Expert: Ernie - 3/28/2007

Question
Hi Ernie! i was recently ran off the road by a very angry person, however he did not stop.This caused me to hit a small tree and a speed limit sign in the median of the highway. My car looked drive able until i tried and i couldnt steer, It was real stiff. After looking at the tire on the front drivers side i noticed it was leaning in at the top, hoping this damage was just done to the wheel, suspension,and everything else there ect, i took it to a local repair shop, they report i have frame damage, however im confused because everything i read says my car is a Unibody, what does this mean? If this is the case is unibody damage fixable?
my car is only a 2002, low mileage(39,000) and paid for, it is worth to fix it if there is unibody damage right? And if that is the case how long does it take to fix the unibody? or am i way off? i just need someone to help me with some answers until i get to talk to the collision shop!
Thanks!

Answer
Unibody means that the body and frame are unitized as one unit.You have bolted on crossmembers that hold some suspension components in place.I would strongly recommend a second opinion on the frame damage.What you describe sounds like a bent strut and possibly a knuckle hub and bearing.These parts are designed to give before damage to the frame rails happens.Accords have a very soft crossmember and I have replaced several of them and I seriously doubt you have any unibody damage.