Damages to Look for After a Rear-End Car Accident
February 9, 2021 | Accidents,Car Accidents,Personal Injury
Rear-end vehicle accidents are not uncommon on the roadways of Seattle. However, many people are quick to dismiss a rear-end accident as nothing more than a minor incident. Even if a rear-end accident does not lead to any serious physical injuries or much visible property damage, that does not mean that there are no issues that drivers will have to contend with. Here, we want to discuss some of the most common damages that you need to look for in the aftermath of a rear-end car accident. It is crucial that you understand the total amount of property damage before deciding not to file an insurance claim or before accepting a settlement offer that is far lower than you should be receiving. A talented Seattle car accident attorney can help you navigate this process.
Hidden Collision Damage
It is not uncommon for many people to look at their vehicle after a rear-end accident and think there is no damage at all. However, even seemingly minor rear-end collisions can result in hidden damage beneath the outer surface of the car.
One of the most commonly missed types of damages following a rear-end collision involves the bumper cover. Often, the bumper is often simply made of plastic and does not provide much protection at all. Even a minor bump in a rear-end collision could damage the frame right behind the bumper. The bumper itself may bounce back into place, hiding the damage underneath.
Trunk Damage
Truck malfunctions that are not properly repaired can significantly reduce the vehicle’s resale value. Trunk damage can cause significant problems with your vehicle. Even a very minor collision can lead to several trunk-related glitches. This can include the following:
- The lid of the trunk popping open unexpectedly.
- The trunk not staying locked.
- Water seepage into the rear of your vehicle.
- Difficulties when opening the trunk.
Problems with Alignment
After a rear-end collision, it is not uncommon for drivers to notice that their vehicle handles a bit differently. This will usually be due to a problem with the alignment. However, alignment issues may not be immediately noticeable following a collision. Some of the common warning signs of alignment problems following a collision will be:
- Unusual vibrations while operating the vehicle
- Wobbly steering
- Uneven driving
Alignment problems could be the result of the wheels falling out of alignment due to the force of a collision or even due to the frame of the vehicle bending as a result of the collision.
Electrical Problems
There is a wide range of issues that can arise with the electrical system due to a rear-end collision. Even a low impact rear-end collisions can cause wires to loosen or even sever. Electrical issues following a rear-end collision could include the following:
- Issues with the sound system
- Brake or tail light malfunctions
- Unexpectedly dead battery (caused by unseen electrical issues that drain the battery)
Contact an Experienced Rear-End Attorney Today
If you or somebody you care about has been involved in a rear-end accident, it is crucial that you not make any insurance settlement decisions until after you understand the full extent of the damage to your vehicle. You need to have the vehicle thoroughly examined by a trusted mechanic who can provide a full appraisal of the costs associated with repairs. If you believe that the insurance carrier of the other party is not offering a fair amount of money for your rear-end collision damage, you need to seek assistance from a skilled Seattle Rear-End Accident Attorney who can handle every aspect of your case on your behalf.