Costly Auto Repair Mistakes When Dealing With Hail Damage On Cars

Hail damage in vehicles is something that most people don’t experience very often. In some areas of the country, hailstorms are a normal part of everyday life. Still, many people continue to lose a lot of money on auto repairs and more without good reasons.

These are the most common errors that cost millions every year and how you can avoid them.

Auto Repairs: Costly Mistakes When Dealing With Car Damage Due To Hail

Mistake #1

“It’s just super light hail damage. I can’t see it. I don’t think it’s worth worrying about.

It’s cosmetic and may not bother you. What many people don’t realize is that even very minor hail damage can still be devastating to your vehicle’s value. Even though you cannot see the damage, your car’s value can drop by the thousands. That’s why you need to bring it to an auto body shop right away.

While many people love their cars and do everything to make sure they are in top condition, you need to pay close attention to your car’s appearance. Your vehicle can be your savings account. It will eventually be worth thousands of dollars, regardless of whether you decide to sell it or trade it in.

Mistake #2

“I think it’ll be best to wait until hail season has ended before I fix it… just in case it hails again.”

Many people find this line of thinking logical. This is a mistake. You should bring your car to an auto body shop right away. First, if you have hailstorm damage and you try to file just one claim, you may be technically involved in insurance fraud. While this may work for some people, it is not the best way to go.

Keep in mind that every time your vehicle is “unrepaired,” you are driving with “pre-existing damage.”

Don’t wait before you bring your car to an auto shop to repair the damage, regardless of whether the delays were caused by others (including your insurance company). Every day that you do this, you are keeping your savings account unguarded.

Mistake #3

“If hail damage is visible on my car, I need to first call my insurance company to file a claim. Then, do what they tell you.”

Insurance companies often get overwhelmed with claims after hailstorms damage a lot of vehicles in an area. Sometimes, you may have to wait for weeks or months before an adjustor inspects your vehicle and creates an estimate. Then they will offer a settlement check.

There are a few issues here. You should remember that you could lose thousands of dollars during the waiting period.

Second, the initial estimate is not always a complete or professional one. It should be done in a safe environment using the appropriate equipment. It is not unusual for an initial estimate to exceed 40-50% of actual vehicle damage.

Mistake #4

“If I file hail damage claims, they will raise my premium and it is just not worth it.”

This is a common misconception. Every year, people lose a lot of money because they don’t realize how expensive the damage is and don’t want to spend a few dollars more each month.

It is not your fault that a hailstorm has happened. You didn’t cause the hailstorm, it just happened. This is covered by your comprehensive coverage. You have the option to either take the money out of the pool or let the insurance company keep it if they feel you need it more.

Mistake #5

“All hail repair shops and PDR are the same. It doesn’t really matter where I have it fixed.”

PDR, also known as Paintless Dent Repair, is the best way to fix your vehicle.

This method is widely regarded as the best because it doesn’t require bondo, grinding resins, fillers or primers. You can sculpt the paint perfectly and match it with the surrounding panels. Then blend it in flawlessly with the surrounding area and panels. You can do a great job, but not as good as factory paint or custom jobs that cost thousands. If you have the option, PDR is a good choice.

Sometimes, severe damage can require traditional auto shop repairs, such as new paint and body panels. It is best to use PDR whenever possible.

Call Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop now if you need an expert to repair your vehicle.

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Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop
7123 Tazewell Pike
Corryton, TN 37721
(865) 689-5072
https://www.millerbrosautorepair.com/

Serving Knoxville, TN and Knox County

Service areas include: All of Knox County, Corryton, Fountain City, Halls Crossroads, Powell and Knoxville

What to do if your car is caught in a flood

Floods are among the most frequent weather-related natural catastrophes. According to the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Association, flooding causes more property and life loss than any other hazard or severe weather. Flooding is an issue in every state of the United States, even those that are normally dry. You could end up paying a lot of money for auto repairs or worse, losing your vehicle completely if you don’t have flood insurance. Here are some facts about insurance, floods, and cars:

What should I do if my car is caught in a flood?

