More Information on Handling Damaged Vehicles

Contrary to common theory, it is lawful to purchase and repair a vehicle deemed a ‘total loss’ by an insurance company. However, before it can be driven it must be insured and inspected. If the vehicle passes inspection, it can be registered and the owner will be given the plates and registration coupon.

Prior to purchasing a ‘total loss’ or damaged vehicle, interested parties should contact their insurance company to find out if they will agree to cover the vehicle. There is no obligation for an insurance company to cover a damaged vehicle.

If a search of the registration is requested to determine if it was suspended or terminated, the department will charge a fee of CI$75.

For persons who own a damaged or total loss vehicle, please review the information below.

Disposal & Termination of Registration for Damaged Vehicles

The owner of a vehicle must dispose of and terminate the registration of his vehicle if it is damaged beyond repair.

Vehicle Registration Can be Suspended During Repairs

If a vehicle was registered for 12 months and will be out of service due to repairs for longer than three months, the owner can suspend the registration of the vehicle.

Registration can be reactivated once the repairs are complete by requesting in writing the return of the plates and coupon.

Disposals of Vehicles

Free disposal of vehicles is available with MC Restoration by calling 929-1942. Contact your insurance company to ensure that an appraisal does not need to be done before the vehicle is disposed of.

Suspension/Termination of Vehicles

The owner of a damaged vehicle can terminate registration by completing the ‘Suspension/Termination of Vehicle Licence’ form and submitting it to the Department of Vehicle Licensing. With the form, the owner must provide the licence plates, current licence coupon and certificate of registration (log book), upon which the department will issue a certificate of termination. If these items were lost due to the hurricane, the director must be notified in writing.

Appointing a Local Agent

The owner of a damaged vehicle can appoint a local agent to make application on his behalf. The agent can be any responsible person. If the owner is not in the islands and he chooses to appoint a local agent, the application must be made in writing and the owner must sign the ‘Suspension/Termination of Vehicle Licence’ form in front of a Justice of the Peace or a Notary Public. The justice or notary must affix his stamp or seal to the application. If a letter explaining loss of coupon or plates is included, this must also be stamped or sealed by the notary or justice of the peace.