Understanding Microfractures: The Invisible Damage That Gets Missed

A technician explains microfractures to a woman driver.

When you get into a car accident, it’s easier to focus on damage that you can see, such as dented panels, cracked bumpers, and shattered glass. Yet, there may also be damage that’s invisible to the naked eye, hidden away in the vehicle’s structure. In many cases, these microfractures can pose a dangerous threat to your safety, since they can’t be seen. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we believe it’s important for drivers to understand what microfractures are, why they matter, and how to ensure they’re not overlooked after a crash.

 

Let’s talk about microfractures and how to tell if your vehicle may have them.

 

Key Takeaways

 

  • Microfractures are tiny, often invisible cracks in your vehicle’s structure that can occur during a collision, even if the exterior damage seems minimal.
  • These hidden fractures can weaken your vehicle’s frame, disrupt alignment, increase vibrations, and interfere with safety systems like lane assist or emergency braking.
  • Many repair shops overlook microfractures because they don’t use advanced diagnostics or fail to fully disassemble and inspect the vehicle after an accident.
  • Warning signs of microfractures include new rattling noises, uneven tire wear, steering issues, or panels that no longer align properly.

 

What are Microfractures?

Microfractures are tiny, nearly invisible cracks that form in the structural parts of your vehicle during a collision. They most often appear in the frame or unibody, suspension, engine mounts, weld points, and critical brackets or supports. Even though microfractures are small, it doesn’t take long for them to grow with the vibration and stress of daily commutes. When left untreated, microfractures weaken the structural integrity your vehicle, making it less safe.

 

In other words, even if you car looks fine after a crash, there may be microfractures throughout the structure. It’s important that you bring your vehicle to an auto body repair shop for an inspection if you notice any of the following microfracture signs:

 

  • Sudden rattles, creaks, or new noises
  • Uneven or rapid tire wear
  • Steering that feels loose and off-center
  • Doors or panels that don’t line up the way they should

 

Why are Microfractures So Easy to Miss During Car Repair?

Compared to cosmetic damages like cracks in the windshield or dented panels or even rust, microfractures aren’t big. You won’t see them during a visual inspection. In fact, many collision repair centers may miss microfractures if they are focusing more on a fast turnaround rather than taking the necessary diagnostic steps (Elmer’s Auto Body would never do this; we’re here for you and your vehicle).

 

Here are some common reasons microfractures get missed:

 

  • Lack of diagnostic equipment
  • Rushed repair job that focuses on cosmetic damage
  • No structural alignment check
  • Failure to fully disassemble the vehicle to check affected areas

 

Post-collision inspections need to go beyond the surface. Advanced diagnostic tools like laser frame measuring systems can help identify microfractures so they can be repaired.

 

How Do Microfractures Affect Your Vehicle?

If left unaddressed after an accident, microfractures can turn into a serious issues. These nearly invisible cracks can gradually worsen with everyday driving, road vibration, and exposure to weather. Over time, microfractures can impact multiple systems in your vehicle:

 

Weakened Frame Structure

The structural integrity of your vehicle is what protects you during a collision. Microfractures in the frame or unibody can compromise that strength, reducing your car’s ability to absorb impact and protect passengers. Even a small crack in a critical weld point or support beam can lead to serious failure in another crash.

 

Worsening Alignment Problems

Microfractures near suspension components, control arms, or subframe areas can slowly throw off alignment angles. That leads to steering that feels off, difficulty keeping the car straight on the highway, or constant corrections while driving. You may also notice uneven tire wear, which can become costly and unsafe if not corrected.

 

Increased Vibration and Noise

As microfractured parts begin to shift under pressure, you might hear creaks, rattles, or popping noises—especially when turning or going over bumps. These subtle signs often indicate that certain parts are no longer properly secured or aligned, which can also result in a rougher, more uncomfortable ride.

 

Compromised Safety Systems

Many advanced safety features rely on precisely mounted sensors and properly calibrated components. Microfractures near these mounts can cause ADAS systems (like lane keep assist or emergency braking) to misfire or stop working entirely. In some cases, the systems may shut off without warning, leaving you less protected on the road.

 

How Does Elmer’s Auto Body Find and Fix Microfractures?

