Edmunds Members - Cars and Conversations (Archived)

jmonroe1

Well, it finally happened. Someone back into my Genny. I was parked on a street in front of a house I am helping Son #1 trying his hand at flipping. The car was even half up on the grass in front of his house to allow room for cars to pass by. I could not park in the driveway because of a huge 20 yard dumpster that did not allow for a car to park in front of it. Maybe the small space that was left would be enough for a Sentra by not my Genny that is a beast. I was in front of his house not directly across from the driveway of the car pulling out that hit me. As Son #1 said you have to be BAD driver to not be able to get out of that driveway across the street with all the room I left for someone to get out of that driveway. Sounds bad, huh?

I was on the top step of the pull-down walkup to the attic in the garage, the garage door was open, when I heard someone say "hello, hello". I come down and a guy tells me he just hit my car while backing out of his driveway. I couldn't believe the guy was honest enough to tell me that. He hit the lower right bumper cover right at the seam to the quarter panel. It left a very slight crease at that point and some paint removal down to the primer coat a little ahead of that point at a body curve right behind the right rear wheel opening.

The guy just had a claim to his insurance company due to his young son totaling a car a few months after getting his license and did not want to report it his insurance company (State Farm). As a result of that he wants to pay directly to me for the damage. As small as the damage is it will still cost $1400.47 to fix it (painting will be all the way to the roof rail so that it looks perfect). I called and spoke to his wife (she was literally in tears when we were on the street after her husband hit my car) and gave her the news. She will get back to me how they want to handle it. I then called my insurance company and they said if the guy is going to turn it over to his insurance company. I should get back to my insurance company and they will take it from there because this will be the fastest hassle-free way to get my car repaired. The only down side to this is I will have to pay my $500 deductible and get it back once they settle with the other insurance company. It will take maybe two weeks for this to happen once my car is repaired. I was told this happens all the time but I'm free to deal with the guys insurance company myself if I want to. I am supposed to hear back from the guy later today.

I still can't believe he was honest enough to even tell me about it because I did not hear anything. Otherwise I wouldn't have found the damage until I washed and waxed it to put it away for the Winter. If nothing else I found an honest guy yesterday.

jmonroe

ab348

Too bad it wasn't a higher-speed impact with something like a garbage truck, JM, then it could be written off and you could get that new car you've wanted for so long!

roadburner

graphicguy said:

As I told my friend, not only are you now going back and forth to court for your divorce, you’ll be going back and forth for what could be a DUI. He can’t wait for this year to be over.

The BA will tell the tale. If it's under the per se limit it can get amended down. If it's over the limit there's still a possibility that there could be an issue that invalidates the test- missing certifications/tests/etc.
That said, my experience is in Kentucky law, I don't know what Ohio does.

ronsteve

roadburner said:

graphicguy said:

As I told my friend, not only are you now going back and forth to court for your divorce, you’ll be going back and forth for what could be a DUI. He can’t wait for this year to be over.

The BA will tell the tale. If it's under the per se limit it can get amended down. If it's over the limit there's still a possibility that there could be an issue that invalidates the test- missing certifications/tests/etc.
That said, my experience is in Kentucky law, I don't know what Ohio does.

And of course, if there IS no BA or field test because he refused, he's pretty much screwed under implied consent laws.

Mr_Shiftright

28firefighter said:

pensfan83 said:

Exactly. I rarely use my debit card for anything other than cash withdrawals so this feature allows us to carry one less card around.

Which reminds me....anytime we dine out at a restaurant where the wait staff processes payments we always pay cash because I refuse to let cards out of my sight.

Interesting approach. Since I'm paying with credit (for the points, of course), I'm OK since there is the ability to dispute charges, fraud etc. I do not understand using a debit card as a credit card, which I see all the time.

You use a debit card as a credit card so that you can spend money you actually have.

28firefighter

Mr_Shiftright said:

28firefighter said:

pensfan83 said:

Exactly. I rarely use my debit card for anything other than cash withdrawals so this feature allows us to carry one less card around.

Which reminds me....anytime we dine out at a restaurant where the wait staff processes payments we always pay cash because I refuse to let cards out of my sight.

Interesting approach. Since I'm paying with credit (for the points, of course), I'm OK since there is the ability to dispute charges, fraud etc. I do not understand using a debit card as a credit card, which I see all the time.

You use a debit card as a credit card so that you can spend money you actually have.

I suppose it is a matter of discipline, to your point. We don't spend anything we can't payoff each month. Literally just doing it for the points. I think I have said this before, but if I could pay my mortgage with a credit card to get the points, I would.

driver100

"houdini2".

RB, I have not seen, or don't remember, you ever considering an Audi A4/S4. Any reason?

Can an A4/S4 pull a tree stump out of a swamp?

stickguy

With the right tires.

I think mrs RB should drive the wrangler exclusively for a week to see if she gets tired of the experience.

imidazol97

Apple and friends are off today substantially because of predictions of lower sales of the high end iPhones.

