn’t pick up anyone rated 5.0. That sounds crazy, right? But the way the Uber system works, people taking their very first ride are rated 5.0. This means drivers can’t tell whether the person calling for a ride is an amazing paragon of humanity who tips $20 on every ride and has used the system dozens of times, or if accepting that ride is the first step in being murdered. Some drivers just aren’t willing to take that risk. The best advice I can offer on this one is to wait for a great ride where you are really clicking with your driver. Tell them you’re curious about your rating, and they’ll probably tell you what it is. If your rating is 5.0 and you’ve been using Uber for quite a while, congratulations! You’re probably a wonderful person. But if you notice that it takes a while for your rides to get accepted despite your stellar rating, ask that driver that you’ve bonded with to give you four stars so that your rating will drop to a 4.9. Despite what you may think, from a driver’s perspective, a 4.9 rating is light years better than a 5.0. Remember, only do this if you’ve already taken many rides with Uber. A four-star rating on one of your first rides will not make drivers accept you more frequently. Check out last week’s blog for the tips and tricks to increase your rating. Hopefully this information will help foster understanding and patience between riders and drivers. As always, be safe out there! [/framed_box]

How to Protect Your Car from Car Theft

Chances are your livelihood is your car. This might be especially true if you live in a Californian metropolitan area. Therefore, experiencing car theft could leave a devastating impact on your life. With something so precious, it makes sense to take the necessary precautions to protect your vehicle. Now that you’ve passed the best traffic school online, you may want to drive the extra mile to protect your vehicle. You can learn how to protect your car from theft by following the guide below. [framed_box]

Purchase an anti-theft system

Steering wheel locks, tire locks, kill switches, and electronic immobilizers are a few of the anti-theft systems for cars. There are hundreds of anti-theft system brands to choose from. You can even make your friends think you’re a hit-man if you tell them you have a kill switch. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Don’t leave your keys in the ignition

This sounds obvious, but it’s often overlooked. Leaving your keys in the ignition makes stealing your car easy. You want to save time by leaving the keys in the ignition, but this method turns you into a giant target for theft. Unless your R. Kelly, keep your keys with you. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Let a bobcat live in your car

Letting a bobcat live in your car is a lesser known anti-theft protection system. Bobcats, also known as the Lynx Rufus, are members of the giant cat family. This means they’re extremely territorial. With one glance at the bobcat in the back seat, car thieves will know not to steal your car. Be sure to crack a window and leave out small rodents, as that’s their preferred diet. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Keep your car locked

We all wish we can trust others, but we can’t in today’s car theft infested world. Keeping your car doors locked is a small way to crack down on thefts. A simple barrier goes a long way when protecting your car. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Avoid leaving valuables in eyesight

Whether it’s your brand-new laptop computer or a Lou Bega album, keeping your most valuable possessions out of sight will deter thieves from breaking into your car. If someone catches a glimpse at something valuable, they could steal it… or your car. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Drive an undesirable car

Nobody wants to steal a car that looks ugly. Next time you’re purchasing a car, look for the ugliest piece of metal you can lay your eyes on. You’ll get extra protection points if the car has a vibrant green and yellow color. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Park in well-lit areas

Well-lit areas are the bane of car thieves’ existence. Most thefts happen in areas that are dimly lit to decrease chances of being seen. Always look for areas that very well lit. It’s like a spotlight for your car. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Paint “Look at me, I’m a dumb idiot!” into the side of your car

Nothing will embarrass a car thief more than driving a car that says, “Look at me, I’m a dumb idiot.” Car thieves care a lot about what other people think of them. That’s why embarrassing a thief by painting “look at me, I’m a dumb idiot” will keep anyone from stealing your car. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Don’t leave the car unattended and running

If you’re running into the store for a moment, keeping your car running while unattended is a dangerous decision. In those split moments, anyone could walk by and steal your car. Even if you have a bobcat in the back seat. [/framed_box] By following the guide above, you won’t just be a defensive driver, but a defensive car owner too.

