The Role of Frame Straightening in Collision Repair

In the event of a car collision, the impact is not limited to visible external damage. Any collision can also impact your vehicle’s structural integrity. One critical element that is particularly susceptible to damage during an accident is the car frame. Because the frame serves as the backbone of your vehicle, ensuring it is repaired is paramount. That is why today we are going to explain to role of frame straightening during collision repair. You will also learn how to find the best frame straightening services near you. Let’s get started. 

Key Takeaways

  • Car frames are vital for maintaining the structural integrity of a vehicle.
  • Different types of car frames exist, and each requires specific repair techniques.
  • Collision-induced damage to car frames can compromise the safety of the vehicle.
  • Timely frame straightening is essential for ensuring the safety and functionality of the vehicle.
  • It’s crucial to consult certified experts for frame straightening services.

3 Types of Car Frames

Car frames come in three different styles, depending on the kind of vehicle you are driving: ladder frames, unibody frames, and space frames. Here is more detail about each: 

  • Ladder Frames: These traditional frames consist of two long rails running the length of the vehicle, connected by several cross members. Ladder frames are common in trucks and large SUVs, providing robust support for heavy-duty applications.
  • Unibody Frames: Common in modern vehicles, unibody frames integrate the frame and body of the car into a single unit, enhancing structural integrity, improving handling, and ensuring a smoother ride.
  • Space Frames: Typically found in high-end vehicles, space frames utilize lightweight materials such as aluminum or carbon fiber. This design offers both strength and agility, contributing to improved performance and fuel efficiency.

Aside from the three different kinds of frames, there are structural elements attached—bolted, welded, or riveted—to the frame that make up the skeleton of your vehicle. These elements include pillars that support the windows, the core support, aprons around the fenders, the floor pan, rear support, and the firewall around the engine. 

What Can Happen to a Car Frame During a Collision? 

During a collision, there are various forces acting upon your vehicle that come in from multiple directions. When these forces collide with your vehicle, the frame may bend, twist, or even fracture. Therefore, even a small impact can lead to misalignments that compromise your vehicle’s structural integrity. Misalignments may also affect the vehicle’s ability to absorb future damage. 

The more severe the collision, the worse the deformation of the frame. In some cases, if the frame is not or can’t be straightened, the vehicle may be too unsafe to drive. 

What is Frame Straightening? 

Frame straightening is a precise and specialized process that involves the use of hydraulic equipment and computerized measuring systems. Skilled technicians employ these machines and various techniques to reshape and realign a damaged frame. Typically, the vehicle is elevated and chains attached to posts are connected to the frame. Tension is placed on the chains, which gradually moves the frame back into the correct position. The goal is to return the car frame back to its original specifications. 

When to Seek Frame Straightening

Seeking frame straightening immediately after a collision is crucial, especially when there are visible signs of frame damage. Even seemingly minor accidents can result in hidden structural damage. Prompt assessment and repair can prevent further complications and ensure the vehicle’s structural integrity and safety are restored to pre-accident conditions.

What Could Happen if You Don’t Get a Bent Frame Repaired?

Neglecting to address a bent or damaged frame after a collision can have significant and long-term repercussions, extending beyond immediate concerns. The consequences of a compromised frame can manifest in various critical ways, impacting the vehicle’s performance, safety, and maintenance costs.

Handling and Stability Issues

A bent frame can severely affect the vehicle’s handling and stability on the road. Misaligned frames can lead to irregular tire wear and compromised wheel alignment, resulting in steering difficulties and an overall decrease in driving control. This can make the vehicle more prone to swerving, especially at higher speeds, posing a significant risk to the driver’s safety and that of other road users.

Compromised Safety Features

The structural integrity of the frame is closely linked to the effectiveness of safety features such as airbags and seat belts. A damaged frame can undermine the structural support necessary for these safety measures to function optimally. In the event of another collision, the compromised frame may fail to absorb impact energy effectively, leading to a higher risk of severe injuries for the occupants.

