Car accidents are terrifying, deadly scenes that can leave victims and family members traumatized and permanently affected. Accidents can also destroy vehicles and leave families with little money to replace them or pay medical bills.
If an accident totals your vehicle and you can’t afford to make repairs or replacements, it’s wise to research what options are available to you. This guide will provide some cost-effective solutions to vehicle replacement.
Lease a Car
If you don’t care about having equity in a new vehicle, leasing a car may provide lower monthly payments, as you’re not buying the entire vehicle. You typically only pay rental fees and depreciation costs. While it’s not free, it can be an option if you have some room in your budget.
Buy Used
Used cars are significantly cheaper than new cars. Even buying a car a few years older can make a massive difference in price—sometimes by thousands of dollars. Used cars can also be incredibly reliable and last as long as a new car when adequately cared for.
Get Multiple Repair Quotes
If you want to repair your vehicle, don’t settle for the first option you find (unless your insurance limits you). Shop around for multiple quotes, especially with local mechanics. They may be able to cut you a deal and get your car running for a decent price.
Look for Financial Assistance
Charity programs or local governments may provide grants to certain low-income individuals to help them afford a car. Lower-income groups like single parents or people with disabilities can qualify for free cars or grants to go toward the purchase price of a vehicle. You may be eligible for a grant if you fall under certain categories. Check with your local government or charities to see what you can receive.
Consult With an Attorney
Suppose your accident was due to the negligence of a car company or other parties. In that case, you may recover costs by pursuing litigation, allowing you to repair or replace your car. You’ll need an attorney for this; they must practice law in the same state as your accident, which may differ from where you live. Attorneys can also help you navigate filing insurance claims and handling denied claims when applicable. While there is no guarantee you will win a settlement, if you do win, how much you can receive depends on local accident and insurance laws. Below are some examples of how determining fault can differ depending on location.
Tennessee
Tennessee is a ‘fault’ state, meaning that the responsible party pays for medical or repair bills due to the accident. Cities like Nashville and surrounding areas such as Murfreesboro and Clarksville have seen a recent uptick in car accidents in recent years. By hiring a Nashville or Clarksville car accident lawyer, they can help prove in court that you are at less than 50% fault, which can help you win financial awards. In Tennessee, you must be below 50% fault to receive awards.
Florida
Not too far from Tennessee is the state of Florida, which is one of the ‘no-fault’ states. Instead of the responsible party paying for medical fees and repairs, each party files with their own insurance. Florida car accidents are prevalent due to tourism and congested roads such as Orlando’s I-4 or I-95. To pursue litigation here, an attorney will help you navigate legal proceedings to determine fault. Both insurance companies work together to determine fault.
North Carolina
North Carolina is another example of an at-fault state for car accidents. Here, a rule applies called contributory negligence, which can limit the awards you win if it can be proven in court that you had partial responsibility for causing your injuries, such as not wearing a seatbelt. Working with an attorney can help mitigate your fault within the law.
Check With Your Insurance
Your car insurance benefits may provide a free or discounted car in case of accidents, including a rental car during repairs. If you weren’t the negligent party, your car insurance should be able to repair or replace your vehicle or at least provide a healthy discount. An attorney can help you appeal your insurance claim if you’re denied.
Consider a Loan
If you have the budget to pay monthly loan payments, you can take out a loan to repair or replace your car. Be sure to shop around for the most competitive interest rate if you go this route. You can lose your car if you can’t make the payments, so don’t rush into a loan if you can’t afford it.
Conclusion
Car accidents can ruin lives in many different ways. If an accident renders your vehicle undrivable, litigation or insurance may be able to cover the costs. If not, you can consider leasing a car or buying used for lower monthly payments. Specific charities or governments can provide low-cost or free cars for those in need. If you go the repair route, obtain multiple quotes for the best prices.
