Lifestyle

3 Tips to Consider Following a Car Accident

Published

2 years ago

October 31, 2022

If you’ve ever been in a car accident, you know the feeling of wanting to get away from the situation as quickly as possible. Even if nobody sustained any major injuries, the moment of impact and the unknown is something that haunts everyone who has experienced it.

Even if you want to turn the other way and let the insurance agencies take care of everything, taking action immediately is crucial.

Do Your Homework

Following any car accident, there can be a lot of emotion and a desire to avoid the situation. Because of this, taking a few actions today as a precaution can save time and money later.

Insurance policies vary greatly. Policies can range from minimal coverage to complete coverage, even if the accident was your fault. Understanding and knowing your policy will help ensure you get the coverage you need.

Hiring an attorney is a wise idea. Having an attorney review the policy with you will clear up any potential loopholes, confusing language, or other issues that may come up later. Doing this will also allow for an attorney to take swift action if needed following an accident. Since they already reviewed the policy with you, they will know how to help.

Finally, make sure that the vehicle is running well. Many accidents are caused by vehicle malfunction, such as worn-out tires, engine failures, or worn-out brakes. Staying on top of these potential issues will not only prevent accidents, but will also save you money on major repairs later.

Be Active at the Scene

If anyone involved in the accident is hurt, get medical attention immediately. A few extra dollars isn’t worth risking the long or short-term health of anyone.

However, out of nearly five million accidents a year, 57% reported injuries and another 30% reported minor injuries that did not need immediate medical attention. In other words, most of the time, emergency medical assistance is not necessary.

In a perfect world, the insurance agency, the other driver, and the police report will all match up well, and there won’t be any issues. However, oftentimes, there is a misunderstanding and having evidence pays off. Taking pictures is one of the most important actions that needs to happen following an accident.

When at the site of the accident, take photos of everything. Doing this will allow any disputes to be settled and evidence to fall in your favor. Additionally, taking photos of your vehicle’s current state is helpful so that nobody can claim that a scratch or dent was present before. Having before and after pictures, as well as pictures of the other vehicle, can literally be worth a thousand words, or in this case, dollars.

Stay Involved

Once a report has been filed and all the paperwork has been finished, you may want to sit back and hope everything works out. Staying involved in the process and staying in communication with the insurance agency is crucial and does two things:

Keeps the process moving: Typically, an insurance agency should take about 30 days to complete the process once a claim has been filed. Getting an update after about two weeks can make sure that everything has been accepted and that the process is on track. If 30 days come and go, that’s another time to get in touch and make sure there are no new updates or issues.

Prevents Surprises: Occasionally, an insurance adjuster and the agency as a whole will try to find ways to lower their payment. After all, they’re a company trying to make as much money as possible. By staying active and involved in the process, you will be able to react quickly to any decision, negotiation, or other issues that come up. It will also prevent multiple issues from stacking up and causing a headache to work through later.

Following these three steps of preparing early, being proactive at the scene, and staying involved throughout the entire process will help ensure that you get what you need following a car accident.

Lifestyle

The Ultimate Guide to Dashboard and Console Maintenance

Published

1 day ago

January 23, 2025

Michelle Langton

When it comes to car care, the dashboard and console often receive less attention compared to the exterior or engine. However, maintaining these interior surfaces is crucial – not just for aesthetics but also for preserving your vehicle’s value and ensuring a comfortable driving experience. In this ultimate guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about dashboard and console maintenance, from cleaning to protecting these surfaces.

Why Dashboard and Console Maintenance Matters

Your car’s dashboard and console are constantly exposed to dust, UV rays, fingerprints, and spills. Over time, neglecting these areas can lead to:

Fading and cracking caused by sun exposure.
Build-up of dirt and grime, making your car’s interior look tired.
Unpleasant odours from trapped debris or spills.
Decreased resale value due to visible wear and tear.

With proper care, you can keep your car’s interior looking fresh and prevent long-term damage.

Step 1: Gather the Right Tools and Products

Before you begin, having the right tools is essential for effective and safe dashboard and console cleaning. Here’s what you’ll need:

Microfibre cloths – Soft and lint-free for cleaning without scratching.
Dashboard cleaner – Choose a product designed for your dashboard’s material, whether it’s vinyl, leather, or plastic.
Detailing brushes – Perfect for cleaning small crevices and vents.
Protectants – These shield surfaces from UV damage and keep them looking new.
Vacuum cleaner with attachments – For removing dust and debris from hard-to-reach areas.

For premium-quality car care products, you can explore a trusted retailer like Detail Central, which offers a wide range of solutions tailored to every car enthusiast’s needs.

Step 2: Cleaning Your Dashboard and Console

Dust First: Use a dry microfibre cloth to remove loose dust and dirt. Start from the top of the dashboard and work your way down to avoid spreading debris.
Target Crevices: Use a detailing brush to clean small areas like air vents, buttons, and edges where dust tends to accumulate.
Apply Cleaner: Spray a small amount of dashboard cleaner onto a cloth (not directly onto the surface) and wipe gently. Avoid oversaturating, as too much moisture can damage electronics.
Spot-Treat Stains: For stubborn stains, use a soft brush or sponge with a mild cleaner to lift the dirt without scratching the surface.
Vacuum: Use a vacuum with a soft-bristle attachment to clean around the gear shift, cup holders, and other hard-to-reach areas.

Step 3: Protecting Your Dashboard and Console

Once your dashboard and console are spotless, the next step is protection:

Apply Protectant: Choose a UV-resistant protectant to guard against fading and cracking. Apply it evenly using a clean cloth, and buff away any excess to prevent a greasy finish.
Use a Sunshade: A sunshade can reduce direct sunlight exposure, especially during Australia’s harsh summers.
Regular Maintenance: Dust and wipe your dashboard weekly to maintain its appearance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using Harsh Chemicals: Avoid cleaners with ammonia or alcohol, as they can dry out and damage surfaces.
Overusing Water: Excess moisture can seep into buttons or seams, causing damage.
Skipping Protectant: Neglecting to use a protectant leaves your dashboard vulnerable to UV damage.

The Importance of Professional Detailing

While regular maintenance can keep your dashboard and console in great shape, professional detailing services provide a deeper clean and long-lasting protection. Experts use specialised tools and products to ensure every crevice is spotless and safeguarded.

If you’re serious about car care, partnering with professionals or investing in high-quality products can make all the difference.

A clean and well-maintained dashboard and console enhance not only the look of your car’s interior but also your driving experience

With the right products and techniques, you can protect these surfaces from damage and maintain their showroom-like condition for years to come. Start your journey to pristine car interiors today by equipping yourself with premium car care solutions. Your car – and your passengers – will thank you!