We take structural integrity very seriously at Elmer’s Auto Body. Every vehicle that comes to us for collision repair is carefully inspected. Yes, that means for microfractures as well as visible damage. We used computerized frame measurement systems to accurately diagnose issues, even those that can’t be see by the naked eye. Our certified auto repair technicians also take the time to fully disassemble the affected areas to see what lays beneath. We use OEM parts and manufacturer recommended repair procedures.

 

At Elmer’s Auto Body, our goal is to restore your vehicle’s safety and drivability as if the accident never happened.

 

Schedule for Auto Body Repair at Elmer’s Auto Body

Whether you were just in an accident or had repairs done elsewhere and something still feels wrong, Elmer’s Auto Body is here to help. We’ll perform a thorough diagnostic and let you know if microfractures or other hidden damage were missed.

 

You deserve peace of mind knowing your vehicle is safe and structurally sound. Let us make sure no detail is overlooked.

 

Call or visit one of our South Jersey locations in Medford, Sewell, or Mt. Ephraim to schedule your appointment. You can also reach us by filling out the contact form.

What’s the Difference Between a Bent Axle and a Damaged Suspension After a Crash?

A woman stares at her damaged car, wondering if she has a bent axle or suspension

After an accident, you may find that your vehicle isn’t driving as smoothly as it did before. If you notice unusual vibrations, poor handling, or strange noises, you may have a bent axle or suspension damage. While both issues affect how your car drives, they are different in terms of function, symptoms, and repair needs. It is important to understand the differences so you can discuss your options with a South Jersey collision repair center like Elmer’s Auto Body.

 

Key Takeaways

 

  • A bent axle affects power transfer and wheel rotation, while a damaged suspension impacts ride comfort and stability.
  • Signs of a bent axle include vibrations, wobbly wheels, clicking or clunking noises, and difficulty steering.
  • Suspension damage often causes uneven tire wear, a rough ride, pulling to one side, and squeaking noises.
  • If your car shakes and makes noises during acceleration, a bent axle is likely the issue, whereas poor handling and tire wear point to suspension problems.
  • Both issues can compromise vehicle safety and performance, making a professional inspection and repair essential.

 

What Does the Axle Do?

The axle is a key structural component that transfers power from the engine to the wheels, allowing them to rotate. It also supports the vehicle’s weight. If the axle is bent or damaged, it can cause severe drivability issues, making it unsafe to operate the vehicle.

 

What is the Suspension System?

The suspension system consists of multiple components, including shocks, struts, control arms, and springs, designed to absorb road impact and maintain stability. Damage to the suspension can lead to poor handling, uneven tire wear, and a rough ride.

 

How to Tell If You Have a Bent Axle

A bent axle typically results from a strong impact, such as hitting a pothole, curb, or another vehicle during a collision. That said, a bent axle is not immediately visible, and you may not realize you have one. Here are some common signs that your axle may be bent:

 

Vibrations and Shaking

A damaged axle can cause noticeable vibrations throughout the vehicle, especially as you increase speed. These vibrations often intensify the faster you go and can make your drive feel unstable or unsafe. Unlike alignment issues, which cause mild pulling, axle-related vibrations can be more aggressive and felt in the steering wheel, floor, or even the seats.

 

Uneven or Wobbly Wheels

If an axle is bent, the wheels may not rotate properly, leading to a wobbly sensation while driving. You might also notice that one wheel sits at an odd angle, even when the car is parked. This instability can make handling more difficult and, over time, cause additional strain on suspension components and tires.

 

Clicking or Clunking Noises

If you hear a clicking, popping, or clunking noise when accelerating, decelerating, or making turns, it could be a sign of axle damage. The noise occurs when the axle can no longer rotate smoothly, causing stress on the joints and bearings. This issue is especially noticeable when making sharp turns or driving at low speeds.

 

Difficulty Steering

A misaligned or bent axle can affect how your car responds to steering. If turning feels sluggish or unpredictable, or if the steering wheel feels loose or unresponsive, the axle may not be properly distributing power to the wheels. This can make maneuvering the vehicle more challenging, especially in emergency situations.

 

Signs of a Damaged Suspension

Suspension damage can occur for many reasons: direct impact, prolonged wear and tear, or even improper repairs after a crash. The reason you need your suspension in tip-top shape is because it’s responsible for absorbing shock. If any of the components, such as the struts, shocks, control arms, or ball joints, are damaged, there will be changes in how your car performs.