Maybe @abacomike or @abacomike1 should buy that 10 he was talking about. Apple needs the business to raise my tech fund price back up after today's hit.

snakeweasel

henryn said:

If someone showed up with a gift basket for me, I would be very, very suspicious. I've never received such a thing in my life, and I wouldn't expect to suddenly get one now. In addition, anyone who tells me they don't accept cash gets looked at with a very high degree of suspicion. Yes, I have encountered such things, but VERY rarely. And for the most part, I passed them by.

A lot of companies won't let field people like that carry cash for security reasons. The big tip off in this is the recepiant paying for the delivery. Any payment for special deliveries will normally be paid by the shipper not the receiver. 

Mr_Shiftright

driver100 said:

"houdini2".

RB, I have not seen, or don't remember, you ever considering an Audi A4/S4. Any reason?

Can an A4/S4 pull a tree stump out of a swamp?

Not sure, but I'm very willing to try--with someone else's A4 of course.

driver100

jmonroe1 said:

Well, it finally happened. Someone back into my Genny. I was parked on a street in front of a house I am helping Son #1 trying his hand at flipping. The car was even half up on the grass in front of his house to allow room for cars to pass by. I could not park in the driveway because of a huge 20 yard dumpster that did not allow for a car to park in front of it. Maybe the small space that was left would be enough for a Sentra by not my Genny that is a beast. I was in front of his house not directly across from the driveway of the car pulling out that hit me. As Son #1 said you have to be BAD driver to not be able to get out of that driveway across the street with all the room I left for someone to get out of that driveway. Sounds bad, huh?

I was on the top step of the pull-down walkup to the attic in the garage, the garage door was open, when I heard someone say "hello, hello". I come down and a guy tells me he just hit my car while backing out of his driveway. I couldn't believe the guy was honest enough to tell me that. He hit the lower right bumper cover right at the seam to the quarter panel. It left a very slight crease at that point and some paint removal down to the primer coat a little ahead of that point at a body curve right behind the right rear wheel opening.

The guy just had a claim to his insurance company due to his young son totaling a car a few months after getting his license and did not want to report it his insurance company (State Farm). As a result of that he wants to pay directly to me for the damage. As small as the damage is it will still cost $1400.47 to fix it (painting will be all the way to the roof rail so that it looks perfect). I called and spoke to his wife (she was literally in tears when we were on the street after her husband hit my car) and gave her the news. She will get back to me how they want to handle it. I then called my insurance company and they said if the guy is going to turn it over to his insurance company. I should get back to my insurance company and they will take it from there because this will be the fastest hassle-free way to get my car repaired. The only down side to this is I will have to pay my $500 deductible and get it back once they settle with the other insurance company. It will take maybe two weeks for this to happen once my car is repaired. I was told this happens all the time but I'm free to deal with the guys insurance company myself if I want to. I am supposed to hear back from the guy later today.

I still can't believe he was honest enough to even tell me about it because I did not hear anything. Otherwise I wouldn't have found the damage until I washed and waxed it to put it away for the Winter. If nothing else I found an honest guy yesterday.

jmonroe

Sorry to hear that....the way people drive I am surprised it doesn't happen more often. It is also nice, but a big surprise that he told you about it.....restores a bit of faith in my fellow man.

Why not accept a check from him for $1400.47, then you won't have to pay the deductible, and he doesn't have to report to his or your insurance company?

driver100

ab348 said:

Too bad it wasn't a higher-speed impact with something like a garbage truck, JM, then it could be written off and you could get that new car you've wanted for so long!

Yeh, next time stop for a yellow light when there is a big truck tailgating you.

driver100

GG I don’t know if he took a breathalyzer or failed the physical tests, if he even acquiesced and did any of those tests?

Find it hard to believe they didn't take a breathalyzer test....and if he doesn't remember that is a bad sign right there. Like judge Patricia says on Hot Bench, she doesn't believe any of the people who appear in her courtroom, (until they prove their credibility at least)

Thank you firefighter for those very well explained rules regarding DUI.

It made me think of one idea.....maybe keep the receipt from your night out if you only have one drink...it could probably go a long ways to proving you really did only have one drink.

berri

Uplander, lawyers make doctors look cheap, seriously.

driver100

The lovely Mrs D. got a pop up ad on her computer that says some Toyota dealer will install a dash cam and/or a rear camera that can also record. What a great idea and what a worthwhile extra, much better than trying to sell mop n Glo or pinstripes.

I would really consider having one installed in the C250, probably a back camera too mainly for the back up camera alone. But, only one that is wired in, I don't want wires running around or have to plug it into cigarette lighter.

A few questions;
Any idea how much to get a built in dash cam installed....and where do you go?
Will they build a rear camera in and hide the wiring?
How much would each cost for camera and installation?
How do you watch what has been recorder?

(Guess I should ask if I cause the accident how do I destroy what is on it before the police get there?)

driver100

Mr_Shiftright said:

driver100 said:

"houdini2".

RB, I have not seen, or don't remember, you ever considering an Audi A4/S4. Any reason?

Can an A4/S4 pull a tree stump out of a swamp?