Avoid flooding areas. Turn around if you see water. It may be deeper than you think. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, many of flood deaths occur when cars are driven into the flood water. Because of their speed and destructive power, flash floods are the most dangerous kind of flood. These floods can occur within minutes of rain and without warning. Flash floods are more likely in densely populated areas. This is because of the possibility that buildings, driveways, and roadways can cause water runoff. Flooding of nearby roads can be caused by storm drains or sewers that become blocked or overwhelmed.

You can lose control of your vehicle even if it’s just 6 inches of water. Higher levels of water are even more dangerous. Because your tires can act like a flotation device when you are in shallow water. A car weighing 3,000 pounds can be floated in two feet of water. A 2021 Honda Civic sedan is less than 3,000 lbs. Here are some tips to help your car if it is submerged in water

Get out of your car and get to higher ground.

Do not panic if your car is submerged in the water. Keep calm and wait for your car to fill up with water. You will be able open the door once your car is filled. To open the door, the water pressure must be equal between the inside and outside of the car. Keep your breath and swim to safety.

When you’re not driving, you can point your feet downstream if you get swept away by floodwater. Never go under obstacles like tree branches or in the water. You should go over them. If you find yourself stranded in a tree or any other object above floodwaters, you should stay put and wait for rescue. Avoid getting in the floodwater. Be calm when help arrives and follow the instructions of the rescue team.

What should I do with my car after a flood?

Only attempt to reach your car after the flood waters recede and it is safe to. Your car can be towable to higher ground if necessary. These are some tips for handling a car in the water. You should not attempt to start a car that was flooded. You could do more damage if there is still water in the engine. Go to your nearest auto repair shop for help.

• To remove standing water, use a dry/wet vacuum.
• To absorb any water that has gotten into the cushions or seats, use towels.
• If possible, use fans and dehumidifiers.
• Make a claim to your auto insurance company.

Can a car be fixed after being submerged?

Auto repair is still possible for a submerged vehicle. However, this depends on how severe the damage was. A minor flood may not cause significant damage, and the vehicle could be repaired.

An insurance company might declare a vehicle a complete loss if it has been sitting in the water for more than a few days. Water damage can cause expensive and complicated problems, as well as electronic damage.

After the auto repairs are complete, a vehicle should be insured. However, the vehicle’s history report will show the flooding incident.

You may be allowed to keep your vehicle as an owner-retained salvage even if it is totaled. If you wish to drive the car again, you will be issued a salvage title, and make sure that it’s legally roadworthy as per the standards of your state if you wish to use it again. A rebuilt title will be given if the car passes inspection by the state.

A rebuilt title allows you to drive your vehicle, but you might have difficulty finding car insurance. Insurance companies often consider cars with a rebuilt title riskier than other vehicles. They might not offer insurance, or decline to provide you with optional coverage such as collision and comprehensive insurance.

Which type of car insurance do I need for flood damage?

Comprehensive auto insurance covers flood damage repairs and the cost of totaling the vehicle. Comprehensive insurance can also cover other problems such as hail, vandalism, and theft, as well as collisions with animals and riots.

Comprehensive claims require a deductible. This is the amount that is deducted from your insurance check. The deductible will be listed on your auto insurance policy’s declarations. The amount can be changed. The deductible is usually the highest, meaning that the cost of car insurance will be lower.

According to the latest data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, the average cost of comprehensive insurance is $168 annually. Gap insurance is a good option if you have a large car loan. Gap insurance covers the difference between the car’s value and the amount you owe on a loan, lease, or other financial obligation. You may be eligible to purchase new car replacement insurance if you have recently bought a car. A new car replacement policy will cover a similar make and model car (less your deductible) rather than paying the car’s depreciated cost.

Will FEMA Cover the Expenses for Car Damage from Flooding?

