What if Your Car Is Totaled But Still Drivable?

If your car is totaled but still drivable, you may be able to keep it and continue to use it, but several factors must be considered. Dealing with such a situation can be difficult, but the good news is that an experienced Atlanta car accident lawyer can provide the information and resources you need.

An attorney can educate you on the factors that go into determining that a car is totaled and help you understand the hurdles you must go through to keep a car that is totaled but still drivable. Let’s take a closer look at what you should do if your car is considered a total loss by the insurance company but is still functioning enough to drive.

How Do Insurers Determine if a Car Is Totaled?

Auto insurance companies determine whether a car is totaled by calculating something known as the total loss value. This Involves comparing the value of your vehicle before the crash to the cost of the repairs it would take to make the car drivable again. If the cost of repairs exceeds the value of the vehicle, insurers consider the vehicle totaled.

However, in some situations, a vehicle that has been declared totaled is still drivable. If this has happened to you, you may want to consult a legal representative and learn more about how to handle this unique situation.

A lawyer can answer any questions you have and help you with ongoing insurance claims. It’s important to understand that insurers may not always have your best interests at heart, so it’s best to play it safe and consult with an attorney before accepting a settlement from the insurance provider.

Keeping a Car That Is Totaled by Still Drivable

If you have a sentimental attachment to a totaled car or want to keep it for other reasons, there are a few steps you’ll have to go through. The first is to reach out to your insurance provider and find out if you must obtain a salvage title in order to keep the vehicle.

A salvage title is a document that designates your car as a total loss that the insurance company paid a claim for. While obtaining this title will allow you to keep the vehicle, it can be helpful to consider whether holding onto the totaled car is a wise choice in the first place. 

Things to Consider Before Deciding to Keep a Totaled Car

If you are keeping a car that is totaled but still drivable because you intend to resell it, you might want to reconsider. Potential buyers must be informed that the car was declared totaled. Therefore, buyers may think twice about purchasing your vehicle and may opt for a car that hasn’t been in a serious accident.

Another factor to consider when keeping a totaled car is whether or not you’ll be able to have it insured. If you plan on driving it, you’re legally required to purchase insurance for a vehicle. It’s important to understand that you may run into obstacles when trying to purchase insurance for a salvage title vehicle.

It’s also important to note that even though a totaled car is drivable, it doesn’t mean it’s safe to operate. If you want to keep a totaled car as a form of transportation, you’ll want to have it looked over closely by an experienced mechanic. A professional can make sure there aren’t any issues that could put you and others in harm’s way.

Getting Your Fair Share From the Insurance Company After an Accident

If your car was totaled but is still drivable, or if you’re unable to drive your vehicle, it’s important to get your fair share from the insurance company. Unfortunately, insurers are infamous for offering lowball settlements and employing dishonest tactics to avoid providing you with the payment you’re owed.

Fortunately, an experienced car accident lawyer can negotiate with insurers and get them to increase your settlement. Remember, never agree to a settlement offer without seeking guidance from an attorney. A legal representative can review the losses you’ve incurred and determine if the insurer’s offer is sufficient enough.

Schedule a Free Consultation With an Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer

At John Foy & Associates, our attorneys understand the emotional attachment you can have with a vehicle. We also know how difficult it is to give up a car that’s been totaled and find a new one. That’s why we’re here to provide the information and representation you need to navigate this confusing time.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a skilled attorney. They’ll meet with you to explain what happens if your car is totaled but still drivable. They can also help you with insurance claims and any other legal matters related to the accident that has totaled your vehicle.