Car accidents can be a frightening experience. Even if no one is hurt, the stress can take a toll, and there are other consequences that you may have to deal with. Your car being written off is something that we all dread.
If you are involved in an accident, the next logical step would be to contact your car insurance provider.
Contact the Innocent Driver first. Our service is free to you, and we can make sure that you avoid any additional stress. We’re an accident management company, and we claim directly from the other driver’s insurer.
At Innocent Driver®, once we accept your claim you won’t have to pay your excess, your repairs are guaranteed, you should keep your no claims bonus, and we can even give you a replacement vehicle similar to your own while yours is being assessed.
The insurance company will either advise how much they will pay you for the repairs or tell you that your car is a write-off.
But what exactly is a write-off, and what does it mean for you?
Let’s start from the beginning!
What Is A Write Off?
A write off (sometimes called a “total loss”) is when an insurance company decides that they will not pay for your vehicle’s repairs. The reason for this is that they deem that the repairs are not economical. Basically, it is not worth the time, effort and cost to repair. Instead, you will be paid a settlement amount which is the equivalent to the value of the vehicle before the accident.
The value is determined by the pre-accident condition and should allow you to purchase a like for like replacement.
Every insurance company sets its own rules regarding what is ‘economical’ and not considered worth repairing.
Write-offs can also occur when damage to your car that doesn’t involve a collision, for example; flooding, theft or fire damage.
There Are Different Types Of Write Off…
It would be easy to assume that a write off was the final assessment. Actually, there are different types of write off, separated into categories;
Category A
A vehicle that is only fit for scrap. All parts will be destroyed.
Category B
A vehicle with a significantly damaged body. The body of the car will be destroyed; however, some parts may be salvaged.
Category S
A vehicle with structural damage that is repairable. It would not be safe to drive until significant repairs were carried out.
Category N
This category refers to structurally sound vehicles. They may require cosmetic, electrical or other non-structural repairs. The car is not likely to be drivable, and repairs may include important car parts such as brakes or steering wheels.
What If I Want My Car Back?
It may be the case that you do not want to part with your car. Perhaps your vehicle is of sentimental value.
In such cases, you may be able to agree on a settlement that takes the salvage value into account. If you come to an agreement, you will be responsible for arranging your own repairs.
Innocent Drivers are experts in insurance negotiation. Contact us directly after your accident to make sure that you are guaranteed to get the best outcome.
Finally, Tell the DVLA
If your car is written off, you should follow the same procedure you would if your car was sold and report the transaction to the DVLA. It’s essential to report, failure to do so can result in a £1000 fine. The process is straightforward and can be completed online, click here to find out more.
If you have been involved in an accident, don’t panic, contact the Innocent Driver and we will do our best to guarantee you the best possible outcome!