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The MVR-4C form plays a crucial role for vehicle owners in North Carolina, particularly in the context of insurance claims and salvage titles. When a vehicle is damaged significantly, insurance companies may declare it a total loss. If the owner decides to retain the vehicle instead of surrendering it, the MVR-4C form must be completed to officially notify the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) of this decision. This document not only captures essential vehicle information—such as the title number, make, model, and vehicle identification number—but also requests information from both the owner and their insurance provider. The owner’s acknowledgment of their retention of a salvage vehicle is integral for legal documentation and future title transfers. By signing the MVR-4C, vehicle owners affirm that they understand the implications of keeping a salvage vehicle, which includes the necessity of disclosing this status upon any future sale. Ultimately, adherence to the procedures outlined by the MVR-4C ensures compliance with state regulations, hence protecting both the owner's interests and safeguarding the integrity of the state's vehicle registration system.

Mvr 4C Example

MVR-4C

(Rev. 12/21)

North Carolina Department of Transportation

DIVISION OF MOTOR VEHICLES

NOTIFICATION OF OWNER RETAINED VEHICLE

PLEASE COMPLETE IN FULL AND ATTACH COPY OF TITLE

VEHICLE SECTION

TITLE NUMBER

YEAR

MAKE

VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER

STATE

OWNER SECTION

Owner 1 ID # ____________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Full Legal Name of Owner 1 (First, Middle, Last, Suffix) or Company Name

Owner 2 ID # ____________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Full Legal Name of Owner 2 (First, Middle, Last, Suffix) or Company Name

Residence Address (Individual) Business Address (Firm)

City and State

Zip Code

Tax County

Mail Address (if different from above)

INSURANCE COMPANY SECTION

Name of Insurance Company

Name of Claims Person

Claim #

Date of Payment

Phone # of Claims Person

Street Address

City

N.C.

Zip Code

The insurance company listed above has paid a total loss claim for the vehicle identified. In accordance with North Carolina General Statute 20-109.1 and in cooperation with the Division of Motor Vehicles, the insur- ance company has notified DMV that it did not acquire your vehicle as a result of the claims process and that you, the vehicle owner, have retained the damaged vehicle (“salvage or water/flood vehicle”).

If you transfer title to this vehicle, you must disclose that this is a salvage or water/flood vehicle.

I have read and understand the above.

__________________________________________________

Signature/Electronic Signature of Owner

See Reverse Side

G.S. 20-109.1. Surrender of titles to salvage vehicles.

(a)Option to Keep Title. — When a vehicle is damaged to the extent that it becomes a salvage vehicle and the owner submits a claim for the damages to the insurer of the vehicle, the insurer must determine whether the owner wants to keep the vehicle after payment of the claim, the procedures in subsection (b) of this section apply. If the owner wants to keep the vehicle after payment of the claim, the procedures in subsection (c) of this section apply.

(b)Transfer to Insurer. — If a salvage vehicle owner does not want to keep the vehicle, the owner must assign the vehicle’s certificate of title to the insurer when the insurer pays the claim. The insurer must send the assigned title to the Division within 10 days after receiving it from the vehicle owner. The Division must then send the insurer a form to use to transfer title to the vehicle from the insurer to a person who buys the vehicle from the insurer. If the insurer sells the vehicle, the insurer must complete the form and give it to the buyer. If the buyer rebuilds the vehicle, the buyer may apply for a new certificate of title to the vehicle.

(c)Owner Keeps Vehicle. — If a salvage vehicle owner wants to keep the vehicle, the insurer must give the owner an owner-retained salvage form. The owner must complete the form and give it to the insurer when the insurer pays the claim. The insurer must send the completed form to the Division within 10 days after receiving it from the vehicle owner. The Division must then note in its vehicle registration records that the vehicle listed on the form is a salvage vehicle.

(d)Theft Claim on Salvage Vehicle. — An insurer that pays a theft loss claim on a vehi- cle and, upon recovery of the vehicle, determines that the vehicle has been damaged to the extent that it is a salvage vehicle must send the vehicle's certificate of title to the Division within 10 days after making the determination. The Division and the insurer must then fol- low the procedures set in subsection (b) of this section.