 

Here are some signs of a damaged suspension:

 

Uneven Tire Wear

If one or more of your tires show excessive wear on one side while the others appear normal, it could indicate a suspension issue. Worn-out suspension components can throw off your car’s alignment, causing tires to wear unevenly. This can shorten the lifespan of your tires and reduce overall traction, making driving more dangerous, especially in wet or icy conditions.

 

Bumpy or Rough Ride

If your car feels overly stiff, bouncy, or unstable when driving over bumps, your shocks or struts may be damaged. The suspension system is designed to absorb road imperfections, so if it isn’t functioning properly, you’ll feel every dip and pothole much more intensely. This can make driving uncomfortable and increase wear on other vehicle components.

 

Pulling to One Side

A damaged suspension system can throw off your car’s alignment, causing it to drift or pull to one side even when you’re driving straight. While a minor alignment issue might not seem like a big deal, over time, it can strain the tires and steering system, leading to bigger (and more expensive) problems.

 

Squeaking or Creaking Noises

If you hear squeaking, creaking, or groaning noises when going over speed bumps or rough roads, your suspension components may be worn out. These sounds often indicate deteriorating bushings, ball joints, or control arms, which can affect stability and handling.

 

Bent Axle vs. Suspension Damage: Which One Do You Have?

Both a bent axle and suspension damage can affect how your car drives, but their symptoms differ:

 

  • If your vehicle shakes, wobbles, or makes loud noises when accelerating, a bent axle is more likely the issue.
  • If you experience poor handling, uneven tire wear, or a rough ride, you may have suspension damage.

 

Both problems will impact the performance and safety of your vehicle, so it is important to have your car inspected and repaired at a professional auto body repair facility.

 

Get Your Vehicle Repaired at a South Jersey Collision Repair Center

Do you suspect that either the axle or suspension of your vehicle is damaged after an auto collision? Now that you know the signs, you should be able to determine whether your car needs to be repaired. If you car isn’t driving as it once did, it is time to contact a collision repair center in South Jersey like Elmer’s Auto Body. Our experienced technicians will diagnose the problem and provide the necessary repairs to get you back on the road safely. Contact us today for an inspection!

Why a Minor Collision Can Still Lead to a Total Loss Determination

Despite the minor damage, this bent rear panel still resulted in a total loss determination.

Minor accidents often cause cosmetic damages. Maybe an airbag goes off. Either way, you assume that your vehicle will be easily repaired and back on the road in no time. Then, that seemingly small collision ends with a total loss determination by your insurance company. It’s understandable that you would be appalled and question why such a thing has happened. Let’s get to the bottom of why this happens and what decisions you can make from here on out.

 

Key Takeaways

 

  • Insurance companies typically total a vehicle if repair costs reach 70-80% of its actual cash value (ACV), even if damage appears minor.
  • Modern vehicles have crumple zones that absorb impact, which can cause unseen frame or subframe damage, requiring expensive repairs to restore safety.
  • Features like ADAS sensors, cameras, and automated safety systems often require recalibration or replacement after even a minor collision, driving up repair expenses.
  • If your car is deemed a total loss, you can accept the payout, negotiate for a higher value, or keep the vehicle with a salvage title.

 

What is a Total Loss?

A vehicle is considered a total loss when the cost of repairs approaches or exceeds its actual cash value (ACV). Insurance companies typically use a threshold—often between 70% and 80% of the car’s value—to determine if repairs are financially feasible. Even if the damage appears minor, hidden structural issues or high repair costs can push the vehicle past this threshold.

 

Why Minor Collisions Can Result in a Total Loss

Now that you know what determines a total loss, let’s look at some of the reasons it happens after a minor collision:

 

1. Hidden Structural Damage

A small impact can still cause significant structural damage, especially in modern vehicles designed with crumple zones that absorb the force of a crash. While these zones help protect passengers, they can also lead to underlying damage that isn’t immediately visible. A misaligned frame, bent subframe, or weakened structural components may require extensive repairs to restore the vehicle’s integrity. Without proper repairs, the car may not provide the same level of protection in future accidents, making it unsafe to drive. These necessary but costly repairs can quickly add up, often surpassing the vehicle’s total loss threshold.

 

2. Technology and Safety Features

Modern vehicles are equipped with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), including lane departure warnings, automatic emergency braking, and parking sensors. Many of these technologies rely on sensors and cameras embedded in bumpers, side mirrors, and windshields. Even a seemingly minor collision can misalign or damage these components, requiring recalibration or full replacement to restore functionality.