Accelerated Wear and Tear

Ignoring frame damage can initiate a chain reaction, causing accelerated wear and tear on other interconnected mechanical components. Misaligned frames can exert additional stress on the suspension, steering system, and other critical parts, leading to premature wear and potential mechanical failures. This can result in costly repairs down the line and compromise the vehicle’s overall performance and reliability.

Structural Instability

Over time, unaddressed frame damage can lead to structural instability, diminishing the vehicle’s overall durability and lifespan. Compromised structural integrity can make the vehicle more vulnerable to further damage in the event of subsequent accidents. It can also impact the vehicle’s ability to withstand normal wear and tear, potentially leading to more frequent breakdowns and costly repairs, adversely affecting the long-term ownership experience.

How Do You Find a Qualified Frame Straightening Expert?

When searching for a qualified frame straightening expert, consider factors such as certifications, experience, and reputation. Look for auto body repair shops with a proven track record in handling various types of car frames. Ensure that the shop is equipped with the latest technology and tools necessary for accurate frame assessment and repair. Checking customer reviews, certifications, and industry affiliations can help you gauge the expertise and professionalism of the auto body repair shop.

Call Elmer’s Auto Body Today for Frame Straightening Services

If you were in a collision, there is a good chance that you need your frame straightened. Be sure to have your vehicle thoroughly inspected for damage. If you need frame straightening services, find a certified collision repair center. 

Elmer’s Auto Body is a trusted name in the industry, known for its commitment to excellence in collision repair services. Our team of skilled technicians is well-versed in the art of frame straightening, equipped with the latest tools and technologies to handle even the most complex frame damage. We understand the critical role of a properly aligned frame in ensuring the safety and functionality of your vehicle. When you choose Elmer’s Auto Body for frame straightening services, you can rest assured that your vehicle will receive the utmost care and precision, returning it to its pre-accident condition.

Call one of our three locations in South Jersey today or fill out the contact form to schedule an appointment. 

I Just Got Rear-Ended, What Do I Do?

I Just Got Rear-Ended, What Do I Do?

Out of the 6 million car accidents that happen on U.S. roads every year, roughly 40% of them are rear-end collisions, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). In other words, getting rear-ended is highly common, and so you should learn how to handle the incident accordingly. Today, you are going to learn what to do if you are rear-ended, as well as some tips for choosing the collision repair center in NJ that will fix up your car.

 

What is a Rear-End Collision?

A rear-end collision is a type of car accident where one vehicle crashes into the back of another vehicle in front of it. These accidents are typically caused by a trailing driver’s failure to maintain a safe following distance or react in time to sudden changes in traffic conditions. Rear-end collisions can occur at various speeds, from slow-moving traffic to highway speeds, and can lead to a wide range of damages and injuries.

 

The physics behind rear-end collisions are relatively straightforward. When a car is moving, it possesses kinetic energy, which is the energy of motion. If the car in front suddenly stops or slows down, the trailing car must also reduce its speed to avoid a collision. If the trailing driver fails to apply the brakes in time, their car will continue moving forward, leading to a rear-end impact.

 

What Causes Most Rear-End Collisions?

Rear-end collisions are often the result of driver negligence or errors in judgment. Several factors contribute to the prevalence of these accidents, including:

 

  • Distracted Driving: When drivers divert their attention from the road, whether by using a phone, adjusting the radio, or engaging in other activities, they are more likely to miss the vehicle in front slowing down or stopping.
  • Following Too Closely: Tailgating, or driving too closely behind another vehicle, leaves little room for the trailing driver to react in time to sudden changes in traffic flow.
  • Speeding: Exceeding the speed limit reduces the stopping distance, making it harder for drivers to react to traffic changes quickly.
  • Adverse Weather Conditions: Rain, snow, ice, or fog can decrease traction and increase the stopping distance, making it more challenging for drivers to avoid rear-end collisions.
  • Drowsy Driving: Fatigued drivers have slower reaction times and impaired judgment, making them prone to rear-ending other vehicles.
  • Aggressive Driving: Aggressive behaviors such as tailgating, brake-checking, and weaving in and out of traffic increase the risk of rear-end collisions.
  • Failure to Yield Right of Way: Drivers who fail to yield the right of way at intersections or yield signs may cause rear-end collisions.
  • Malfunctioning Brake Lights: When the brake lights on the lead vehicle are not working correctly, the trailing driver may not realize that the vehicle is slowing down.