Riding With Uber From Your Uber Driver’s Perspective

Is your car in the shop, but you need to get to work? Do you want to party into the wee hours of the morning then get home safely? Is your license suspended until you complete your online traffic school? Is owning a car just unfeasible for you right now? If the answer to any of those is yes, you’re probably already familiar with ride-sharing companies, the biggest of which is Uber. [framed_box]

Easy to Apply

For those new to this idea, or those who have just been devoted to taxis their whole lives, Uber is the company that is putting taxis out of business. Their prices are usually cheaper because the drivers are using their own cars, and in most states, just about anyone can become an Uber driver with minimal effort. In fact, when I signed up almost five years ago, I simply filled out a very quick and simple form online, with just enough details for Uber to run a background check. One week later, I was on the road making money! I only had to go through a half an hour of online training without ever talking to another human being. If you’re not comforted by how easy it is to become an Uber driver, you’re not alone. However, let me assure you, the sign-up process is the last easy thing about being an Uber driver. The hours are long, and the pay is far from guaranteed. In fact, once you factor in depreciation and all the extra gas, maintenance, and car washes, the driver is really only making pocket change. Also, because what the driver makes is a percentage of the total cost of the ride, every time Uber drops the prices for the customers, it’s a pay cut for the drivers. In other words, if your driver is grouchy, it’s not without cause. However, there are a few things riders can do to ensure a smooth ride and a happier driver. Remember, drivers must rate their riders, and your rating can affect how quickly you get picked up next time you call, so try to remain on their good side! [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Be on Time

Time is money, and your driver is not getting paid until you’re in the car. And here’s a fun fact not many people know: if you take a very short ride with Uber, your driver gets about $2.40 after Uber takes their cut. However, if you don’t show up after the driver has waited the required five minutes, your driver cancels the ride and collects the cancellation fee, which nets them a whole $4. This means that if you made your driver wait four minutes and then took a short ride with the minimum fare, your driver would have made more money had you taken another minute and they’d cancelled. If your driver is already having a bad day, they’re not going to give you a good rating at that point. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

The AUX Cord

Maybe you’re taking a longer ride and want to enjoy some music. That’s totally understandable. I highly recommend headphones. If you want it to play through the car’s speakers, you’re going to have to ask your driver to use their AUX (or auxiliary) cord. This is a question that fills drivers with a sense of overwhelming dread. At the end of the day, not everyone likes the same music. If you demand the AUX cord and then put on music your driver doesn’t like, I can guarantee you’re not getting five stars. Even though I consider my music taste to be eclectic, after three years of listening to other people’s music, I was handing out one-star ratings like candy. Eventually I tried to negotiate with the riders, politely saying something along the lines of, “Yes, I have an AUX cord, but please, for the sake of my head not exploding, I beg you to put on anything but [whatever music genre I was avoiding that day].” The riders would sometimes comply (five stars!) and sometimes put on that genre seemingly just for spite (one star!). After enough bad experiences, I’d just lie and say the cord was broken. Luckily, there’s a simple fix for this one: talk to your driver. Most of them would probably also like to have music on. There are countless genres of music out there. With a simple conversation, you and your driver are bound to find at least one genre of music that you enjoy and that doesn’t make your driver want to jump out of the moving car. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Don’t Throw Up

This one should be a no-brainer, but somehow it still happens enough that it needs to be said. Not only will you be charged a cleaning fee that can range from $50 to $200, but your driver will lose all wages for the rest of the night because their car will be out of commission until it’s cleaned. Even the most compassionate driver is still going to give a one-star rating to someone who pukes in their car. In fact, even someone who looks like they might puke is likely to earn a low rating (I’d usually give two or three stars) because of the tension the driver feels as they pray the rider can make it just a couple more blocks and out of their car before the inevitable explosion. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Tip

Apart from hurling, there’s not much bad behavior a cash tip won’t make up for. Just recently Uber has allowed tipping through the app, and it’s highly likely the driver won’t see that you tipped them until long after they’ve rated your ride. Even if you end your ride by saying, “I’ll tip you, I promise,” your Uber driver is tired and has been lied to many times. If you like to listen to a specific artist that the driver might not like, or if you’re going to be riding with friends and you don’t want one of them to badly affect your rating, carry cash. A couple bucks, maybe $5 on a long ride, will absolutely guarantee your driver remains content and will not post a story about you on one of our secret rideshare driver forums. [/framed_box] Follow these guidelines, and your driver will be happier, and your ride will be less of a chore for both of you. Check back next week to learn some things Uber will never tell you about the rating system!

