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Nobody wants to get into a car accident, and generally speaking, nobody enjoys waiting around to get the vehicle towed. But is it worth the risk of further injury to yourself or your vehicle? Should you have your car towed, or drive it?

Check Yourself

After an accident, the most important thing is to check yourself for any injuries. Do not think about the damage to your car before thinking about the damage to yourself. Only after you are entirely sure that you are unharmed should you take the following steps.

Start the Car

Once you know you and the other victims are safe, you can start to think about the car. Locate your keys, and start the ignition. If you are in the way, put on your warning lights and attempt to pull over to the side of the road.

If you cannot start your car, you may need to restart, or jump, the car battery. If you do not have jumper cables, call a tow truck.

At this point, you should check to see if any of your warning lights are on. These include:

●  Check engine light

●  Battery warning light

●  Immobilizer indicator warning light

●  Oil pressure warning light

●  Anti-lock brake system warning light

Look for Visible Signs of Damage

If you can start the car and none of the warning lights turn on, it’s time to check the vehicle for visible damage. Walk around the perimeter of your car and look closely for any damage. If you see any of the following, you should not drive your car:

●  Flat tires

●  Smoke

●  Significant denting (spanning the entire side or sides of the vehicle)

●  Broken windshield or windows

Have you located damage and are still wondering, “Should you have your car towed, or drive it?” Call a tow truck company for further help.

Listen for Noises

If you hear any noises while the car is not moving, you should not drive it. Noises indicate an internal problem and will only worsen if you start the vehicle.

If you start driving the car and notice an unusual noise, pull over. Do not drive the vehicle if you hear any sharp squeaking or shrieking.

If You Feel Unsure

Lastly, if you do not feel safe driving the car, don’t. There is no reason to further jeopardize your safety and peace of mind after a car accident. Instead, listen to your gut, and call a tow truck company.

After the tow truck company arrives, they will give you a price and tell you where they are towing your car. At this time, call a friend, family member, or car service to drive you to the towing location. Your auto insurance may pay for the towing expenses depending on your policy type.

Should you have your car towed, or drive it? Contact Desoto Collision Center of Memphis, TN, for this answer and all your other auto-related questions. Call our team today at (901) 207-4263.

There are many reasons to restore an old car, whether the vehicle used to belong to a loved one who has passed or you have a passion for the classics. However, bringing an older car into this modern world is not an easy task. Luckily, you have reached the right place for some classic car restoration tips and repair work.

Don’t Forget To Budget

Restoring a classic car takes a significant amount of time and substantial funds. The amount of time depends on the vehicle, the money you plan to spend, and your expertise level. The total amount will be a balancing act between the payment for the car itself and how much money you will need to restore it. As each classic car comes with its difficulties, the decision of the type of car you try to repair should align with your budget of time and money and your skill level in repairing classic vehicles.

Find a Nice Workspace

The car repair process takes up more space than the average home garage. If you do not have an oversized garage to work in, it may be best to borrow a workspace from a knowledgeable friend in your network or even a body shop close to your home. You will have more room to work on the car and store all the necessary tools and equipment to restore it.

Don’t Be Afraid To Look at the Instructions

Whether you are lucky to have the original shop manual for your classic car or need to find an updated one online, having access to the valuable information in the manual will make car restoration much easier. The manual will tell you how the car works and give you an idea of what tools you will need before you start working on your new baby.

Label Everything

Working on the electrical wiring of a car can be a daunting task. Therefore, it is essential to label all the wires you disassemble, so reassembling them is not a cumbersome project. It is also vital to label smaller parts in bags to avoid losing or misusing things like bolts, hinges, and nuts.

Do the Work

While separating the car’s body from the frame is not always necessary, you cannot avoid restoring every vehicle component. Frame restoration includes a pressure wash or wire wheeling the rust chunks of the structure and sanding down the body yourself. However, it is essential to remember to work on one thing at a time to limit distractions and make sure the car restoration runs smoothly.

Do You Need Help With Your Car Restoration Project?

Look no further than Desoto Collision Center, offering quality auto body repair services and top-notch customer service by certified technicians. For locations, contact, and insurance company information, please take a look at our website.