 

Who is At Fault in a Rear-End Collision?

Who is At Fault in a Rear-End Collision?

Determining fault in a rear-end collision is generally straightforward, as the trailing driver is usually considered at least partially responsible. The reasoning behind this is based on the concept of “duty of care.” Drivers have a legal responsibility to follow at a safe distance and maintain control of their vehicle at all times, including the ability to stop if the car in front slows down or comes to a stop.

 

However, there are certain situations where the lead driver may share some responsibility or be found entirely at fault. For example, if the driver in front reverses suddenly, has malfunctioning brake lights, or engages in risky behavior like abruptly changing lanes without signaling, they may contribute to the collision. Additionally, extreme weather conditions or hazardous road conditions might affect the determination of fault.

 

It’s essential to collect evidence at the accident scene, such as witness statements, photographs, and police reports, to help determine fault accurately.

 

I Just Got Rear-End, What Do I Do Now?

Getting rear-ended is a stressful situation. Here are some steps to follow to ensure that everyone stays safe and has their interests protected:

 

  1. Check for injuries: After the impact, check yourself and any passengers for injuries. If anyone is injured, seek immediate medical attention by calling emergency services.
  2. Call the police: Tell them that, “Someone rear-ended me.” Even if the accident seems minor, it’s crucial to have an official record of the incident. The police will create an accident report detailing the parties involved, the damages, and any injuries.
  3. Take pictures and document the positions of the vehicles: Use your smartphone or camera to take photographs of the accident scene, the damage to both vehicles, and the surrounding area. This documentation can be helpful when filing an insurance claim.
  4. Exchange information with the other driver: Obtain the other driver’s contact information, insurance details, and vehicle license plate number. Provide them with the same information.
  5. Contact your insurance company: Report the accident to your insurance provider as soon as possible. They will guide you through the claims process and determine the coverage applicable to your situation.
  6. Choose an auto body shop for repairs: After assessing the damage, you have the right to choose any auto body shop for repairs, regardless of the insurance company’s recommendation. This is known as “right to repair.” Select a reputable shop that specializes in collision repairs to ensure your vehicle is restored to its pre-accident condition.

 

How Auto Body Shops Repair Rear-End Damage

Rear-end damages may not always appear severe at first glance. However, rear-end damage can translate to issues in other regions of the vehicle, which is why it is important to at least have your car assessed. When you take your car to one of the best auto body shops in NJ, here is how you will be assisted:

 

  • Inspection: After a rear-end collision, there may be hidden damage that’s not immediately visible. Auto body shops conduct a comprehensive inspection of your vehicle to identify both visible and concealed damage, ensuring nothing is overlooked.
  • Frame Straightening: Rear-end collisions can cause the vehicle’s frame to bend or deform. Skilled technicians can perform frame straightening, aligning the frame back to its original specifications
  • Bumper Repair and Replacement: In many rear-end collisions, the bumper absorbs much of the impact. Auto body shops can repair minor bumper damage, but if the bumper is severely damaged, they may recommend replacing it to ensure your vehicle’s safety.
  • Paint Matching: Matching the paint color precisely is essential in ensuring a seamless repair. Auto body shops use advanced computerized color-matching technology to achieve an accurate and seamless finish.
  • Insurance Assistance: A reliable auto body shop can assist you in navigating the insurance process. They can communicate with the insurance company, provide repair estimates, and ensure that your vehicle’s repairs are covered appropriately.

 

Get Your Vehicle Repaired at a Certified Collision Center in New Jersey

Now you know what to do if you’ve been rear-ended. Stay calm, document everything, and get insurance information, if necessary. From there, get your vehicle to an auto body shop for repairs. By working with a skilled auto body team, like the technicians at Elmer’s Auto Body, you can get back on the road with confidence, knowing that your vehicle has been restored to its pre-accident condition.