FEMA has helped car owners in flood damage cases in the past through low-interest loans through Small Business Administration (SBA), or through Other Needs Assistance(ONA). But you must not depend on FEMA to help you with flood-related damage to your car. This is because FEMA doesn’t guarantee assistance and may limit it to some counties that have been affected by severe storms or flooding. Most likely, you won’t qualify for an SBA loan or ONA assistance for a flash flood problem. This is a very common situation in the country. Remember that you will have to repay an SBA loan and that assistance from ONA may be limited.

Call now if you need help in repairing a flooded car.

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Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop
7123 Tazewell Pike
Corryton, TN 37721
(865) 689-5072
https://www.millerbrosautorepair.com/

Serving Knoxville, TN and Knox County

Service areas include: All of Knox County, Corryton, Fountain City, Halls Crossroads, Powell and Knoxville

Tips For Dealing With An Auto Repair Shop

When you have found a great auto repair shop to work with, be sure to follow good business practices, especially when you first visit.

Communication is important

You can get your car fixed by communicating your points clearly. This will help you avoid costly repairs. If they are able to identify the problem, even mediocre mechanics can repair most cars.

You must distinguish between what you actually know and what your brain thinks you know. Tell the shop if you have an idea. If you are unsure, tell the shop. The shop might check the water pump or replace it if you mention a specific repair. If that happens, they may then fix the problem (possibly worn alternator bearings).

Describe the symptoms. Note any changes in the car’s sound and drive since the problem began. Please describe the problem and the time it has been occurring. Ask the shop for help if the problem is difficult to explain.

It is important to write it down. Write down the problems that you are trying to fix or check.

Visit the shop when it’s less crowded. Visit the shop between mid-morning & mid-afternoon to get more attention. This is when it is usually quieter.

Talk to the auto mechanic who will work with your car. Many mechanics who work at large shops and dealerships don’t know much about car repairs. Talking directly with the technician who will work on your car can increase the chances of getting good work.

Request a written estimate and work order

The shop should send you a work order detailing the work that has been authorized and the cost.

Ask for a quote if you are certain of what repairs will be required. The shop can also provide a description of the work and a price.

Write on the work order, “Shop will provide the customer with a written estimate.” The estimated fee will be $____. After the estimate, no additional charges will be made without authorization from the customer.

Add this to the bottom of your work order: “Keep replacement parts for customer inspection.” Even if it’s difficult to tell an alternator from its tailpipe, the shop won’t know and can’t guarantee that you won’t give the parts to someone who knows.

If you are not covered by a warranty for all work, do not bother to create an estimate or a detailed work order. Instead, write “Only warranty repairs can be authorized” on your work order.

Ask your shop to look at a problem and give them a call. Don’t assume that the shop will approve major car repairs at any price. You can still take your car to another shop for repairs if necessary, but not before the problem becomes too severe to drive.

Grab It Right Now

You should receive an invoice from the auto body shop, including its address and name, as well as your name and vehicle’s license number. The invoice should include the labor cost, name, number and price for each part that was replaced, as well as whether it is new or rebuilt.

Keep your invoice. You might need your invoice to prove that you paid if you are unhappy with the repairs.

The shop’s warranty should be clearly indicated on the invoice. If it is not, add it, for both labor and parts.

You should immediately return the vehicle if you discover that it was not properly fixed. It is best to ask the service writer for a signed, dated acknowledgement to be added to your invoice copy. You can also send an email to the shop describing the problem and your intent to return the car for it to be fixed. Don’t rely on the service representative’s promise to fix the problem for free if you don’t want to wait. It is possible that the service writer forgets the promise and thinks the problem is new.

Be persistent

You and your auto repair and body shop might still disagree despite all your efforts. There are several options for recourse if this happens.

First, speak to the owner or the service manager. If you are not getting results, you may complain to government consumer agencies or the Better Business Bureau.

If you paid with a credit card and the shop refused to fix the problem, you can dispute the charges with your creditor company. You have strong protections under the Fair Credit Billing Act as well as policies from credit card companies that will allow you to receive refunds for any unsatisfactory purchase.

If none of the above efforts is satisfactory, you can go to small claims court.

Your Rights

Most states have laws that protect consumers from being exploited by auto repair shops. These rights may not be available in your state, but reputable shops will have policies to protect you.

