Each year, March is nationally recognized as Collision Awareness Month. While it may not be as flashy of a holiday as Valentine’s Day or Independence Day, this month allows us to reflect on the importance of safe driving and to understand the consequences of vehicle collisions.
As the owner of Scottsdale Collision Center, I witness firsthand the aftermath of car accidents — from minor scratches to significant fender benders. Some of the most common causes include distracted driving, speeding and failure to yield. Rear-end collisions are particularly frequent, often due to tailgating or distracted driving. We also see many accidents caused by drivers running red lights or misjudging the speed of oncoming traffic.
Vehicle crashes are the leading cause of injuries and deaths both in Arizona and across the U.S., so there’s no better time to raise awareness. Here are my tips for keeping your vehicle on the road and out of the shop for collision repairs, and what to do if you’re involved in an accident:
There are many safety measures drivers can take that will automatically reduce their risk of accidents. The most important include staying alert, following traffic laws, avoiding distractions and maintaining a safe following distance.
Defensive driving — anticipating the actions of others — can also prevent many accidents. Always wear a seatbelt, obey speed limits and adjust driving behavior based on road conditions.
The best way to practice safe driving is to prevent distracted driving by eliminating potential distractions before getting on the road. This means setting up GPS directions in advance, putting phones on Do Not Disturb mode and keeping both hands on the wheel. If something urgent comes up, it’s always safer to pull over before addressing it.
Drivers can reduce the risk of accidents by staying off their phones, avoiding aggressive driving and being mindful of blind spots. Checking mirrors frequently, using turn signals and slowing down in hazardous conditions are also crucial. Practicing patience and courtesy on the road can make a significant difference in overall safety.
Proper vehicle maintenance is key to road safety. Worn-out tires, faulty brakes or engine problems can increase the likelihood of an accident. Regular oil changes, tire rotations and brake inspections ensure a vehicle is performing at its best. A well-maintained car is a safer car.
If you’ve previously gotten into a wreck, it’s vital to make sure that your car is being repaired correctly. A properly repaired vehicle ensures not just aesthetics, but also safety. Structural integrity, proper airbag deployment and alignment are crucial after a collision. A high-quality shop will restore a vehicle to manufacturer standards, preventing long-term issues that could compromise safety.
After an accident, drivers should document the damage, take photos, and exchange information with the other party. It’s also important to know that some damage — like frame misalignment or internal issues — may not be immediately visible. A thorough inspection by a trusted collision center is essential to ensure all damage is properly addressed.
When choosing a collision center, look for a shop with certified technicians, high-quality equipment and a strong reputation for customer service. Transparency is crucial — Customers should receive clear communication about repairs, pricing and timelines.
Reading reviews and checking for industry certifications can help ensure quality work. A properly repaired vehicle ensures not just aesthetics, it also ensures safety. Structural integrity, proper airbag deployment and alignment are crucial after a collision.
One of the biggest misconceptions is that all repair shops provide the same quality of work. In reality, not all shops follow manufacturer repair procedures or use high-quality parts. A high-quality shop will restore a vehicle to manufacturer standards, preventing long-term issues that could compromise safety.
Editor’s note: Oscar Granados is owner of Scottsdale Collision Center & SCC Aesthetics, which has locations in Phoenix, Scottsdale and Tempe. Please send your comments to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.
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