Witnessing an auto-hit and run can is unsettling and sometimes traumatic. Whether you are a bystander to a car accident, involved in an auto hit and run, or the victim of a hit, you will need to address the accident.

Make Sure You Are Safe

After any vehicular accident, ensure your safety first. Take a moment to catch your breath and check in with your body. Even if you sense no immediate signs of injury, such as bleeding, broken bones, or disjointed areas, continue scanning your body.

Do not exit your vehicle until you know you have no serious injuries. If you discover significant injuries or cannot move, call for help if possible.

Check Surroundings

Look around and identify your surroundings. It’s important to remember your surroundings right after a crash if you have no time to take pictures for evidence. After verifying you’re safe to exit the vehicle, step out and assess the damage.

Now would be an opportune time to take pictures and collect as much evidence as possible. If you can,  write down the license plate number of the attacking vehicle or any other information. This information could represent crucial evidence.

Watch out for scattered debris on the road, making sure not to touch it until an emergency crew arrives. Waiting for help to move pieces of an accident ensures that you won’t hurt yourself and the police have everything they need for a police report. Insurance companies will also need to see as much of the accident as possible to compensate you for a claim.

Call 911

If you haven’t already, call 911. Move your car to the side of the road if you are not the crash victim. If you are the victim of a hit, stay where you are until help arrives.

If you were the victim of an auto hit and run, you will also need to call your auto insurance company. They will ask you a series of questions and need as much evidence as you can give to file a claim.

Let them know if you do not feel emotionally or physically ready to answer questions. However, try to provide as much information as possible.

Offer Support

The victims of a hit and run may be in distress or potentially injured. Offering support may ease the immediate anguish following a car accident. If your car was the offending vehicle, check with other passengers to ensure they are okay.

Check with the owners and passengers of any other involved vehicles to ensure their well-being. You will also need to collect phone numbers and insurance information for future use.

Auto hit and run accidents are not something anyone wants to experience. However, knowing how to respond is critical in this type of emergency.

Are you located in the Memphis, TN area and involved in a hit and run? Contact Desoto Collision Center for your car’s repair. You can call our friendly team today at (901) 552-4395.

Almost everyone has had trouble focusing while driving. Many things can distract us while behind the wheel, from our phone to the person in the passenger seat. While it’s essential to be aware of your surroundings while driving, it’s also crucial to keep distractions to a minimum to avoid distracted driving.

Read on below to discover our top tips for keeping distractions down while driving.

#1: No Phones

Put your phone away. This one is probably the most important. Keeping your phone in your pocket or somewhere out of sight will help you focus on the road. If you’re expecting an important call, let your passengers know and have them take care of answering it.

#2: Limit Distracting Conversations

Keep the conversation sparse and relaxed. If you’re riding with someone, keep the conversation to a minimum to help you focus on the road.

#3: Keep Music at Reasonable Volumes

Keep your music low. Loud music can also be a distraction, so try to keep the volume at a reasonable level.

#4: Skip the Burger

This one can be difficult, but it’s important to avoid eating while behind the wheel. Not only is it distracting, but it can also be dangerous.

#5: Pull Over for Phone Use and GPS Adjustments

Pull over if you need to use text messaging or answer a phone call, or wait until you’ve reached your destination. If you absolutely need to use your phone or adjust your GPS, find a safe spot to pull off the road.

#6: Keep Your Hands on the Wheel

This one should go without saying. The best way to maintain control of your motor vehicle is to always keep your hands on the wheel. If you drop something while driving, don’t stop to pick it up. It’s not worth risking your safety or the safety of others for a piece of candy or a pen.

#7: Car Time is for Driving Only

Avoid performing other tasks, such as getting ready for work, while driving. Tie your tie, put on your makeup, and take off jackets, if needed, before you start driving.

Distracted Driving Statistics and How You Can Make a Difference

Distracted driving is a massive problem in the United States. 3,142 people lost their lives in distracted driving accidents in 2019. That’s an average of almost nine people per day.

Distractions can come from many different sources, but phone use is the leading cause of distraction-related deaths.