 

Additionally, certain safety features, such as adaptive cruise control or collision detection systems, may need software updates after an accident, further increasing costs. Because these technologies are expensive to repair or replace, even a low-speed collision can lead to repair bills high enough for an insurance company to declare the car a total loss.

 

3. Airbag Deployment

If airbags deploy during an accident, repair costs increase significantly. Modern airbag systems involve more than just replacing the deployed airbags—associated components like sensors, crash modules, and seatbelt pretensioners may also need to be repaired or replaced. In some cases, a deployed airbag may require an entirely new dashboard or steering wheel, dramatically raising labor and part costs. Since airbag replacement is crucial for safety, insurance companies often consider the cost of these repairs when determining whether the vehicle is a total loss.

 

4. High Labor and Parts Costs

Auto body repairs involve labor-intensive work, from disassembling damaged areas to carefully realigning structural components. The cost of replacement parts—especially if original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts are required—can be high, and shortages or supply chain issues can further drive up costs. Even if a car only has minor visible damage, the cumulative cost of parts, labor, and painting can quickly push repair expenses close to or beyond the vehicle’s actual cash value (ACV), making it uneconomical to repair.

 

5. Depreciation and Market Value

A car’s market value plays a crucial role in determining whether it is totaled. Older vehicles or those with high mileage depreciate over time, meaning even relatively inexpensive repairs can exceed their worth. Insurance companies assess the ACV based on factors like the vehicle’s age, condition, mileage, and recent market trends. If repair costs approach or exceed a certain percentage of the car’s ACV—typically around 70% to 80%—the insurer may deem it a total loss rather than invest in costly repairs.

 

What to Do If Your Car is Determined a Total Loss

There are three avenues you can explore if your car is deemed a total loss:

  • Accept the Settlement: The insurer will offer a payout based on the car’s ACV, allowing you to purchase a replacement vehicle.
  • Retain the Vehicle: In some cases, you can keep the totaled car, though it may receive a salvage title, which can affect its resale value and insurance eligibility.
  • Negotiate the Value: If you believe the insurance payout is too low, you can present evidence such as recent repairs, service records, or comparable market listings to negotiate a higher settlement.

 

Get Collision Repairs in South Jersey Done at a Certified Auto Body Repair Shop

Yes, even minor collisions can lead to a total loss determination if certain criteria are met. However, that doesn’t mean you need to accept the settlement. At Elmer’s Auto Body, our technicians assess damage thoroughly to determine the best repair solutions. If your car has been in an accident, contact us today for an evaluation at one of our three South Jersey locations. Let us help you get back on the road safely!

Do You Need a New Hood After a Front-End Collision? Here’s How to Tell

The bent hood of a car after a front-end collision

Front-end collisions happen for a variety of reasons, but the result is often the same: a busted hood. While some hoods can be repaired easily, others may have significant damage and need to be replaced entirely. Knowing how the hood gets damaged and what can be done may be beneficial the next time you need to get your vehicle repaired in South Jersey. Here is everything you need to know about getting a new hood after a front-end collision, as well as when you should start the process.

 

Key Takeaways

 

  • The hood is vital for protecting the engine, supporting safety through crumple zones, and contributing to the vehicle’s aerodynamics.
  • Severe dents, misalignment, damaged latches or hinges, cracks in the metal, and rust are all indicators that a hood may need to be replaced rather than repaired.
  • Minor damage such as small dents or light misalignment can often be repaired, especially with methods like paintless dent repair (PDR).
  • A damaged hood compromises the vehicle’s structural integrity and safety, particularly in future collisions.
  • A South Jersey collision repair center can provide a thorough inspection to determine whether repair or replacement is the best course of action.

 

What is the Purpose of the Hood?

The hood serves several important functions, making it a part of the vehicle that you should aim to have repaired as soon as possible. For instance, the hood protects the engine bay, acting as a shield as you travel or from weather conditions. The hood also aids in safety, as it absorbs the impact of head-on collisions. Within the hood are crumple zones that reduce the risk of injury to passengers. Furthermore, the hood aids in the overall performance of the vehicle, as it promotes aerodynamics. Having a hood that is in disrepair may impact wind resistance and fuel efficiency.

