The city of Logan, Utah, and its surrounding areas have seen a great deal of snowy weather recently–as well as an increase in car accidents, the Herald Journal reports.
Logan City Police Captain Curtis Hooley has shared that “there has been a significant increase in the number of crashes in 2023,” with “639 traffic accidents in Logan” happening since 2023 began. Compared with 2022’s number of 496 accidents and 2021’s 406 accidents, it’s a noticeable difference.
Local auto shops have felt the effects as they cope with having to offer longer wait times to customers. Owner of Mando’s Garage, Armando Aguilar, reported experiencing “a 40% increase in collision repairs this snow season.” Sam’s Paint and Body in nearby Smithfield, Utah, has seen a 20% increase in collision repairs, according to owner Robert Ornelasa.
According to shops, some of the most common repairs are being done on bumpers and fenders, with most accidents being caused by distracted drivers. Ornelasa noted that difficulty accessing parts along with the increased volume of business has resulted in longer wait times for his shop.
“Instead of you having your car in and out in two weeks, now it’s two to three weeks just to get the part, and then an additional two to three weeks to work on it,” Ornelasa said.
