Replacing a damaged or destroyed vehicle after an accident
Losing their car leaves many people unable to work
An auto accident turns your life upside-down.
You might find yourself scared and confused. You might have been hurt in the accident and unable to work.
You might find yourself without a car.
Even if the accident was the fault of the other drive, you might find yourself without your only source of transportation.
Not Having A Car Can Cost You Your Job
For many people, no car means no job.
Without reliable transportation to and from work, it can be difficult to maintain employment. And nobody likes to beg friends and family for a ride or rely on undependable public transportation.
So what can you do when you've lost your vehicle through no fault of your own?
Property Damage Insurance
Your auto insurance policy could solve the problem.
Depending on your level of coverage, your insurance company might repair your vehicle or replace it completely. This kind of coverage is commonly called collision coverage.
In the event you did not purchase collision coverage, Kentucky law requires drivers to carry a state minimum of $10,000 to cover property liability damage, which may or may not cover the full cost of your vehicle.
Total Loss
Sometimes, it makes sense to have a vehicle repaired. Other times, the damage is so great that it needs to be replaced entirely.
As a general rule, a vehicle will be deemed a "total loss" when the cost of repair is more than 80 percent of the value of the vehicle.
Many people would prefer to have a new car and vehicle replacement means not having to wait for parts and time-consuming labor.
Low-ball offers
Drivers often receive an offer for their vehicle that represents less than the actual value of the vehicle.
This is where it pays to research your car's value. Investigate your local classified section, auto trader publication and internet listings for pricing information.
Pay close attention to the condition of the vehicles for sale, as well as the year and any optional upgrades or after-market improvements. All of these factors can affect the value.
Bear in mind that the insurance company will give more weight to pricing in and your geographic location.
Rental Car Coverage
If you're stuck without a vehicle, you should be able to obtain a rental car.
Assuming that the vehicle is un-drivable following the accident, the other driver's insurance company should provide a rental vehicle. If you've purchased rental insurance, this might be paid under your own policy.
Remember that they are required to provide a vehicle of similar size. So if you're used to driving a pickup, don't let them stick you in a sub-compact.
Questions on property damage?
If you've been involved in an accident, contact the law office of Dallas & Turner. Our attorneys will evaluate your case and determine the best course of action to help you earn the maximum recovery.
To speak to a Dallas & Turner PLLC attorney immediately, please dial 859-630-0666. You can also write to us by using our free contact form.
Our clients come first, no exceptions. We look forward to working for you.
James Ryan Turner, Experienced Injury Lawyer in Florence, KY
"Being in an accident is stressful, especially when it leaves you without a vehicle. If you'd like to talk to an experienced car accident attorney about your specific case, give us a call today to schedule a free consultation."