How Much Do You Save with Costco Travel?

Let’s face it; we are a scam-paranoid bunch of consumers. And rightly, so. This is especially true since scammers are mastering the art of appearing like legitimate companies offering legitimate deals. Those buying a car have to walk a tightrope through the entire purchasing process, so as not to drive off the lot feeling emotionally nauseous. Such is the case with the now well-known Costco Travel Auto Program. While it has received national acclaim for being able to save you money while buying a car, many a consumer has added it to their blacklist. Let’s take a closer look at the Costco Travel Auto Program so that you can determine if it’s right for you. [framed_box]

Costco’s Mega Auto Savings Claims

Visit the Costco Travel website, and you’ll see that they make some bold claims on how their program can work in your favor. Up front, here’s what they offer: • Low, prearranged Costco member pricing • All available national manufacturer incentives • More than 3,000 hand-selected dealerships nationwide • Trained Authorized Dealer Contacts to serve you • Smooth, seamless buying experience On the outset, it sounds like a great deal. After all, who wouldn’t want low member pricing, incentives, instant access to dealerships, trained experts, and the most accessible buying experience ever? You sign up for the program. You get to choose the vehicle make and model you want. Costco refers you to a local dealer and then you experience a no-hassle purchase with all the bells and whistles. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Some Red Flags with the Savings Plan

Do some digging around on the web, however, and you’re likely to find a plethora of problems that customers have reported in either trying to understand the program or apply to a recent purchase. Some of the reports include the following: • The program doesn’t keep car sales associates from pressuring you into buying a car. • Costco’s price and the dealership bottom line price often does not line up. • The customer service is horrid, as customers complain of no-return phone calls and emails. • Costco does not control the underlying sticker price on the car. It seems that the bottom line on the bottom line is that there is a chasm far and wide between how much money Costco can save you and how much you can talk the car salesman down to before you sign the papers. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

How to Effectively and Accurately Determine Savings with Costco

So now we’re back to the original question: how much money can you save with Costco? As the adage goes, “There’s only one way to find out.”

Here’s what you do:

First, call Costco. Don’t email the company or send a message on their contact page. Pick up the phone and talk to a warm body. Tell the Trained Authorized Dealer what you are looking for and then ask him or her how much money the Auto Savings Program will save you. Do not hang up until you get an actual numerical estimate. Then call your local dealership and ask the salesman the same thing. Careful, the salesperson’s job is to convince you to visit the dealership. But stand your ground and be firm. Do not hang up until the person on the other end of the line gives you a quote. From there you can make an informed decision if Costco’s savings plan is worth it. The good news is that you can save anywhere from $2,000-$5,000 on a car by using the program. Is the Savings Plan a scam? Probably not. Will it save you money? Probably. Should you do your homework first before committing? Absolutely! [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Sign Up for Florida Online Traffic School

If you are looking for an online traffic school, then contact Improv today. We provide a wide range of courses and resources for traffic education and testing. To find out more, contact us at 800-660-8908, or you can chat live with one of our testing experts! [/framed_box]

The Volkswagen Bus and California

Volkswagen published big news for fans of microbuses and the film Little Miss Sunshine. The 1970’s VW Bus is getting a modernized makeover for its return to the roads. Set to be released in 2022, the Volkswagen Bus I.D. Buzz is an electric microbus that will be a popular choice for road trippers across the country. It’ll definitely be the number one pick if you’re living in a coming of age road trip movie. However, if you’re going to be a proud owner of your very own Volkswagen I.D. Buzz, you better know how to show it off. Nothing will be more heartbreaking than buying a microbus just to watch it collect dust in your driveway. You gotta hit the road! But, not just any road - the Californian road! Here are fun things to do when you’re driving your Volkswagen Bus in California: [framed_box]

PCH Road Trip

The Pacific Coast Highway is a staple of any road trip in California. Driving along the coastline during sunset, playing your favorite music, and a montage of your friends laughing isn’t the opening scene to a luxury car commercial. It’s just what happens when you’re driving along one of the most beautiful highways in the country. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Visit the Golden Gate Bridge

