Annual Inspections

Each and every year we make our way around that brightly colored sticker on our windshield for another inspection. For me, that time of year is always a source of anxiety thanks to my history of driving lemons and suspecting that I’ve been taken advantage of in the past.

154191284
Thinkstock
loading...

*How I like to imagine myself rolling up to the mechanic when in reality I'm terrified and poor. 

There has long been discussion about vehicle inspections and whether or not they should remain annual, every other year, or go away entirely. The argument for keeping them and keeping them annually is to protect other drivers arguing that a car having a major issue could cause an accident harming others. Those that argue to get rid of inspections or lessen their frequency argue that if someone wants to drive a rust bucket, or if that’s all they can afford, they should be able to. We are such a rural state that a rusted-out Ford Taurus might be the only way to get to work, get a paycheck, and hopefully save for a better car.

Car crash in urban street with black car
Thinkstock
loading...

Prices Going Up

Everything in the world is going up in price. It was just a few weeks ago that I paid $4.25 a gallon and that was at the “cheap” station.

Now Maine is looking into doubling inspection fees. Interestingly, it appears this could be with the end goal in mind of having newer vehicles exempt from annual inspections.

470932824
Getty Images/iStockphoto
loading...

This idea was proposed by Representative Richard Cebra of Naples. His proposal suggests inspections every 2 years and new vehicles will be except for 3 years from the date of sale.

Bangor Daily News reported that the bill from Senator Bill Diamond of Windham changes the current fee of $12.50 for an inspection to up to $25. The increase will be to help fund an electronic inspection system for garages statewide.

BDN continues noting that lawmakers are hesitant to increase a fee during this time of high inflation and an election year.

Augusta-Maine-capital2
loading...

Good for Some Bad for Others

Initially, I thought how brilliant. $25 and I may not have to pay again for 3 years? That’s actually a saving. But after really thinking about it and realizing I drive a car from 2018 it’s frustrating to think that those that can afford new vehicles get a break and that those that can’t afford a newer vehicle are burdened with more of the cost.

LOOK: Full List of the Best Places to Live in Maine

Stacker compiled a list of the best places to live in Maine using data from Niche. Niche ranks places to live based on a variety of factors including cost of living, schools, health care, recreation, and weather. Cities, suburbs, and towns were included. Listings and images are from realtor.com. On the list, there's a robust mix of offerings from great schools and nightlife to high walkability and public parks.

Some areas have enjoyed rapid growth thanks to new businesses moving to the area, while others offer glimpses into area history with well-preserved architecture and museums. Keep reading to see if your hometown made the list.

This House for Sale on the Coast of Camden, Maine Will Blow You Away

More From 102.9 WBLM