Most people have had a car accident in their driving history. Every year America sees almost 6 million car accidents and unfortunately many of them are fatal. But there are many of those who are fortunate enough to walk away from their accidents.

Some accidents are only cosmetic, or so you would think. Minor car accidents do happen, but the extents of their damage are often overlooked. These minor accidents can cause serious problems to your vehicle in the future.

Here are some ways that minor car accidents can bring you more issues if they aren’t checked.

The Ways An Accident Can Make Things Worse

Leaving small things like fender-benders can cause more issues for you in the long run. You have to be aware of these and others.

Transmission Problems

This can arguably cost you the most money; transmission replacements can cost anywhere from $1800-3400. Transmission damage can be diagnosed by slow acceleration and the sounds of clunky shifting of gears.

It can cause pieces breaking and lead to irreparable damage to your vehicle. Its easier to pay for a check than a new car.

Vehicle Alignment

Vehicle alignment is easy to be thrown off by a small fender-bender. If not taken care of immediately, it can make your car dangerous to drive, not to mention uncomfortable.

It makes your tires out of sync and can cause pulling to either side when driving. In the long run, it can get worse if not properly attended to.

Suspension & Steering Problems

The suspension is a delicate part of your vehicle, so a minor fender can throw it completely off. You will have to overcompensate for this in the way you steer and handle your car if you do not fix it.

Luckily, we at Limerick will be able to fix this for you if there are any issues with your suspension or alignment

Electrical System Problems

Wiring and tech in your vehicle can be fairly easy to disrupt. A minor accident can do that. Sometimes it can be simple like notification lights on your dashboard but other times it can be the starter which can cost far more.

Scratches & Dents

In a minor fender-bender, there is bound to be some cosmetic damage. However, these compromise the protective layer of your vehicle.

If left unchecked water, humidity, and salts can create rust that can travel underneath and create holes in the frame or rust out the fasteners. It is good to handle them early than later.

Minor Car Accidents Happen

It is important to be in tune with your vehicle. It is easy to overlook minor fender-benders as something not to pay much attention to but they can cause some serious problems further down the road.

If you find yourself in a minor car accident, don’t take the easy way. Take the diligent one because it can be the difference between a minor fix and less money and an entirely new car note.

For other great articles like this visit us on our website or if you have any or questions or need help with your vehicle, contact us today.

Every year in the United States, over 4.4 million people are injured, killed, and involved in automobile accidents.

Car accidents happen to people regardless of where they live or who they are. It is an unfortunate fact that most drivers will experience some level of a car accident in their life.

Your first car accident can be a scary, painful experience but knowing what to do can help make it better.

What to Do

The following are tips on what you should do if you’re in a car accident.

1. Stop

No matter how minor an accident seems, you should always stop and resolve the situation. Even a minor accident with no injuries and little damage has to be handled immediately.

2. Call the Police 

When you are involved in an accident, you should always call the police. The police will make a report about what happened and will determine who was at fault. This is an important step in receiving possible compensation for property or medical costs.

3. Make An Accurate Record of Everything

Getting over your first car accident is not easy, but it is important to be accurate when describing what happened. This accuracy plays a critical role in how quickly you can recover legally, medically, and mentally.

4. Contact a Lawyer

Having a lawyer represent you is the best way to deal with insurance companies and any legal trouble that could come from your accident. They are trained to deal with these situations. Follow the instructions of your lawyer.

5. Seek Medical Attention 

If there is even the slightest chance you could be hurt, you need to seek medical attention. This is very important if you hit your head or feel any discomfort in your torso. You can’t see all injuries.

What Not to Do

Here are tips on what you shouldn’t do if you’re involved in a car accident.

1. Don’t Leave the Scene 

No matter how scared, injured, or upset you may be, do not leave the accident. Hit and run penalties can range from misdemeanor charges to felony arrests.

2. Don’t Forget to Exchange Information 

You should always exchange contact information and insurance information with the other driver. This is true if you rear-end a vehicle and also true if you are hit by a vehicle.

3. Don’t Allow Yourself to Become Angry or Violent

Staying calm is the best way to deal with any crisis. When you’ve been in your first car accident that is easier said than done, but it is just as important.

4. Don’t Speak to Insurance Companies Without Legal Representation

Never speak to an insurance company without a lawyer representing you. This can lead to you losing benefits and possibly missing out on compensation.

5. Don’t Tough It Out 

Thinking that you’re okay can lead to a lot of problems. Your vehicle can be repaired. If an internal injury has occurred, you could die.

The Aftermath of Your First Car Accident

Don’t risk your livelihood or extreme stress after your first car accident. Once you have taken all the appropriate steps, you will need to get your car fixed. At Limerick Auto Body, we can pick up your vehicle and help repair it. Let us help you.

If you’re in the Limerick, PA area and have been in a car accident, contact us.