 

Elmer’s Auto Body is conveniently located throughout South Jersey and holds numerous certifications, including I-CAR. Get in touch with us today to learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment for inspection or repairs.

Weather Damage and Your Vehicle: Assessing and Repairing Storm-Related Damages in Mt. Ephraim, NJ

Weather Damage and Your Vehicle: Assessing and Repairing Storm-Related Damages in Mt. Ephraim, NJ

You wouldn’t think that living in Mt.Ephraim, New Jersey meant dealing with wind, rain, and hail throughout the year, but it does! There are many weather conditions relatively common in NJ that take a toll on vehicles. Dents, dings, broken windshields, and water damage…it can all happen. Unfortunately, these issues can be more severe than they look at first glance. To ensure the safety and longevity of your vehicle, it’s important to assess and address any storm-related issues promptly. Let’s talk about the process of assessing weather damage and then how to get those issues properly repaired at an auto body shop in Mt. Ephraim, NJ.

 

What Kinds of Weather Damage Can Happen to a Vehicle?

Weather damage encompasses various issues that can affect your vehicle, including:

 

Hail Damage

Hailstones may cause dings, dents, cracks, and shattered windows. Upon impact, it is not uncommon for hail to cause cosmetic and structural damage to vehicles.

 

Water Damage

Flooding or heavy rain can result in water-related damage to vehicles. Even driving through flood water can cause significant issues. This can include water seeping into the interior through compromised seals or leaks, leading to damage to the upholstery, electrical systems, and electronics. Water damage can also affect the vehicle’s mechanical components, such as the engine and drivetrain.

 

Wind Damage

Strong winds during storms can cause flying debris, fallen tree branches, or other objects to collide with the vehicle, leading to scratches, dents, or even more severe damage. Additionally, high winds can cause objects like signs or poles to topple over onto vehicles.

 

UV Damage

Prolonged exposure to intense sunlight can cause damage to a vehicle’s paint, leading to fading, chipping, or peeling. UV rays can also degrade rubber seals and trim, resulting in deterioration and potential water leaks.

 

Temperature-Related Damage

Extreme heat or cold can impact various components of a vehicle. High temperatures can cause damage to the interior, including fading or cracking of upholstery, dashboard, or steering wheel. In contrast, extreme cold can affect the battery, fluids, and engine performance.

 

How to Assess Weather Damage on a Vehicle

To assess the extent of weather damage on your vehicle in Mt. Ephraim, NJ, follow these steps:

 

Exterior Inspection

The first step is to visually inspect the vehicle for any immediately visible signs of damage. This includes scratches, dings, dents, cracked or broken windows and mirrors, broken antenna, and damaged lights. You should also pay attention to the tires and rims. Check for bulges, punctures, or anything else that could become a hazard. Once you have done that, look at the undercarriage for leaks, dents, or damage.

 

Hail Damage Inspection

If there was a hailstorm, examine the vehicle’s surface for hail damage. Carefully inspect the roof, hood, trunk, and sides of the vehicle. Hail damage typically appears as small dents or dimples, but it can also cause more significant dents with cracked or chipped paint. Take note of the size and severity of the damage to determine the appropriate repair method (some methods only work on shallow hail dents).

 

Wind and Water Damage Evaluation

Recently driven through a hurricane? Even if you didn’t, strong winds and heavy rain cause a variety of issues, such as cracks and chips in the windshield from flying debris or water damage. Look at the doors, windows, and seals around the windshield for any leaks or compromised weatherstripping. Next, examine the body panels for scratches, dents, or other damage resulting from falling tree branches or other objects.

 

Mechanical Assessment

While most weather damage is visible on the exterior, it’s also important to assess the vehicle’s mechanical components. Check the brakes, suspension, and exhaust system for any signs of damage or abnormalities. If you notice any unusual sounds, vibrations, or handling issues, consult a professional mechanic for a thorough evaluation.

