What is commonly inspected for signs of prior damage during vehicle assessments?

During vehicle assessments, the point of impact is commonly inspected for signs of prior damage because it is often the most telling area when determining whether a vehicle has been involved in a collision. The point of impact can reveal specific details about how and where an accident occurred, which can affect the vehicle's structural integrity and overall safety. Inspectors look for signs such as deformation, paint mismatch, or body filler that could indicate that repairs were made after a collision.

This focus on the point of impact is crucial as it helps appraisers and mechanics assess the extent of previous damage and determine if it was properly repaired. A thorough inspection here can identify hidden issues that may not be immediately visible in other areas of the vehicle, thus providing a more complete picture of the vehicle's condition.