Archives January 2025

Caught in a Hit-and-Run? Here’s What You Need to Do Next


Hit-and-run accidents can happen when you least expect them, often in moments of chaos or distraction. Busy holiday seasons with crowded parking lots and traffic-filled streets create perfect scenarios for such incidents. Or maybe you were simply in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Regardless of how it happened, these situations can leave you feeling frustrated, overwhelmed, and unsure of what to do about your hit-and-run car damage. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to take if you experience this unfortunate situation.

I’ve Just Experienced a Hit-and-Run—What Do I Do?

First of all, try to remain calm and stay as focused as possible. Being involved in a hit-and-run can be unsettling and even scary, but it’s important to keep your composure so you can handle the situation effectively. The first and most important step is to check yourself and any passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call for medical assistance right away.

Once you’ve assessed your own safety, report the hit-and-run to the police. They’ll be able to gather information and evidence that can help identify the responsible party.

Your next steps will depend on whether the hit-and-run occurred while you were in your car, or if it happened while your car was parked and unattended.

My Car Was Hit While Parked

If you return to your parked car and find hit-and-run car damage from another vehicle, add the following steps to your list:

1. Look for Witnesses

If there are any witnesses around, ask if they saw who hit your car or if they have any information that could help identify the responsible party.

2. Document the Details

Note the time, location, and direction of travel of the hit-and-run vehicle. This information can be helpful for the police investigation and insurance claim.

3. Take Photos of The Damage

Document your hit-and-run car damage by taking photos from different angles. This can serve as evidence for insurance purposes and help with identifying the responsible party. You can also use the photos to get an estimate for repairs.

4. Check Nearby Security Cameras

If there are any security cameras in the area, talk to the business owners to see if they captured footage of the hit-and-run. This could provide valuable information about the vehicle or person involved.

5. Contact Your Insurance Company

You should contact your insurance company within 24 hours of the hit-and-run to report the incident and start the claims process.

My Car Was Hit While Driving

If you were driving when the hit-and-run occurred, here are some additional steps to take:

1. Try To Get The Other Vehicle’s Information

If possible, try to get the license plate number and make and model of the other vehicle involved in the hit-and-run. This information will identify the responsible party. Jot down any details you can remember, such as the color or any distinguishing features of the vehicle.

2. Move to a Safe Spot

If your car is drivable, try to move it to a safe location out of the way of traffic. This will prevent any further incidents beyond the hit-and-run car damage from occurring.

3. Look For Witnesses

Just like if your car was hit while parked, look for witnesses who may have seen the accident. They can provide valuable information about what happened if you were unable to get the other vehicle’s information.

4. Do NOT Follow the Other Vehicle

No matter how tempting it may be, do not try to follow or chase after the other vehicle. This can put you and others on the road at risk, and it’s better to leave it to the police to handle.

5. Contact Insurance and Consider Hiring an Attorney

Again, it’s important to report the incident to your insurance company as soon as possible. They may require a copy of the police report and any evidence you have gathered.

If your insurance company is unable to identify or locate the responsible party, or if they are not willing to cover all the hit-and-run car damage, consider hiring an attorney who specializes in hit-and-run cases. They can help you navigate legal proceedings and fight for compensation for your damages.

Ready for Repairs for Your Hit-And-Run Car Damage? Reach Out to Valley Collision

Once the police report is filed and the insurance claim has been processed, it’s time to get your car repaired. At Valley Collision, our professionals can quickly and efficiently fix any auto damage so your car is ready to go back on the road. And don’t worry—our experienced team will work with you and your insurance company to ensure a smooth and stress-free repair process.

Contact us today for a free estimate!



automotive

Subframe Damage Explained: What to Do Next


Dealing with car troubles is never fun, and an impaired subframe is no exception. Damage from a sudden pothole, normal wear and tear, or an unexpected accident could leave you uncertain about what to do next. But don’t worry—understanding the risks, repairs, and next steps can help ease your mind and allow you to drive safely again.

What Is Subframe Damage?

A subframe is an important part of your car’s structure that acts as a backbone for key components. It’s a section of the car’s chassis—the framework that supports your car—and supports parts like the engine, transmission, and suspension. 

Made from strong materials like steel or aluminum, the subframe is designed to handle heavy loads and absorb impacts to keep everything in place. It also plays a crucial role in maintaining your car’s stability and balance while driving, helping ensure a smoother and safer ride. However, just like any other part of a car, subframes can become damaged over time.

The Most Likely Culprits of a Damaged Subframe

There are a few common causes of subframe damage, some more serious than others.

  • Road Hazards: Potholes and other road hazards are one of the leading causes of subframe damage. When your car hits a pothole or debris on the road, it can put excessive pressure on the frame and cause it to bend or crack.
  • Wear and Tear: As your car ages and accumulates miles, regular use will naturally lead to wear and tear on all components, including the subframe.
  • Accidents: Accidents are another common culprit. Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a more serious collision, any impact on your car can potentially cause damage to the subframe.
  • Rust and Corrosion: Rust and corrosion can weaken the integrity of the subframe. This is especially common in areas with harsh weather conditions or where roads are salted during winter.

Can I Drive With a Cracked Subframe?

In short, no. It’s crucial to address a compromised subframe as soon as possible—driving with a damaged subframe can put you and others on the road at risk. This can affect your steering, suspension, and overall stability, leading to loss of control or mechanical failure while driving.

Additionally, if you were to get into another accident with an already damaged subframe, the structural integrity of your car would be compromised even further, potentially causing significant harm to you and your passengers.

Can the Damage Be Fixed?

Yes, in most cases, subframe damage can be repaired. However, the extent of the damage and the type of repair needed will vary depending on the severity of the issue. In some cases, a simple welding job may do the trick, while more severe damage may require replacing the entire subframe.

What to Do If You Suspect Subframe Damage

If you suspect your subframe has been damaged, it’s essential to take the following steps:

1. Get a Professional Inspection

Have a mechanic or certified technician thoroughly inspect your car. They will identify any potential damage and determine the best course of action.

2. Determine Your Cost Repair Estimate

Based on their inspection, the technician will assess the severity of the damage and provide an estimate for repairs.

3. Repair or Replace?

Depending on the extent of the damage and your budget, you may have to choose between repairing or replacing your subframe. Replacement may be necessary if the damage is too severe or extensive.

4. Address Any Underlying Issues

If the subframe damage was caused by a larger issue, such as rust or corrosion, make sure to have those issues addressed at the same time to prevent further damage.

The Steps of Subframe Repair

If your subframe does need to be repaired, here are the typical steps involved in the process:

  • Inspection and Assessment: As mentioned above, a thorough inspection will be conducted to determine the extent of the damage and what repairs are needed.
  • Remove Damaged Parts: The damaged parts of the subframe will be removed, making way for repairs or replacement.
  • Welding and Repairing: In some cases, welding may be enough to fix minor cracks or bends. For more severe damage, additional reinforcement may be necessary.
  • Replacement: If the subframe is too damaged to repair, it may need to be replaced entirely with a new one.
  • Reinstallation and Testing: Once the repairs or replacement are complete, the subframe will be reinstalled, and the car will be tested to ensure everything is working correctly.

Get Back on the Road Safely With Valley Collision

At Valley Collision, we understand the stress and inconvenience of any damage to your car. Our team of experienced technicians is dedicated to providing high-quality repairs and exceptional customer service. We also offer free estimates, so you know exactly what to expect before any work begins.

If you find yourself with a damaged subframe, remember to stay calm and follow these steps. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Valley Collision today.



automotive