How Long Can I Drive My Car After an Accident?

If you’ve ever been in a car accident, you know they can be shocking and disorienting. Your first thought after “Am I OK? Are my passengers and the other driver OK?” is often “Is my car OK?” Sometimes, it’s obvious that your car is not drivable, and may even be totaled. But what about those ambiguous situations where you can see only minor damage, or none at all, and your car is drivable away from the scene? How long can you keep driving your car after an accident?

Assess the Severity of the Damage

The first thing to consider after an accident is the visible and non-visible damage to your vehicle. If it’s a minor fender bender with no noticeable impact on the car’s functionality, you may be able to drive it for a short period before scheduling repairs. However, even minor accidents can cause hidden issues, like misalignment, ADAS issues, or subtle damage, which can lead to long-term problems if not addressed promptly. In these cases, it’s wise to have the car inspected and prescanned by a professional as soon as possible.

Check for Warning Signs

Before driving your car after an accident, conduct a basic check for warning signs that might indicate damage to critical systems. Look for:

• Dashboard Warning Lights: If any warning lights are illuminated on the dashboard, like the check engine light or ABS light, it’s a sign that the car may not be functioning correctly. Don’t ignore these alerts, as they often indicate underlying issues that need immediate attention.
• Unusual Noises: Listen for strange noises, such as grinding, clanking, or squeaking. These sounds can mean damaged parts, like the suspension or wheel alignment, which could make driving dangerous.
• Alignment Issues: If the car pulls to one side, the steering wheel is off-center, or there’s a noticeable change in how it handles, the alignment may be compromised. Misalignment affects vehicle control, making it unsafe to drive without repairs.

Is It Legal to Drive After an Accident?

Driving with certain types of damage may be illegal. For example, if the accident broke headlights, taillights, or mirrors, you could be pulled over and cited, as these are essential for safe driving. Additionally, if the vehicle’s structure or body damage poses a safety risk, local law enforcement may deem it unfit for operation. Drivers are expected to keep their vehicles in a condition that doesn’t pose a risk to themselves or others on the road.

Prioritize Safety and Get a Professional Inspection

Continuing to drive your car after an accident as if nothing has happened is not recommended. Even if the car appears to be in good shape, hidden damage could compromise its safety and performance over time. Collision repair centers in Los Angeles like Eli’s are equipped to assess both visible and hidden damage to ensure your car is safe for the road.

So even though your car might feel safe to drive, prioritize safety and get a professional inspection as soon as possible. Eli’s has made this incredibly convenient through our online free estimate portal, where you can upload pictures of your car for one of our professionals to review.