Cost estimates: Auto shops must provide written estimates if asked by most states. The estimate may be charged by the shop at a reasonable cost.

Shops cannot charge more than 10% above the estimate in many states unless the customer has authorized this by phone or in writing. Customers have the right to return their vehicle in its original condition if a shop claims that costs are higher than estimated.

Time estimates: Shops are required to give a time estimate in many states under the same conditions as cost estimates. Except for circumstances beyond their control, shops cannot exceed their time estimates.

Returned Parts: If requested in advance, most states require shops they return any replaced parts. Except for parts that are required to be returned to the manufacturer under a warranty agreement, customers can inspect the parts covered by the warranty.

Invoices: Shops must issue a written invoice for repairs that cost $20 or more in most states. Invoices must include labor and parts charges. They must also indicate if the parts were new or rebuilt. Different jurisdictions may require different invoice details.

Contact Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop now if you’re looking for reliable auto services.

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Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop
7123 Tazewell Pike
Corryton, TN 37721
(865) 689-5072
https://www.millerbrosautorepair.com/

Serving Knoxville, TN and Knox County

Service areas include: All of Knox County, Corryton, Fountain City, Halls Crossroads, Powell and Knoxville

How Does An Auto Warranty Work?

A factory auto warranty is included with every new vehicle. The warranty covers most damage to the vehicle.

Factory warranties are subject to expiration. You can buy an extended care protection plan to keep the same coverage as a factory warranty.

A vehicle warranty works like an insurance policy. If the vehicle goes down, you can take it to a mechanic for an auto repair service. The warranty covers the cost of repairs, even if the vehicle needs thousands of dollars of work.

To get a better understanding about extended auto warranties, you should ask these questions before choosing an auto warranty provider.

How are claims dealt with?

You should take your vehicle to a licensed auto repair shop if it has a mechanical problem. Roadside assistance is available if your extended warranty includes this service.

An extended auto protection plan will allow you to take your vehicle to a car dealer or national repair chain, or to any local auto body shop with a license to do auto body repairs. You may not be able to choose the repair center you want, which could limit your options.

After diagnosing the problem, the auto mechanic contacts the service administrator to begin repairs.

After repairs are approved, the mechanic can start work. Sometimes, an adjuster may be called to inspect the vehicle before any repairs can begin.

What about claims payments?

If you do not choose an extended warranty, the claim payment process could be difficult. You might have to fill out a form, wait for the check to arrive and then submit it again.

Auto warranties that are the best make payments directly to the mechanic using a corporate credit card once repairs have been authorized. This prevents you from getting caught between the warranty administrator and auto repair center. Miller Brothers works with most extended warranty carriers. This saves you the hassle of being in the middle.

What are extended warranties?

There are many ways to pay for extended warranties. It is easiest to pay the entire warranty in full at the time you purchase the vehicle. You can also opt for a payment plan that lasts up to 24 months, provided you make a down payment. Better warranty providers will accept credit cards and debit payments.

Do you know of other financial advantages?

Extended car warranties can be used to insure your vehicle in multiple ways. They are a great way to protect your car from inflation. When you buy your warranty, the cost is fixed. You’ll still be covered if the price of labor or parts increases. This is a cost-saving measure compared to paying out of pocket for inflationary expenses.

Is the sales tax paid covered under my warranty?

Many auto owners are not aware that the sales tax paid on the car is not covered under a warranty in Tennessee. It pays to read the fine print of your warranty.

We had a customer with an extended warranty. The sales person said all he would have to pay if something came up would be $100 deductible. The customer had to have a $6,000 repair. Yes the warranty covered the repair, less the $100 deductible. However, in the fine print of the warranty it states that it does not cover tax. Tax in Tennessee at 9.27% which cost him an additional $600. He was very upset. He was deceived. Yes it’s great they covered repairs but he was not ready for an additional $600 bill.

Call Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop now if you need to bring your car in for an auto repair.

