What Happens When You Buy a Car?

Owning a car adds to your living expenses.

Your new car can lose as much as 20 percent of its value before you get home after buying it, according to Edmunds. Buying a car will increase your personal freedom, but it also add to your expenses and potential danger.

Costs

The average person who owned a car added $8,758 to his yearly expenses, such as gas and maintenance, in 2009, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The more you make tends to increase the amount of money you spend on a car.

Significance

In some cities, cars outnumber people, according to Common Dreams. Cars increase your feeling of freedom and your ability to work and go places further from your immediate community. In the traditional view of America, cars epitomize democracy and individualism.

Danger

Simply driving a car gives you a 1 in 18,585 chance of dying, according to the Pittsburgh Tribune. Driving is the most lethal activity a person regularly takes part in, especially if you are a teenager.

References

• Edmunds: Drive a (Nearly) New Car for (Almost) Free!
• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Consumer Expenditures--2009
• Investopedia: The True Cost of Owning a Car
• Common Dreams: Well, America: Is the Car Culture Working?
• Pittsburgh Tribune: What Are the Odds of Winning the Powerball Jackpot?
• Parents for Safe Teen Driving: Facts and Figures