After a car accident—especially a minor one—it can be tempting to hop back in and continue driving. But even if the damage looks minimal, there could be underlying issues that make your car unsafe. Before hitting the road again, here’s how to know if your vehicle really is safe to drive.
Check your dashboard for new warning lights. Airbag, brake, engine, or suspension alerts may mean important safety systems were triggered or damaged during the crash.
If your steering feels unusual, your car pulls to one side, or you notice vibrations at any speed, your alignment or suspension could be compromised. Driving in this state puts you at higher risk of losing control.
Make sure headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals still function correctly. Damaged wiring or loose panels can cause electrical failures, making it unsafe—especially at night.
Misaligned doors or panels could be a sign of frame damage. If parts don’t seal correctly, that may also allow water intrusion or airbag deployment failures in the event of another accident.
Look under the car for fresh puddles. Leaking oil, coolant, brake fluid, or transmission fluid are major red flags. Even small leaks can lead to serious engine or brake failure if ignored.
Crumpled panels, uneven gaps between doors, or a bent frame can all impact the vehicle’s ability to protect you in a future crash. These signs shouldn’t be ignored, even if the car seems to drive fine.
Just because a car runs after an accident doesn’t mean it’s safe to drive. A professional inspection is the only way to confirm there’s no hidden damage. At Comeback Auto Assist, our collision repair experts thoroughly assess your vehicle and restore it to pre-accident condition—so you can drive with confidence.
Schedule a post-accident inspection with Comeback Auto Assist today.
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