 

Weather Damage Repair Options in Mt. Ephraim, NJ

Based on what you find when assessing your vehicle for weather damage, you may need one service over another, such as:

 

Paintless Dent Repair (PDR)

PDR is a technique used to repair small dents and dings without the need for repainting. Skilled technicians like those at Elmer’s Auto Body in Mt. Ephraim, NJ manipulate the metal back to its original shape, preserving the vehicle’s factory finish.

 

Windshield Repair or Replacement

Cracks or chips in the windshield should be addressed promptly to prevent further spreading. In many cases, small chips can be repaired, but larger or severely damaged windshields may require replacement.

 

Traditional Body and Paint Repair

Severe scratches, dents, and other cosmetic damage can be repaired through traditional body and paint techniques. Skilled technicians will sand, fill, and repaint the affected areas to restore the vehicle’s appearance.

 

Upholstery and Carpet Replacement

In cases where the water damage has extensively affected the upholstery or carpeting, it may be necessary to replace these components. Professional upholstery services can help restore the interior to its pre-damaged condition.

 

Component Replacement

If specific interior components, such as electronic modules or control units, have been damaged by water, they may require replacement. The same is true for other moving parts, including the engine, transmission, suspension, and so on. A qualified technician can diagnose the affected parts and replace them with new or properly functioning components.

 

Fluid Checks and Changes

Storms and flooding can contaminate or degrade fluids in the vehicle, such as engine oil, coolant, or brake fluid. Checking the fluid levels and condition is crucial, and in some cases, fluid changes or flushes may be necessary to ensure proper functioning of the vehicle.

 

Alignment and Suspension Adjustments

If the vehicle’s alignment or suspension has been affected by storm damage, realignment or adjustments may be necessary. This helps ensure proper handling, tire wear, and overall safety.

 

Looking For Weather Damage Repair in Mt. Ephraim, NJ?

Storms can cause significant damage to vehicles, requiring prompt attention and repair. Conducting a visual inspection, assessing hail, wind, and water damage, and seeking professional assistance are essential steps in addressing storm-related issues in Mt. Ephraim, NJ. By working with a trusted auto repair service, you can ensure a thorough assessment and receive expert repairs to restore your vehicle’s safety, functionality, and appearance.

 

Elmer’s Auto Body has extensive experience and expertise when it comes to repairing mild and severe weather damage. Whether your car has some dents and dings from hail or the interior was flooded, our technicians can help. Give one of our South Jersey locations a call or fill out the contact form to schedule your appointment today!

 

The Importance Of Proper Frame Damage Repair For The Safety Of Your Vehicle

The Importance Of Proper Frame Damage Repair For The Safety Of Your Vehicle

In many ways, the frame of your vehicle is the most important part. Engines and transmissions are the most expensive parts to replace, but they are still interchangeable components. A frame, on the other hand, isn’t really an interchangeable component. You can’t simply remove the old one and bolt another one in place. If a damaged frame cannot be repaired, the whole car is a loss. Why? Because it simply isn’t safe to drive a vehicle with a damaged frame.

 

Knowing When Your Frame Has Been Damaged

The frame of your vehicle is not readily visible, so it isn’t always easy to see when those critical struts have been damaged. However, other cases are much more obvious. For instance, if you have been in a head-on collision and the front of the vehicle is crumpled in, you can bet that the frame has been damaged.

One good idea is to look at the vehicle from all angles and see if it has been “twisted” by the impact. If so, the lines and corners won’t be quite right, and that twisting indicates frame damage. You also might be able to detect frame damage when you drive your vehicle. Telltale signs include:

  • Unusual vibrations coming from the wheel area
  • Odd noises and/or vibrations when turning
  • Lack of stability in general
  • In severe cases, the vehicle may lurch to one side, making it hard to stay in your lane.

In the end, though, you won’t usually know for sure until a qualified professional has assessed the vehicle. If you see any of these signs, it is essential that you get the vehicle to a shop immediately. Yes, it’s inconvenient to be without your car for any length of time, but serious injury and death tend to be a lot more inconvenient.