 

Signs Your Hood Needs To Be Replaced

There are several signs that point to a hood needing repairs or replacement after a collision in South Jersey. Here are some that you can spot with a visual inspection and some automotive know-how:

 

1. Severe Dents or Creases

A hood with minor dents may be repaired using techniques like paintless dent repair (PDR) or traditional bodywork. However, deep creases, multiple dents, or large impact areas can compromise the structural integrity of the hood. Warped metal may not return to its original shape, making repairs ineffective. If the damage affects the way the hood distributes force in an accident, replacement is the best option to ensure safety.

 

2. Hood Misalignment

Your hood should sit flush with the fenders and align properly with the front grille and headlights. If you notice uneven gaps, difficulty closing the hood, or a raised edge on one side, the impact may have bent the hood or affected the underlying structure. Misalignment can also lead to increased wind resistance and noise while driving. If realigning the hood and its mounting points doesn’t resolve the issue, a replacement may be necessary.

 

3. Damage to the Hood Latch and Hinges

The hood latch and hinges secure the hood in place, preventing it from unexpectedly opening while driving. If the latch is damaged, the hood may not close securely, leading to safety concerns. Bent or broken hinges can prevent smooth opening and closing, making it difficult to access the engine. If these components are severely damaged, replacing the hood along with the latching mechanism ensures proper functionality and safety.

 

4. Cracked or Weakened Metal

Many modern hoods are made of aluminum due to its lightweight properties, but aluminum is more prone to cracking than steel. Even small cracks can expand over time, weakening the hood’s ability to absorb impact. Once metal or aluminum loses its strength, it can no longer provide proper protection in a future accident. If cracks are visible or the hood feels weak in certain areas, a replacement is the safest solution.

 

5. Rust or Paint Damage After Impact

If your hood’s paint has been scraped or chipped, the exposed metal becomes vulnerable to rust. Over time, rust can spread and compromise the hood’s structure, leading to further weakening. If corrosion has already begun, it may be more cost-effective to replace the hood rather than attempt repairs. Ensuring the new hood is properly coated and painted will help prevent future rust issues.

 

When Should a Hood Be Repaired or Replaced?

If the damage is minor—such as small dents, light scratches, or slight misalignment—a professional body shop may be able to repair it. Paintless dent repair (PDR) is effective for shallow dents, while traditional bodywork can fix minor misalignments or cosmetic damage. However, if the hood’s structure is compromised due to severe impact, cracks, or latch failure, replacing it is the safest choice. A professional inspection will determine the best course of action to restore your vehicle’s integrity and appearance.

 

Get Your Hood Repaired at a South Jersey Collision Repair Center

If your hood is showing signs of damage, now is the time to get it repaired or replaced. Give Elmer’s Auto Body of South Jersey a call. We can assess the damage and recommend the best solution for your vehicle at one of our three South Jersey locations. Give us a call or fill out the contact form to get your appointment scheduled today.

The Dangers of Driving an Unrepaired Car After an Accident: What Washington Township, NJ Drivers Need to Know

Accidents happen, but how you handle the aftermath can make all the difference. You may be look at largely superficial damages and think, “This can wait.” Don’t give into the temptation to delay repairs or ignore those minor damages. As strong as the temptation may be, you may end up putting your safety and your wallet at serious risk. Driving around with an unrepaired car can be dangerous. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we believe it’s important to discuss why these dangers need to be addressed promptly. Here is what Washington Township, NJ drivers need to know.

 

Key Takeaways

 

  • Driving an unrepaired car after an accident compromises safety, as damages to frames, airbags, or suspensions increase the risk of injuries in future collisions.
  • Unrepaired vehicles may violate New Jersey’s safety laws, leading to fines or liability in case of subsequent accidents.
  • Delaying repairs often worsens the damage, escalating repair costs and reducing the effectiveness of critical components.
  • Ignoring collision repairs can degrade vehicle performance, including handling, fuel efficiency, and braking, endangering you and others on the road.
  • Unaddressed damage significantly lowers your car’s resale value and signals poor maintenance to potential buyers, costing you more in the long run.
The Dangers of Driving an Unrepaired Car After an Accident- What Washington Township, NJ Drivers Need to Know

1. Risks for You and Your Passengers

After an accident, even seemingly minor damage can compromise your vehicle’s structural integrity and safety features. For instance:

 

  • Weakened Frame: A bent or cracked frame reduces your car’s ability to absorb impact in future collisions, putting you and your passengers at greater risk of injury. Bent frames can also throw off alignment, further damaging components of your car that need to function properly.
  • Deactivated Airbags: Airbags may fail to deploy properly if sensors are damaged. This hidden issue could lead to catastrophic consequences in another crash. Without airbags, the damage caused by an accident can be exponentially worse, particularly at high speeds.
  • Faulty Suspension: Damaged suspension systems can reduce vehicle stability, making it harder to control your car, especially during sudden maneuvers or bad weather.

