Most Americans assume that once you buy your car, pay the sales tax, register it, and keep up with routine fees, you have met your financial obligations as a vehicle owner.

Unfortunately, that is far from reality in many parts of the country.

Yearly taxes based on fluctuating and often overestimated valuations create financial unpredictability that families cannot plan for.

The most glaring example right now is Virginia , where residents are dealing with a yearly tax system that feels less like responsible public policy and more like a state-sponsored shakedown.

Number crunch

A Virginia man recently opened his annual vehicle property tax bill to find a stunning total: some $4,500 . He wasn’t being penalized for late fees, accidents, or violations. There were no repairs included. T

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