 

Why Is It Unsafe To Drive A Vehicle With Frame Damage?

If your frame has only sustained minor damage, you might feel that you can ignore the problem and keep driving. This, however, is a very bad idea that could even result in serious injury or death.

Even if you are a careful and competent driver, an accident can happen at any moment. Even if you do everything right, someone else’s carelessness can still cause a collision. That’s why you always wear your seat belts, that’s why you always keep your airbags in good shape, and that’s why you never drive a car with a damaged frame. That frame is like a cage that gives you some protection against the outside world. Think of it this way: Would a smart knight go into battle with weak armor? No, of course not.

In some cases, frame damage may even cause a collision. As we said in the earlier section, frame damage can make it hard to keep your vehicle on a straight course. Obviously, that can cause you to run right into another vehicle through no fault of your own. So, if you’re thinking of driving a car with such issues, don’t do it.

 

Can Frame Damage Be Repaired?

In many cases, frame damage can indeed be repaired. However, it depends on the full extent of the damage. You should probably know this right away: If the frame damage is bad enough to be visible after the accident, it probably can’t be repaired. However, there are many instances in which a frame just receives a little warping from the impact. That metal can be straightened, but only to a certain point. If you go too far with that straightening, you will weaken the metal significantly. So, you can bend and beat the metal back into place, but only to a certain extent.

The location of the damage also plays a role in this question. There are some parts of a vehicle’s frame that are less essential than others, and some parts can even be replaced. In the end, it comes down to two questions:

 

Frame Types Also Make A Difference

There are two basic types of vehicle frames: Unibody and body-on-frame. A unibody frame is incorporated with the outer parts of the car (i.e., the “body”). This allows the components of the frame and body to mutually support one another. Most cars will have this type of frame, so this is probably what you have.

Most trucks and larger vehicles, on the other hand, will have a body-on-frame design (also called a ladder frame). In these vehicles, the frame is a separate piece, shaped roughly like a ladder with wheels, to which the body is bolted. In most cases, bolt-on-frame designs are easier and cheaper to repair because they represent an older and simpler design.

Conclusion

No matter what kind of damage you are dealing with, the help of competent professionals will be needed. Frame repair is not the kind of job that you can do at home in the garage, so it pays to trust those who have earned your trust. If you are now asking yourself: “where can I find a trustworthy auto body shop near me?”, then we have the answer. All you need to do is call us at (856) 218-0202.

5 Most Common Causes Of Auto Collisions And How To Avoid Them

5 Most Common Causes Of Auto Collisions And How To Avoid Them

In the United States, car collisions are an unfortunate but common occurrence. American roadways are constantly plagued with minor bumps and crashes caused by a number of reasons. While some accidents may end up being minor, there are some that end up being catastrophic. Obviously, you want to do your best to avoid such events. Knowing the five most common causes of auto collisions and how to avoid them may one day come in handy.

 

1. Distracted Driving

Ever since the advent of mobile phones and texting, more and more people have fallen sway to distracted driving. Even if you are a conscientious driver, you could be hit by someone who is driving distracted. But what is distracted driving? It involves any of the following actions:

  • Checking your appearance in a mirror
  • Changing radio stations
  • Eating or drinking
  • Texting
  • Looking at someone in the passenger seat
  • Swatting at your children in the backseat
  • Becoming distracted by someone else on the roadway

To avoid distracted driving, it is important to avoid such distractions. Do not drive when you are tired, make use of hands-free cell phone devices like a Bluetooth speaker clip, avoid multitasking, and let passengers navigate for you.

 

2. Excessive Speeds

Yes, it may be tempting to speed down a highway, especially when you are running late to work, but excessive speeds make your car much harder to control. In the event something unforeseen or unexpected happens, such as a car suddenly switching lanes in front of you or an animal darting across the road, you could lose control. You also may not have enough time to react and brake, which could cause an impact.