Not sure, but I'm very willing to try--with someone else's A4 of course.

and have a lot of fun trying to do it too!
Probably better if it doesn't have a clutch though.

fintail

A good front and rear camera can be had for a few hundred dollars at most. They record on a Micro SD, which you can remove and view on your computer. A good automotive electronics shop should be able to hardwire a camera for you, and keep the wiring hidden, running it through the pillars and headliner. Price will depend on labor rates, guess a few hours labor. Around 3 years ago I had a front and rear setup put in my car.

xwesx

@graphicguy People cross the yellow lines (or white lines) all the time; that, by itself, certainly is not grounds for a DUI stop. At that time of night, drowsiness is likely as common, if not more common, than an intoxicant, and of course there are the possible-yet-ever-present distractions.

However, that the friend was being uncooperative, and especially that he did not just consent to the testing to prove his case, does not do well for him. In Alaska, the police typically obtain a warrant to draw a blood sample from an individual once an arrest occurs, that way they have a snapshot of blood contaminants close to when the infraction occurred (especially when alcohol is not suspected as the primary issue). Otherwise, it seems like too many possibilities to allow for any "beyond a reasonable doubt."

graphicguy

roadburner said:

graphicguy said:

As I told my friend, not only are you now going back and forth to court for your divorce, you’ll be going back and forth for what could be a DUI. He can’t wait for this year to be over.

The BA will tell the tale. If it's under the per se limit it can get amended down. If it's over the limit there's still a possibility that there could be an issue that invalidates the test- missing certifications/tests/etc.
That said, my experience is in Kentucky law, I don't know what Ohio does.

Thanks all!

My friend and I just spoke again. I feel badly for him. Glad I'm not in his shoes, but it's still sad.

He said he did take the BA but not the field test(s) and said he had a .07, which is just under the wire in this area. I don't know how drunk you have to be to have that BA level, but pretty sure that's more than just one beer. As I said, he seemed fine to me several hours later and I didn't smell any alcohol on him.

He thinks things went sideways when the arresting officer got in his face a little bit when my friend questioned why such a small infraction caused him to get pulled over. My friend didn't back down because he "had a right to know" (his explanation). From the sounds of it, the officer didn't like being questioned, and the rest is history.

Still, take your lumps and move on instead of becoming Matlock.

My friend is worried work will find out. Not sure how they would unless he told them, or they regularly check court and arrest records.

Again, the lawyer is trying to get the charges reduced or dismissed based on the BA and lack of any real traffic violation.

graphicguy

@xwesx ....Thanks, makes sense.

I do think things went off the rails when the officer saw that my friend was not going to just cooperate without questioning.

The trailer/booking facility I picked him up at is close to where he was arrested and also close to the bar/restaurant he came from. So, that area is probably a target for the police looking for DUIs.

As mentioned, I don't know that area well, at all. But, just driving around there, I can see that as a plausible explanation.

As they say, any time you get in a car and drive, you can be pulled over for just about anything, as you always break some law, whether you realize it or not.

graphicguy

Continuing my unhealthy obsession with Stinger GTs....https://jalopnik.com/the-awd-2018-kia-stinger-gt-will-leave-you-begging-for-1823658684

stickguy

well, if a cop wants to pull you over, won't take long to violate some sort of rule. 2 over the limit, briefly over the line, etc. Assuming they want to actually wait for a real reason.

My daughter's BF is a local cop. According to him, they are not allowed to sit in a bar parking lot, or nearby to stalk people coming out and getting into their cars. Not quite sure why not. Probably the bar lobby calling in favors for their "donations"

28firefighter

Yes - there is established case law about how and where the Police can sit. It amounts to no "shooting fish in a barrel" basically.

Also there is established case law about how things like DUI checkpoints are performed, the ability to take an alternate route, etc.

driver100

fintail said:

A good front and rear camera can be had for a few hundred dollars at most. They record on a Micro SD, which you can remove and view on your computer. A good automotive electronics shop should be able to hardwire a camera for you, and keep the wiring hidden, running it through the pillars and headliner. Price will depend on labor rates, guess a few hours labor. Around 3 years ago I had a front and rear setup put in my car.

Excellent information....thank you fin.

driver100

graphicguy said:

Continuing my unhealthy obsession with Stinger GTs....https://jalopnik.com/the-awd-2018-kia-stinger-gt-will-leave-you-begging-for-1823658684

If I was looking for a fast sports sedan and my budget was around the $40k - $45k mark, I would consider that Stinger.....looks good and sounds like it can perform.

bwia

jmonroe1 said:

