Potential Vehicle Damage After a Rear-End Collision
A rear-end collision occurs when one vehicle crashes into the back of another. This type of accident is relatively common in New York, and many people believe that they are minor. However, rear-end collisions can result in extensive vehicle damage that can be difficult to identify. If you are involved in a rear-end accident, it is important to look for common signs of underlying vehicle damage.
Types of Vehicle Damage After a Rear-End Accident
When assessing their vehicles after an accident, many people look at the damage to the surface of the car, such as dents and scratches. A rear-end collision can result in significant damage, but it is often hidden. As a result, many people may not discover serious, potentially dangerous mechanical issues until days after the collision.
Engine Damage
A rear-end collision can also cause engine damage. Modern engines are complex and delicate, and a collision can impact engine performance. For example, the force of the accident can misalign your exhaust system, resulting in damage to other components.
Suspension Issues
Your vehicle’s suspension system is vital to ensuring that your car travels smoothly. Any issues with suspension could result in you losing control of the vehicle, increasing your risk of a serious collision.
The suspension system helps maximize the friction between your tires and the road, which makes it easier for you to steer and drive safely. During a rear-end collision, the frame of your vehicle can suffer serious damage. As a result, a great deal of stress is placed on the suspension system.
Under increased stress, a suspension system can wear out much faster than it normally would. You may experience a rough ride and be unable to steer your car properly. If you suspect that your suspension system is damaged, take your vehicle to a mechanic as soon as possible.
Alignment Problems
To operate properly, all elements of your vehicle must be properly aligned, from the brakes and the tires to the suspension system and other critical components. During a rear-end accident, a vehicle can become misaligned, and you may begin to experience difficulty while driving. For example, your vehicle may start veering in one direction.
Other signs of alignment issues include the following.
- Noisy steering components
- Unusually rapid tire wear
- Vibration in the vehicle
- Uneven wear on the tires
- Squealing tires
Compensation for New York Accident Victims
Although a rear-end accident may seem minor, these collisions can cause significant damage to motor vehicles. You may also experience physical injuries, emotional trauma, lost wages, and other losses after this type of accident. In these situations, you need compensation to pay for your damages.
New York is a no-fault car accident state, meaning that drivers must carry personal injury protection (PIP) insurance to pay for their losses following a collision. If you are involved in a rear-end accident, you can file a claim against your own insurance to recover compensation.
If your case involves a serious injury, such as a broken bone or permanent impairment, you could escalate your claim even further. You could file a third-party insurance claim against the at-fault driver or a personal injury lawsuit in New York civil court.
While these legal pathways may seem straightforward, securing compensation after a rear-end collision can be a challenge. In these situations, you need a Syracuse car accident attorney who can represent your claim and advocate for your best interests. As soon as possible following your accident, contact a rear-end collision attorney to discuss your legal options.