Avoiding driving over the speed limit is easy. You just have to slow down. Observe the speed limit and stick within that range. You may even consider utilizing your vehicle’s cruise control to avoid accidentally accelerating during a long drive. Furthermore, if you are speeding because you are behind schedule, consider planning around traffic and leaving for your destination a little earlier.

 

3. Poor Driving Weather

There are a number of weather conditions that make the roads more dangerous than usual. Wind, rain, fog, snow, ice, hail…it’s all possible. Wind can blow your car sideways or cause debris to gather in the road. Ice and snow can cause skidding and sliding. Even wet conditions make the surface of the road more slick than usual. Unfortunately, you cannot control the weather. It can also be hard to predict what will happen.

What you can do to avoid accidents caused by inclement weather is drive more carefully. Avoid becoming distracted. If possible, go below the speed limit and put distance between yourself and others on the road. Stay away from any clusters of traffic that may force you to slam on the brakes or jerk the steering wheel. Lastly, if the road is extra dangerous, consider pulling over and waiting out the worst of the weather or calling for assistance.

 

4. Chaos at Intersections

Who hasn’t gotten flustered at a 4-way stop? Intersections, whether they have traffic lights or not, can be harrowing. Sometimes it is not clear who should go first. Then there are instances where people cut in front of you or rush to make a turn. It is not uncommon for people to side-swipe one another, particularly when one person is making a left at the same time another car is trying to make a right into the same lane.

Also, if you live somewhere with a lot of truck traffic, avoid pulling up too far past the line. Give the trucks space to turn and maneuver. Far too many people get the front end of their cars swiped by trailers.

In order to avoid intersection bedlam, it is recommended that you avoid running through yellow lights about to turn red and to always come to a complete stop at 4-ways. Do not do a rolling stop. Use hand signals to others, if need be, to signal your intention.

 

5. Drunk Driving

Far too many die each year because they or someone else decided to get behind the wheel of a vehicle when intoxicated or impaired. Drunk driving kills people and totals vehicles. Many substances, including alcohol and medications, can make judging speed and distance incredibly difficult. Some people even fall asleep behind the wheel.

Do not consider driving if you plan on drinking or using another substance. Arrange for a designated driver or use Uber or Lyft to get to your location and then bring you home. Stay at a friend’s house and give them your keys. Rest assured, they would rather see you on their couch in the morning than receive a call that you died while driving home from their party.

 

Get Your Collision Damage Repaired at Elmer’s Auto Body

Now that you are familiar with the top 5 most common causes of auto collisions and how to avoid them, it is time to commit to being a better driver. With more people aware of the danger, the roads may be safer. If you have experienced an auto collision, turn to Elmer’s Auto Body for assistance. Our amazing team of highly trained technicians will get your vehicle back to its undamaged condition. Give us a call today to learn more about our services or to book an appointment at one of our locations.

What Is the Safest Car on the Road This Year?

What Is the Safest Car on the Road This Year?

When choosing any vehicle, safety should always be one of the primary concerns. There is no need to prove the fact that vehicle accidents kill large numbers of people every year. This reality is, unfortunately, so commonly known that it requires no proof. With that in mind, it pays to try and get the safest car that you can afford. There are many ways in which to evaluate the safety value of a particular car, but it does pay to listen to the experts as well. With that in mind, let’s try to determine which vehicle is the safest car on the road this year.

 

Finding A Legitimate Source Of Information

The first problem is finding a legitimate and independent source for car safety information. Most vehicles will claim to be particularly safe, but it can be hard to tell if that is real or just advertising hype. Certainly, all of them must meet certain safety standards in order to be road-legal, but that’s not what we are seeking. We want to know which current-year vehicles are objectively the safest on the road.

To help with that, we turned to the website of an organization called the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety). This is an independent scientific study group that focuses on vehicle safety. Along with their partner organization, the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI), they work with automakers and insurance companies to ensure better vehicle safety and greater accountability for those who fail to provide such.

Because this is the best independent source of vehicle safety information that we could find, their website will be the primary source for this article. There is another respected organization called the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) which carries out most crash tests, but the IIHS-HLDI rankings take their findings into account.