Well, it finally happened. Someone back into my Genny. I was parked on a street in front of a house I am helping Son #1 trying his hand at flipping. The car was even half up on the grass in front of his house to allow room for cars to pass by. I could not park in the driveway because of a huge 20 yard dumpster that did not allow for a car to park in front of it. Maybe the small space that was left would be enough for a Sentra by not my Genny that is a beast. I was in front of his house not directly across from the driveway of the car pulling out that hit me. As Son #1 said you have to be BAD driver to not be able to get out of that driveway across the street with all the room I left for someone to get out of that driveway. Sounds bad, huh? I was on the top step of the pull-down walkup to the attic in the garage, the garage door was open, when I heard someone say "hello, hello". I come down and a guy tells me he just hit my car while backing out of his driveway. I couldn't believe the guy was honest enough to tell me that. He hit the lower right bumper cover right at the seam to the quarter panel. It left a very slight crease at that point and some paint removal down to the primer coat a little ahead of that point at a body curve right behind the right rear wheel opening. The guy just had a claim to his insurance company due to his young son totaling a car a few months after getting his license and did not want to report it his insurance company (State Farm). As a result of that he wants to pay directly to me for the damage. As small as the damage is it will still cost $1400.47 to fix it (painting will be all the way to the roof rail so that it looks perfect). I called and spoke to his wife (she was literally in tears when we were on the street after her husband hit my car) and gave her the news. She will get back to me how they want to handle it. I then called my insurance company and they said if the guy is going to turn it over to his insurance company. I should get back to my insurance company and they will take it from there because this will be the fastest hassle-free way to get my car repaired. The only down side to this is I will have to pay my $500 deductible and get it back once they settle with the other insurance company. It will take maybe two weeks for this to happen once my car is repaired. I was told this happens all the time but I'm free to deal with the guys insurance company myself if I want to. I am supposed to hear back from the guy later today. I still can't believe he was honest enough to even tell me about it because I did not hear anything. Otherwise I wouldn't have found the damage until I washed and waxed it to put it away for the Winter. If nothing else I found an honest guy yesterday. jmonroe

The same thing happened to my daughter earlier this year. When I shared her story on this thread it was almost unanimous that she report the incident to her insurance company.

And she did; so I advise you do the same and be done with it. 

berri

I agree. State Farm may pull his insurance. Letting him pay you directly - what if there are hidden damages and the cost escalates significantly? Personally, in this situation I'd turn it over to my insurance company (they are going to find out whether you report it to them or not) and pay the deductible. Once it all gets resolved they will turn to his insurance company or him for restitution and then refund your deductible, Another advantage, you don't have to hassle with his adjuster who may try to short you on stuff.

oldfarmer50

bwia said:

SCAM

"This is very clever.  `I would probably fall for it if not warned.  Give this wide distribution.  This scam is actually very clever.  Just when you thought you'd heard it all.  Beware of people bearing gifts.

The following is a recounting of the incident from the victim:

Wednesday a week ago, I had a phone call from someone saying that he was from some outfit called: "Express Couriers," (The name could be any courier company).  He asked if I was going to be home because there was a package for me that required a signature.

The caller said that the delivery would arrive at my home in roughly an hour. Sure enough, about an hour later, a uniformed delivery man turned up with a beautiful basket of flowers and a bottle of wine. I was very surprised since there was no special occasion or holiday, and I certainly didn't expect anything like it. Intrigued, I inquired as to who the sender was.

The courier replied, "I don't know, I'm only delivering the package."

Apparently, a greeting card was being sent separately (the card has never arrived!).  There was also a consignment note with the gift.

He then went on to explain that because the gift contained alcohol, there was a $3.50 "delivery/ verification charge," providing proof that he had actually delivered the package to an adult (of legal drinking age), and not just left it on the doorstep where it could be stolen or taken by anyone, especially a minor.

This sounded logical and I offered to pay him cash. He then said that the delivery company required payment to be by credit or debit card only, so that everything is properly accounted for, and this would help in keeping a legal record of the transaction.

He added, "Couriers don't carry cash to avoid loss or likely targets for robbery."

My husband, who by this time was standing beside me, pulled out his credit card, and 'John,' the "delivery man," asked him to swipe the card on a small mobile card machine with a small screen and keypad. Frank, my husband, was asked to enter his PIN number and a receipt was printed out. He was given a copy of the transaction.

The guy said everything was in order, and wished us good day.

To our horrible surprise, between Thursday and the following Monday, $4,000 had been charged/withdrawn from our credit/debit account at various ATM machines.

Apparently the "mobile credit card machine," which the deliveryman carried now had all the info necessary to create a "dummy" card with all our card details including the PIN number.

Upon finding out about the illegal transactions on our card, we immediately notified the bank which issued us a new card, and our credit/debit account was closed.

We also personally went to the Police, where it was confirmed that it is definitely a scam because several households had been similarly hit.

WARNING: Be wary of accepting any "surprise gift or package," which you neither expected nor personally ordered, especially if it involves any kind of payment as a condition of receiving the gift.

PLEASE pass this on; it may just prevent someone else from being swindled."

As they say “there is no free lunch”. That’s actually a pretty clever scam. Was the bottle of booze at least worth drinking?

oldfarmer50

driver100 said:

I drove a 2012 Nissan Versa, it was a rental car when I was getting my 2012 bmw 535 repaired.
It was one of the least satisfactory driving experiences I have ever had....no joy, no fun, no driving pleasure.

