Can I Drive My Car After an Accident? Does the Law Allow?

Last Updated on October, 2024

Everyone prefers a safe journey by AVOIDING car accidents. However, it’s unavoidable as it’s not totally dependent on our side. So, the best thing is to have an answer to the question, “What do I do right after a car accident? Can I drive my car? Is it safe?”

Listen while the urge to keep using your vehicles can be strong. But, you should consider the potential risks and prioritise getting necessary repairs on the damage caused because buying a new car is a challenge for many. 

So, I’ll discuss the factors determining whether driving after an accident is safe and highlight the importance of addressing car damages ASAP. 

Quick Summary

• Yes, you can still drive your car after an accident if it is safe to do so. Check for any significant damage that might affect the vehicle’s safety or legality, such as damaged lights, leaking fluids, or impaired wheels.
• It is crucial to take care of your own health after an accident and not to drive if you are injured. It is also important to report the accident to the police and your insurance company promptly.
• It is generally best to get your car fixed after an accident and to follow the guidance of your insurance company. However, you may choose to keep the insurance claim money instead of using it for repairs if you fully own your car.

Can I Still Drive My Car After an Accident?

That depends. Experiencing a car accident can be very STRESSFUL. The main worry for many people after a crash is whether their car is safe to drive or if it needs towing. 

Additionally, as a driver, it’s crucial to make sure your vehicle is safe for the road (especially check for leaking fluids and license plate(s)). If you’re unsure, it’s important to get it checked before using it. 

Remember! Using a car that might not be safe on the road can lead to issues with your insurance if you get pulled over or involved in another accident before fixing it.

Can I Drive My Car While it’s Damaged? 

Consider driving your car even after an accident if it still works. In some situations, it’s okay and allowed. However, certain kinds of damage can make your vehicle dangerous or against the law to drive. Such as:

• Cracks in the windshield that block or mess up your vision
• Missing bumpers
• Edges that are rough or sharp
• More damage that affects or puts at risk that engine or gas tank (There may be a coolant or antifreeze leak, which could cause your engine to overheat.)
• Doors, trucks, or hoods that don’t close right

Remember, driving with these issues may not be safe or legal. It’s better to get them fixed before hitting the road again. 

I’ll discuss this in detail in the following section.

Things to Consider Before Driving Your Car After an Accident

I’ll come to the point directly, as this section is very important.

First, check if your car’s safety features are okay before driving away. If any are damaged, it’s better to get your car towed to a mechanic. (Because driving in a damaged vehicle is risky.)

Inspect airbags – if they are deployed, replace them before driving. Check seat belts for cuts or more damage. If they fail during the accident, don’t drive. Ensure all safety lights – headlights, tail lights, brake lights, and turn signals- work. 

Next, examine your tyres, rims, and wheel(s). If there is a faulty alignment with your wheel, this can cause the vehicle to pull to one side, as wheels are a major part.

If you have bent rims, flat tyres, or damaged car wheels, don’t drive. Wait until emergency professionals clear debris to avoid damaging your tyres.

Also, check for brake fluid leak(s), license plates, brake failure, and frame damage. If there are no issues, then consider your driving carefully.

Your car’s parts must work together, and even a minor issue can cause problems. If things feel off or unsafe, pull over and contact a tow truck. Don’t ignore any unusual vehicle functions.

Stay out of risk!

In most cases, it’s essential to prioritise medical care first. Then, promptly have your vehicle checked by professionals to assess damage(s) and ensure it’s safe to drive. Delaying inspections may lead to insurance complications. 

Visit a body shop for the exterior examination job to get it done (dents and paint damage can be easily examined in a body shop) and a mechanic for interior inspection (engine and safety components).

When you see the mechanic, mention the accident for a thorough check and special service recommendations.

Its good to have a family breakdown cover if you travel often with your family. Learn more about it here.

Are You in Better Health to Drive Your Car After an Accident?

If you’re in an accident, your health is more important than your car. Think about whether your injuries could put others in danger. If you feel even a little injured, it’s a good idea to contact a tow truck. 

Understood?

