Debunked Misconceptions About Car Accident Fixes Montanans Still Cling To

Debunked Misconceptions About Car Accident Fixes Montanans Still Cling To

In the event of a car collision, it's essential for Montana drivers to be well-informed about the repair process to ensure their vehicles are safely restored. Here are some common myths about collision repair and the key facts drivers should know before booking repairs.

Myth 1: All damage is visible and easily measurable

Rear-end collisions often cause hidden damage behind bumpers, including misaligned body panels and blind spot sensors. Visual inspection alone is insufficient; precise measuring and alignment are critical for safety and sensor functionality.

Myth 2: Repair manuals always include accurate labor time and process details

Many collision repair manuals do not specify alignment or angle verification steps for components like rear panels or blind spot sensors. Insurance estimating systems often omit additional labor time for these vital steps, but they can add 4 to 8 hours to repairs for proper ADAS sensor calibration.

Myth 3: Minor dents never affect vehicle safety or structure

While some dents are superficial, deeper dents can compromise structural integrity and safety. Professional assessment is important to determine the need for paintless dent repair or full panel refinishing.

Myth 4: Bumper damage is usually just cosmetic and easy to fix

Modern bumpers have complex construction and can sustain hidden damage even from light impacts. Repairs vary from surface fixes to total replacement depending on damage severity.

For Montana drivers, knowing these facts helps ensure collision repairs restore vehicle safety features properly, especially as more vehicles have advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like blind spot sensors, which require careful alignment after collisions. It is advisable to choose repair shops that understand these complexities and will perform thorough inspections, measurements, and calibrations beyond visual assessments.

Additionally, avoiding assumptions about repair times and costs based on typical insurance estimates is important, since some critical repair steps (like ADAS alignment) may not be covered upfront but are essential for safety.

In summary, hidden damage beyond what you see, the need for precise sensor calibration, and the structural impact of dents and bumpers are all facts Montana drivers should know to avoid rushed or incomplete repairs after a collision.

When it comes to choosing a repair shop, Montana drivers have the right to choose where their vehicle is repaired, despite insurance company recommendations. Independent collision repair shops, like OHS Body Shop, specialize in collision repair and may offer the same or better quality at a lower cost compared to dealerships.

It's worth noting that there's no law requiring drivers to get multiple estimates before choosing a shop, although shopping around is a driver's right. OHS Body Shop, for instance, is committed to keeping Montana drivers safe and stress-free, and they aim to bust any myths you've heard and make sure your repair is done right, the first time. They keep you informed at every step and work efficiently to get you back on the road without cutting corners.

Lastly, DIY repairs might seem cheaper, but can cost more in the long run, especially if they void warranties or cause safety issues. So, leave the repairs to the professionals and enjoy peace of mind on the road.

[1] Source: National Auto Body Council (NABC) Repairer Driven Education Series, 2021 [2] Source: Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), 2021 [3] Source: Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS), 2021

1. While some might believe that all damage from a collision is visible and easily measurable, this isn't always the case, as hidden damage behind bumpers can occur, such as misaligned body panels and blind spot sensors.
2. Insurance estimating systems often don't account for essential steps like alignment or angle verification during repairs, which can add valuable time to the repair process for proper advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) sensor calibration.
3. Contrary to the assumption that minor dents have no bearing on vehicle safety or structure, deeper dents can potentially compromise structural integrity and safety.
4. Modern bumpers have intricate construction, and even light impacts can result in hidden damage that requires more than just cosmetic repairs.
5. By choosing a repair shop that understands these complexities and performs thorough inspections, measurements, and calibrations, Montana drivers can ensure their vehicle's safety features are restored properly.
6. Understanding the hidden damage beyond what you see, the need for precise sensor calibration, and the structural impact of dents and bumpers can help avoid rushed or incomplete repairs.
7. Independent collision repair shops, like OHS Body Shop, specialize in collision repair and may offer the same or better quality at a lower cost compared to dealerships.
8. Shopping around for repair estimates is a driver's right, even though there's no law requiring it in Montana.
9. DIY repairs might seem cheaper, but they can potentially void warranties, cause safety issues, and end up costing more in the long run.
10. By leaving repairs to the professionals, Montana drivers can secure peace of mind on the road and concentrate on other aspects of their lifestyle and automotive needs, such as car-maintenance and the transportation industry's financial aspects.

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