THE ESSENTIALS
Before you start
- Salvage is what remains of the vehicle after the event.
- Compare cash offered and the destination of the salvage.
- Distinguish third-party compensation from own-damage policy cover.
Start with the framework and valuations
For the motor liability claims regime, Article 41 of Decree-Law 291/2007 uses the replacement value immediately before the accident as the pre-accident value. Salvage is the vehicle in its damaged condition. For own-damage cover, check the agreed terms: Article 92 does not include Article 41 in its cross-reference for those covers.
Ask whether the process concerns another party's liability or own-damage cover. Do not transfer a calculation between them without confirming the framework.
What keeping salvage changes
Article 41(3) provides for the salvage deduction when the owner retains it. Clara helps Rui set out the proposed payment beside what will happen to the vehicle. A salvage valuation, a transfer and a possible sale are different events.
An illustration, not a real-car valuation
Fictional example: assume EUR 12,000 pre-accident value and EUR 3,000 salvage value. Where salvage is deducted, the calculation is 12,000 − 3,000 = EUR 9,000. The owner also retains the damaged property. This does not estimate market values or predict a claim outcome.
Compare both cash and retained property before treating offers as equivalent. A salvage valuation is not cash already received from selling it.
Questions before deciding
Request the basis for the pre-accident value, salvage estimate, identification of the party undertaking to buy it at that amount, and repair-assessment reference. Retain the complete offer and replies rather than a screenshot of the final sum alone.
Clara turns Rui’s concern into questions for the case: who assessed it, which values were used and who will retain the vehicle? For an existing claim offer, use Support and claims and the policy reference. Request a quote concerns future protection; it does not accept, challenge or change this offer for you. Do not post case documents in public comments.
KEEP THESE QUESTIONS
Your checklist for the next conversation
- Identify third-party liability or own-damage cover.
- Gather valuations and the complete offer.
- Confirm who retains the vehicle and the proposed buyer.
- Keep reasons and explanations before deciding.
FROM THE ARTICLE TO YOUR SITUATION
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Sources and transparency
Content updated on .
Consultation dates are stated in individual references when available.
Numerical examples are fictional and explain concepts. Editorial interpretations are identified in the text.
Information from RMACHADO GROUP. This is not an insurance offer or individual advice. Covers, acceptance, exclusions, sums insured and costs depend on the policy. The intermediary does not underwrite the risks.