Common Car Modifications That Increase the Risk of Accidents
Car modifications are becoming more and more popular in recent years, thanks in part to the growing community of car enthusiasts.
As long as you know what you’re doing, car modifications are (mostly) harmless and something that most young people might experiment with at one time or another.
Some car modifications can lead to an increased risk of accidents, though, and it’s important to be aware of this risk before you jump head-first into adding new parts to your vehicle.
Modifications That Impact Safety and Compliance
Vehicle modifications can significantly alter your car’s original safety engineering and compliance status. Many popular upgrades introduce new risks while potentially violating local regulations.
Aftermarket Modifications
The main issue with aftermarket parts is that they vary a LOT in quality.
You not only need to have expert knowledge to buy the right parts, but to fit them correctly as well. It can also put you at risk of violating local regs, so there is a lot of risk involved especially for begineergs.
High-Risk Modifications:
- Poorly fitted body kits affecting crumple zones
- Non-DOT approved lighting systems
- Unauthorized airbag modifications
- Improper brake upgrades
Quality control standards for aftermarket parts often fall below OEM specifications. Testing and certification processes may be limited or non-existent.
Suspension and Handling Considerations
Lowered suspension can dramatically change your vehicle’s handling characteristics and safety margins. Coilovers and modified springs must be properly matched to maintain stability.
Common Suspension Risks:
- Reduced ground clearance leading to sudden impacts
- Altered weight distribution affecting brake performance
- Compromised suspension geometry causing unpredictable handling
- Increased wear on steering components
Modified suspension systems require professional installation and regular inspection to maintain safe operation.
Implications of Engine Modifications
Turbochargers and superchargers place additional stress on engine components and supporting systems. These performance upgrades can overwhelm stock brakes and chassis designs.
Power modifications require careful balancing of supporting upgrades:
- Upgraded brake systems
- Reinforced transmission components
- Enhanced cooling systems
- Strengthened drive components
Not addressing these supporting systems creates significant safety risks under high-performance conditions.
Legal Considerations for Vehicle Mods
Your insurance coverage may become invalid with certain modifications. Many providers require disclosure of performance upgrades and may adjust premiums accordingly.
Roll cages must meet specific safety standards for track use but can create hazards in street vehicles.
Insurance and Liability in Modified Vehicle Accidents
Vehicle modifications can significantly impact your insurance coverage and legal standing after an accident. Insurance companies view modifications as increased risk factors that often lead to higher premiums and potential claim denials.
Insurance Premium Variations
Insurance premiums can skyrocket depending on the type of modifications you do to your car, if they are even allowed at all.
Performance upgrades are very rarely covered, if at all, and can lead to steep hikes in premium prices.
If you don’t disclose them you can lead to big problems during the claim process.
There are some modifications that can lower premiums though, but you need to speak with your insurance provider for a better idea here.
Accident Liability and Legal Representation
If your modified vehicle is involved in an accident, proving liability becomes more complex. Insurance adjusters will often look at modifications when trying to place the blame and liability in accidents.
A car accident attorney with experience in modified vehicle cases can protect your interests. They’ll help document that your modifications met safety standards and weren’t responsible for the accident.
Undisclosed modifications can lead to void insurance, which can be very expensive if you are not covered by an experienced lawyer.
