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TYPES OF REAR-END COLLISION DAMAGE

The simple truth is that rear-end collisions are the most common accidents in the United States. In fact, there are more than1.7 million of these every year in America. That being said, many hidden problems can happen if your vehicle has been struck in the back end.

Here is some of the most common damage that is seen with rear-end collisions.

Structural damage.

This can be the hardest damage to see, and the best way to look for this damage is by taking it to a body shop. You may be looking at damage to the frame, which can change how your vehicle drives.

Rear-end collisions are also hard on your tires and suspension. You may be required to replace the shocks or struts due to an accident. Getting hit from behind can also mess up the body of your car. You may not be able to shut your doors properly. Other parts may not line up correctly.

Trouble with the trunk.

Because you were hit in the back of your vehicle, you may have trouble with the trunk. Depending on how it was hit, you may not be able to open it, or it may not be able to close. Some people have to tie it down because it may pop open when you are driving down the road!

Even worse, when your trunk doesn’t shut properly, you have to be worried about water getting into your vehicle. Not only can it damage your property, but it can also lead to rust inside your trunk.

Wiring Problems.

You may also be looking at wiring problems. If your wiring becomes loose (or separates), you may not have lights in the rear of your vehicle. Others will not be able to see you if they come up on your back end if your tail lights aren’t working. This can be really dangerous at night or in bad weather conditions.

If your turn signal or brake lights don’t work, others won’t be able to tell if you are slowing down to make a turn or for any other reason. This can also be dangerous (and may lead to another rear-end collision)!

Transmission.

Unfortunately, rear-end collisions can mess up the transmission. These often go unnoticed until there is serious damage, and they can be costly to repair. This occurs because some components are in the back of your vehicle. A hit can damage or shift them. It may also cause fluid to leak out, making your transmission work harder.

Damage to the exhaust.

It can also do damage to your exhaust. Even a small accident can push the tailpipe and the exhaust system to the side. You might be looking at replacing the exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, or other necessary exhaust parts.

The alignment.

Getting hit can really mess with your car’s alignment, which can really affect the safety of your vehicle. Your car may pull to one side or the other.

Your tires will go down the road sideways, which doesn’t allow you to have proper traction. You are more likely to struggle with conditions that aren’t perfect. You may struggle to keep your vehicle on the road in the winter, though you may also have trouble when the roads are wet because of rain.

Even minor rear-end collisions can do more damage than you realize. You may be looking at structural damage to your frame, which can be unsafe. Even the alignment can be messed up, which can make it even more hazardous. If you’ve been in an accident, call Network Auto Body today!