Need Help! Value determination after accident.... how should I proceed?

Hi all!

First off, just want to say that this forum is really amazing and one of the most helpful places on the internet for information and advice I have encountered.

My wife got in an accident yesterday (she is fine, no injuries) in our 2008 tacoma (TRD off road 4 door short bed). lost control on a turn in icy conditions. Rear portion of the vehicle slammed into rocks on the median and spun the vehicle perpendicular to the road going 37. Minimum damage to truck assessed on sight: Drive shaft totally done (detached from rear axle and dragging on ground, rear axle totally done with right rear tire in opposite alignment of left rear tire, right taillight completely done, some body damage.

I don't have any kind of experience for repairs like this. Given the info I shared, is it worth it to try to fix? I am going to have it towed to my house to avoid impound fees, but I don't know if its worth it to tow to my garage and back to get an assessment from them. Anyone have experience with a situation like this? What kind of value could I salvage if it is deemed totaled and not worth the complete rebuild?

any advice would be helpful!

 

Take pictures showing as much as possible .

Where the rear Axle attaches to the frame.

 

If it's just the axle, replace it with a used one. If the frame is bent, that's a different ball game.

 

Rely on the insurance adjuster and/or the repair shop.

The insurance adjuster can make a repair estimate at your home. Then you will have more information to make the decision to repair, part out or scrap.

 

The insurance will give you a estimate. If they total it they will give you an option to buy it back. Good luck

 

I'm guessing OP had no insurance.

 

If thats the case........

Part it out.

Then chalk the experience up to poor decisions.

 

Glad that your wife is not injured after the accident.

I would have your insurance company make an assessment of the vehicle and then go from there.

You will have options once you know the insurance company’s decision. If you don’t think the amount offered is reasonable, you can contest it, but it’s going to take an assessment from a third party adjuster.

I had a similar experience a few years ago and used a company called Wreck Check. https://wreckcheckatlanta.com/
I’m not sure where you are located, but you may have a similar company in your area.

All the best to you.