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What Happens if Your Vehicle Is Damaged by a Pothole?

  • By Tony Mers
  • 29 Jun, 2023
What Happens if Your Vehicle Is Damaged by a Pothole?

There are certain road hazards you should always keep a watchful eye out for. Sharp curves, random debris, speed bumps, and potholes are all things that can do more damage than you’d expect if you hit them the wrong way. Potholes are notorious for giving drivers trouble because they may be deeper than they appear when you drive over them. So what happens if your vehicle is damaged by a pothole? Fortunately, we have some advice to help get you and your vehicle back on the road.

Assess the Damage

If you hit a pothole hard enough that you think it did some serious damage to your car, you may want to pull off to the side and try to assess the damage. Some of the most common damage brought on by potholes is to your tires, hubcaps, suspension, and steering. You may not be able to tell at a cursory glance if your suspension is misaligned, but you can check if there’s any noticeable tire damage or if your hubcap became loose or disconnected entirely.

Visit a Body Shop

If your vehicle is damaged by a pothole, you may want to bring it to your nearest body shop. Body shops handle exterior repairs to vehicles, such as misaligned suspension or larger dents. Your local body shop worker should be able to give you a general idea of what sort of damage the pothole caused. They can also give you a rough estimate of how much it will cost to fix it.

Speak to Your Insurance Company

It’s always a good idea to speak with your insurance company in the event of an accident. Depending on your insurance policy, pothole damage sometimes falls under collision coverage, so your insurance may cover some of the cost. It may also be a good idea to contact your local or state government to see if they can cover some of the cost. Many highways in Illinois allow drivers with pothole damage to submit a claim to the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) for potential reimbursement. A few quick phone calls may help save you a lot of money and hassle on repairs.

For more information on auto accident repair and a local body shop you can trust, River North Collision Repair is here for you. We offer a range of bodywork from bumper repair to dent removal. To learn more about our services or book an appointment, don’t hesitate to contact us anytime, and we’d be happy to get you back on the road.

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Many people believe that paint jobs for your car can do more harm than good. While paint jobs can be a costly investment, it’s because they’re performed by specialists who work with precision and care to ensure long-lasting benefits.

Showcase your car in style with a fresh new coat of paint that protects and glistens. Don’t feel discouraged by rumors; instead, learn more about the common misconceptions about car paint jobs.

All Car Paints Are the Same

Car paint jobs differ based on the vehicle and the car owner’s preferences. Owners can choose from a selection of paints that offer varying levels of durability, gloss, and protection. Communicate with a restoration specialist about what kind of paint job you're looking for, and they’ll provide you with the coat you need.

Newer Cars Don't Need Paint Protection

When car owners purchase a new car, they may believe their vehicle is safe from damage for several years. However, new cars are also susceptible to UV rays, bird droppings, and road debris. A protective coat or wax could keep your car looking just as new as when you first received it.

Paint Chips Are Just a Cosmetic Issue

Another common misconception about car paint jobs is that paint chipping won’t cause long-term damage to the car’s structure. However, these chips expose your car to the elements, which may lead your vehicle to experience rust and corrosion from moisture. Protect the integrity of your car and touch up on your paint before it leads to costly repairs.

All Paint Colors Fade at the Same Rate

Different colors fade at various rates depending on their hue and tone. Darker shades like reds and blacks absorb more UV rays, which makes them more susceptible to damage. If you’re looking for a paint job that meets your long-term expectations, consider visiting local auto paint shops  that offer lighter colors.

Custom Paint Jobs Are Always Expensive

Custom paint job pricing depends on the complexity of the design and the materials used to conduct the job. These selections offer a variety of choices for you to plan out a budget for your custom paint job. Look for styles that highlight your preferences without breaking the bank.

Debunk these myths by reaching out to your local body shop specialists. Our restoration specialists at River North provide a pristine look to your car with an extra layer of security. Schedule a car paint job appointment to start driving in style.

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