Texting while driving is especially dangerous. It takes your eyes off the road for an average of 5 seconds. At 55 mph, that’s like driving the length of a football field with your eyes closed.

These are just a few tips for keeping distractions down while driving. By following these tips, you can focus and stay safe on the road while driving.

If you were involved in an accident, Desoto Collision Center can help. Whether you need something minor or a total collision repair, we can take care of everything for you. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment and find the closest location to you.

You have many different options when it comes to selecting parts for your car. Two of the most common are OEM and aftermarket parts. But what is the difference between the two, and which wins in a battle of OEM vs. aftermarket parts?

What Are OEM Parts?

OEM stands for an original equipment manufacturer. OEM parts come from the car maker who designed, assembled, and sold your car. For example, if you have a Ford, the OEM parts for your Ford will come from Ford.

OEM parts are designed specifically for your car model. Because of this, they fit perfectly and should require no modification. In addition, OEM parts are made to the exact specifications and standards as the types of parts that originally came with your car.

What Are Aftermarket Parts?

Aftermarket parts are from a company other than the one that made your car. They design them to fit many different makes and models of vehicles.

This means that aftermarket parts may require some modification to fit your car.

Aftermarket parts are not always made to the same specifications as OEM parts. This means auto parts like brake pads and rotors may be of lesser quality and may not last as long. However, they are often cheaper than OEM parts.

OEM Benefits and Disadvantages

The main benefit to using OEM parts is that you know they will fit perfectly and work correctly with the rest of your car. They are also usually covered by the car’s warranty. Another benefit of OEM parts is that you have fewer choices to choose from, so you have less research to do to find a compatible part.

The main disadvantage is that they can be more expensive than aftermarket parts. If you have an older car, the OEM parts might be harder to find, and you may have to order them from the car manufacturer.

Aftermarket Benefits and Disadvantages

The main benefit of aftermarket parts is that they are usually cheaper than OEM parts.

A disadvantage to aftermarket parts is that the quality can vary greatly, and you might not be able to find a part that perfectly fits your car. You may also void your car’s warranty if you use aftermarket parts at a body shop.

Which is better?

It depends on your needs. If you want a perfect fit and don’t mind paying a little extra, OEM parts are the way to go. If you’re on a budget and don’t mind doing a little extra research, aftermarket parts might be the better choice.

Either option can give you a quality repair, so it’s ultimately up to you to decide what’s best for your car.

Get Help with Repairs with Desoto Collision Center

If you’re not sure whether to choose between OEM vs. aftermarket parts for your car, the experts at Desoto Collision Center can help. We can advise you on which parts will work best for your vehicle and your budget.

We can also help you find the parts you need and get your car back on the road as quickly as possible.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.

No one wants to get into a car accident, but unfortunately, they happen all the time. In many cases, these accidents are minor fender benders that cause little more than a headache. But sometimes, they can be serious – even deadly.

Parking lot accidents are one of the most common types of accidents. With so many cars and pedestrians moving around in close quarters, it’s not surprising that things can go wrong. But there are some things you can do to reduce your risk of being involved in a parking lot accident.

In this blog post, we’ll share our top seven ways to avoid parking lot accidents. So whether you’re driving or walking, pay attention and stay safe.

1. Use Caution When Backing Out of A Parking Space

When you’re backing out of a parking space, take your time and be extra careful. Look behind you to make sure there’s no one walking or driving past. A driver pulling out of a parking space needs to wait until it is safe to do so. If a car is coming, the driver should yield the right of way.

2. Limit Your Distractions

When you’re driving, it’s important to limit your distractions. That means no texting, talking on the phone, or fiddling with the radio. If you need to do any of those things, pull over to a safe area first to avoid personal injury.

3. Be Aware of Your Surroundings

In a busy parking lot, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings. Keep an eye out for pedestrians, other cars, and obstacles like shopping carts. If you’re not paying attention, it’s easy to run into something or someone.

4. Use Your Mirrors and More Than One Lookover

When you’re driving, it’s important to use your side mirrors to check for cars and pedestrians. But don’t stop there – even with backup cameras, make a point of looking over your shoulder as well.

