Fender benders happen all the time—after a late-night movie, during rush hour, or even in your own driveway. While they are minor accidents, fender benders cause damage to your vehicle that should be assessed and repaired quickly. Here’s a quick guide to help you fix your fender bender damage.
What to Do Immediately After an Accident
You might be feeling a little shaken up after a fender bender, but it’s important to stay calm and follow the recommended steps. Move to a safe location if possible and check the vehicle occupants for any injuries. If anyone is hurt, call emergency services.
Once everyone is safe, assess the damage, take photos to document the incident, and exchange information with the other driver. Report the accident to your insurance company even if you don’t plan on filing a claim.
How to Assess Your Fender Bender Damage
Fender benders can cause a wide range of damage, from minor scratches and dings to major structural issues. Before you can start repairing the damage, you need to assess its extent.
Perform a Visual Inspection
Examine both the exterior and interior of your vehicle. Check for visible damage such as dents, scratches, and broken lights, then look for less obvious issues like misaligned panels, fluid leaks, or strange noises.
Check the Body Alignment
Park your car on a flat surface and check if the body panels line up evenly. If you notice any uneven gaps or misaligned panels, there may be underlying structural damage.
Examine Any Mechanical Issues
If your car is making strange noises, has a misaligned steering wheel, decreased brake function, or any other mechanical problems after the fender bender, it’s best to have it inspected by a professional mechanic.
Evaluate the Extent of the Damage
Based on your observations, determine how extensive the damage is and whether you should keep driving the vehicle or tow it to a repair shop. If you’re unsure, it’s best to err on the side of caution and have a professional assess the damage.
Your Guide to Vehicle Repairs After a Fender Bender
Once you have assessed the fender bender damage, identify which damages require immediate attention and which can wait. If you have any of the following issues, they’ll need to be repaired as soon as possible:
- Bent or damaged car frame
- Damaged radiator or engine
- Issues with the wheels, tires, or suspension
- Broken windshield or windows
- Engine, transmission, or brake damage
- Electrical issues
While trying to fix minor damages yourself may be tempting, it’s always best to have a professional assess and repair your vehicle. The safety and quality of your repairs are crucial for both you and others on the road. Plus, professional repair shops usually provide warranties for their work for guaranteed satisfaction.
If the cost of repairs is a concern, discuss financing options with your insurance company. Depending on your policy and circumstances, some may cover some of the repair costs.
Once you take your car in for repairs, the technicians will provide you with a detailed estimate of the repairs needed and their costs before starting any work. The repairs may include bodywork, dent removal, paint touch-ups, and more. You’ll get a calmer, well-functioning car back in no time.
Tips for Preventing Future Fender Bender Damage
After experiencing your first (or second) round of fender bender damage, you might wonder how to prevent even more occurrences. The best way to avoid future crashes is to practice your defensive driving:
- Adjust your mirrors to correctly display your blind spot.
- Change your tires once they start to wear out.
- Stay three seconds behind the vehicle ahead of you.
- Avoid using your phone.
- Stay in the right lane, except to pass.
- Follow the speed limit.
Regular vehicle maintenance is also extremely important. If your vehicle isn’t functioning properly, you run the risk of losing control and causing an accident. Take your car to your mechanic for regular inspections every 6-12 months.
Trust Your Vehicle Care to the Experts at Valley Collision
Ready to let the professionals repair your fender bender damage? Take your vehicle to the nearest Valley Collision for friendly and expert service. We’ll identify any damage and use expert techniques to ensure the highest-quality repairs. You can trust our expertise—we’ve achieved I-CAR Gold Class certification and provide lifetime warranties. Find a location near you to get started.