I have to concede that the Versa is not a very good car. Similar to the Hyundai Accent, Mitsubishi Mirage, Chevy Sonic, Honda Fit it is below basic transportation. Suited only to short city hops. Whenever one of us gets assigned such a car there is much moaning and groaning.

oldfarmer50

houdini2 said:

roadburner said:

henryn said:

Understood. But how often do you need those abilities? Once or twice a week, or once or twice a year?

Someone in here, in the last few days, was quoting the old proverb about "don't buy a car based on what you're going to be using it for 5% of the time".

It’s one of those situations where you may not need the capability that frequently, but when you do need it you REALLY need. This year alone I had to pull large trees out of the way twice so that my wife could leave for work. 

roadburner said:

oldfarmer50 said:

How about an AWD Subaru? Don’t they have a good reputation for off road/snow capabilities?

I absolutely despise CVTs.

RB, I have not seen, or don't remember, you ever considering an Audi A4/S4. Any reason?

For pulling trees wouldn’t installing a winch be a better idea?

oldfarmer50

graphicguy said:

oldfarmer50 said:

graphicguy said:

Michaell said:

roadburner said:

henryn said:

I'm not advocating that you give up the farm. I appreciate country living (and city living). My point was, if you only need a jeep once or twice a year, why spend 30 or 40 thousand on a new one when you have a perfectly serviceable used one sitting there? Spend that money buying a new car that will please you 363 days out of 365, not 2 out of 365.

We've been discussing several possible scenarios. One idea is to get a vehicle for my wife that can replace the Clubman as well as the Wrangler; so far a JK/JL Wrangler is the only vehicle that really ticks all the boxes. Another idea was to simply replace the Clubman with a newer CUV; in that case the X1, Clubman, and CX-5 are the leading candidates.
Maybe we should check out a Sentra SR, as it apparently eclipses most every four wheeled vehicle on the market. Hmm...

Speaking of Sentras, my mom and sister are in Waco, TX for a few days, and got a Sentra as their rental in Dallas. My sister kinda likes it....

...but likely not enough to ditch her Lexus RX hybrid.

It was several months ago, but I rented a Sentra while in Austin for work. IIRC, it didn’t have more than 5K miles on it, but it was a pretty dismal driving vehicle. It wouldn’t be on any short list (well, except for one person).

Even if it was faster with the turbo motor, it still wouldn’t be something I’d be able to find a good reason to buy....or to even rent, again.

Have they done a redesign on it?

I don’t understand why everyone dumps on Sentras. Granted they don’t have the ride or capabilities of higher end cars but then again, those higher end cars cost twice as much. For what they are they do a pretty good job.

If I was shopping Nissans as I’ve said before, I’d take the Altima. Much better in my opinion.

If I was on a limited budget (as I usually am) I wouldn’t mind owing any of these small cars Focus, Cruise, Elantra, Sentra etc.

OF....I’d take any of those other cars you mentioned before I’d buy a Sentra. The Sentra I drove handled poorly, was slow and loud. Steering was the very definition of numb. While the car was relatively new, it wandered all over the highway. Any of the “amenities” it had seemed to be the bare minimum they could throw into it (like a weak A/C unit). Materials seemed to be the bare minimum also.

If I’m on a budget, and I’m looking for some transportation that was safe and reliable, I’d look at a used Corolla or Civic, instead.

If it has to be new, the ones you mentioned would be the ones I looked at well before I’d look at a Sentra.

Not denigrating your impressions, as maybe I just didn’t enjoy the week I spent with the Sentra. But, it made a lasting (and not very good) impression.

Onto scams.....the old adages still apply....if it sounds too good to be true, it is.

Wine and flowers sent unexpectedly from an unknown source? Sure, take my credit card. People are gullible. We’ll lock our homes every night and make certain our cars are locked in parking lots. But, whenever it comes to allowing solicitors, on our phones, or at our door, promising something for free (or nearly free)...sure...step right up.

Over the weekend, I got a call from someone claiming to be from Bank of America. Now, I’ve done business with BoA, as I had a credit card from them, but it was a long time ago. And, that card is long gone.

The lady who called introduced herself as a representative with BoA and stated there was unusual activity on my account. She asked for my account number. I was a little suspicious at first, but told her I had not had an account with them for a while. I also told her I no longer had access to that account, but since they found the “suspicious” activity on the account, surely they know the account number where such activity occurred.

She went on to say that they needed to make certain I was the account holder and they did that by verifying the account with the owner. Again, I said I did not have access to the account any longer. She then asked me for my SS#, so she could identify me as the account holder.


That was what set off the fire alarm. It hit me right at that moment. They are calling a list of people, who may have (or may not have) had a BoA account. Once the person can’t get the account number to them, they ask for their SS#, all under the guise they’re trying to protect the alleged account holder from some sort of fraud.

Ironic, given they’re the ones perpetrating the fraud.

I asked her for her supervisor. She called me an unkind name and hung up on me.