One great thing about driving the Volkswagen I.D. Buzz is its fuel economy. When you’re traveling to far away destinations, like the Golden Gate Bridge, you won’t drop an erroneous amount of money on gas. You can say, an electric microbus is the golden gate to the future of innovative automotive experiences. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Surfing at the Beach

With all the rooftop space that comes with the Buzz, you can pack up all your gnarly surfboards and visit the beach. Malibu, Huntington, Santa Cruz, and Santa Barbara have some of the best beaches in California. Be sure to “hang ten” and add these hot spot destinations to your beach journey across the Golden State. That’s how you use “hang ten,” right? [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Cruise Control

The least popular and not recommended thing to do with your Buzz is to receive a traffic ticket. To avoid getting a speeding ticket you can use the wagon's cruise control feature. You can also make sure you are going the speed limit when you see a police officer in any of the mirrors. Either option will help you not get a ticket. You do not want to get a traffic ticket during your drive and come back home to see a spike in your annual insurance rate. If you do a get a ticket, do not stress, you can take traffic school online to dismiss the ticket and avoid getting points on your record. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Camping at Big Sur

The minibus can seat up to 8-people or it can collapse the seats to give you space for luggage. Such as camping gear for your next trip to Big Sur. Being one of the popular locations in California to camp, Big Sur is a great way to celebrate the spacious benefits and fuel economy of your I.D. Buzz. When you roll up to the camp grounds in your fancy future bus, people will call it a Big Sur-prise. The hype behind Volkswagen’s latest vehicle concept is growing. Within the next four to five years, you’ll be a witnessing a modern resurgence of these classic relics. So, get in on the hype and be on the lookout of purchasing your own I.D. Buzz. [/framed_box] Remember, if you receive a traffic ticket when you’re driving the latest and greatest microbus, you don’t have to break the bank paying it off - especially since you just bought the new car. If you enroll in online traffic school, you can prevent your annual insurance rate from increasing.

How to Decrease Your Auto Insurance Costs

Owning an automobile can be expensive. There's the cost of the car itself, gas, registration, maintenance and repairs, and, of course, auto insurance premiums. Noting that, it's only natural for vehicle owners to try to save money on their total vehicle ownership if possible, and one of the biggest consistent costs is auto insurance. Though auto insurance rates vary based on state, driving experience and the owner’s driving record, generally consumers should plan to set aside anywhere from $800 to $1,000 per year to insure their car. The good news is that there are several ways to decrease auto insurance costs; from taking a defensive driving course online to bundling your auto package with other coverages. Here are some tips to help shave dollars off your insurance premiums: [framed_box]

Take a Defensive Driving Course

Doing this is beneficial, even if you don't want to shave points off your license. That's because it shows insurance companies that you're being proactive about your driving safety, something that many look at favorably and award discounts for. Of course, if you have points on your license, taking a defensive driving course online can help reduce them in some states. In many cases, passing a certified course can take points off your license, thereby reducing rates or preventing rates from increasing further. Here are a few courses that guarantee an auto discount for you: California Mature Driver Course Your CA Insurer is required to provide an auto discount to those age 50-55 years or older (depending on insurance company), who present proof of completion of the mature driver improvement course approved by the California DMV:California Mature Driver Course

Florida Mature Driver Course Your FL Insurer is required to provide an auto discount to those age 50-55 years or older (depending on insurance company), who present proof of completion of the mature driver improvement course approved by the Florida DHSMV:Florida Mature Driver Course

New York Defensive Driver Course Your NY Insurer is required to provide an auto discount to those who present proof of completion of a defensive driving course approved by the New York DMV:New York Defensive Driving Course

Delaware Basic Driving Course Your DE Insurer is required to provide an auto discount to those who present proof of completion of a 6-hour basic driving course or 3-hour refresher course approved by the Delaware DMV:Delaware Basic Driving Course
Auto Insurance Discount Course Most auto insurance companies in other states provide an auto discount to those who present proof of completion of a defensive driving course. Check with yours first to confirm! www.MyImprov.com [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Shop Around

If you think you're paying too much for auto insurance, it never hurts to shop around a little bit. Go to other insurance companies, tell them what you're paying now and that you're looking for a company that can beat that price. Insurance companies are running a business, and part of business is gaining new clients. Companies are likely going to be more than willing to try to earn your business, and if you have more entities that you can insure with them, they'll likely sweeten the quote that they give you even more. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Own Your Car

