No one can predict when a car crash will happen, which is why they are called accidents. Totaled cars sometimes result from these accidents. A car accident could occur because of human fault. Some other times, it could be non-human factors like bad roads, bad weather, animals running across the highways, or unforeseen natural occurrences.
Car accidents can be both financially and emotionally draining, regardless of who or what caused the collision. No matter how minimal, an auto crash has some implications when the car is totaled. Every skilled car accident lawyer knows as much.
Before you find out if or when you should call an Ohio car accident attorney, there is a need to understand what a totaled car means.
What Does ‘Totaled’ Mean in a Car Accident?
When you see the word ‘totaled’, what comes to mind? A mangled and badly damaged vehicle? A car so damaged that you can barely recognize it?
When a car gets totaled, it does not imply that the automobile is beyond repair. Neither does it mean that it will be impossible to fix the car.
A totaled car is one that would cost more to repair than to replace. In some states, a totaled vehicle means that the cost of repairs is higher than 75% of the car’s value.
Car owners find it hard to accept that their automobile has been totaled even after an accident. Some argue that the damage to the vehicle is not glaring. To determine whether a car is totaled or not is not about apparent damage only.
Insurance companies consider the financial implication of repair versus replacement of the car. It makes no economic sense to spend more repairing a vehicle when you can purchase another of similar value.
What To Expect From Your Insurance Company After Your Car Gets Totaled in an Accident?
Drivers who have sentimental attachments to their cars often refuse to replace them after getting totaled. They may opt for using body shops and use non-manufacturer parts to reduce the cost of repairs.
Insurance companies do not look at the expense of repairs alone. They also look at the estimated value of the vehicle. An independent appraiser determines the estimated value of the car.
The insurance company also factors in other costs like towing and storage. Insurers factor in expenses that may arise from a long and complicated repair. If the automobile is a rental, they will check the price.
Insurance companies will pay you the amount commensurate with your totaled car’s value after reaching an agreement with you. For instance, if your totaled vehicle was a truck with 12,000 mileage, the insurer will offer the proportional value. Car accidents are sometimes inevitable, but it will be financially unwise to hold onto a totaled vehicle.
How To Tell if Your Car Is Totaled After an Accident
The following are ways to know a totaled car after a car accident in Ohio:
- When it costs more to repair.
- Inability to drive the car because it won’t start.
- Parts of the vehicle obstruct the driver’s view or out of shape.
- When your automobile has extensive damage to the frame and is more than five years old.
- If your car is too old for any damage except it’s vintage.
- Your vehicle has a lot of mileage on it.
- Fluids are leaking from your automobile excessively.
- If your vehicle’s initial condition before the car accident is of low value based on Kelley’s Blue Book.
To determine the value of a totaled car, you use the total loss formula. The comprehensive loss formula calculates it as when the car’s actual cash value is less than the cost of repairs and salvage value.
What Do You Do When Your Car Gets Totaled in Ohio?
Ohio is an at-fault state. The driver that is at fault in a car accident pays for damages and repairs. You could file through your insurance company or that of the other driver(s) if you did not contribute to the occurrence in any way.
Finding out who is at fault will determine how much you can file for in damages. When you file for a total loss claim, the insurance company assesses your vehicle’s value and how much you can get.
Get an Ohio Car Accident Attorney To Help With Your Car Loss Claim
As mentioned earlier, car crashes can be traumatic and financially demanding. You do not have to pass through so many hurdles to get what is due you if your car is totaled. You will need expert advice and guidance from an Ohio car accident attorney to know the best actions to take. Schedule a free consultation with us today!
