When a vehicle is non-drivable policy

Applicability

At numerous points in the claim, from first notice of loss (FNOL) through to repairs or write-off, the claims representative reviews the condition of the vehicle in determining if it is non-drivable.

Guidelines

The following types of damage, grouped by level of safety, make a vehicle non-drivable.

Obviously unsafe

A vehicle is obviously unsafe when it has visible damage that either

• prevents the safe operation of it, or
• causes consequential loss damage if driven.

Examples include the following:

• Extensive structural damage to the body, doors, windows or interior.
• A broken part of or fluid leaking from the powertrain (engine/motor and drivetrain) and chassis.
• Failing or otherwise malfunctioning electrical system and electronics.

Reasonably unsafe

A vehicle is reasonably unsafe when both

• damage exists at a tangible level, and
• the customer does not feel safe driving the vehicle.
  Exception: When the customer indicates they feel safe driving the vehicle but the claims representative has doubts about the vehicles safety, the claims representative can still tell the customer not to drive the vehicle and manage the claim per non-drivable vehicle procedures.

Examples include the following:

• A compromised safety device such as the airbag; either deployed or warning light illuminated.
• Evidence of bio-hazardous materials in or on the vehicle.
• Loud unusual noises the customer hasn't heard before the crash.

Other considerations

Certain losses make operating the vehicle simply illegal. Examples include the following:

• Vandalized brake lights.
• Stolen driver's side seat or seat belt.
• Perceptibly loose steering wheel.

Rationale

Helping keep unsafe vehicles off the road is a key component in ICBC's commitment to road safety.

Applicable policy/legislation

• Motor Vehicle Act
• Motor Vehicle Act Regulations