What does a total loss mean?
A vehicle may be assessed as a total loss when repair is unsafe or uneconomic. The assessment, proposed settlement and any salvage arrangements should be explained before you make a decision. Tell us whether an engineer has inspected the vehicle and whether you have received a written offer.
Pre-accident market value: the evidence that matters
A market-value assessment considers the vehicle immediately before the accident. Keep its exact model and trim, registration year, mileage, condition, service history and relevant equipment available. Photographs, maintenance records and adverts for genuinely comparable vehicles can help explain its specification and condition.
The Financial Ombudsman Service’s guidance on motor insurance valuations describes how valuation guides and other evidence are considered in complaints about a person’s own insurer. That guidance is useful background; it does not determine the outcome of every third-party claim. Read the Ombudsman’s valuation guidance.
If you disagree with a write-off offer
- Ask for the valuation and any proposed deductions in writing.
- Check the model, trim, mileage and condition used in the assessment.
- Keep comparable adverts and evidence of relevant vehicle features.
- Tell us about finance, ownership, earlier offers or agreements before accepting arrangements.
We review the claim circumstances and supporting evidence with you. A trade valuation comparison in one case does not mean every settlement will exceed a particular guide or offer.
Replacement transport while the claim progresses
Explain why you need a vehicle, what your damaged vehicle was used for and any suitable alternatives you have. We assess replacement hire subject to status, need, suitability, availability and agreement terms. Hire duration and return arrangements must remain appropriate as the claim progresses.
Explore replacement vehicle hire after an accident, dual control replacements for driving instructors and commercial vehicle accident support.
Real total-loss claims
- East Kilbride instructor: £5,165 settlement compared with a £3,874 trade valuation — a difference of £1,291.
- Kilmarnock car claim: the client’s market-value settlement.
These are individual client outcomes. Valuations, recovery times and replacement arrangements depend on the circumstances and evidence for each claim.
Total-loss claim questions
Does a write-off mean I automatically get a new car?
No. Settlement depends on the applicable claim arrangements, ownership and evidence. A replacement hire vehicle is separate from the financial settlement for your damaged vehicle.
Can I keep the damaged vehicle?
Tell us before agreeing any settlement or disposal if you wish to discuss retaining it. Ownership, finance, salvage terms, deductions and whether it can lawfully and safely return to the road all need consideration. Retention is not automatic.
Can a driving instructor ask for help with a written-off tuition car?
Yes. Include the vehicle specification, dual control equipment, teaching commitments and any replacement requirements. We assess both the vehicle claim and proposed transport arrangements.
Discuss your non-fault total-loss claim
Send your contact number, registration, accident details, vehicle location and any valuation or engineer assessment you have received. No policy excess is payable to Dash Claims on accepted non-fault claims. Notify your insurer even if you do not intend to claim under your own policy.