Section 3 Missouri Salvage Vehicle Law

• Library: Motor Vehicle 2011

State statutes vary widely in their definition of a salvage vehicle, and Missouri’s salvage vehicle statutes do offer some protection for consumers against the sale of vehicles with concealed wreck damage. In Missouri, the definition of a salvage vehicle has changed dramatically. Before the 2007 amendments to Chapter 301, RSMo, a salvage vehicle was a vehicle:

· for which the cost of repairs exceeded 75% of the pre-accident fair market value;

· that had been declared salvage by the owner or an insurance company;

· that had a salvage title; or

· that was abandoned property as defined by § 304.155 or § 304.157, now RSMo Supp. 2010.

Section 301.010(50), then RSMo Supp. 2005.

The changes have substantially limited the number of vehicles that can be designated salvage in Missouri, a change that could affect consumer rights to pursue car sellers who conceal prior damage.

Section 301.010(52), now RSMo Supp. 2010, defines a salvage...