(e)Out-of-State Vehicle. — A person who acquires a salvage vehicle that is registered in a state that does not require surrender of the vehicle’s certificate of title must send the title to the Division within 10 days after the vehicle enters this State. The Division and the per- son must then follow the procedures set in subsection (b) of this section.

(f)Sanctions. — Violation of this section is a Class 1 misdemeanor. In addition to this criminal sanction, a person who violates this section is subject to a civil penalty of up to one hundred dollars ($100.00), to be imposed in the discretion of the Commissioner.

G.S. 20-85 sets the fee for issuing a salvage certificate of title.

Form Characteristics

Fact Name Description
Form Purpose The MVR-4C form is used in North Carolina to notify the DMV when a vehicle owner retains a damaged vehicle after an insurance payout for a total loss.
Governing Law This form is governed by North Carolina General Statute 20-109.1, which addresses the surrender of titles for salvage vehicles.
Owner Disclosure When the vehicle owner transfers the title, they must disclose that the vehicle is a salvage or water/flood vehicle.
Insurance Notification The insurance company must notify the DMV that the vehicle owner retains the damaged vehicle after submitting a claim.
Signature Requirement The form must be signed by the vehicle owner, confirming they understand the terms regarding the salvage vehicle.
Submission Deadline Insurers must send the completed MVR-4C form to the DMV within 10 days after receiving it from the vehicle owner.
Consequences for Noncompliance Failing to follow the procedures set out in statute could result in criminal charges, categorized as a Class 1 misdemeanor.
Out-of-State Vehicles Owners of out-of-state salvage vehicles must send their title to the North Carolina DMV within 10 days of entry into the state.
Fees Associated General Statute 20-85 outlines the fee for issuing a salvage certificate of title, applicable when this form is processed.
Importance of Accurate Completion Completing the MVR-4C form accurately is crucial for proper registration and to avoid legal penalties.

Guidelines on Utilizing Mvr 4C

After you complete the MVR-4C form, you will need to submit it to the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles along with a copy of your vehicle title. This form notifies the DMV that you have retained your vehicle following an insurance claim. Ensure that all sections are filled out carefully to avoid any delays in processing.

  1. Begin by filling out the Vehicle Section at the top of the form. Input the Title Number, Year, Make, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) of your vehicle.
  2. Next, move to the Owner Section. Fill in the information for Owner 1. Provide their ID number and full legal name (First, Middle, Last, Suffix), or company name. Make sure it's accurate.
  3. If there is a second owner, complete the details for Owner 2 in the appropriate fields. Again, provide the ID number and full legal name (First, Middle, Last, Suffix), or company name.
  4. Then, fill in the Residence Address for the individual owner or the Business Address for the firm, along with the City, State, and Zip Code.
  5. If the mail address is different from the residence or business address, include that as well.
  6. Next, complete the Insurance Company Section. Enter the name of the insurance company, the claims person’s name, claim number, and the date of payment. Also, provide the claims person’s phone number and the insurance company’s street address, city, and zip code.
  7. Finally, read the statement regarding vehicle retention and sign or provide your electronic signature as the vehicle owner. Confirm that you have read and understood the contents of the form.

What You Should Know About This Form

What is the MVR-4C form used for?

The MVR-4C form is used in North Carolina to notify the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) that an owner has retained a damaged vehicle after an insurance claim. This might happen if the vehicle is considered a total loss, but the owner decides to keep the vehicle, which could be categorized as salvage or water-flooded. Completing this form is essential for ensuring that the DMV records reflect the vehicle's status correctly.

Who needs to fill out the MVR-4C form?

The vehicle owner or owners must complete the MVR-4C form. If there are multiple owners, each must provide their full legal names and identification numbers on the form. The insurance company handling the claim will also contribute to this process by notifying the DMV about the owner's decision regarding the vehicle.

What information do I need to provide on the MVR-4C form?

You will need to fill out various details, including the vehicle section with the title number, year, make, and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). In the owner section, provide your full legal name(s), ID numbers, and addresses. Additionally, include the name of your insurance company and any relevant claims information. It's essential to fill out the form completely to avoid processing delays.

