Finding yourself involved in an accident is never reassuring, even if you aren't at fault. Whenever you've dealt with a collision, regardless of the cause, seeking car collision repairs as quickly as possible is best. Having your vehicle inspected and repaired immediately after a collision can help to mitigate potential damage and minimize the risk of serious issues developing over time. Keep reading to learn more about the most common reasons for car collision repairs.

Front Bumper Impacts

With cases of front bumper damage accounting for nearly one-third of all accident damage reports, according to Amica, it's no wonder bumper repair work is so common. From driving too fast and too close to another vehicle to being rear-ended by another obstacle or individual, there are many ways the front bumper can take damage. The front bumper of any vehicle can also become damaged by driving too close to a parking bump or curb.

Poor Weather Conditions

While it's common knowledge to avoid driving in weather that's difficult to see or maneuver in, this isn't always possible for those who must commute to work or other important locations. Weather-related accidents are extremely common and are often the cause of car collision repairs. Whenever you're involved in a weather-related accident, it's best to find safety before attempting to inspect your vehicle or seek repair services.

A few tips to keep in mind if you're involved in a weather-related accident resulting in the need for car collision repairs include:

• Get to safety: Remove yourself from the situation as quickly as possible and find safety for you and your passengers. Avoid spending time inside of your vehicle after an accident, especially during poor visibility or bad weather.

• Take photos and video: If possible, take photographic and video evidence of the damage your vehicle has experienced, even if you're the reason for the damage. Photographic and video evidence can also help if you believe you have a legal case.

• Call for help: Calling a tow truck or a professional mechanic to assist you with your vehicle after a weather-related accident is highly recommended to minimize the risk of being caught in the storm or in oncoming traffic yourself.

Any time you find yourself in an auto accident due to the weather, it's best to leave assistance to the professionals while getting yourself to safety as fast as possible.

Speeding

Simply driving too fast on any type of road is a leading cause of accidents. Regardless of how clear a road appears, the speed limits are in place for a reason. Not only are you putting yourself and your vehicle at risk if you choose to speed whenever you're behind the wheel, but you're also putting those around you at a similar, if not greater, risk.

Driving Under the Influence (DUI)

Another common cause of needing car collision repairs is driving under the influence. Whenever someone chooses to drive while drinking or under the influence of another substance, they put themselves in harm's way while simultaneously putting those on the surrounding road at risk. Car collision repairs are often requested by those who have been involved in a DUI and either do not remember the incident or admit to being intoxicated.

Mobile Phone Use

One of the most notable causes of all collisions and accidents on the road today includes distractions such as mobile phone or smartphone usage. Using a mobile phone while driving is not only extremely distracting, but it's also entirely illegal and frowned upon throughout all sects of society. However, the problem still persists.

Today, more people than ever own their very own smartphones. This allows them the ability to browse, generate navigation directions, and stream music while on the go, even when behind the wheel. In order to stay safe when driving with your mobile phone, keep the following tips in mind:

• Use wireless connectors: If you enjoy streaming music or using your smartphone for navigational directions whenever you're driving, then consider using wireless connectors. Whether you prefer Bluetooth technology or the ability to cast your phone to smart user interfaces, there's no need to hold your phone in your hand while driving any longer.

• Set up entertainment before driving: If you're heading out on a road trip or simply commuting to work, set up entertainment and music playlists ahead of time. Setting up your playlists ahead of time will prevent you from becoming too distracted on the road, which puts you at a much greater risk of an accident or collision of any kind.

• Ask passengers for assistance: When you're driving with others, don't be shy. Ask other passengers to help with managing the music, sending text messages, or even making phone calls while you're behind the wheel. This tip is especially useful whenever you're on a long drive or if you're traveling on vacation.

• Wait to respond: When you receive a phone call or a text message while you're driving, ask yourself if it's important enough to stop driving and answer. If it's not, then it's important to ignore it so you can focus on the road ahead of you until you're at a safe place to stop.

• Pull over: While this may seem obvious, it's entirely inconvenient for those driving, which is why collisions typically occur. If you have a phone call to make or a text to answer, simply pull over to a safe place on the side of the road or at a rest stop.

Vehicle Breakdowns

Vehicle breakdowns are another reason for potential collisions. When a car or truck breaks down unexpectedly while driving, it's not always easy to maintain control. This is especially true if the vehicle's issue relates to your brakes or to other mechanisms of control. When a vehicle breaks down in busy traffic or on the freeway, it's much more likely that you may find yourself in a collision.

Reckless Drivers

Finally, whenever you get behind the wheel, it's important to do so defensively so as to protect yourself and your passengers at all times. Even if you follow the law and obey all traffic signs and signals, there's still a risk of being collided with by another driver. Others may cause you to collide with them by partaking in careless acts. Some acts that can quickly lead to a collision in any area from a parking lot to a freeway include:

• Other drivers being distracted by cell phones or calls while behind the wheel

• Shopping carts that are let go or not properly stowed in parking lots

• Individuals crossing a street carelessly or without looking
  

• Drivers opening and shutting their doors carelessly or without looking

• Other drivers failing to pay attention when backing or pulling into a parking spot

• Other drivers being distracted by passengers in their vehicles while driving during busy traffic

• Drivers experiencing mechanical issues or issues with their vehicle unexpectedly on the road while driving in front or behind you
  

Understanding the most common reasons for car collision repair is essential for all drivers whenever they choose to get behind the wheel. The more aware you are of your surroundings and potential risks, the less likely you are to make impulsive or potentially harmful decisions for yourself and your loved ones. If you need car collision repairs, then contact City Side Auto Body today to get started.