Given my list of cars the Sentra wouldn’t be my first choice either, just saying it’s not bad for the price point. I’m not sure I’d take a Corolla over a Sentra though. The ones I’ve driven had all the deficiencies you mentioned in the Sentra. The Civic I have no experience with but isn’t that a bit more expensive?

I can see why you’d find those kind of cars lacking as you’re used to better. Me? I’m happy if the wheels stay on.

oldfarmer50

28firefighter said:

I LOVE that idea. Hope it comes to my banks here shortly - I'd love to ditch the debit card. It is literally the only card I carry with me that is largely a direct link to cash and I almost never use it, only carrying it for emergencies.

Never understood the concept of a debit card. I spend mostly cash and use a credit card for large purchases.

oldfarmer50

venture said:

I saw a Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross a little while ago.



For some reason I immediately thought of this:

Just when I was getting over the trauma of Chrysler putting the Charger name on a four door, Mitsu goes and besmirched my Eclipse nameplate.

Actually it’s nicer in person than that picture indicates but yeah, what’s with that rear split window. Indicates lazy design to me.

oldfarmer50

graphicguy said:

I debated about posting this story all weekend, but since no names are involved, and it’s sorta driving related, I’m going to.

One of my best friends (I was Best Man at his wedding many, many years ago) called me at 5:00 a.m. Saturday morning. That has never happened before, particularly with my friend.

He had been picked up for suspicion of driving under the influence. I don’t know if he was drinking, or he wasn’t. But, he’s going through a nasty divorce and I told him a few times recently that drowning his sorrows in a bottle is not a good idea. Doing it and getting behind the wheel is an even worse idea.

He lives in a County just east of me. I’m not THAT familiar with the area, but they had put him, in what looked like to me, a highly secure trailer that they can move around. I guess they use these whenever they set up an checkpoint? Or, when they’re combing an area for DUI drivers?

I don’t know how the whole process works. I thought they took you to the nearest jail, and I don’t even now where that is. Apparently, there’s a different procedure for DUIs?

They picked him up at around 11:00 p.m. and didn’t release him until the next morning (ergo, the phone call I got).

Was he drunk? Didn’t seem like it to me, but I wasn’t with him at 11:00 p.m., either. He said they picked him up for crossing a yellow line. He said it was very dark and if he did cross the yellow line, it was just barely and in a split second. Again, I don’t know how all of this works. He argued with the arresting officer (bad move on his part). I guess he became somewhat defensive when the officer told him why he was pulled over and he would not cooperate with the officer who was trying to give him a field sobriety test.

From that point, I guess it became “assume the position”.

Lots of details I don’t have. I just took him straight home. I didn’t smell any alcohol, but I have not been trained to, either. He went into hiding Saturday and yesterday.

Finally reached him this a.m. He apologized profusely for getting me out of bed to pick him up (was irritated at the time, but what are friends for?). He said he had a beer with a burger at a bar/restaurant he went to listen to a band.

I dunno? Would they arrest you for drinking a beer? Two? Three? I’m thinking he had more than one. But, he’s 6’3”...230#-240#. It would take more than a beer (or even 2 or 3) to get him drunk....especially if he’d also had something to eat.

I don’t know if he took a breathalyzer or failed the physical tests, if he even acquiesced and did any of those tests?

Anyway, he told me he talked to his lawyer who saw the video from the police cam this a.m. He said that it was pretty skimpy evidence for pulling someone over for a DUI. He’s going to try to get the charges reduced. But, for the lawyer to even try? $3K....up front......that’s just for a plea, and not an actual trial. Plus, if guilty, fines and fees would match that. Then there’s the insurance pound of flesh.

As I told my friend, not only are you now going back and forth to court for your divorce, you’ll be going back and forth for what could be a DUI. He can’t wait for this year to be over.

In NY refusal of breath test is grounds for license suspension no matter what the other outcome. He may win the case but lose his license.

sda

graphicguy said:

dino001 said:

graphicguy said:

That was what set of the fire alarm. It hit me right at that moment. They are calling a list of people, who may have (or may not have) had a BoA account. Once the person can’t get the account number to them, they ask for their SS#, all under the guise they’re trying to protect the alleged account holder from some sort of fraud.

Ironic, given they’re the ones perpetrating the fraud.

I asked her for her supervisor. She called me an unkind name and hung up on me.

I actually received a ligitimate call once or twice from Chase regarding transactions, so I know how they should look like. It’s either a computer, or human, but it will involve them saying your name and last four digits of the card, to establish what they’re talking about.

Yeah......I know how my AMEX and Chase cards support routine. It isn't "tell me your card number and SS number".

Good rule of thumb, if someone wants you to give your SS# over the phone, you might want to think twice....and then, think again....!!!!!

But, these folks must make money with such a scam, because it's getting worse, not better.

Just need to be a bit more diligent. If someone is sending me anything via courier from some unknown person or source, I'm refusing it.

I even check the connection on my bank's ATMs and gas pump card readers every time I use them to make certain they don't have scimmers.

My son says I'm paranoid. I say I'm smarter than criminals.