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Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop
7123 Tazewell Pike
Corryton, TN 37721
(865) 689-5072
https://www.millerbrosautorepair.com/

Serving Knoxville, TN and Knox County

Service areas include: All of Knox County, Corryton, Fountain City, Halls Crossroads, Powell and Knoxville

A Guide For Choosing The Right Auto Body Shop

Auto body shops run differently. It doesn’t matter if your car is damaged or in need of an aesthetic makeover, it is important to seek the assistance of a reliable and trusted auto body shop. Failure to do so could lead to expensive auto repairs.

There are many choices available, so it can be difficult to determine which auto body shop is able to offer professional auto repair services. You might not be familiar with cars so you don’t know what to look out for when researching.

A good auto body shop will have many qualities. Read on to see a complete list. Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop can handle all your auto body repair needs.

What to look for in an Auto Body Shop

It can be difficult to distinguish which body shops are the best if you don’t have much experience with cars. There are some characteristics that every body shop should display.

Friendly and professional staff

The professionalism and politeness of staff members are indicators of how you will experience dealing with any business. If staff are rude or inept, they are likely to be unable or unwilling to answer any questions or provide the services that you require.

If the staff at your auto repair shop are friendly and interested in repairing your vehicle, they will be more likely to take the time and accommodate your needs. You should feel valued and respected from the moment that you first approach the staff to get more information.

Technical Certifications

Auto repair and body shops that are the best in the business have strict standards and only hire industry professionals. This technical certification shows that your technicians have the skills and knowledge to complete quality repairs.

You can be confident that your car is safe and sound by knowing that the auto body shop is certified in dealing with specific makes and models.

These technical certificates are displayed proudly by staff members at all body shops. If you have trouble finding any certification, please contact another auto body shop.

Cleanliness and Organization

Even if you don’t know much about cars, it is possible to assess the cleanliness of an auto shop. Although it is unlikely that every shop will look spotless due to the nature of the work, it is important for the repair shop to be clean and welcoming.

You should consider moving your business to another location if an auto body shop is exhibiting unusual smells, has not had its cleaning done in a while, or is cluttered with parts. Failure to follow basic operational steps can lead to unprofessional repairs to your vehicle.

Positive Customer Reviews

Reviews from past customers are a great resource when searching for the right auto shop. You can get a real sense of the quality of each shop by asking your neighbors, friends, and coworkers. This will allow you to avoid buying from shops that don’t suit you.

Online reviews and ratings can give you an idea of the quality of each shop. Avoid deception by reading biased and curated reviews. Local forums are also a great place to look for reliable reviews.

A good auto shop will generally have positive reviews and ratings from customers. Shops can also respond to customers’ concerns on many review sites, which allows you to judge their professionalism from another perspective.

Insurance Referral

Insurance companies will often recommend trusted auto body shops to repair your vehicle after an accident. This means that the shop is well-respected for its ability to provide prompt and efficient service. Opting for an insurance-recommended shop not only saves you the time you’d otherwise spend researching but can also provide you with a discount via a reduction in your deductible.

To find a trusted place to repair your vehicle and make the process easier, check out the list of body shops approved by your insurance company.

Expert staff

A good body shop staff will not only be professional but also courteous. They will also be well-informed about their policies and how to repair them. When making a decision about your body shop, it is important to ask questions. A good staff will be able to answer any questions you may have. When choosing an auto shop, there are some important questions you should ask:

• Are you able to work directly with my insurance company
• Do you provide written estimates?
• What is the average time it will take for my repairs?
• What are your payment policies?
• What warranty policy do you have?
• Are you familiar with my make/model?
• Are you charging hourly rates?

It’s a good idea, depending on what repairs you require, to ask specific questions about your circumstances. Asking how often a shop repairs the same type of items you require is a good indication of their ability to provide the services you need.

Established Reputation

Local reputation is key when it comes to auto shop services. A quality shop that is able to last a long time is a sign of its high-quality. A shop that has been in business for many decades is more likely to be able to offer quality services to its customers.