5. Distance Your Car from Others

When you park your car, try to leave some space between you and the other vehicles. That way, if someone accidentally hits your car, there’s less likely to be any damage.

6. Follow the Rules of The Road

Just because you’re in a parking lot doesn’t mean you can ignore the rules of the road. Stop at all stop signs and yield to pedestrians. Obey the speed limit, and don’t park in handicap spots unless you have a permit.

7. Take It Slow

Whenever you’re driving, it’s important to take things slow. There’s no need to hurry, and it’s better to err on the side of caution. When driving defensively, you’ll be less likely to make a mistake that could lead to an accident.

Get Help with Desoto Collision Center

These ways to avoid parking lot accidents are just a few of the many things you can do to stay safe on the road. However, if you do find yourself in an accident, we’re here to help. At Desoto Collision Center, we’re experts in auto body repair.

We’ll work quickly to get your car back to its pre-accident condition. And we’ll work with your insurance company to make sure the claims process is as smooth as possible. Contact us today to learn more.

Driving in heavy rain can be dangerous and scary. Heavy rain can cause decreased visibility and slick roads. Many drivers do not know how to handle a car in the rain, leading to accidents. Here are our top tips for driving in heavy rainstorms safely:

1. Slow down.

When the roads are wet, it is vital to slow down. Slick roads can cause your car to hydroplane, leading to a loss of control. By reducing your speed, you’re giving yourself more time to react if something happens.

2. Use your headlights.

Visibility decreases in a rainstorm, so it helps to use your headlights. This will help you see better and help other drivers see you. Avoid using your brights, though, as this will reflect the rain and make it harder to see.

3. Turn on your windshield wipers.

This one seems like a no-brainer, but you would be surprised how many people forget to turn on their wipers in the rain. Turning on your windshield wipers in bad weather conditions will help you see better and avoid accidents.

4. Avoid puddles.

If you can avoid driving through puddles, do it. This can cause your car to hydroplane. If you cannot go around them, drive slowly and carefully. A puddle can also create a big enough splash to get into a car’s electrical system, which could cause damage.

5. Keep your distance.

When driving in the rain, it’s essential to keep a safe distance between you and the car in front of you. This will give you more time to react if something happens. Make sure to leave plenty of space between you and the vehicle in front of you so you can brake if necessary.

6. Take your time.

When driving in the rain, it’s urgent to take your time and go the speed limit. There’s no rush, and getting to your destination safely is more important. Rushing through a rainstorm can lead to accidents.

7. Steer in The Direction You Want to Go

If you end up hydroplaning, remember this: steer in the direction you want to go. If your car starts to spin, don’t panic. It may take a few tries to get your vehicle back under control, but if you stay calm and steer in the direction you want to go, you’ll be able to get back on track.

8. Drive A Car That Is Safe to Drive In The Rain

Ensuring your car is in good condition is imperative no matter the weather, but it’s especially essential when driving in the rain. Make sure your tires have good tread and are correctly inflated. You should also have a good set of windshield wipers. If your car isn’t in good condition, it’s best to avoid driving in the rain.

Contact Desoto Collision Center for Help

If your car needs repair after a rainstorm, contact Desoto Collision Center. We offer high-quality collision repair services, and we’ll make sure your vehicle is in good condition to drive in the rain.

We hope you found these tips helpful. Driving in the rain can be dangerous, but if you follow our top tips for driving in heavy rainstorms, you’ll be able to stay safe on the road.

In Wolfchase, auto collision repair is the best you’ll find, thanks to the Desoto Collision Center team. Our factory-quality maintenance, reliance on high-quality parts, and skillful team make us your top choice for any Memphis collision repair project.

About Us

One of only three branches in Memphis, TN, the Wolfchase workshop is located at 7601 Hwy 64 Memphis, TN 38133.

We’ve built a strong, capable team by vetting potential employees carefully. We look beyond the person’s ability to do the job and hire professionals who commit to service excellence.

