Getting into a car accident is a stressful and scary experience, and the stress doesn't end after the accident happens. If there's damage to your car, that can be a whole new headache to deal with. Our Orlando Toyota Collision Center is always here to help you get your car back into like-new condition and get back on the road, but how do you know if you should even attempt to drive it after a car accident? Here are five questions to ask yourself after a collision and before you get back on the road.
Five questions to ask after a car accident
#1: Can the hood close and lock?
Before you hit the road after a car accident, make sure that the front hood can both close and lock. The last thing you want is for your hood to unlatch and fly up while you're driving - not only can it shatter your windshield, it can also cause you to get into ANOTHER car accident because you won't be able to see.
#2: Are your windshield and side mirrors intact?
You also want to ensure that your windshield and side mirrors are both intact for visibility's sake. If your windshield has a small crack or two in it, it may be safe to drive to your mechanic shop, but anything big or spiderwebbed automatically interferes with the structural integrity of the windshield and makes it a hazard, so you should call for a tow.
#3: Are there any fluids leaking?
If you see fluids leaking under the car after an accident, you shouldn't drive it. You don't know if a simple hose broke or if something got seriously damaged, but it's not worth risking the damage to your engine that could ensue if you try to hit the road. Call a tow truck and call it a day.
#4: Are the wheels still aligned?
Make sure your wheels are still aligned after an accident - simply put your car on the straightaway, hit the gas, and hover your hands over the steering wheel. If the car is pulling to one side, you need to have your alignment redone at the very least, and you don't want to try and hit the highway. Call a tow truck in this instance.
#5: Do your headlights and taillights work?
You never want to hit the road in a car that doesn't have working headlights and taillights. Your taillights are critical to letting other drivers know you're movements (like when you're stopping) and your headlights are essential for giving you a clear field of vision at night. Plus, it's illegal to drive without working headlights and taillights.
Get back on the road with Toyota of Orlando's help
Let us help you get back on the road - call Toyota of Orlando's body shop today! We're open and waiting at (407) 298-6006 or you can stop in and see us at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 across from Millenia Mall.