Leasing has its benefits, but when it comes to saving money on auto insurance, that's not one of them. That's largely because when you lease, you're required to keep certain amounts of coverages and there's no wiggle room around it. If you own your car, you can likely save money by reducing coverage to legal minimums. Sure, you may have to pay some money out of pocket if you are ever in an accident and the limits don't fully cover the damage, but for most people, this is a risk that they're willing to take to save money on insurance premiums. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Bundle Packages

Have a home? A boat? Other vehicles? When you insure multiple entities with one insurance company, you're likely to receive a discount. Think of it as an appreciation discount, as for insuring multiple entities with the company you get rewarded for your business and your trust with the respective insurance company. The more you can bundle, the more you're likely to save. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Ask Your Insurance Agent

Here's one that not many drivers think to pursue: Simply just call up your current insurance agent and see if there's anything that you can do to receive some sort of reduced or discounted premium. Often, something as simple as just parking your vehicle in the garage - where it's more guarded from Mother Nature and potential theft - can yield a savings. Adding certain modern-day safety features to your vehicle can help as well. Driving less miles per year may be able to help. Your agent can also tell you if taking the defensive driving course online can net a discounted rate. [/framed_box]

Planning School Field Trips to the Kennedy Space Center

The best way to win the approval of hundreds of school children is by planning an all-day field trip. Cutting class, riding on a bus for hours, and visiting somewhere interactive was always a great way to spend a school day. But, the best part about any field trip was that sweet, sweet gift shop. Florida field trip planners have a great opportunity to educate today’s youth about the mysteries of the cosmos and mankind’s innovations to explore it. The Kennedy Space Center is a fantastic trip to take children of all ages. There are exhibits and tours designated for students at specific grade levels, so finding the perfect tour to meet their needs will be simple. The pressure is on at school. Those students are hard critics. You’ve been trying to win their approval since day one, so here’s your chance. Before the semester ends, you can become the most popular person in school. We’re showing you how to plan a school field trip to the Kennedy Space Center. [framed_box]

When to Make a Reservation

Planning a trip to the Kennedy Space Center isn’t rocket science. The best way to schedule your field trip is by making a phone reservation at least one week in advance before your arrival. The Space Center doesn’t take walk-ups. Nothing is more awkward than being denied at the KSC entrance when you have hundreds of kids with you. What will Cory, the really cool 3rd grader think of you then!? [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Getting a Bus Driver

You don’t expect to drive the entire 3rd grade class to the Kennedy Space Center in your hatchback, do you? Sure, you made straight A’s in your Drivers Ed class, but you need a special license to drive that many children. Hiring the services of a school bus driver will be the best way to transport any large number of students. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Chaperone Policy

We know you want to win the approval of all the school children, but you can’t be the sole chaperone of this trip. The Kennedy Space Center has a strict chaperone policy. From their website, “One chaperone for every five students in kindergarten through grade 5” and “One chaperone for every 10 students in grade 6 through 12.” Before the trip, make sure you have plenty of volunteers to help chaperone the students. You could always put Cory, the really cool 3rd grader, in your group. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Your Meal Plan

There are plenty of cafes throughout the Kennedy Space Center. But, if you want to really impress your students, you’d get them lunch with a real-life astronaut. One of the dining options at the KSC is “Lunch with an Astronaut,” where an astronaut will give a short lecture followed by a Q&A session over dessert. [/framed_box] [framed_box]

Shopping and Souvenirs

The real reason everyone loves field trips is because of the shopping and souvenirs. What better way to prove you’ve been to the Kennedy Space Center is there than purchasing a really cool souvenir? Located throughout the Space Center, shopping spots and souvenir stands will help your students leave with nostalgic memorabilia they’ll use once and never pick up again. For all other information on what to do during your visit at the Kennedy Space Center, visit their website at: https://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/. You’ll find downloadable guides, lists of exhibits, and contact information to make the most of your field trip. Let’s just hope you win the approval of Cory, the really cool 3rd grader, with this trip to the Kennedy Space Center. [/framed_box]