Accidents happen, and they can be scary and overwhelming. One of the most common questions we get asked at our Idaho Falls auto body shop is whether it’s okay to drive a vehicle after an accident. While every situation is different, we’re here to provide some guidance on when it’s generally safe to drive your car and when it’s not.

When Not to Drive Your Vehicle After an Accident

There are several scenarios in which you should not drive your car after an accident. These include:

• You Have a Flat Tire: If one or more of your tires are flat or damaged, driving your vehicle can be dangerous. A flat tire can cause your car to lose control, and you may not be able to brake properly. In this situation, it’s best to call a tow truck to have your vehicle transported to an auto body shop.
• Smoke is Coming from the Engine: If you notice smoke coming from your engine, it’s a sign of a serious problem. Continuing to drive your vehicle in this condition can cause further damage and potentially lead to a fire. Pull over immediately and call for assistance.
• Your Vehicle Handles Differently: If your vehicle is handling differently after an accident, it’s best to have it inspected by a professional. If your car pulls to one side, your steering wheel vibrates, or your brakes don’t feel right, it may not be safe to drive.

When Can You Drive Your Vehicle After an Accident

If your vehicle is still drivable after an accident, there are some things you should consider before hitting the road.

• First, check for any visible damage or leaks. If you see anything that looks out of the ordinary, have your car inspected by a professional before driving it.
• Next, make sure all your lights, signals, and brakes are working correctly. You should also take your car for a test drive to ensure it’s handling properly.

If you’re involved in a minor fender bender and your car is still drivable, it’s generally safe to drive it afterward. As long as there is no visible damage to critical components like headlights, turn signals, and brakes, and your car feels like it’s handling normally, you can typically continue driving your vehicle without any issues.

It’s worth noting that even if the damage appears to be minor, you should always exchange information with the other driver and report the accident to your insurance company. Doing so will help you avoid potential complications down the road.

Of course, if you notice any unusual sounds, vibrations, or handling issues, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and have your car inspected by an Idaho Falls car collision repair professional. But assuming everything appears to be functioning normally, you can likely drive your vehicle without any problems.

Choose Classic Auto Collision Center for Your Auto Body Repair Needs

At Classic Auto Collision Center, we understand that accidents can be stressful. That’s why we’re committed to providing high-quality auto body repair services to the Idaho Falls community. We have a team of experienced technicians who can handle everything from minor dents to major collision repairs. We use state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to ensure your vehicle is restored to its pre-accident condition.

If you’ve been in an accident and need auto body repair services, don’t hesitate to contact us. We offer free estimates and work with insurance companies. Let us take care of your car so you can get back on the road with confidence.