What does a total loss mean?

Losing something is always scary. When the total cost of repairs exceeds the total value of your car, consider that totaled! Think of completely unfixable. Nothing can be done. With the rising cost of repairs, more and more vehicles are being totaled out. This actually does help the workload of all the body men. Don’t worry! This doesn’t mean the car cannot be repaired if it is of sentimental value. However, you will have to make that decision fairly quickly. Keep in mind, if you decide to keep the vehicle it might be very costly for you in repairs.

What happens to your totaled vehicle?

Where do I find my car? Once a car becomes totaled, it becomes the property of the insurance company. It will go on to a public auction or it will be sold to salvage yards. Many of these parts reappear on the market as remanufactured, refurbished, and/or re-inspected.

So the insurance company just told you that you have a totaled vehicle. Now what?

Accidents are unfortunate in themselves, but even more so once a vehicle is a total loss. When you are in an accident, record every detail whether it be in writing, photos, an exchange of insurance information, or a police report. Your insurance company will use this information to determine who is liable for the damage.

The insurance company process

Typically, a claims adjuster or the insurance company appraiser will monitor the process. Once they determine that the damages on your vehicle are far too extensive and more costly than the value of the car itself, it will be a totaled vehicle. We want to prepare you and to help understand what happens next. Here are a couple examples of common questions during an accident. So, hop in the passenger seat and buckle up as we help explain all the uncomfortable stuff!

 

Do I repair or replace my vehicle?

Following up, if you’re looking to save your vehicle due to some sentimental value, you must make your insurance company aware of your decision in the beginning. An insurance company will make a determination on the amount distributed for repairs based on the car’s value. The insurance company will reimburse you either for repairs, or replace the car completely. I think everyone prefers the later! There is also an option to purchase your vehicle back from the insurance company. You will need to re-register it under a salvage title. The down side to keeping your vehicle is that you may be investing more money into it than it’s worth. You can find out more information on this process on the DMV website.

What if the damage is only cosmetic?

Cosmetic damage is noticeable damage such as defect in a visual nature. This can be paint scratches, chips and dings on the body, a crack in the windshield, or even a scrap on the bumper.  These defects do not affect the functionality of the vehicle at all. With the rising cost of repairs, cosmetic damage can be just as expensive as body or frame damage. As long as the vehicle is still safe to drive, then you don’t have to get it repaired. You can even buy it back from the insurance company and pocket the difference! This is called the “actual cash value.” Every situation is different, so always ask questions!

Call Car Struction to learn about your options

We feel these are the major areas of concern for most of our customers during the time of an incident. If your vehicle is deemed a total loss and you’re looking to save it now, call Car Struction! We will review the extent of the damage. There are always plenty of options and we are here to find the best solution for you! 

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Winter driving presents unique challenges, so it’s crucial to take extra precautions to ensure your safety on the road. Follow these tips to prepare both yourself and your vehicle for icy and snowy conditions.

Assess Road Conditions and Drive Cautiously

Driving in snowy or icy conditions requires extra attention. Understand how your vehicle responds to ice and snow. If you notice cars swerving ahead, slow down and consider taking an alternate route. On highways or any road, double the usual distance between your vehicle and the one in front. Avoid speeding and stick to the right lane to minimize lane changes. This approach will enhance your control and reduce the risk of accidents.

Prep Your Vehicle for Winter Weather

Check Tires
Cold temperatures can reduce tire pressure, so regularly check and maintain the correct air levels. Make it a habit to inspect your tires each time you fuel up. Properly inflated tires are essential for traction and safety in winter conditions.

Inspect Windshield Wipers
Worn wiper blades can impair visibility. If your wipers leave streaks or fail to clear large areas, replace them. Investing in new blades, usually costing around $10, can significantly improve your visibility during snow and rain.

Test the Defroster
The defroster is crucial for maintaining visibility. Test it to ensure it’s working efficiently. If it’s not functioning properly, visit a repair shop. A well-working defroster is vital for safe driving in winter months.

Check Fluid Levels
Regularly monitor all your vehicle’s fluid levels. In winter, you’ll likely use more windshield washer fluid due to road salt and grime. Ensure your fluids are topped off to maintain vehicle performance and safety.

By following these steps, you can better prepare for winter driving and reduce the risks associated with harsh weather conditions. Stay safe on the roads this winter

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When looking for an auto repair shop, there are a few things to consider. But our biggest piece of advice is: find the perfect repair shop before you need it! It’s an important decision and you don’t want to make it under pressure. For most people the consideration doesn’t come until you’re on the side of the road calling your insurance company. Well we’re here to outline how to find a quality auto repair shop and what to look for. We hope that you’ll consider us.

There are also other ways that you can narrow down your search. Finally, remember to look for ASE certifications. Technicians are required to pass at least one specialty exam and fulfill two years of work experience to become ASE-certified. If they pass a range of exams, they earn Master Technician status. So, take a peek! What’s the harm. Repair shops expect this sort of thing. You won’t hurt their feelings by asking a few questions. Do the research and take your time choosing your auto repair shop. Because when you really need them, you’ll be happy you took the time.

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When you find yourself in an auto collision, the first thing you need to do is find an auto body repair shop. But, what are the concerns that come to mind when bringing your car in to be serviced? We’ve found that most customers have the same concerns. Here are the top 3:

1. Paint
The biggest concern our customers have when bringing their damaged vehicle in is paint matching. We use the latest painting systems as well as techniques to restore your paint job to the factory coat. We are able to find the specific color code for your original paint by using the car’s ID plate. Along with using the right techniques, we can achieve the perfect color match. We even have the ability and the experience to color match custom coats.

2. Drivability
If you’ve been in an auto collision, another major concern is “will my car or truck drive the same?” The answer is yes. We use the most advanced computerized alignment machines to restore your vehicle after suspension damage. We can even provide you with a printout of the alignment balance before and after the repair.

3. Frame damage
When involved in a major wreck, you most likely have severe damage to your frame. In the past, it was nearly impossible to restore your vehicle’s frame to pre-accident condition. However, with the advent of advanced alignment machines, we are able to push and pull your frame back to normal. So much so, that it can even exceed the original specifications from the auto manufacturer.

We hope to put our customer’s minds at ease regarding auto body repair. After undergoing a traumatizing accident, you hope that you and your car can move on from the experience. Car Struction has the tools and experience to get you and your vehicle back on the road.

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