What to Do When Your Car Is Totaled but Still Drivable

## Understanding a Totaled Car A car is typically declared "totaled" when the cost of repairs exceeds a certain percentage of its value, as determined by insurance companies. This threshold varies by state and insurer, usually ranging from 60% to 80% of the vehicle's actual cash value (ACV). ## Immediate Steps to Take ### 1. Assess the Damage Have a qualified mechanic perform a thorough inspection focusing on: - **Structural Integrity**: Check for frame damage - **Mechanical Functionality**: Engine, brakes, and critical systems - **Safety Features**: Airbags, seatbelts, and lights - **Alignment and suspension** - **Electrical systems** You can find certified mechanics through the [National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE)](https://ase.com/). ### 2. Contact Your Insurance Company Notify your insurance company about the accident and provide: - Photos of the damage - Police report - Other relevant documentation Visit the [National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC)](https://content.naic.org/) website for more information on the claims process. ## Understanding Your Options When your car is declared a total loss, you typically have several choices: 1. **Accept the Settlement**: Receive the car's ACV and surrender the vehicle 2. **Keep the Vehicle**: Accept a reduced settlement minus salvage value 3. **Sell the Vehicle**: Options include: - Salvage yards - Private buyers - Websites like [Copart](https://www.copart.com/) or [IAA](https://www.iaai.com/) 4. **Donate the Car**: Consider donating to charity through [Charity Navigator](https://www.charitynavigator.org/) ## Legal Considerations Before continuing to drive a totaled vehicle: 1. Obtain a salvage title from your state's DMV 2. Complete required inspections and certifications 3. Secure proper insurance coverage 4. Check local regulations > Note: Laws regarding salvage titles and rebuilt vehicles vary significantly by state. Check your state's [Department of Motor Vehicles](https://www.usa.gov/state-motor-vehicle-services) website for specific requirements. ## Financial Implications ### Pros of Keeping a Drivable Totaled Car * Lower immediate expenses * No immediate need for replacement * Flexible repair timeline ### Cons of Keeping a Drivable Totaled Car * Limited insurance coverage options * Reduced resale value * Potential safety concerns * Higher maintenance costs ## Insurance Implications If you decide to keep driving your totaled car: * Comprehensive coverage may be unavailable * Liability insurance might be your only option * Insurance premiums could increase * Future claims may be complicated ## Steps for Keeping the Vehicle 1. Request a salvage title 2. Complete required inspections 3. Document all repairs 4. Secure appropriate insurance 5. Maintain detailed service records --- For more information about vehicle safety, visit the [National Highway Traffic Safety Administration](https://www.nhtsa.gov/) website. Always prioritize safety and consult professionals when necessary to ensure your vehicle remains roadworthy.

What to Do When Your Car Is Totaled but Still Drivable

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