Car After Accident
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Car After Accident
How to Ensure Safety and Determine Next Steps
Experiencing a car after accident is a life-changing event. In those few seconds, so many things happen that can change a person’s life forever. The memories of those crystal-clear moments frozen in time may haunt you, causing cold sweats on odd nights for years to come.
However, immediately after the accident, you need to take action to ensure everyone’s safety. Once you’ve confirmed no one is hurt, check your own wellbeing. Are you fine? Now, look at the car. It’s a mess and may not ever be drivable again. Or will it?
Determine Whether Your Car is Safe to Drive on NZ Roads
Several variables determine whether or not your car after accident is safe to drive. All crashes are different. The angle at which your car hit the other vehicle will affect the type and severity of damage. Whether the impact occurred at the front or rear of your car also matters. A front-end collision can destroy your engine, while a rear-end accident is much easier to fix.
Signs of Serious Damage that Make a Car Un-drivable
- Broken Lights
When a car is in a serious collision, some lights will likely be smashed. Lights are crucial for safety at night, and indicator lights are important at any time of day. Driving with damaged lights is generally frowned upon and can be dangerous. Broken headlights, taillights, or indicator lights not only put you at risk but can also get you in trouble with traffic regulations.
- Flat Tyres
If the tyres are flat, it’s obvious that you can’t drive the car. Replacing the tyre and continuing your journey might seem like an option, but this is risky as there could be other problems with your car after accident. Damaged rims, misalignment, or hidden structural issues might compromise your safety.
- Shattered or Broken Windows
While it’s possible to drive a car with a broken window, it’s unsafe if the windshield is damaged. The windshield protects you from the elements, and a bug flying into your face could cause another crash. Additionally, shattered glass can pose a significant hazard, reducing visibility and leaving you exposed to wind and debris.
- Deployed Airbags
Technically, you can drive your car with deployed airbags, but it’s not advisable unless traveling a short distance. Airbags provide significant protection, and driving without them can be dangerous. Without functioning airbags, you and your passengers are at a much higher risk of injury in case of another collision.
- Leaking Fluid
After an accident, check if your car is leaking fluids such as engine oil, coolant, transmission fluid, or petrol. These fluids are essential for various functions, like preventing your car from overheating. Continuing to drive with fluid leaks can result in a blown engine. Moreover, fluid leaks can be indicative of more severe underlying damage.
- Difficulty Steering
Problems with steering or suspension can make your car hard to control. If your car feels like it’s pulling hard while driving, stop immediately. Steering issues can stem from damage to the steering column, suspension components, or even the frame, making it extremely dangerous to continue driving.
Repair or Replace the Car After an Accident?
After a car accident, you’ll need to decide whether it’s better to repair your car or sell it. This can seem daunting, but it boils down to a simple calculation. Find out how much the repairs will cost and compare this to your car’s value before the crash. If the repair cost is higher than the car’s pre-accident value, it’s better to sell.
Additionally, consider how an accident can affect your car’s value. Factors like the age of the vehicle, the make and model, the extent of damage, and the availability of replacement parts will all play a role in this decision. Repairs can sometimes be more complex than they initially appear, involving not just cosmetic fixes but also critical structural repairs.
Trade-in Accidental Car for Cash with King Auto
Selling a car after an accident can be challenging, especially if it’s in less than ideal condition. You might have to wait for weeks or even months for someone to buy it for used parts. However, there’s a quicker option: selling your car to King Auto.
King Auto buys vehicles that are in such bad condition they can be considered “scrap.” We provide a fast and easy way to sell any car, often within a day. We accept all makes and models, regardless of the extent of the damage.
Easy Way to Sell a Damaged Car for Cash in NZ
- Contact King Auto
Get in touch with us to get a free quote for your car after accident. Provide details such as the make, model, age, and condition of your car, including what parts are damaged beyond repair. Our team of experts will assess the information and provide a fair and competitive offer.
- Free Removal Service
At King Auto, we offer free removal of your vehicle. This means the cost of picking up your car won’t be deducted from the amount we offer you, ensuring you get the best deal. Our hassle-free removal service is designed to make the process as smooth and convenient as possible for you.
- Used Parts
We specialize in salvaging used parts from damaged vehicles, so you can rest assured your car will be put to good use. The salvaged parts are then used to repair other vehicles, contributing to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly practice. This means your old car will continue to provide value even after it’s no longer drivable.