You were involved in a collision. Quite a serious one, too. You can check if you are showing any injury symptoms as you shakily exit your automobile. Gladly, your physique looks to be in good shape. You realise your car has suffered significant damage as you walk back towards it.
When Does a Car Become ‘Totalled’?
A vehicle is declared a complete loss when “the total cost of damage approaches or exceeds the worth of the vehicle”.
An automobile is deemed totalled by your insurance carrier when the repair cost exceeds its estimated value. They determine the car’s worth, salvageable value and repair cost. The vehicle will be deemed if the repair cost exceeds its worth. Older automobiles are, therefore, more frequently regarded as totalled. High mileage or previous minor damage on a vehicle increases the likelihood that it will be declared totalled.
Typical Indicators Your Car Has Been Totalled After such an Accident
Although you won’t know whether your automobile is totalled until your insurance provider has had time to assess your vehicle’s worth and repair costs, you can recognise frequent symptoms.
It is not safe to drive –
- Is your car still drivable? If not, that is the first and most telling indication that it may be totalled. Consider the following factors when deciding if your car is safe to drive:
- Does the vehicle start and continue to run?
- Are there any warped or bent pieces on the interior or exterior?
- Is there anything in your way? This entails scanning the windscreen as well as any available mirrors.
- Are there any distinct or overpowering smells coming from the car?
There are Fluid Leaks –
Next, it might be deemed totalled if your car leaks a sizeable fluid volume. Given that some fluids are much more crucial than others, this indicator is more complicated than the preceding one. Generally speaking, your car uses 8 necessary fluids to function properly:
- Fluid for power steering
- Fluid for windscreen washers
- Braking liquid
- transaxle fluid
- Radiator coolant
- motor oil
- Coolant
- Antifreeze
Your automobile is more likely to be written off by your insurance provider if it is dripping particular fluids, like gearbox fluid and engine oil. However, remember that leaking fluid from your car won’t immediately indicate whether it is totalled.
For flawless car body repairs in Motherwell, approach Devine Vehicle Solutions Ltd. Here, you can get premium quality car repair services. Get in touch with us to know more about our company and services.