Auto body repair & detailing: What to do to make sure a cars safe after rear impact?, 2001 chevy prizm, chevy prizm

Question
Hello,

I have a 2001 Chevy Prizm which was rear-ended by a pickup truck.  Visible damage includes broken light covers, broken bumper styrofoam, crumpled license plate, and slightly dented and misaligned trunk lid.  The car seems to handle
as well as before.

If a visual check shows the energy absorbing joint in the frame has not collapsed, do we need
a detailed inspection for frame or wheel mis-alignment?  Is there a way to tell if the frame collapsible joint has lost some of its ability to absorb energy in a future impact?  Anything else we should do to check for future safety?
Many thanks for being available to answer queries.

Rustom  

Answer
Hello Rustom,
  Check the door gaps for the rear door to the quarter panel on both sides to see if they are uniform.  There should be a 3/16th to 1/4 inch uniform gap.  
  Check the quarter panels for any bulging or dents.
Check the trunck alignment.  Should have the same uniform gap all the way around.  If all these seem good and
  as long as the bumper cover meets the impact bar properly the ends are most likely ok.
Best Wishes nad Happy New Year.
Thank you,
Mike and Lisa