I'm very trusting, but you can't be too careful.

oldfarmer50

ab348 said:

Too bad it wasn't a higher-speed impact with something like a garbage truck, JM, then it could be written off and you could get that new car you've wanted for so long!

Sounds totaled to me. Time to get rid of it. I’d give him 100 bucks just cause I feel sorry for him or maybe a straight up trade for a SLIGHTLY scratched PT.

oldfarmer50

snakeweasel said:

henryn said:

If someone showed up with a gift basket for me, I would be very, very suspicious. I've never received such a thing in my life, and I wouldn't expect to suddenly get one now.

In addition, anyone who tells me they don't accept cash gets looked at with a very high degree of suspicion. Yes, I have encountered such things, but VERY rarely. And for the most part, I passed them by.

A lot of companies won't let field people like that carry cash for security reasons. The big tip off in this is the recepiant paying for the delivery. Any payment for special deliveries will normally be paid by the shipper not the receiver. 

That’s the beauty of LYFT and Uber, no cash. Everything is done on the app.

Speaking of my ride share son, he got a speeding ticket today on the way to a pick up. A local scandal ridden city is trying to get an arm of the interstate to lower the speed limit as it enters the city. Not possible since the state and feds have that authority.

So what they have done is put up Work Zone signs with a lower limit even though no work is being done. They have turned it into a southern style speed trap to terrorize motorists into complying. My son is the latest victim.

Hopefully, this will resolve like most money grabs and be reduced to a no points fine.

stickguy

which city is that OF? Need to know since I will be up that way next month!

oldfarmer50

driver100 said:

The lovely Mrs D. got a pop up ad on her computer that says some Toyota dealer will install a dash cam and/or a rear camera that can also record. What a great idea and what a worthwhile extra, much better than trying to sell mop n Glo or pinstripes.

I would really consider having one installed in the C250, probably a back camera too mainly for the back up camera alone. But, only one that is wired in, I don't want wires running around or have to plug it into cigarette lighter.

A few questions;
Any idea how much to get a built in dash cam installed....and where do you go?
Will they build a rear camera in and hide the wiring?
How much would each cost for camera and installation?
How do you watch what has been recorder?

(Guess I should ask if I cause the accident how do I destroy what is on it before the police get there?)

You can get a dash cam that you install yourself in Walmart for under $100. Most of them record for a long period or send data to your phone.

roadburner

stickguy said:

With the right tires.

I think mrs RB should drive the wrangler exclusively for a week to see if she gets tired of the experience.

She's ridden in the TJ on fairly long trips. When I bought it back in 2002 as a parade car the plan was to sell it as soon as the election was over; she and I decided we'd rather keep it and we sold the Pathfinder.

driver100

oldfarmer50 said:

venture said:

I saw a Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross a little while ago.



For some reason I immediately thought of this:

Just when I was getting over the trauma of Chrysler putting the Charger name on a four door, Mitsu goes and besmirched my Eclipse nameplate.

Actually it’s nicer in person than that picture indicates but yeah, what’s with that rear split window. Indicates lazy design to me.

It would have looked nicer if they had the rear window all one piece, and coming down that far. Lights could still be in the pillars or be lower.

roadburner

28firefighter said:

Yes - there is established case law about how and where the Police can sit. It amounts to no "shooting fish in a barrel" basically.

Also there is established case law about how things like DUI checkpoints are performed, the ability to take an alternate route, etc.

Exactly; I've thrown out more than one case where the DUI checkpoint wasn't set up according to regulations. Ditto for tossing the BA when the Intoxilyzer was not maintained or calibrated properly.

28firefighter

My backup plan after law school was to start a traffic ticket defense practice, specifically focused on DUI. I’m still a bit rusty, but remember most of it. 

driver100

oldfarmer50 said:

driver100 said:

The lovely Mrs D. got a pop up ad on her computer that says some Toyota dealer will install a dash cam and/or a rear camera that can also record. What a great idea and what a worthwhile extra, much better than trying to sell mop n Glo or pinstripes.

I would really consider having one installed in the C250, probably a back camera too mainly for the back up camera alone. But, only one that is wired in, I don't want wires running around or have to plug it into cigarette lighter.

A few questions;
Any idea how much to get a built in dash cam installed....and where do you go?
Will they build a rear camera in and hide the wiring?
How much would each cost for camera and installation?
How do you watch what has been recorder?

(Guess I should ask if I cause the accident how do I destroy what is on it before the police get there?)

You can get a dash cam that you install yourself in Walmart for under $100. Most of them record for a long period or send data to your phone.

That is fine....I want it installed so the wires don't show. Not, like this.......

oldfarmer50

stickguy said:

which city is that OF? Need to know since I will be up that way next month!