Fair Repair Guarantees

It’s vital to ask about the auto body shop’s warranty policy if they aren’t listed on your insurance company’s recommended providers list. If an error is made during repairs, you won’t have to pay any additional damage to your vehicle.

Because they are confident in their work, quality body shops won’t hesitate to offer a repair warranty. You’re likely to be better off moving your business to another shop if they refuse to honor the warranty.

Wide Range of Services

It will take some effort to restore your car if it has suffered severe damage. It is not a good idea to search for the best body shop only to discover that they do not offer all the services you need. You don’t want to waste your time or money by choosing a body shop that doesn’t offer all the services you need.

A good body shop will offer the following services:

• Remodeling and improvements
• Touch-ups or full body painting
• Perfect color matching
• Window replacements
• Body repairs
• Frame straightening
• Collision repairs
• Handling insurance claims
• Valet service available for scheduled repairs (including pickup and drop-off).
• Rental car services

A body shop that is reliable and trustworthy should be your one-stop shop for all things cars. It may be a smart move to outsource these services if they are not available.

Convenience

It is important that your auto shop operates efficiently, but convenience is also an important factor. Your auto body shop should be easily accessible and be available to accommodate your schedule.

It is important to choose a trustworthy auto body shop in order to prevent further damage and avoid unnecessary costs. Before you make your final decision, ensure that your body shop exhibits the above qualities.

Call Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop now if you’re looking for an auto body shop in your area.

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Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop
7123 Tazewell Pike
Corryton, TN 37721
(865) 689-5072
https://www.millerbrosautorepair.com/

Serving Knoxville, TN and Knox County

Service areas include: All of Knox County, Corryton, Fountain City, Halls Crossroads, Powell and Knoxville

Talking To Seniors About Unsafe Driving

It’s not easy to have a conversation with your senior loved one, especially if they have been involved in frequent accidents that required expensive auto body repair. They might be getting lost more often.

It doesn’t matter what the situation is, it can be difficult to talk about your loved one’s driving skills. Many people consider driving a sign of independence. It can be hard for them to let go of that freedom after so many years. Medicare states that even though drivers may drive slowly and use their seatbelts, the chance of being killed in a collision increases with age.

As they age, the elderly are especially vulnerable to injuries that result from collisions. Add to that medical conditions like arthritis and dementia, as well as medication use, the chances of an accident increase even further.

When is it appropriate to have a “conversation”?

Are you noticing a decline in the driving skills of your loved one? If they are:

• Recent car accident and your vehicle required auto repair
• Close call
• They have run a stop sign or red light
• Received a driving violation ticket
• Are they starting to drive slower or faster?
• Are they experiencing memory loss?
• Are they taking medication that can impair their driving such as anti-anxiety drugs or narcotics?
• Are they having trouble seeing or hearing?

A medical condition such as arthritis or Parkinson’s Disease, Alzheimer’s Disease, cataracts, glaucoma, diabetes, muscular degeneration, or sleep apnea.

Sometimes, it is possible to feel that the time is right to have a conversation with your aging parent if you are not comfortable being their passenger. This can be very intimidating for an adult child who is trying to talk to their aging parent. These helpful tips can help make it easier.

Decide who will initiate the conversation

It is important to choose the right person to start the conversation. Research shows that married drivers prefer to talk with their spouses first when it comes to driving concerns. These concerns are more easily discussed with a spouse, their adult children, or a close friend who lives alone.

Plan Ahead

Avoid awkward situations by not having an intervention with the entire family. They will be on the defensive. Choose a time that they feel most relaxed. Perhaps after lunch, when they have had a great meal. But before the sun sets in the afternoon.

Give them Reasons

You should be prepared to give reasons why they shouldn’t drive anymore. You can cite recent medical conditions, new medications, and sleep problems to explain why driving is difficult.

Be supportive

Be supportive and don’t make them feel criticized or lectured. Tell them that you care about their safety as well as the safety of others.

Other options available

You can offer suggestions to help them keep up with their daily life. You, a sibling or close friend, or a combination thereof, can help them get to and from appointments, coffee with their friends, or church services. To ensure that there are no gaps, you should create a schedule.

