Chester, VA asked in Car Accidents for Virginia

Q: What are my options if an auto mechanic totaled my car?

I dropped my 2004 Nissan Altima off to the repair shop with a check engine light problem to be diagnosed for an estimate. Three days later I received a call that my car was totaled while being "test driven." What concerns me is that the scene of the accident was 17 miles out of the jurisdiction. The owner has filed a claim with his insurance company, and I'm waiting for further details. I understand that my car is 11 years old and the market value will not allow me to replace my car, which will result in a car payment. I've added aftermarket part, which wouldn't be comparable to the base model. From my understanding, engine light issues usually results in mechanics running diagnostic tests in the shop and short test drive may be necessary. Not 17 miles out of the jurisdiction. Do I have a case?

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