All I can say is don’t drive to the end of I-787.

bwia

oldfarmer50 said:

I debated about posting this story all weekend, but since no names are involved, and it’s sorta driving related, I’m going to. One of my best friends (I was Best Man at his wedding many, many years ago) called me at 5:00 a.m. Saturday morning. That has never happened before, particularly with my friend. He had been picked up for suspicion of driving under the influence. I don’t know if he was drinking, or he wasn’t. But, he’s going through a nasty divorce and I told him a few times recently that drowning his sorrows in a bottle is not a good idea. Doing it and getting behind the wheel is an even worse idea. He lives in a County just east of me. I’m not THAT familiar with the area, but they had put him, in what looked like to me, a highly secure trailer that they can move around. I guess they use these whenever they set up an checkpoint? Or, when they’re combing an area for DUI drivers? I don’t know how the whole process works. I thought they took you to the nearest jail, and I don’t even now where that is. Apparently, there’s a different procedure for DUIs? They picked him up at around 11:00 p.m. and didn’t release him until the next morning (ergo, the phone call I got). Was he drunk? Didn’t seem like it to me, but I wasn’t with him at 11:00 p.m., either. He said they picked him up for crossing a yellow line. He said it was very dark and if he did cross the yellow line, it was just barely and in a split second. Again, I don’t know how all of this works. He argued with the arresting officer (bad move on his part). I guess he became somewhat defensive when the officer told him why he was pulled over and he would not cooperate with the officer who was trying to give him a field sobriety test. From that point, I guess it became “assume the position”. Lots of details I don’t have. I just took him straight home. I didn’t smell any alcohol, but I have not been trained to, either. He went into hiding Saturday and yesterday. Finally reached him this a.m. He apologized profusely for getting me out of bed to pick him up (was irritated at the time, but what are friends for?). He said he had a beer with a burger at a bar/restaurant he went to listen to a band. I dunno? Would they arrest you for drinking a beer? Two? Three? I’m thinking he had more than one. But, he’s 6’3”...230#-240#. It would take more than a beer (or even 2 or 3) to get him drunk....especially if he’d also had something to eat. I don’t know if he took a breathalyzer or failed the physical tests, if he even acquiesced and did any of those tests? Anyway, he told me he talked to his lawyer who saw the video from the police cam this a.m. He said that it was pretty skimpy evidence for pulling someone over for a DUI. He’s going to try to get the charges reduced. But, for the lawyer to even try? $3K....up front......that’s just for a plea, and not an actual trial. Plus, if guilty, fines and fees would match that. Then there’s the insurance pound of flesh. As I told my friend, not only are you now going back and forth to court for your divorce, you’ll be going back and forth for what could be a DUI. He can’t wait for this year to be over.

In NY refusal of breath test is grounds for license suspension no matter what the other outcome. He may win the case but lose his license.

If this is your friend`s first DUI and if he wasn't too abusive to the cop, and had not taken any illicit drugs he probably will be given a warning.

Showing up in court with a lawyer is perhaps not a good strategy. It says I'm guilty and i'm going to buy my way out of this predicament. Instead he should appear to be contrite and throw himself on the mercy of the court. If he is tearful and sincere in his plea he just might walk Scott free.

roadburner

bwia said:

If this is your friend`s DUI and if he wasn't too abusive to the cop, he probably will be given a warning.

Showing up in court with a lawyer is perhaps not a good strategy. It says I'm guilty and i'm going to buy my way out of this predicament. Instead he should appear to be contrite and throw himself on the mercy of the court. If he is tearful and sincere in his plea he just might walk Scott free.

I'd have to disagree; he's close enough to the per se limit that a judge or prosecutor is unlikely to amend it down at his initial appearance. This isn't like going 20 over and asking for 10 over and traffic school.

stickguy

oldfarmer50 said:

stickguy said:

which city is that OF? Need to know since I will be up that way next month!

All I can say is don’t drive to the end of I-787.

North end by the armory I assume? Thankfully I never need to go up that way.

Michaell

A HS friend of mine will string along the IRS "collection" folks, and repost the conversations on Facebook. Here's one from a few weeks ago:

So, the IRS scammers are at it again. Had one on the phone for about 10 minutes. Talking about the taxes due and owing for (son's name). I told him my name was Robert Dewey, Esquire from the Law Offices of Dewey, Cheatem and Howe. And that I was representing my client.

Apparently (son) is a serial under reporter of income. Since the age of 8. He has underreported his income by over $250,000 (the little twerp, I knew it). But that they will “settle” the claim for $6,372.50. I asked if there was a discount if we brought cash to the settlement. That tossed him for a loop. He kept saying we cant take cash. So, I said “come on, lets say I pay you $4000 directly....Cash....you can make this go away, right?” He got real quiet and said “How can we do that?”, I said “I’ll meet you outside your building.” He had previously told me he was calling from the IRS office in downtown Baltimore (More like Mumbai). He said “My building?” I said “Yes, you told me you worked in the Baltimore office of the IRS”. And he confirmed that again. So I said “Your office at 31 Hopkins Plaza in Baltimore”. He then said “oh”. So I said “well, I could wire it to you”.

At this point he paused again. I said “I’ll wire it right now, all I need is your bank account number, The routing number, your date of birth, mothers maiden name, social security number and password to your online banking”

He then paused, and then he hung up.

I'll also note that said friend is a retired Assistant Director from the FBI, focusing on money laundering. The stories are hilarious.