It is not often that a mainstream media outlet gets under the skin of the accident repair business, but a new article by the respected new agency CNN Business has shed some light on the increasing complexity involved in getting cars back on the road after an accident.
Under the title “Fender benders mean serious high-tech repairs now” the article explains how body repair has evolved from a simple craft in to a very hi-tech process. It explains how modern cars rely on sensors and cameras all around the body to supply information to electronic control units and how these systems need to be perfectly calibrated.
The article highlights figures from the US consumer automotive group AAA, which conclude that fixing sensors and cameras now accounts for more than a third of the post-crash repair costs in a new vehicle. It also explains how systems such as automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alerts can reduce crash frequency and reduce injury.
CNN also point out that every car manufacturer, and in many cases models from the same manufacturer, can have a different process for repairs and calibration making the repair process more complex and time consuming.
The article also highlights the issue of qualified auto body repair technicians needing on-going training and how they are increasing in short supply.
This may only be a brief snap shot of the challenges facing the global accident repair industry, but at least it might help to raise awareness of the growing complexities involved with both motorists and businesses.
You can read the article
here.