Car written off after a non-fault accident
Get a fair settlement for your car, and keep moving while it's sorted.
If your car is written off in an accident that wasn't your fault, the at-fault driver's insurer should pay its pre-accident market value, plus losses such as recovery, storage and a replacement vehicle for a reasonable period. You don't have to accept the first valuation you're offered.
Written by Jack Scott · Reviewed by [SOLICITOR NAME], NJS Law · Last reviewed [DATE]
What do the write-off categories mean?
Written-off vehicles are put into one of four categories, depending on how badly they're damaged.
Scrap only
The whole vehicle must be crushed.
Can't go back on the roadBreak for parts
The body shell must be crushed, but some parts can be salvaged.
Can't go back on the roadStructural damage
Damage to the chassis or crumple zones that can be repaired.
Can return once properly repairedNon-structural damage
Cosmetic or electrical damage that can be repaired.
Can return once repairedWhat you need to know about total loss claims
The key points if your car is written off.
Pre-accident value
You're entitled to what a similar car, same age, mileage and condition, would have cost just before the accident.
Challenge a low offer
You don't have to accept the first figure. Adverts for similar cars, receipts and service history all help.
Keeping your car
If it's Cat S or N you may be able to keep it, with the salvage value deducted from your settlement.
Car on finance?
The settlement usually goes to the finance company first. GAP insurance may cover any shortfall.
Personalised plate
Apply to the DVLA to take it off the car before the car goes to salvage.
A car until it's settled
A comparable replacement may be provided until a reasonable time after a fair settlement offer.
Courtesy car & credit hire →How a total loss claim works
From inspection to settlement, here's what happens.
- 01
Inspection
An engineer inspects your car and confirms it's a total loss.
- 02
Valuation
The pre-accident market value is worked out from similar cars.
- 03
Negotiation
We check the valuation and challenge it with evidence if it's too low.
- 04
Settlement
You're paid the agreed value, plus your other losses.
Write-off FAQs
How long does a write-off settlement take?
It depends on how quickly the other insurer accepts liability and agrees the valuation. Straightforward claims can settle within a few weeks, while disputed valuations can take longer.
Can I claim for things that were in the car?
Yes. Personal belongings damaged in the accident, such as a child seat, phone or tools, can usually be claimed as part of your losses. Keep receipts or photos if you have them.
Do I still have to pay my excess?
If you claim from the at-fault driver's insurer rather than through your own policy, you shouldn't normally need to pay your excess.
Should I replace my child car seat after an accident?
Most manufacturers recommend replacing a child car seat that was in a vehicle during an accident, and the cost can usually be included in your claim.
What happens to my car after it's written off?
Once the settlement is agreed, the car usually goes to a salvage company, unless it's Category S or N and you've chosen to keep it.
Get a fair settlement for your written-off car
Tell us what happened and we'll explain what you may be able to recover.
Every claim is different. Repairs and replacement vehicles are provided by independent companies we work with, and we'll tell you about any arrangement with them before you agree to anything.