Most drivers believe that rear-end collisions are pretty minor accidents that don’t even always need immediate repairs. Sometimes you may drive for several months without even thinking about going to the mechanic or activating your insurance because of them.
It is because, against thousands of injuries and deaths that happen on roads every year, rear-end collisions that usually occur at slower speeds and are never as traumatic and damaging don’t seem like a big deal.
However, this misconception and negligence towards damage caused by rear-end collisions may lead to severe damage to your vehicle and a heavy bill from a body shop if you don’t address it on time.
In this article, we shall try to reveal the true face of damage that may be caused by rear-end collisions and help you save a great deal of money, time, or even your life in the future.
Are you sure it is just cosmetic damage?
Yes, those scratches and even dents that may appear on your car’s body after a rear-end collision may look pretty nasty. But it is just cosmetic damage, after all. You have so much on your plate right now that a minor scratch can wait until you have some extra time and money to deal with it.
This is what most drivers think, and to be fair, in many cases, they are not wrong. Yes, every scratch and damage should be addressed as soon as possible before it leads to corrosion and more severe and costly issues, but a low-speed rear-end collision can hardly lead to dangerous or even life-threatening consequences.
But, unfortunately, in some cases, they can. Here are the most common issues that may appear after a rear-end collision and become a serious hazard on the road.
- Weakened car frame – bumpers on modern vehicles are usually plastic. Their design and material are meant to soften the impact in case of rear-end collision as much as possible, but, of course, they cannot thoroughly protect the frame. As a result, what seems to be a trivial fender bender may seriously weaken the car frame. As a result, you won’t be protected how should in case of a serious collision later;
- Transmission damage – both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) cars have crucial transmission parts located at the rear part of the vehicle. It means they are likely to get damaged in a rear-end collision. If you notice that the transmission fluid is leaking, the acceleration feels different, or the car itself is shifting roughly, have the transmission checked immediately;
- A damaged trunk – it is one of the most common outcomes of a rear-end collision, which is not only extremely annoying since you won’t be able to open and close your car’s trunk normally, but it may turn out a severe safety hazard if the trunk suddenly opens in the middle of a highway and your belongings start flying out of it;
- Car alignment issues – another common outcome of a rear-end collision. Once you notice that the vehicle started to vibrate strangely or pull to the side of the road after a seemingly minor accident, make sure to address a mechanic immediately. Otherwise, you risk facing some severe brakes and suspension issues, tires that wear off too soon, and other costly and dangerous consequences;
- Electrical issues – are probably the most severe outcome of a rear-end collision. Some wires in the system can get loosened or disconnected, causing the battery, starter, or lights to malfunction. Not to mention all the sensors and detectors located under the bumpers of modern vehicles, which can also get damaged and start sending wrong signals or cause a glitch in the overall electric system.
How to avoid all those issues?
The simplest answer to this question is to drive safely, maintain a safe distance on the road and pay attention even when you are going very slowly. However, no driver is immune to minor mishaps, and everyone has to deal with rear-end collisions from time to time.
The best solution is not to ignore the damage and possible issues it can cause. Make sure to address professional expertise after even a minor accident.
Here at OHS Body shop, we are always happy to conduct thorough diagnostics and necessary repairs for all sorts of vehicles. Visit one of our branches located all over Montana’s Greater Flathead Valley, in Kalispell, Whitefish, Columbia Falls and Polson. Our team will ensure that no damage or potential hazard stays unnoticed and that you continue driving a safe and comfortable vehicle.