 

Ignoring these issues leaves you vulnerable to preventable accidents and injuries.

 

2. Legal and Liability Concerns

Driving a damaged car isn’t just dangerous—it could also be illegal. In New Jersey, all vehicles on the road must meet certain safety standards. If your car is deemed unsafe due to unrepaired damages, you could face fines, penalties, or even have your vehicle impounded.

 

Moreover, if an unrepaired issue contributes to another accident, you may be held liable. Insurance companies or other drivers could argue that your negligence played a role, leaving you responsible for damages and legal costs, and not just for yourself but anyone else involved.

 

3. Increased Repair Costs

Little repairs can become extensive, expensive repairs easily. Never forget that delaying repairs will often make the problem worse and impact the effectiveness of other vehicle components. For example, a small crack on the bumper may spread, leading to a full replacement of the bumper rather than a patch job. Alignment issues from a bent frame will eventually lead to uneven tire wear, which will cost you more to repair than if you had the bent frame straightened initially.

 

If you can, don’t let something manageable spiral into a financial headache for you. Contact your insurance company soon after you have the accident. Then contact a collision repair center that will work with you and get your car back on the road ASAP.

 

4. Compromised Vehicle Performance

Driving a damaged car often leads to noticeable performance issues, including:

 

  • Poor Handling: Alignment problems or suspension damage can make steering unpredictable and unsafe.
  • Reduced Fuel Efficiency: Misaligned components can create drag, forcing your car to use more fuel.
  • Unreliable Brakes: Even minor impacts can affect braking systems, increasing stopping distances and raising your risk of accidents.

 

These performance issues don’t just make driving uncomfortable—they can make it dangerous for you and others on the road.

 

5. Decreased Resale Value

Leaving damage unrepaired significantly reduces your car’s resale value. Potential buyers or dealerships will likely notice and devalue the car accordingly. Even if the damage is minor, it signals to buyers that the vehicle hasn’t been well-maintained. This can be a startling and upsetting revelation, especially when your vehicle was from a higher-end manufacturer.

 

Why You Should Promptly Get Collision Repairs in Washington Township, NJ

If you want to keep your car roadworthy and safe, then you need to get repairs as soon as you can. It also helps when a reputable collision repair shop in Washington Township, NJ is doing the work. At Elmer’s Auto Body, we offer:

 

  • Certified Technicians: Our team is trained to identify and repair all forms of damage, visible and hidden.
  • Advanced Technology: We use state-of-the-art tools to restore your vehicle to its pre-accident condition.
  • OEM Parts: We prioritize quality repairs with original equipment manufacturer parts to ensure safety and longevity.
  • Comprehensive Inspections: We leave no stone unturned, ensuring every aspect of your car is thoroughly evaluated and repaired.

 

Contact a Trusted Collision Repair Center in Elmer’s Auto Body Today

Driving an unrepaired car after an accident is a gamble you can’t afford to take. Whether it’s safety, legal liability, or long-term costs, the risks far outweigh any short-term savings. Consider finding a collision repair center in Washington Township, NJ as soon as you can to get the needed repairs completeed.

 

Don’t wait for small problems to become major headaches. Contact the Elmer’s Auto Body team today to schedule an appointment at one of our South Jersey locations—Medford, Sewell, and Mt. Ephraim. Your safety and peace of mind are worth it.

Do New Jersey Potholes Cause More Accidents in Bad Weather? The Answer May Shock You

As a New Jersey driver, you are well aware of the presence of potholes. You also know that combining bad weather with potholes is a recipe for danger, especially during the busiest hours of the day. While potholes are a nuisance throughout the year, they become increasingly hazardous when paired with rain, snow, or ice. But do New Jersey potholes cause more accidents in bad weather? Today, we’re going to shed light on how this dangerous combination leads to accidents and how you can better protect yourself and your vehicle.

