Is Your Car Drivable After an Accident? How to Know When to Tow

Being involved in a car accident is a scary and stressful experience, no matter how minor or severe the accident. After ensuring everyone involved is safe and unharmed, the next step after a car accident is usually assessing the condition of your vehicle. While getting it repaired to its pre-accident state is a priority, determining if your car is safe and drivable in the meantime is critical for your convenience and safety. Whether the accident was your fault or not, being able to drive your vehicle after a collision can save you time and money while waiting for necessary repairs.

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How Can I Determine if My Car is Drivable After an Accident?

Driving a damaged vehicle can lead to further complications, not just for your car but for your safety as well. Here's how you can tell if your car is safe to drive after an accident:

1. Did Your Airbags Deploy?

The first sign that your car is not drivable is if the airbags deployed. When airbags are activated, it means your car has experienced a significant impact, and it may not be safe to operate without a professional inspection. Driving with deployed airbags can compromise your safety in case of another incident.

2. Check for Fluid Leaks

After an accident, check beneath your vehicle for any leaking fluids. Your car relies on fluids like coolant, oil, and brake fluid to function properly. If you see a puddle of any fluid, it could be a sign of damage to essential systems, which means driving the car could risk severe engine damage or brake failure.

3. Wheel Alignment

Inspect your wheels to make sure all four are pointing in the correct direction and that all appear aligned. Even a slight misalignment can be a sign of suspension or axle damage, which could make driving dangerous. If the wheels are not correctly aligned, you shouldn't drive your car, as it could result in unsafe handling.

4. Windows and Doors

Test all windows and doors to ensure they open and close normally. If you have to use excessive force to open a door or if the windows are jammed, it's a sign of auto body damage that could compromise your safety in an emergency.

5. Damaged Hood

If your hood is damaged, it's important to ensure it is securely latched. A damaged hood could fly open while driving, obstructing your view and putting you and others on the road in danger. Never attempt to drive a vehicle if the hood isn't properly closed and latched.

6. Lights and Mirrors

Before driving, check that your headlights, taillights, turn signals, and mirrors are all intact and functioning correctly. Not being able to see or signal properly can lead to further accidents. If any of these are broken or malfunctioning, your vehicle isn't safe to drive.

When Should You Tow Your Car After an Accident?

If your vehicle fails any of the above checks, it's time to have it towed. You can choose to have it towed to your home, the nearest repair shop, or directly to a collision center. Be aware that some insurance companies may suggest using one of their "preferred" or "direct" repair shops. These centers often work in the interest of the insurance company, not you. You have the legal right to choose where your car is repaired.

How Do I Choose A Reliable Collision Center in Baton Rouge?

For over 50 years, Medines Collision Center has been serving the Baton Rouge community, helping drivers get back on the road quickly and safely. As a family-owned business, Medines Collision Center puts its customers first. With decades of experience in both repairing vehicles and handling insurance companies, the expert team at Medines ensures that your car is restored to its pre-accident condition with the highest level of craftsmanship. Contact us for a free estimate, or stop by our collision center Monday - Friday.