CAT S, also known as Category S, is a term used in the United Kingdom to classify cars that have been involved in accidents or suffered damage and are deemed repairable, but with structural damage. CAT S stands for “Structural” and is one of the categories used by insurance companies to classify damaged cars.
When a car is classified as CAT S, it means that it has sustained significant structural damage as a result of an accident, collision, fire, or flood. Structural damage refers to damage affecting the core structure of the car, such as the chassis or frame. CAT S cars require repair work to restore their structural integrity.
Once a car is classified as CAT S, the insurance company usually considers the cost of repairs to be higher than the car’s pre-accident value. As a result, the insurance company often writes off the car and pays the owner a settlement amount based on the car’s market value at the time of the accident.
After being classified as CAT S, the car can be repaired by a professional and undergo an inspection to ensure it meets the necessary safety standards. The repairs generally involve restoring the structural components of the car to their original condition. Once the repairs are completed, the car can be returned to the road.
It’s important to note that buyers should exercise caution when purchasing CAT S cars, as the structural damage may have long-term implications and affect the car’s safety and performance. It is advisable to thoroughly assess the car’s repair history, obtain professional inspections, and consider factors such as resale value and potential insurance implications.
It’s essential to consult the specific regulations and guidelines provided by the relevant authorities or insurance companies to understand the exact criteria and processes involved in classifying and repairing CAT S cars, as they can vary.