The outcome of an auto wreck can depend on many factors, such as weather conditions, speed, and location. Sometimes, you can drive away with nothing but a scratch or small dent. In more serious cases, your vehicle could be totaled. If your car is a total loss, you may assume you’ve nothing left but a junk car. However, although your vehicle may not be drivable, you can minimize your losses. Here are a few pointers about handling a totaled car.

When Is a Car Totaled?

“Totaled” is a term used by auto insurance companies when a car is severely damaged in an accident. In general, a car is deemed a total loss if the cost to repair the engine and the auto body exceeds the car’s value. In these cases, when the repairs exceed what the car is worth, an insurer will likely offer you the value of the vehicle as a settlement.

What Can You Do With a Totaled Car?

File an Insurance Claim

If someone else caused the accident or your auto policy includes collision coverage, you can file an insurance claim for compensation. Insurers will pay out an amount up to a limit as dictated by policy terms, such as how much the vehicle was worth before the accident.

Depending on the provider, an insurance company may tow your totaled vehicle away.

Donate

If you end up keeping your totaled car, you may opt to donate it to a local charity. If so, document the exchange for tax purposes. Although donation has its benefits, it’s worth noting that nonprofits with limited resources may not arrange a tow.  

Scrap

If you want to get some cash for a junk car, consider selling it to a salvage yard. They take possession of junk cars to recycle parts and resell scrap metal for a profit, giving you an amount that reflects the fair market value of reclaimed metals and parts.

Trading your junk car for cash has never been easier, thanks to Phipps Auto Parts. With one call, this Goshen, OH, salvage yard will safely tow your totaled vehicle away for free and provide competitive rates in exchange for your salvaged property. They simplify the junking process and take care to recycle all components properly to minimize environmental impact. To learn more about their recycling services, visit them online. If you need to arrange a quick and convenient tow, call (513) 722-2034.