How safe is it to drive your damaged car?
In car accidents, vehicles can suffer varying degrees damage. You might wonder if your car is safe to drive after a recent accident or if it’s time to call for a tow. Even though minor accidents might not have major damage on your car, driving one that even has minor damage can be dangerous. Before you get back on the roads, consider these key factors.
Signs that your car is not safe to drive after an accident
1. The lights are not working or broken
Check that all your lights work properly when you start the car. For visibility and safety, it is essential that your brake lights, turn signals, and headlights are working. You could be at risk of getting into an accident or being given a traffic ticket if any of these lights aren’t working. Check the lights with someone else. If any of them are not working, you should not drive your car.
2. Leaking Fluids
Fluid leaks can cause serious engine damage and even lead to fire hazards. Here’s what you should look out for:
- Leaks of transmission fluid or oil: Your vehicle may breakdown within a few miles.
- Coolant leaks can cause engine failure.
- Leakage of brake fluid can lead to brake failure and make driving dangerous.
Do not drive your vehicle if you see fluids pooling underneath. Instead, call for a tow.
3. Visible engine or radiator damage
Your car could be unsafe to drive if you can’t open the hood, or if the radiator has been damaged. Radiators are often damaged by front-end collisions, which can quickly cause an engine to overheat. A damaged condenser can also leave you without air-conditioning.
4. Wheel and Tire Damage
For safe driving, your wheels and tires need to be in good shape. It is unsafe to drive if the wheels of your car are bent or misaligned. If your tires have punctures or are losing air, you should not drive your car. Continued driving with damaged wheels could lead to an accident or cause more damage to your vehicle.
5. Unattached or Loose Vehicle Parts
It is dangerous to drive with loose parts on your car, such as bumpers, mirrors, and fenders. They could fall off, creating a hazard for other drivers. It’s better to not drive until the car is repaired.
6. Frame Damage
Your car may not be able to handle correctly if the frame is bent, misaligned or misaligned. This increases your accident risk. Your car’s frame may also be weakened, reducing its ability to protect you from another accident. You should have your car inspected if you suspect that the frame is damaged.
State Regulations for Driving a Damaged Vehicle
Each state has laws that govern the roadworthiness after an accident of vehicles. Some states require any vehicle involved in an incident to be inspected prior to being driven again. Some states will allow minor damages as long as they are not detrimental to the vehicle. Consult your insurance provider or local body shop to make sure you are in compliance.
Why You Should Repair your Car Promptly
Delaying the repair of a damaged car can cause further complications including:
- Electrical problems: Damaged sensors or wiring can cause malfunctions and additional damage.
- Risk of another accident: Parts that are unstable or misaligned can lead to a reduction in control.
- Insurance claim denials: Some insurers will refuse to pay for additional damages if you drive after an accident with no repairs.
Checklist: Does Your car meet the safety requirements to drive?
Check this list to see if your vehicle is roadworthy following an accident.
- The brake lights, headlights and turn signals all work
- No fluid leaks underneath the car
- No visible damage to the engine or radiator
- Tires and wheels intact and properly inflated
- There are no loose or detached components that could fall off
- The frame appears to be structurally sound
- There are no warning lights to indicate severe problems
Your car might be safe to drive if you have checked all the boxes. If you are in any doubt, it is best to be cautious and have your car inspected.
Safety comes first!
It’s only natural that you want to get back home as soon as possible after an accident. Safety should always come first. Perform a thorough inspection and, if needed, seek professional advice before you try to drive your damaged car. See a car accident doctor if you feel any discomfort or pain after an accident to make sure you’re you are ok, health wise.
Following these guidelines will help you make an informed decision about whether or not your vehicle is safe for you to drive, and if it’s time to call a tow truck and get repairs.
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