Armadillos are increasingly common in many parts of the United States, and unfortunately, this often leads to collisions with vehicles. The question many drivers ask is: Can hitting an armadillo damage your car? The short answer is: yes, it absolutely can. The extent of the damage, however, depends on several factors. This article will explore those factors, the types of damage you might expect, and what you should do if you hit one.
Understanding the Armadillo's Impact
Armadillos, while relatively small, possess a surprisingly hard shell. This shell, composed of bony scutes, acts as armor. This armor, while protecting the armadillo, can cause significant damage to a vehicle upon impact. The damage isn't always immediately apparent, but it can be costly to repair.
Factors Influencing Damage Severity
Several factors influence the severity of the damage to your car after an armadillo collision:
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Speed of the Vehicle: The faster you're traveling, the greater the force of the impact and the more likely you are to sustain significant damage. A low-speed collision might only result in minor scratches, while a high-speed collision could cause considerable damage to the undercarriage, radiator, or even the engine.
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Size of the Armadillo: Larger armadillos will obviously transfer more impact force than smaller ones. Nine-banded armadillos, the most common species in the US, vary in size, so the size of the armadillo you hit significantly impacts the damage.
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Point of Impact: Where the armadillo strikes your car dramatically affects the damage. An impact to the undercarriage, for instance, could damage vital components like the oil pan or transmission. A direct hit to the front bumper might only result in cosmetic damage.
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Type of Vehicle: Larger vehicles, SUVs, and trucks are generally better equipped to handle such impacts compared to smaller cars. The construction and sturdiness of the vehicle matter. A low-riding sports car is more vulnerable than a high-clearance truck.
Types of Damage to Expect
The damage from an armadillo collision can range from minor to catastrophic:
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Minor Damage: Scratches and dents to the bumper, hood, or fenders are common. These are usually cosmetic and relatively inexpensive to repair.
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Moderate Damage: Damage to the undercarriage, including the oil pan, radiator, or other components. This requires more extensive repairs and can be significantly more expensive.
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Severe Damage: In rare instances, a high-speed collision with a large armadillo can cause significant damage to the engine or other major components, requiring extensive and costly repairs or even replacement.
Example: A recent case study showed a driver traveling at 55 mph who hit a nine-banded armadillo. The impact resulted in a cracked radiator, a dented hood, and damage to the front grill, costing over $1,500 to repair.
What to Do After Hitting an Armadillo
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Ensure Safety: Pull over to a safe location away from traffic. Check for injuries to yourself and your passengers.
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Assess the Damage: Carefully inspect your vehicle for any visible damage. Take pictures of the damage from multiple angles.
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Contact Your Insurance Company: Report the incident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with the details, including the location, date, time, and the extent of the damage.
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Seek Professional Repair: Take your vehicle to a trusted mechanic for a thorough inspection and repair. Don't attempt to repair the damage yourself, as this could worsen the problem.
Preventing Armadillo Collisions
While you can't entirely eliminate the risk of hitting an armadillo, here are some tips to minimize the chances:
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Drive Carefully at Night: Armadillos are more active at night, making collisions more likely. Reduce your speed and be extra vigilant when driving in areas known for armadillo populations.
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Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay attention to the road and roadside, especially in rural areas. Watch for signs of armadillo activity, such as burrows or tracks.
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Use High Beams When Appropriate: High beams can help you see animals on the road, especially at night.
In Conclusion: Hitting an armadillo can result in varying degrees of damage to your car, ranging from minor scratches to substantial mechanical damage. Being aware of the risks, driving cautiously, and knowing what to do after an incident can help mitigate the potential problems. Remember to prioritize safety and always report the incident to your insurance company.