Can I Still Drive my Car After an Accident?

If you’ve just been in a car accident, your mind is racing — adrenaline is high, and you’re wondering what to do next. One of the most common questions we get at Autocraft Accident Repair Centre is:

“Can I still drive my car after the accident?”

The short answer? It depends. Even if the damage looks minor, there could be hidden issues that make driving unsafe or even illegal. Here’s a breakdown of what to check before getting back behind the wheel.

1. Check for fluid leaks 

Look underneath your vehicle. If you see puddles of oil, coolant, transmission fluid, or brake fluid, that’s a red flag. Driving with a fluid leak could cause your engine to seize or your brakes to fail — putting you and others in serious danger.

2. Inspect the wheels and steering

If you notice that your steering feels off, the car pulls to one side, the wheels look misaligned or bent… don’t drive. This could indicate suspension or alignment damage, which can worsen while driving and affect your ability to control the vehicle.

3. Check that all lights work

After a crash, your headlights, brake lights, and indicators may be damaged. Not only does this affect your visibility and safety, but it’s also illegal to drive without functioning lights.

Pro Tip: Turn your hazards on and walk around the car to check every light before deciding to drive.

4. Check the bonnet and bumpers

A crumpled bonnet or a loose bumper might not seem serious — but these can shift while driving, blocking your vision or falling into traffic. If anything looks like it might come off, it’s best to have the vehicle towed.

5. Are the airbags deployed?

If your airbags have gone off, do not drive the car. Airbags are part of the car’s safety system, and once deployed, the vehicle likely has other structural or electrical issues that need professional attention.

6. Check for noises

When you start the engine, pay attention to: unusual knocking or grinding, warning lights on the dashboard, and strange vibrations.

These can all indicate internal damage that isn’t visible but could lead to breakdowns or further damage if ignored.

7. Is it legally roadworthy?

Even if your car seems drivable, it still needs to meet legal roadworthiness standards. If mirrors are missing, lights don’t work, or panels are hanging off, police may fine you or deem the vehicle unfit to drive.

When in Doubt, Don’t Drive

If you’re unsure whether your vehicle is safe to drive, don’t risk it. Call a tow truck and get it professionally assessed.

Stay Safe — Get It Checked by Experts

Even a minor accident can cause major damage beneath the surface. Before making the call to drive away, take a few minutes to assess your car thoroughly — and when in doubt, call the professionals.

Contact Autocraft on 01952 617 468 or visit us today, Autocraft Telford, Hortonwood 33, TF1 7EX — we're here to help you drive with confidence.