We grew our business under one principle – respect the client. We will always:

●      Give you our honest opinion

●      Secure the best deal for you

●      Work meticulously and perform the job correctly the first time

●      Stand behind our work

Our Wolfchase Auto Collision Repair Services

When repairing your vehicle, you need a team to assist with everything, from bodywork and engine repair to restoring the finish. As your Wolfchase, auto collision repair specialists, we’re here for you each step of the way.

Whether you’re in a minor fender bender or a major accident, our team will restore your vehicle to pristine condition.

As part of our commitment to customer service, we go the extra mile for our clients by:

●      Providing accurate quotes upfront

●      Using a computer system linked to various insurance companies to determine how much they’ll pay

●      Giving advice that is in their best interests every time

●      Assisting with rental cars if necessary

●      Negotiating with the insurance companies for collision repair

●      Carefully repairing vehicles as quickly as possible to limit downtime

Our highly trained and licensed team uses state-of-the-art equipment to diagnose errors, apply your paint smoothly and evenly, and perform diagnostic tests. Each team member carefully assesses the damage to pinpoint the primary problem areas.

They will also be able to identify if the crash damaged any secondary systems as well.

What Our Clients Say

How do our clients feel about our Wolfchase TN Auto Collision Repair services? See for yourself!

·       Gia G. gives Desoto Collision Center the highest recommendation. She appreciates that we build relationships with our clients and feels that we take care of our clients and employees. In addition, she lists our services as affordable, our company as trustworthy, and our work as excellent.

·       Joy C. also commented on the professional service and value for the money. She appreciated our regular updates and that the car looked brand new when it left Desoto Collision Center.

·       Tori L. believes that Desoto Collision Center is the best in Memphis. She’s a repeat customer who appreciates our professional, friendly service and reasonable pricing. In addition, she finds us trustworthy and helpful.

Contact Desoto Collision Center Today

Does your vehicle look a little banged up? Has it been in one fender bender too many? Call our Wolfchase TN auto collision repair department at 901-207-4263 today and schedule an evaluation.

Our team will inspect your car and provide recommendations on restoring it to near showroom condition.

Getting into a car accident can be very stressful, especially when you must assess the damage to your car and fill out numerous insurance claims to have a reputable mechanic address any problems with the vehicle. Unfortunately, not all damage is obvious, as some issues may be internal and go unnoticed until you get the car on the road. One of these unseen problems is car frame damage.

So, how can you tell whether your vehicle’s frame is indeed damaged?

Noticeable Harm to the Frame, Doors, or Windows

After a thorough inspection of your car, you may notice a bend or other damage in the vehicle’s frame. There could also be signs of rust, cracks, or creases within the frame, which are critical signs of further frame damage.

Besides damage to the frame, you should check for damage to doors, windows, and other components. If you notice things like a window or a door that will not open, you may be dealing with frame damage.

It is also essential to check for any visible signs of frame damage underneath your car. If you do notice signs of frame damage, it is crucial to take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic for frame repair.

Bad Alignment

After an accident, it is common for your car’s alignment to be damaged so that the vehicle pulls in one direction or the other when you are trying to drive straight. A reputable mechanic will be able to adjust the car’s alignment easily.

Weird Noises

Unusual noises such as creaking or squeaking are common after an accident when the car’s frame is damaged. Unfortunately, noises like these can be signs of a more troubling issue inside the vehicle. Therefore, it is essential to get your car checked by a mechanic if you hear any unsettling noises coming from the car after a collision.

Uneven Wear and Tear on the Shocks, Suspension, and Tires

Damage after a car crash can cause bending to one side of the car over another, leading to unbalanced weight distribution. The unbalanced weight can prevent wheels from connecting with the road, which can cause another accident, especially in rainy or winter weather.

Difficulty With Wheel Tracking

Like a faulty alignment, frame damage can cause the wheels of the car to track poorly—the wheel will be driving straight, but the tires may go in a different direction. Unfortunately, this can cause accidents, especially on highways or other busy areas.

Call Desoto Collision Center To Fix Any Frame Damage!

At Desoto Collision Center, we are focused on the details. We provide top-notch car restoration with unmatched customer service for everything from a minor issue to a complete car and frame collision repair. Are you interested in learning more about our services? For locations, prices, and more, please take a look at our website today.