After an auto accident, you could be wondering if it is safe to drive your car. There are a number of factors that you should consider before coming to the conclusion that is safe to drive your car. A car that has been in an accident can be a danger to other drivers on the road. You have to take into account the situation and everyone involved as you evaluate the safety of your car. Here are 5 things to consider before driving your car.
Your own health and safety
Before you consider your car, you need to make sure that you’re fine to drive. Accidents are very stressful situations that cause us to react in different ways. While some people are not affected at all, others may experience symptoms of shock which could affect their driving. It’s important to get checked by the first responders at the accident scene and make sure that you’ve been taken care of and you’re cleared for driving.
Busted windshield
The first and obvious thing to look for is your visibility behind the wheel. If it is badly cracked or shattered then you shouldn’t be driving it. Being able to see other drivers on the road is essential to safe driving. Cracked windshield can alter your vision because of how light travels through glass and other materials making it difficult to see other drivers and pedestrians on the road.
Are your headlights working
It’s important to test and make sure that your headlights, tail lights along with signal lights are working. In Oklahoma you can be cited for non-functioning lights because not having the correct lighting puts you and other drivers at risk.
Fluid leakage
Check to se if your car is leaking any fluids. Leaking fluid from a car is dangerous because it can cause fire as you’re driving and this could lead to another accident. Leaking fluid also signals that a major car system is about to run out of what it needs to function correctly.
Damage to the hood
Next you need to consider the damage to your hood as this area of the car houses a number of very important systems including the car’s engine. If this part of the car is badly damaged then you shouldn’t drive your car because it will break down sooner than you think.
Brakes and tires
In over 70% of auto accidents, tires seem to be the first to be impacted mostly because they keep the car on the ground and collision tends to move cars against their intended direction. If your car has a flat tire, don’t attempt to drive it. The uneven distribution of pressure can affect the car’s steering. Ineffective brakes are something to lookout for as well as they’re usually damaged as well.
Bottom line
The decision to drive your car after an accident varies from accident to accident. Use the points above to assess your individual situation to make sure you’re staying on the safe side. The important thing after that is fixing your car. Find a reputable collision repair shop in your area and let them take care of your car. If you’re in Oklahoma City metro come see Davis Paint & Collision Auto Center and we’ll take care of you. We’re a certified collision shop and we’ll help you with insurance claims as we’ve done for hundred of other car owners. Call our Oklahoma City location (405) 733-9797 or Midwest City location (405) 732-0762.
