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What is a written-off vehicle?
A written-off vehicle is a vehicle that has been deemed by an insurance company or other authority to be too damaged to be repaired or unsafe to repair. Written-off vehicles are typically recorded on the Written-Off Vehicle Register (WOVR).
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What is the Written-Off Vehicle Register (WOVR)?
The Written-Off Vehicle Register (WOVR) is a database of written-off vehicles in Australia. The WOVR is maintained by each state and territory's road transport authority. The purpose of the WOVR is to prevent written-off vehicles from being re-registered and put back on the road.
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Why are vehicles written off?
Vehicles are typically written off for one of two reasons:
The vehicle is too damaged to be repaired. This means that the cost of repairing the vehicle would exceed the vehicle's value.
The vehicle is unsafe to repair. This means that repairing the vehicle would not make it safe to drive.
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What are the different types of written-off vehicles?
There are two main types of written-off vehicles:
Statutory write-offs: These are vehicles that are deemed to be unsafe to repair. Statutory write-offs cannot be re-registered in any state or territory.
Repairable write-offs: These are vehicles that are damaged but can be repaired safely. Repairable write-offs may be able to be re-registered in some states and territories, but they will typically need to undergo a WOVI inspection first.
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What happens to written-off vehicles?
Written-off vehicles are typically disposed of in one of three ways:
They are scrapped. This means that the vehicle is broken down into its component parts, which can then be recycled or reused.
They are exported. Some written-off vehicles are exported to countries where safety standards are less stringent than in Australia.
They are sold for parts. Some written-off vehicles are sold for their parts, which can then be used to repair other vehicles.
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Can I buy a written-off vehicle?
You can buy a written-off vehicle, but it is important to be aware of the risks involved. Written-off vehicles may not be safe to drive, and they may be difficult to re-register. If you are considering buying a written-off vehicle, you should have it inspected by a qualified mechanic and check the WOVR to make sure it is not a statutory write-off.
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What are the implications of having a written-off vehicle on my insurance?
If your vehicle is written off, your insurance company will typically pay you the market value of the vehicle, minus any deductions such as your excess, the remaining premiums on your policy, and the unused portion of your registration and CTP insurance. Your insurance policy will then be canceled.
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How can I dispute a written-off vehicle decision?
If you disagree with your insurance company's decision to write off your vehicle, you can dispute the decision. You will need to provide evidence to support your claim, such as a report from a qualified mechanic. If you are unsuccessful in disputing the decision, you may be able to take your complaint to the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA).