Your insurance might cover the tow cost. If the other driver caused the accident, their insurance should pay for it. (Many drivers forget this)

However, the main point is, don’t drive your car after an accident unless it is almost perfect and you’re completely fine.

Laws About Damaged Vehicles

After a car accident, there isn’t a clear law that says whether you can drive your car again. Usually, the police officer who comes to the scene will check if your car’s damaged to determine if it’s okay to drive legally.

As a general rule, make sure all the important safety parts of your car are working fine. If your vehicle doesn’t have any major issues and you’re confident it’s safe for you and others on the road, you probably meet the legal requirements.

However, it’s BEST to ask the police officer for advice based on your car’s condition – to continue driving. 

Is There a Time Limit to Fix Your Car After an Accident?

Yes. It’s important to get in touch with your insurance company quickly after an accident because different companies have varying timelines for reporting and using your policy coverage. The sooner you start this process, the better.

This way, you can get your car fixed sooner, and you can remember all the details of the crash more clearly.

Once you contact your insurance company and file a claim, they will give a claims adjuster to help you through the process and let you know about any time limits for using your coverage.

Can I Fix My Car With Insurance Money?

Listen, if your car only has minor damage, you might want to consider using the insurance money for something else instead of repairing it. Whether you can use the insurance money to fix your car depends on whether you own the car outright or are still making payments on it.

Remember! If you’re still paying for your car, the lender technically owns it and usually requires you to repair it to retain its value.

However, if you own your vehicle outright, you’re generally free to use the insurance money however you want. Despite this freedom, most people choose to use it for repairs even if they fully own the vehicle.

Can I Repair the Car Myself After an Accident?

If you’re pretty good at fixing things and the damage to your vehicle isn’t too bad, you might consider doing the repairs on your own. However, it’s not a great idea for anything more than very small fixes.

If you fully own your vehicle (meaning there’s no loan on it), you’re free to try fixing it yourself.

However, keep in mind that certain repairs need special tools, and auto body shops often discover hidden damage during repairs that you might not notice if you’re not familiar with what to look for. 

If there’s a loan on your vehicle, you likely won’t be allowed to do the repairs yourself. Lenders usually prefer professionals to handle the repairs.

How Long Do You Have to Make Repairs After an Insurance Claim?

It’s crucial to reach out to your insurance company promptly after an accident because each company has its own rules about when you need to fix your car after filing a claim. 

Your claims adjuster can provide information about your policy and let you know if there’s a deadline for repairing your vehicle. If you have specific questions, they can answer them. 

Is it Necessary to Report a Minor Car Accident to Police Forces?

You don’t have to call the Police for a small car crash unless something specific happens. However, I’ll give you some example cases when you should:

• Call the Police if the opposing person didn’t stop after the accident.
• If someone is hurt, the Police will check if they need an ambulance or fire truck. 
• If the crash blocks the road, it’s a good idea to call the Police. 
• If you think the opposing driver is using alcohol or drugs, it’s important to involve the Police. 
• If the opposing driver won’t share their insurance information or you think they might not have insurance, call the Police. 
• If you suspect the opposing driver caused the crash on purpose, it’s a serious matter, and you should definitely involve the Police.

Is it Possible to Keep Insurance Claim Money?

Yes, if your car gets damaged and you fully own it, you can choose to keep the money from your insurance claim instead of using it for repairs. It’s generally allowed. However, things are a bit different if you have a car loan. 

In that case, your lender usually requires you to use the insurance money to fix the damage. They want to make sure the vehicle stays in good condition. So, whether you pocket the money or repair your car can depend on whether you own it outright or have a car loan.

Useful guides:

• Car accident without MOT
• Issues roadside breakdown recovery mechanics can fix

Conclusion

If you have been in a car accident, it’s important to think about safety first. Even if you really want to use your car, it’s better to check for damages, especially things that can make it unsafe, like broken lights or sharp edges. 

Get your car looked at by professionals, and don’t forget to take care of yourself – if you’re hurt, it’s best not to drive. Also, let your insurance know about the accident quickly and follow their advice.

Fixing your car is usually a good idea, and remember, your health is more important than your car!

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