What is a Total Loss?
A total loss (or “write-off”) is when your vehicle is too damaged to repair safely or cost-effectively. This usually means: The repair cost is close to, or more than, the vehicle’s value, or The damage is too severe to make the vehicle safe again Instead of repairing your vehicle, you’ll usually receive a payment based on its value before the accident.
What does total loss category mean?
There are four codes for salvage category as per the ABI code of practice these are i. A = Scrap (This vehicle is deemed not suitable to be repaired. Must be crushed without any parts being removed. This vehicle will be classed as waste) ii. B – Break (The vehicle is deemed not suitable to be repaired. Usable parts can be recycled. This vehicle will be classed as waste) iii. S – Repairable Structural repairable (Repairable vehicle which has sustained damage to any part of the structural frame or chassis and the insurer/ self-insured owner has decided not to repair the vehicle) iv. N = Repairable Non-Structural repairable (Repairable vehicle which has not sustained damage to the structural frame or chassis and the insurer/ self-insured owner has decided not to repair the vehicle)
What do I need to do with the V5 Log book?
If your vehicle is written off, you will need to update the DVLA. You can either: Send your V5 log book to: One Call Claims, First Point, Balby Carr Bank, Doncaster, DN4 5JQ, or Update your vehicle status online via the DVLA: https://www.gov.uk/sold-bought-vehicle
I wish to retain my private registration plate
If your vehicle is a total loss and you are not keeping it, you’ll need to transfer your private plate to retention with the DVLA. You can do this here: https://www.gov.uk/personalised-vehicle-registration-numbers/take-private-number-off
I wish to retain my vehicle
Yes, in some cases you can keep your vehicle. Please let us know as soon as possible if you would like to do this. We will arrange for an engineer to confirm the settlement value. Your payment will be reduced to reflect that you are keeping the vehicle. Please note: You must tell any future buyer or insurer that the vehicle was previously written off, including its category.
How is the value of my vehicle calculated?
Our engineers assess your vehicle and calculate its pre-accident value using: Specialist valuation tools Current market prices for similar vehicles They will consider factors such as: Make and model Age and mileage Condition before the accident
What is GAP insurance?
GAP (Guaranteed Asset Protection) insurance is separate from your motor insurance. It helps cover the difference between: What your insurer pays out, and What you originally paid for the car or still owe on finance Example: If you bought a car for £20,000 and it’s written off later, your insurer may pay its current value (e.g. £14,000). GAP insurance could cover the £6,000 difference. It’s commonly taken out on newer vehicles, which can lose value quickly. GAP insurance is not included in standard motor insurance and is usually bought separately.