Goodbye old faithful...

On Friday I got confirmation from the insurance assessors that my car is indeed a write-off.  The trade-in value of the car is R42,000.00; resale is just over R50,000.00 and the damage amounted to a whopping R90,149.36.  Virtually double the value of my car.  While I am lucky to have had it insured at all, there is no way that insurance will ever pay out the true value of my car.  It has been a reliable car and very economical to run.  Plus, it was Jacques' old car so there is a sentimental value attached to it that can never be replaced.  I can remember so clearly getting the car and taking it out for it's first drive - we'd moved up in the world from our humble Mazda 323 and finally had a real car. So, I'm sure you'll understand when I say that I feel a little sad to see it sent to the scrap heap.  On Thursday afternoon, I had to stop past the panel beaters to drop off the radio face, so was able to take a few last snaps.

I was quite surprised when I saw the car, that there is absolutely no damage within the car, besides the deployed airbag, but the exterior is pretty bad, although I can't imagine how they managed such a steep quote.  I know the airbag and ABS braking system contributed extensively, but that amount??  The passenger door couldn't be opened more than about 15cm, so I guess the whole thing was bent.  Bloody taxi...

 And one last one of Jake with our wreck...

That aside, I am now the owner (almost, I just need to pay for it) of a little silver Yaris.  It's a work car, has low mileage and goes well.  The boot is teeny though, so I'm not sure how it's going to work for us, but for now, it seems to be the wisest option.

I also want to say thanks to everyone for your wishes and thoughts after our accident.  I am still suffering a bit with a sore back, but it's much better.  Jake seems totally unscathed by the whole thing, although he did tell Danie that my folks were brave to lend me their car last week.  And when he saw that I'd arrived safely from their house at my own, he said to Danie "shew, she made it".  That was the night of the accident though and I think his trust in me as a driver is back in place.  He absolutely loves the new car and we are both being very strict these days about wearing our safety belts.  Lesson learnt, thank you!


Sending lots of love,
Sue XXX