Learn What Happens to Your Car After an Accident

Each year in the United States, there are, on average, two million car accidents. These vary in severity, from those that cause mere scratches to ones that lead to deaths and totaled cars. But what happens to your car after an accident?

If you have been involved in a severe car accident that resulted in serious injuries or the loss of your car, getting help from a personal injury lawyer can make a difference in the compensation you may receive. Learn more about what happens to your car and what your next steps should be.

What Typically Happens to a Car That Has Been Totaled in an Accident?

The first thing to know is what determines whether a car gets totaled. Insurance companies define a totaled car as one that has sustained damages that will cost more to repair than the car is worth. Most insurance policies will pay the lesser of two amounts: the cost to repair the vehicle to the condition it was in before the crash or the cash value of the car.

In Rhode Island, insurance companies declare a total loss if the necessary repairs are more than 75% of the car’s actual value. Insurance companies will determine the value of your car by considering the vehicle’s market value in the condition it was in before the accident.

Even if the car has been totaled, you can keep the vehicle and change the title to a salvage title. This is not the best option for most people because the car will still need repairs, and getting it insured in the future can be difficult.

If you’ve been in a car accident that resulted in a totaled car, you will need to get your car towed to an auto shop right after the accident occurs. Your next step should always be to turn to a car accident lawyer and file a claim as soon as possible. They will help you inform your insurer about the accident and ensure that you receive a fair settlement.

What Happens When You’re Seriously Injured and Taken Away From the Scene for Medical Care?

If you’ve been in a severe car accident and have suffered injuries as a result, it’s crucial that you accept all medical treatment. Not only does this make sure that you are getting the care you need, but there will also be documentation for when you file your personal injury claim.

If you’ve received a serious can accident injury, you need to reach out to a lawyer for help. They will be better able to represent you and deal with insurance companies.

How Lawyers Can Fight for Compensation for Your Injuries and Damaged Property After a Severe Accident

A car accident injury lawyer will be able to help you get a fair value for your car if it’s a total loss. Insurance companies are known for settling for the lowest values without considering all of the factors at play in the case. With a lawyer helping you, you might also be able to get the finances you need to rent a car until you’re able to replace the lost one.

In addition, a personal injury lawyer can dispute the total loss payout. This is particularly important if you are unable to find a similar vehicle to replace the one you lost. You have the right to turn to what’s called the Right of Recourse.

Personal injury lawyers offer the chance to get compensation for the injuries you suffered. The damages you may be able to receive include coverage for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and much more.

FAQs

What Happens After an Accident That Wasn’t Your Fault?

If you were in an accident that wasn’t your fault, you can file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. Liability insurance can cover many of the key expenses, including medical bills, lost income, and car repairs.

If the at-fault driver wasn’t insured or was underinsured, you may be allowed to file a claim with your own insurance company if you have uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage. This type of coverage can also protect you in case of a hit and run.

What Type of Damages Can You Claim?

Each case is unique. When you hire a personal injury lawyer to help you, they will be able to assess everything from the kind of damage your car and other property sustained to the type of injuries you experienced.

They will work with insurance companies to see what compensation you can receive. In many instances, people can claim property damage, coverage of medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If there was gross negligence involved in the accident, getting punitive damages may be an option as well.

What Happens to Your Car After an Accident That Resulted in Total Loss?

If the insurance company declares your car to be totaled, they will offer the value of the car as it was before the accident. If you are unable to get a similar car to replace the one you lost, you have rights in the state of Rhode Island. That is why turning to car accident lawyers is so important. Sands Law may be able to help.

Sands Law: Helping You Get the Compensation You Deserve

If you’ve been in a car accident that damaged your car severely enough to have it declared a total loss, you need to contact a personal injury lawyer who can help you get the compensation you deserve. Contact Sands Law today to learn more about your legal options.