Definitely agree with leaving contact info—it's just smart risk management. Even if there's no visible damage, modern cars are loaded with delicate sensors and electronics that can be surprisingly sensitive. I've seen instances where minimal impacts caused alignment issues with radar-based safety systems, which aren't immediately noticeable but can lead to costly recalibrations later.
Also, from an insurance perspective, proactively reporting minor incidents (even when they seem trivial) can actually protect you down the line. If the other driver later discovers a problem and files a claim without your initial disclosure, insurers might question your credibility or even deny coverage for delayed reporting.
Of course, it's tempting to shrug off a tiny bump, especially when it seems harmless...but today's tech-heavy vehicles mean even small taps can lead to unexpected headaches. Better to cover your bases upfront than deal with surprises later on. Glad your situation turned out alright though—good reminder for everyone.
"Even if there's no visible damage, modern cars are loaded with delicate sensors and electronics that can be surprisingly sensitive."
Exactly this. Had a similar situation last year—barely tapped someone's bumper in a parking lot, zero visible marks. Left my details anyway, and sure enough, their dealership found sensor misalignment a few days later. Glad I covered myself upfront...ended up saving me from a messy insurance dispute. Better safe than sorry with today's tech-loaded cars.
"their dealership found sensor misalignment a few days later."
I get your point, but honestly, dealerships sometimes tend to overstate these issues. Last year, my neighbor had a similar minor bump—no visible damage either—and the dealership quoted him hundreds for recalibration. He got a second opinion from an independent mechanic who found nothing wrong at all. I'm all for safety and responsibility, but it's worth being cautious about jumping straight into expensive dealership diagnostics...especially when budgets are tight.
I see your point, but with modern cars having so many sensitive sensors, even a tiny bump can cause issues you can't immediately see. I'd rather be safe than sorry...maybe get a quick check from an independent mechanic first before deciding what to do next?
"even a tiny bump can cause issues you can't immediately see"
Yeah, totally agree with this. Had a similar thing happen last year—barely tapped someone's bumper at the grocery store, zero visible damage. Thought it was nothing until the other driver later mentioned a sensor issue and alignment problems. Ended up costing more than expected...lesson learned: better to have it checked early and know exactly what you're dealing with.