 

Key Takeaways

 

  • Potholes in New Jersey form due to water freezing in asphalt cracks and collapsing under heavy traffic, worsened by freeze-thaw cycles and high road usage.
  • Bad weather hides potholes, increasing the risk of tire blowouts, alignment issues, and loss of control.
  • Poor traction and sudden swerves caused by potholes can lead to accidents, especially in rain, snow, or ice.
  • Commuters, delivery drivers, and new drivers are most at risk for pothole-related accidents.
  • To stay safe, drive cautiously, maintain your tires, avoid standing water, and inspect your car after hitting a pothole.

 

How Do Potholes Form?

Potholes are the result of a natural but destructive process that’s worsened by New Jersey’s traffic conditions. It all starts when water seeps into tiny cracks in the asphalt, often caused by regular wear and tear. As temperatures drop, the water freezes and expands, pushing the pavement outward and weakening its structure. When the ice eventually melts, it leaves behind gaps beneath the surface. Passing vehicles—especially heavy ones—add pressure, causing the weakened asphalt to collapse and form a pothole.

 

New Jersey’s frequent freeze-thaw cycles in winter and early spring accelerate this process. Combined with the state’s high traffic volumes, potholes can form quickly and grow rapidly. This makes New Jersey roads particularly vulnerable, turning these hazards into a common and dangerous feature for drivers.

Do New Jersey Potholes Cause More Accidents Than Bad Weather – The Answer May Shock You

The Dangers of Potholes in Bad Weather for NJ Drivers

Now, how do potholes contribute to the dangers of driving in poor weather conditions? Here’s what you need to know:

 

Reduced Visibility

Rain and snow often conceal potholes, making them harder to spot. Drivers traveling at normal speeds may suddenly hit one, leading to tire blowouts or loss of control. This is especially dangerous on highways where reaction time is limited.

 

Loss of Traction

Potholes can cause vehicles to lose traction, particularly in wet or icy conditions. When your tires lose their grip, stopping distances increase, and the risk of skidding or hydroplaning rises significantly.

 

Alignment and Suspension Damage

Striking a pothole in bad weather can do more than damage your tires—it can throw off your car’s alignment and suspension. This can make steering unpredictable, a dangerous scenario when roads are already slick.

 

Chain Reaction Accidents

Hitting a pothole often causes sudden, erratic movements like swerving, braking, or tire blowouts. In bad weather, these reactions can lead to multi-car pileups, especially on busy New Jersey roads.

 

Who Is Most at Risk of an Accident Caused by Potholes?

All drivers face the danger of running into a pothole. However, there are some groups that are far more vulnerable to hitting a pothole and ending up in a collision. These groups include:

 

  • Commuters: Rush-hour traffic increases the chances of a pothole-induced accident during bad weather.
  • Delivery Drivers: Frequent stops and tight schedules force these drivers onto poorly maintained roads, often in adverse conditions.
  • Inexperienced Drivers: New drivers may lack the experience to navigate around hidden potholes safely.

 

Preventing Pothole-Related Accidents in Bad Weather

\|There are several ways you can make traversing New Jersey’s pitted roads safer during bad weather, including:

 

  • Drive Defensively: Always slow down in poor weather conditions. Allow extra space between you and other vehicles to account for sudden movements caused by hidden potholes. Furthermore, if the roads are slick from snow or ice, make sure you are increasing your stopping distance. If you know about a pothole, slow down and try to avoid it, if possible, by going around.
  • Keep Tires in Good Condition: Properly inflated tires with good tread are crucial for maintaining traction on slippery roads. Damaged or underinflated tires are more likely to blow out when hitting a pothole.
  • Avoid Standing Water: Puddles often mask potholes. When possible, drive around standing water to avoid unexpected impacts. If the water extends to far to avoid without going into the opposing lane, wait until oncoming traffic passes to get around it.
  • Get Regular Inspections: If you hit a pothole, don’t wait for noticeable damage. Get your alignment, suspension, and tires checked promptly to ensure your vehicle remains safe and roadworthy.

 

Contact an Auto Body Repair Shop in New Jersey Today

Potholes are an unavoidable part of life for New Jersey drivers, especially during bad weather. But you don’t have to let them jeopardize your safety or your car’s performance. Whether you’ve experienced an accident or suspect damage from a recent encounter with a pothole, Elmer’s Auto Body is here to help. We have certified technicians, advanced equipment, and friendly service.

 

Schedule an appointment today at one of our South Jersey locations—Medford, Sewell, or Mt. Ephraim—and let us get you back on the road safely.