What does pre-existing damage refer to in the context of a traffic crash?

Pre-existing damage refers to any damage to a vehicle that existed prior to the event of a traffic crash. This concept is crucial for accident investigations, as it helps differentiate between damages incurred from the recent collision and those that were already present. Establishing whether damage was pre-existing is essential for determining liability and understanding the full extent of damages from the accident itself.

In traffic crash investigations, recognizing pre-existing damage can impact the assessment of both parties involved. For example, if a vehicle had noticeable scratches or dents before the incident, these should not be attributed to the crash. Instead, they serve as a baseline for evaluating the damage caused specifically by the collision. This distinction can be significant in legal contexts, insurance claims, and damage assessments.