Why Minor Fender Benders Can Still Lead to Big Insurance Claims

The front of your car got bumped slightly by another vehicle in a parking lot. You were in traffic and you got rear-ended at 10 miles an hour. You were backing up when you hit a pole.

These accidents may seem like minor fender-benders, but the truth is that even a seemingly small crash can result in major damage. Vehicles are made of tens of thousands of parts. Any of these can get damaged in a crash.

You may think you can ignore a minor dent, but that’s a huge mistake. Many vehicle issues aren’t immediately noticeable. Fender benders can cause electrical problems, issues with the suspension, and frame damage. In a rear-wheel or an all-wheel drive vehicle, you could also be dealing with transmission damage. Here’s a look at some issues you could experience after a minor crash.

Damaged Suspension

A vehicle’s suspension should be able to handle going over rough roads, but it can still be damaged easily. This can happen when your vehicle is bumped in the front or from behind.

A fender-bender can cause your car to pull to the left or right or experience some shaking. When your vehicle’s performance suffers, it can make it more difficult to control and increase your risk of causing an accident.

Frame Damage

A slight bump to the bumper can cause frame damage. Frame damage weakens your vehicle’s structural integrity and reduces performance. Your airbags may not deploy properly, increasing your risk of injuries.

Wheel or Tire Damage

Wheels and tires are more likely to get damaged in side-impact crashes. Wheels may get scraped. Tires could develop defects or alignment issues.

Transmission Problems

Transmission issues from fender benders are common in rear and all-wheel drive vehicles, especially if the car is rear-ended. The force of a minor impact can even push the drive shaft into the transmission and cause you to lose gears.

Electrical Issues

The electrical wiring in your vehicle is susceptible to damage, and this could cause a lot of problems to a modern car. Even a low-speed collision can loosen wiring, resulting in a faulty connection. The wires could get damaged in a fender-bender, causing your power windows and electronic door locks to malfunction.

Your vehicle’s onboard security system can also fail. You may also develop problems with your heating and cooling system, which can be uncomfortable in areas where it gets very cold or hot.

Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer

 Fender benders are not always minor. Cars are made up of thousands of parts and it’s not uncommon for a lot of damage to occur.

In a crash? Don’t underestimate the damage. Get the help you need from a Houston car accident attorney from The West Law Office, PLLC. We can assist you with navigating the complexities of insurance claims. We’ll provide you with the legal advice you need to move on physically and financially. Schedule a consultation today by filling out the online form or calling our office at 281-347-3247.

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