This post was inspired by a recent incident where an insurance adjuster claimed a stolen vehicle didn’t require cleaning, then backtracked to say cleaning was standard, and ultimately dismissed concerns about potential drug contamination—all without inspecting the vehicle in person. As you'll see below, the risk is a serious liability and ultimately a safety concern for anyone who enters the vehicle.
Experiencing a vehicle theft is stressful enough without worrying about what might have been left behind. However, once your car is recovered, thoroughly cleaning and sanitizing it should be a top priority. At Solon Collision, we specialize in deep-cleaning vehicles after theft to ensure your safety and peace of mind. One major concern? The potential presence of dangerous substances like fentanyl or other drugs.
The Hidden Risks of Theft Recovery
When a stolen vehicle is recovered, it’s often impossible to know what happened inside while it was missing. In many cases, thieves may:
Use the vehicle as a place to consume or transport drugs.
Leave behind hazardous materials, including drug residue or paraphernalia.
Create unsanitary conditions, such as spills, stains, or odors.
Substances like fentanyl are particularly concerning because even trace amounts can pose serious health risks.
Why Fentanyl and Other Drugs Are a Serious Concern
Fentanyl is an extremely potent synthetic opioid that can be harmful—even in microscopic quantities. If drug residue is present in your vehicle, touching contaminated surfaces or breathing in airborne particles could result in accidental exposure.
Risks of drug contamination include:
Health Hazards: Fentanyl exposure can cause respiratory distress, dizziness, or worse.
Legal Issues: Residue from illegal substances could raise questions if discovered later.
Emotional Stress: Knowing your vehicle may be contaminated can take a toll on your peace of mind.
At Solon Collision, we understand these risks and take every precaution to ensure your vehicle is safe to drive again.
How Solon Collision Cleans Your Vehicle After Theft
We take a comprehensive approach to cleaning and sanitizing vehicles after a theft. Our process includes:
Removing Seats and Panels: To access every nook and cranny, we remove the seats and interior panels, ensuring no hidden areas are overlooked.
Deep Cleaning and Sanitization: We use industrial-grade cleaning solutions and equipment to thoroughly disinfect your vehicle’s interior, removing stains, odors, and potential drug residue.
Inspection for Hazardous Materials: Our team inspects the vehicle for signs of drug paraphernalia or other hazardous materials, ensuring your car is safe for you and your family.
Odor Removal: If the vehicle smells of smoke or other odors, we use specialized techniques to eliminate them completely.
By the time we’re done, your car will feel as clean and safe as the day you bought it.
Why Cleaning Is Worth It After a Theft
Skipping a thorough cleaning after a theft recovery can have serious consequences, including:
Lingering health hazards from potential drug residue.
Unpleasant odors or stains that make the car uncomfortable to use.
A lack of confidence in the safety and cleanliness of your vehicle.
Investing in professional cleaning is a small price to pay for your health, safety, and peace of mind.
Trust Solon Collision for Post-Theft Vehicle Cleaning
At Solon Collision, we go beyond standard repair services to address every aspect of your vehicle’s recovery. Our deep-cleaning process is designed to eliminate risks and restore your car to a safe, like-new condition.
Don’t take chances with your health or safety. If your vehicle has been stolen and recovered, contact Solon Collision today to schedule a deep cleaning. Let us handle the mess so you can get back on the road with confidence.
Comments