if someone's car is totaled what can they retrieve...?

ChrisSlicks

You are always allowed to retrieve personal items from the vehicle, even before the claim is settled. Just visit the holding yard where the vehicle got towed to with your ID.

This does vary someone by locality but in general if the insurance company cuts you a check it is for the complete vehicle including all modifications. If you have modifications that have significant value then you should consider a different policy, e.g. stated value policy. You will not be able to swap parts on the vehicle while it is at a holding yard. However it is your vehicle still and you are free to tow it to your house and swap parts before the insurance adjuster arrives. Once the insurance adjuster has made his value assessment you are not supposed to change anything, however I doubt they would pay attention to things like exhaust, intake etc.

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