Hi all,

I just came across this forum and thought you guys are the perfect bunch to provide some helpful advice.

I was involved in a low speed collision recently. The guy rear-ended me at a stop light and my front bumper kissed the car in front slightly. Some paint on my front bumper cracked near the licence plate and the bumper seems a little deformed near the headlights. It looks superficial. However, the rear bumper received some damage and it is now a few inches shorter. The trunk cover is slightly bent and can only be closed with some albow grease. The tail lights look like they're about to pop out probably due to the crumble zone starting to do its job.

I'm going to bring it to an auto shop tomorrow for an estimate. Do you guys recommand I bring it to the dealership for an assesment or just to an independent shop? The damage looks too small to be totalled, and I'm worried about any potential frame damage that cannot be repaired. I commute on the hwy a lot for work so I'm especially concerned about the safety of my car.

Also, what internal components are potentially affected? I was applying the brakes while the car behind hit me. Will there be damage to the brakes and/or suspension? Is this such a normal case that the auto shop will be able to accurately diagnos and repair? Please excuse my paranoia as this is my first accident of this kind.

Thank you all in advance
J

 

Hm well I would say as long as the shop is a reputable shop I think that should be fine. As far as your brakes and suspension I am sure they will make sure its all in working order before returning the car. If there is permant damage I heard of some insurnace companys giving people money for the decreased value of the car.

 

Just bring it to a body shop. dealer or any good one thats recommended by others in your area