The term “fender bender” is quite common among drivers, but only some know what it means. Essentially, a fender bender is a minor collision involving two vehicles. Unfortunately, “minor” can mean many different things, depending on the person you’re talking to.
Where Does a Fender Bender Happen?
Distracted drivers are involved in about 87% of all rear-end collisions. Below are some common situations where you could end up as a fender bender.
1. Stop and Go
A stop-and-go happens when the vehicle in front slows down for a red light, but the car behind does not. It also happens when the vehicle in front suddenly stops because they are late in noticing the red light, causing the car behind them to do the same.
2. Tight Spaces
Fender damage is most common in areas with limited space to maneuver in. Side mirrors are often damaged or accidentally removed in this situation.
3. Crowded Parking Lots
Fender bender damage to car bumpers is common in a busy parking lot. If the place is dark, an accident is likely to happen because one driver has difficulty determining their distance to the next car.
4. Building Exits
When driving out of a building, people sometimes get so excited that they forget to check the road before them and end up colliding with another vehicle. This is a fairly common accident drivers can avoid if they learn to look before going out.
What To Do if You Get Involved in a Fender Bender
Below is a list of what you can do if you are in a fender-bender situation.
1. Stop the Vehicle
Pull over immediately, turn on your hazard lights, and move your car where it won’t disrupt traffic. Check if your car was not damaged beyond repair, then go to the area where the accident occurred.
2. Stay Calm
Take a moment to reflect on what happened after successfully pulling your car off the road. This is a good time to examine your body for any injuries or bruises, then do the same to the other driver.
3. Check Potential Hazards
Inspect your vehicle’s exterior and interiors once again to check for any damage you might have missed the first time. If you smell gas, it’s best to stay away from the car as there could be a gas leak.
4. Call the Police
Call the police or a traffic cap immediately. This should be standard procedure since they are the best people to assess the situation and guide you through the problem. The police can also mediate between you and the other driver to prevent road rage or misunderstandings. They can also advise you and the other driver on resolving the situation.
5. Get Driver Details
It is highly recommended that you get pertinent information from the driver who caused the accident. This is especially important if your car sustained significant damage. Ask the driver for his full name, contact number, and address.
6. Call Your Insurer
Contact your insurance company immediately after the accident. This is for filing an insurance claim for fender bender damage. Among other things, your insurer will require you to describe the incident, so tell the truth as to what really happened. If you meet the claim requirements, the insurance company will give you directions on what to do and an estimate of the damage.
How To Avoid a Fender Bender
Getting involved in a road accident, even a minor one like a fender bender can be stressful and nerve-wracking. You can avoid road mishaps like fender benders by:
1. Drive Defensively
Defensive driving can help you avoid accidents and other drivers, especially drunk ones. Driving in a defensive mode reduces the chances of fender benders, helping prevent fatal collisions.
2. Avoiding Driving Distractions
Distractions on the road, said an auto body shop in St. Petersburg, FL, can come from text messages and notifications from your phone. Keep your eyes focused on the road, not your phone, to keep yourself from getting distracted while driving.
3. Following Traffic Signs
This is an important driving rule. People often overlook traffic signs, especially when driving on primary roads, where you tend to welcome the illusion of freedom. This can lead to severe injuries, especially if your attention drifts and you ignore traffic signs.
4. Avoiding Tailgating
Tailgating is when a vehicle drives too close to the one in front. Try to avoid doing this, especially on open roads where trucks pass. It is also a general driving etiquette to avoid a collision.
Key Takeaway
Driving is fun, especially for beginners, but this can change when you get involved in an accident. One of the most common road mishaps is a fender bender, which is usually considered a minor collision. Even so, a fender bender, just like other vehicular accidents, can prove to be stressful.
Distracted driving is often cited as the most common reason for fender benders. Given this, there is a strong need to stress the importance of being focused while driving. Any form of distraction, like using a smartphone while driving, should be avoided. This will allow you to concentrate on driving, taking note of traffic signs and the action of other drivers.
