Junked Car

fulltitle · #1 09-18-2005, 11:36 AM

WITHOUT PREJUDICE
Someone I know had their car involved in an 'accident'. They car wound up being 'totalled' and 'junked' even though its totally 100% functional and structurally sound [someone side swiped it and cause some cosmetic damage]. The damage wasnt that bad but the cost to repair was likely expensive only because of the nature of the cosmetic work and hte cost of the panels. But the damage wasnt that bad at all. But the result was that the girl couldnt title the car. The car was considered totaled.

Keep in mind that she was told that she cant 'drive' the car and the state wont issue her a certificate of title until she gets the repairs done. But again the repairs have nothing to do with the safety of the automobile. The insurance company just went nuts on the adjustment--its as if they were trying to force her to get another car and take out a note really. She had just finished paying it!

She was 'pulled over' recently because the 'sticker' evidenced that the plates were expired. The cop then ran her plates. The cop didnt write her a ticket. He claimed that he forgot his ticket book (maybe he did) and that he'd otherwise write her a ticket and that she should otherwise get that taken care of.

Livefire · #2 09-18-2005, 11:51 AM

Maybe they should write "JUNKED" on the title and send it back in and run a home made plate like Raptor13x has on his ride. A sticker stating Private Property, Not for Hire would be good as well. As long as the vehicle is covered by some private bond or insurance policy to cover the fiscal responsibility, shouldnt be a problem.

scottinalaska · #3 09-19-2005, 12:31 AM

FT,

What state (I know, state of stupidity) is this in? In California, I believe you just have to have a brake and light inspection after a total. Here in Alaska, well, you just drive her until she drops or hits a moose. Then try and start it again be glad you ducked!
scott

macerico · #4 09-20-2005, 01:15 AM

In most any state, the insurance company must allow you to keep the vehicle.

If it's worth 2,000, they can offer you 1,500 in exchange for a "salvage title" which pretty much means you won't have an easy time selling it to someone else, but you can keep it.

Some state laws may differ. So long as a mechanic can certifiy it mechanically sound for the road, it can be driven legally.