 

What Makes A Vehicle Safe?

The safety of a vehicle is determined by its design and features. Those features can vary a lot, as most vehicle models offer more than one type. In general, safety features fall into one of two categories: Crashworthiness and mitigation. The term “Crashworthiness” describes the ability of a vehicle to withstand impact with minimal damage. Some cars are simply more durable than others, and a tougher vehicle will always give you a better chance of walking away from a collision. “crashworthiness” also includes things like the weight and balance of a vehicle, both of which make a difference as well.

Mitigation, on the other hand, includes features that are intended to prevent the crash from happening. This might include things like:

  • Backup cameras
  • Blind spot mirrors/cameras
  • Automatic emergency braking
  • Stability control systems
  • Airbags
  • Anti-Lock brakes
  • Automatic safety belts
  • Tire pressure sensors
  • Collision detection systems

Basically, anything that will potentially help you to avoid an accident makes for a safe vehicle. However, it’s not just about the features. That is why every vehicle model undergoes extensive crash testing before it is put on the market. When crash tests are performed, all the various sections of the car are tested to determine how resistant to impact they might be. For instance, some vehicles might have very good forward crash protection while offering little protection on either side. In fact, vehicles like that have caused big problems in the past.

 

Safest Vehicles On The Road For 2022

According to the safety ratings of the IIHS, there is not one vehicle that stands head and shoulders above the rest. Instead, there is a list of vehicles in each category that have earned top marks in all categories. As such, these vehicles are probably about equally safe. There are over 100 vehicles on this top-rated list, but here are some of the standouts:

Small Cars

  • Honda Civic 4-door sedan
  • Honda Civic 4-door hatchback
  • Honda Insight 4-door sedan
  • Hyundai Elantra 4-door sedan
  • Kia Soul 4-door wagon

Midsize Cars

  • Honda Accord 4-door sedan
  • Hyundai Sonata 4-door sedan
  • Kia K5 4-door sedan
  • Nissan Altima 4-door sedan
  • Nissan Maxima 4-door sedan

Midsize Luxury Cars

  • Acura TLX 4-door sedan
  • Audi A4 4-door sedan
  • Audi A4 Allroad 4-door wagon
  • Audi A5 Sportback 4-door hatchback
  • BMW 2-Series Gran Coupe 4-door sedan

Large Cars

  • Kia Stinger 4-door hatchback
  • Toyota Avalon 4-door sedan
  • Volkswagen Arteon 4-door hatchback

Large Luxury Cars

  • Audi A6 4-door sedan
  • Audi A6 Allroad 4-door wagon
  • Audi A7 4-door hatchback

Small SUVs

  • Buick Encore GX 4-door SUV
  • Chevrolet Trailblazer 4-door SUV
  • Ford Bronco Sport 4-door SUV

Midsize SUVs

  • Ford Edge 4-door SUV
  • Ford Explorer 4-door SUV
  • Ford Mustang Mach-E 4-door SUV

Midsize Luxury SUVs

  • Acura MDX 4-door SUV
  • Acura RDX 4-door SUV
  • Audi Q5 4-door SUV

Large SUVs

  • Audi E-Tron 4-door SUV
  • Audi E-Tron Sportback 4-door SUV
  • Audi Q8 4-door SUV

Minivans

  • Chrysler Pacifica minivan
  • Honda Odyssey minivan
  • Kia Carnival minivan

Small Pickup Trucks

  • Hyundai Santa Cruz crew cab pickup

Large Pickup Trucks

  • Ford F-150 crew cab pickup
  • Ford F-150 extended cab pickup
  • Ram 1500 crew cab pickup

 

Conclusion

It always pays to seek out a car that offers a high safety rating, no matter what the advertisements might say. Of course, even if you choose one of the safest cars on the road, accidents can still happen. If that happens, you might find yourself in need of a good NJ body shop. When looking for auto body shops in South Jersey, your choice is not a difficult one. Just call us here at Elmer’s Auto Body at (856) 218-0202.