I have a black 98 civic that i just bought from a co-worker, he said it was lowered and that i would have to make sure i didn't take it over bumps too fast. now i got the money to get some rims. I've seen so many 17" rims that would look good but i doubt they'll fit because the car's been lowered, anyone know how i can fix this problem withouth lifting the car back to its original height?

As long as you get the correct offset and tire size you will not have a rubbing problem with aftermarket wheels .....

here are some specs to look for

17X7 4-100 ET45 wheel
205/40-17 tire