You might consider this:

• Avoid driving at night or in bad weather
• Only drive in familiar areas, maybe within a few miles of their home
• Avoid highways and busy main roads
• Limiting distractions
• Request a Driving Test

Everybody must pass a driver’s exam when they turn 16 years old. Why not at 70? It’s logical. To reaffirm your skills, you might suggest that they take a driver’s test. In some states, drivers over 75 years old must pass a road test in order to renew their license. If you do not live in one of these states, then sign your driver up for a skills assessment by a driving instructor. Or an occupational therapist will assess their abilities. This will allow you to establish a baseline and identify possible causes of your driving ability declining.

Regardless of our age, there will be accidents. Call Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop if you need auto body repairs.

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Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop
7123 Tazewell Pike
Corryton, TN 37721
(865) 689-5072
https://www.millerbrosautorepair.com/

Serving Knoxville, TN and Knox County

Service areas include: All of Knox County, Corryton, Fountain City, Halls Crossroads, Powell and Knoxville

Auto Repair: How To Avoid Collision Because Of Road Debris

Now that fall activities, school buses and holiday trips are in full swing, more people drive on highways, back roads, and main streets. Driving is a dangerous activity and you may need to bring your car in for auto repair if you vehicle is damaged from falling debris. There is a high chance of being hit by debris while driving, from pot holes to objects that have fallen off trucks to trash and signs broken.

While a collision can pose a danger to your safety, even minor collisions could lead to costly auto body repairs. These tips will help you reduce the chance of a collision caused by road debris.

Keep alert

You need to be alert while driving so you can quickly react to potential problems such as road debris and the sudden braking of the car in front. Alcohol and drugs can slow down your judgment and reaction time. However, distracted driving and drowsy driving are two of the leading causes of crashes. Before you hit the road, make sure you are well rested.

Watch your speed

Next, drive slowly. It’s difficult to avoid collisions when you speed and hit a pot hole or collide with road debris. You can save time by driving slower and avoiding any objects that cross your path. You can drive at a slower pace to give your brakes time to respond and avoid a collision.

The Right Stopping Sight Distance (SSD),

SSD refers to the distance that a vehicle must stop before applying brakes. The vehicle’s speed will affect the SSD. Be sure to keep an eye on your SSD and be on the lookout for road debris.

Take note of your surroundings

Always pay attention while driving, especially at night or dusk. You should always check your mirrors and scan the road ahead for any potential hazards. This can take between 20-30 seconds. You should be on the lookout if you see aggressive driving or road debris. You should pull over or slow down if you notice this behavior. Call the state or city police if you notice erratic driving ahead of you.

You should weigh the potential for injury to pedestrians or bicyclists if you must turn around to avoid something.

Keep a safe distance ahead

Maintain a safe distance between you and the car in front. Tailgating will slow down your response time and make you dependent on the driver ahead. You will not be able to move if they suddenly stop.

Alert the authorities

All drivers must work together to ensure road safety. Report dangerous debris, such as car parts or large tire pieces, to authorities as soon as possible. It could save someone’s life. Every year, thousands are killed by road debris. These tips will help you be safe while driving on the road.

Be aware of the risks. Debris crashes can pose many risks.

High Speed: Most debris-related accidents happen on interstate highways because of the high-speed limits, which are conducive for vehicle and cargo components flying off. The impact can be very severe.

Time of day: The majority of debris-related accidents occur between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This is when contractors and heavy equipment like furniture and tools are most likely to be involved.

Swerving: One-third of road debris-related deaths are caused by swerving to avoid an object on the road. The crash is more severe when the driver loses control of the vehicle and becomes irritated at the debris.

Call Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop now if you’re looking for an auto shop that offers quality car repairs.

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Miller Brothers Transmission Auto Repair and Body Shop
7123 Tazewell Pike
Corryton, TN 37721
(865) 689-5072
https://www.millerbrosautorepair.com/

Service areas include: All of Knox County, Corryton, Fountain City, Halls Crossroads, Powell and Knoxville