Desert Messenger

August 17, 2022 www.DesertMessenger.com 15 Look up at the stars and not down at your feet. Try to make sense of what you see, and wonder about what makes the universe exist. Be curious. ~ Stephen Hawking 5 ways to save at a time of higher gas prices and rising inflation How to receive packages via USPS IN QUARTZSITE! Some residents may qual- ify for a Free Post Office Box at the Main Branch or the Annex. All others pay to Rent a Post Office Box, Use General Delivery (up to 30 days only), or Rent a Private Mailbox at a Local Business. For more details drop in and welcome Quartzsite's New Postmaster, America Fucci. United States Postal Service (USPS) DOES NOT PROVIDE MAIL DELIVERY TO HOME ADDRESSES IN QUARTZSITE! Jane Doe XXX MAIN STREET # XXXX (Be sure to Use the "#" , but NOT "PO Box" ) Quartsite, AZ 85346 (or 85359 for Annex) EXAMPLE: Letters should be addressed to your P. O. Box XXXX Courtesy of Desert Messenger (StatePoint) With higher gas prices and rising infl ation putting pres- sure on fi nances, drivers are look- ing for ways to save on the cost of car ownership. On average, it costs between $15,000- $24,000 to own a car over a fi ve-year period, includ- ing fuel, maintenance, insurance, repairs, fi nancing and state fees. While some of those costs are be- yond your control, here are fi ve things you can do to lower the cost of car ownership: 1. When shopping for a vehicle, compare prices at multiple dealer- ships and research factors that will infl uence the cost of owning a par- ticular model car, such as its fuel effi ciency, along with the estimated cost of repairs and parts replace- ments down the line. 2. Scan local gas stations for the best price and consider becoming a rewards member at grocery stores that offer fuel perks. Certain gas brands have rewards programs as well, many of which you can access via smartphone apps. 3. Consider setting up a savings ac- count for car-related expenses. Ear- marking some of your income for automotive needs will help ensure you can cover expected and unex- pected costs. 4. Drive safely and more conscious- ly to conserve fuel. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, "obey- ing the speed limit, accelerating and braking gently and gradually, and reading the road ahead can improve the fuel economy of your vehicle by 15%-30% at highway speeds and 10%-40% in stop-and-go traffi c." 5. Talk to your insurance agent to make sure you are getting all the car insurance discounts you de- serve. Erie Insurance offers a wide range of discounts and money-sav- ing features, such as fi rst accident forgiveness, diminishing deduct- ible, reduced usage, youthful driver and college student. They also of- fer a discount for bundling policies and have an app called YourTurn that can reward you for safe driv- ing. Drivers may earn up to $20 a month in gift cards. To learn more, visit erieinsurance.com. "We know that at a time of rising prices people are looking for ways to reduce the cost of car ownership, and insurance is one place to start," said Bob Buckel, vice president, Personal Auto, Erie Insurance. "Looking for a plan that gives you exactly what you need and nothing you don't means you'll be protected while not paying any more than you should. This is a great time to reach out to your independent insurance agent to review your policy and dis- counts." While the future of infl ation rates and gas prices is uncertain, the good news is there are creative ways to lower the cost of owning your car so you can enjoy the road. (c) Fahroni / iStock via Getty Images Plus

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