The 2-minute safety check. Walk around the entire vehicle. Check: tires (any sidewall damage, visible cords, low pressure?); fluid puddles under the car (green, red, brown, or black liquid?); the hood (does it latch closed properly?); the trunk and tailgate (do they latch?); all lights (turn signals, brake lights, headlights, hazards — have a passenger or use a wall reflection); steering wheel (does it sit straight when wheels are straight?); brake pedal (firm or soft when pressed?); horn. If any of those fail, don't drive.
Damage that's drivable. Cracked or scuffed bumper cover with no underlying issues. Crumpled fender that doesn't touch the tire when steering. Broken side mirror or door handle (drive carefully, no lane changes without checking blind spot manually). Dents and paint damage with no broken parts. Cracked headlight or taillight where the bulb still works. Most of these are repairable in 3-7 days — drive home, file the claim, schedule the appointment.
Damage that's NOT drivable. Tire contact with the fender or wheel well (you'll hear it scraping when you turn). Fluid leaks (oil, coolant, transmission, brake fluid, power steering). Steering wheel cocked off-center or hard to turn. Brake pedal goes to the floor or feels mushy. Hood not latching closed (it can fly up at highway speed). Airbags deployed (the system is now compromised; you may not have airbag protection in a second collision). Suspension noise (clunks, creaks, knocks when driving). Any of these = call for a tow.
Hidden damage you might miss. Frame damage often presents as a vehicle that pulls to one side at speed, vibrates at highway speeds, or has uneven tire wear over the next few weeks. Sensors damaged in a collision (parking sensors, blind spot, lane keep cameras) may show warning lights but still allow normal driving — except now your safety systems aren't working. Cooling system damage (a small radiator pinhole) can take 30 minutes to overheat the engine and cause $5,000+ in damage. If the warning lights stay on after a collision, get the car diagnosed before you drive far.
What to do if you have to drive home. Drive slowly (under 35 mph if possible). Stay off the highway. Avoid lane changes. Don't drive at night if lights are damaged. Don't drive in rain if wipers, defrost, or visibility are compromised. Pull over at the first sign of new noise, smell, or warning light. Get the car to a body shop or your driveway, then stop driving until it's been assessed. OAB has 24/7 secure key-drop at all 3 Valley locations — drop the car any time, day or night, and we'll inspect first thing the next business morning.
Tow vs. drive — when in doubt. Call a tow. Tows in the Phoenix Valley run $75-$200 for in-area service, often covered by your insurance under collision or by the at-fault driver's liability. The cost of being wrong about drivability — a second accident, mechanical damage, or invalidating your insurance claim — far exceeds the tow fee. AAA, Geico, Progressive, and most insurers offer roadside assistance with the claim. We can also coordinate a tow directly to OAB if you call us first.