The most common type of motor vehicle crashes every year in the country are rear-end collisions, which roughly represents one-third of all accidents. The seemingly minor cosmetic damage can actually be camouflaging more serious damage that can increase safety risks down the road with most rear-end accidents occurring at lower speeds and causing minor structural damage. The hidden damages caused by rear-end collisions is what we at Top Notch Auto Body & Mechanics would like to take the opportunity to discuss today.
How Often Do Rear-End Collisions Happen?
Rear-end collisions occur over 2 million times per year within the United States according to traffic safety experts. Over 80% of those crashes could be avoided if in the event the tailing driver had one extra second of warning time. In addition to driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, traffic congestion, speeding, mechanical failure, distracted drivers, fatigued drivers, reckless or aggressive driving techniques are the top sources of rear-end collisions. Despite the cosmetic damage to your vehicle that may seem negligible, the dirty little secret about rear-end collisions lies beneath the surface. A few hidden problems that involve a minor front-to-rear accident are listed below.
Can Rear-End Collision Cause Transmission Problems?
Due to a rear-end collision, the mechanical components can be equally harmed with your car’s body. The transmission components located near the rear of all-wheel-drive (AWD) or rear-wheel drive (RWD) vehicles can get damaged, even during a low-impact crash. If should the transmission isn’t checked out immediately after an accident, your vehicle could leak transmission fluid, start shifting roughly, or experience poor acceleration.
Can Rear End Collision Cause Alignment Problems?
Experiencing a rear-end collision can definitely do some damage since hitting a pothole can knock your car out of alignment. If your ride starts vibrating abnormally, pulls to one side of the road, or if there’s a shimmy in the steering wheel, your vehicle’s alignment may be off. Also, the result of premature wear and tear to your tires, brakes, suspension and other parts due to a misaligned vehicle can manifest in poor handling issues.
Can a Rear-End Collision Cause Electrical Problems?
Even with minor impact wiring can loosen or become detached in the battery, brake lights, taillights or starter. In addition to any loose engine wire could leave you stranded, the twitchy brake lights can confuse and distract drivers.
Rear End Collison Can Cause Trunk Locking Problems
In seemingly slight impacts from rear-end collisions, the trunk’s locking mechanism and seal can get messed up. While you’re traveling down the highway, the trunk lid may even pop open. Also, water could leak into the storage compartment, or you could have trouble opening the trunk if left unrepaired.
Can a Rear-End Collision Damage Frame?
Since they are only painted plastic, the metal components directly underneath are not protected beneath most bumpers. With minor fender benders that may slightly bend vehicle’s frame, future safety problems, such as an onboard driver warning system malfunction or weakened frame that doesn’t protect you during a subsequent collision are probable.
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