What Happens When Your Car Is Totaled But Still Drivable

“What happens when your car is totaled but still drivable” is a common question after an accident. In resume, no, you cannot drive a totaled car in Nevada until it has been rebuilt and inspected. A vehicle is considered totaled when the cost of repairs exceeds its market value. In Nevada, such vehicles are categorized as “salvage vehicles” and issued a distinct orange salvage title, signaling that the automobile is no longer fit for regular driving on public roads. However, after a thorough inspection and necessary repairs, it can be reclassified as a “rebuilt vehicle.”

At Cloward Trial Lawyers, we recognize the stress of handling legal and insurance issues after your car is totaled. Here’s vital information to assist you in navigating the following steps if your vehicle is still drivable in Las Vegas.

Injured in an Accident in Las Vegas?

message us call us now

What Is a “Salvage Vehicle”?

A salvage vehicle is a car that has been damaged to the point where the cost to repair it exceeds its value. This can happen due to accidents, natural disasters, or other damaging incidents. Understanding the different classifications of salvage vehicles is fundamental, especially if you’re considering repairing or keeping your totaled car.

Salvage Title

A car is issued a salvage title when it is considered a total loss by an insurance company. Once the title is assigned, you can legally drive or register the vehicle on public roads in Nevada once it has been repaired and inspected. According to the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), a salvage vehicle must undergo this process to ensure its safe use (Nevada DMV – Salvage Vehicles).

Rebuilt Vehicle

After repairs are completed, it can be reclassified as a rebuilt vehicle. Once the car passes inspection and is deemed roadworthy, it can be registered, insured, and sold. It’s crucial to know that even after repairs, the car will retain a permanent history of being a salvage vehicle, which may impact its resale value. Potential buyers and insurance companies often consider this history cautiously (Salvage Title).

Non-Repairable Vehicles

In some cases, the damage to a car is so severe that it’s classified as a non-repairable vehicle. These cars are issued a certificate stating they cannot legally be restored to working condition. Once deemed non-repairable, these cars are typically sold for parts or scrap and can never be driven again (Salvage).

What Are Nevada’s Laws on Salvage Vehicles?

Nevada has specific regulations governing the handling of salvage vehicles. Whether you keep the car or have it repaired and reclassified, following the state’s laws is essential to avoid fines or legal complications.

Keeping the Car

Nevada law allows you to keep your totaled car, but several steps must be followed. If you decide to retain ownership:

• You should notify the insurance company that you intend to keep the car instead of accepting the payout for a total loss.
• Buy back the title from the insurance company. They will typically take ownership of the vehicle after declaring it a total loss.
• Before it can be driven again, the car must be inspected by a licensed Nevada garage or body shop to ensure that it meets state safety standards (Nevada Public Law—NRS 487.480).

Repair Costs

If you keep the car, you are fully responsible for all repair costs. Insurance companies will not cover additional repair work once they’ve declared it totaled and paid out the claim. This can make retaining the vehicle financially burdensome, especially if repair estimates are high.

License Plates

Once your car is deemed a total loss, you must remove the license plates. Nevada law requires that plates be either transferred to another vehicle or surrendered to the DMV. Failing to comply with this requirement can result in fines or penalties, so it’s important to act quickly (DMV.org—Salvage Vehicles).

Injured in an Accident in Las Vegas?

message us call us now

Consumer Tips After a Crash

Experiencing an accident can be stressful, and understanding what steps to take afterward can make the process smoother, especially if your car is totaled but still drivable. Below are some practical tips to help you handle the situation efficiently:

1. Don’t Drive Until Inspected
   Driving a totaled car before inspection is dangerous and illegal in Nevada.
2. Document the Damage
   Take photos of all damage for insurance claims or potential resale.
3. Consult a Lawyer
   Legal guidance can protect your rights in complex insurance claims. Cloward Trial Lawyers can assist with these cases.
4. Consider Resale Value
   Rebuilt cars often have lower resale value due to their salvage history.
5. Check Insurance Coverage
   Confirm your insurance’s stance on covering salvage or rebuilt vehicles before making decisions.

Get the Support You Need After a Totaled Car: Contact Cloward Trial Lawyers Today!

Dealing with legal or insurance challenges after your car has been totaled can feel daunting, but you don’t have to handle it alone. Reach out to a Car Accident attorney at Cloward Trial Lawyers and let our skilled team guide you through your options while safeguarding your rights.

Contact us today to start moving toward a resolution! Call or text us at 702-605-5000 or schedule a free consultation here.