Written Off Car Guide UK: What Counts & Next Steps
10 Nov 2025
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5
min read
When a vehicle is severely damaged in an accident, your insurance provider might declare it “written off.” This can feel confusing and stressful for UK drivers, especially when you’re unsure what happens next, what you’re owed, or what to do with the remains of the vehicle.
Below is a clear, updated guide on how the process works in 2025.
What does “written off” mean?
A write-off happens when repairing the car is unsafe or costs more than its market value. Insurers follow the ABI salvage categories:
Category A: Scrap only (crushed)
Category B: Break for parts only
Category S: Structural damage, repairable
Category N: Non-structural damage, repairable
How is your payout calculated?
Insurers assess the pre-accident market value, typically using:
Age
Mileage
Service history
Current market pricing
(Ref: Financial Conduct Authority guidance)
If you owe finance, the insurer usually pays the finance company first.
Can you dispute the valuation?
Yes. If you believe the offer is too low, you can challenge it by providing:
Similar vehicle listings,
Recent service invoices,
Condition evidence.
(Ref: FCA claims handling rules)
Can you buy the vehicle back?
For Category S and N, you may be able to buy and repair it privately but insurers must flag any safety risks.
What about road tax and insurance refunds?
You may qualify for:
Unused road tax refund via DVLA,
Insurance policy adjustments,
GAP insurance payouts.
(Ref: GOV.UK Vehicle Tax Refund)
Storage and collection fees
If your car is stored at a recovery yard, daily storage fees may apply.
Prompt arrangements help avoid charges.
Contact Motion Shield's Accident Vehicle Storage Service
🚗 How Motion Shield can help
Motion Shield removes the stress when a car is written off by coordinating collection, storage, and disposal through a secure compound in North Greenwich. Drivers can track claim progress, store evidence, and reduce phone calls, while insurers, accident managers, and fleet operators gain reliable short-term storage during assessment. It’s a faster, clearer way to move from accident to outcome