What happens after I submit the MVR-4C form?

After you complete and submit the MVR-4C form to your insurance company, they must send it to the DMV within ten days. The DMV will then update their vehicle registration records to indicate that the vehicle is a salvage vehicle. This update is crucial for any future transactions involving the vehicle, as it impacts its resale value and the ability to obtain a new title.

Are there any fees associated with the MVR-4C form?

There is no fee specifically for submitting the MVR-4C form. However, note that there may be fees associated with obtaining a salvage certificate of title, which is governed by North Carolina General Statute 20-85. It's a good idea to check with the DMV for any applicable costs when you decide to apply for a salvage title in the future.

What are the consequences of not filing the MVR-4C form?

Failing to file the MVR-4C form can lead to significant repercussions. The vehicle may remain classified incorrectly in the DMV's records, which can create legal complications when transferring the title or selling the vehicle. In cases of non-compliance, individuals could face civil penalties or even a Class 1 misdemeanor charge. It's important to complete and submit this form promptly to avoid such issues.

Common mistakes

Completing the MVR-4C form correctly is crucial for ensuring that your vehicle status is accurately documented. However, many people make common mistakes that can lead to delays or complications in processing. Understanding these pitfalls can help you navigate the process more smoothly.

One significant mistake occurs when individuals fail to provide complete information. Each section of the form, from the vehicle details to the owner's information, must be filled out in full. Missing information can result in processing delays. For instance, neglecting to include the full legal name of the owner, whether an individual or a company, can lead to confusion and potentially require resubmission.

Another frequent error involves the incomplete vehicle identification number (VIN). The VIN is essential for uniquely identifying your vehicle. If the VIN is incorrect or cut off in any way, it could invalidate the form. Always double-check to ensure that you have entered the entire 17-character VIN accurately, as this is a key piece of information for the Division of Motor Vehicles.

Many people also overlook the importance of attaching the required copy of the vehicle title. This document proves ownership and is necessary for the DMV to process your form correctly. Failing to include the title can result in rejection of your application. Always make sure to provide this documentation alongside the completed MVR-4C form.

In addition, it is vital to pay attention to the insurance company section. Some individuals mistakenly list the wrong insurance provider or fail to include relevant contact information for the claims person. Having accurate details about the insurance company and the claims representative helps streamline communication and facilitates quicker processing.

Another common oversight is neglecting to review the form for signatures. The owner's signature is a required element of the MVR-4C form. If the signature is missing or not properly formatted (for example, an electronic signature where a handwritten one is needed), this could result in significant delays or the form being returned.

Lastly, many applicants do not take the time to read the instructions thoroughly. The guidelines provide critical information regarding what is required for each section of the form. Skipping this step can lead to misunderstandings about what information is necessary, which may ultimately cause errors during submission.

By paying attention to these common mistakes, you can enhance the likelihood of a successful and timely processing of your MVR-4C form. Take the time to review each section carefully and ensure all information is complete and accurate.

Documents used along the form

The MVR-4C form is a vital document utilized in the process of notifying the North Carolina Department of Transportation about vehicles that have been retained by their owners after a total loss claim. Several other forms and documents often accompany the MVR-4C to ensure a comprehensive and compliant submission to the appropriate authorities. Below is a list of these documents along with a brief description of each.

  • Owner Retained Salvage Form: This form is provided by the insurance company to the vehicle owner who wishes to retain the vehicle after a total loss claim. It requires the owner to provide details about the vehicle, affirming their desire to keep it as a salvage vehicle.
  • Certificate of Title: The certificate serves as proof of ownership for the vehicle. When a vehicle is retained after being classified as salvage, the title must be surrendered if the owner decides not to keep it, or it must be noted that it is now a salvage title if retained.
  • Vehicle Registration Application: This application is completed to formally register the vehicle after it changes status, whether from a total loss to salvage or from salvage to a rebuilt condition. It requires details about the vehicle and its new classification.
  • Insurance Claim Documentation: This may include any paperwork related to the claim process, such as proof of payment, assessment reports, or estimates of damages. This documentation helps validate the claim and the decision-making process regarding the vehicle’s status.
  • Affidavit of Stolen Vehicle Recovery: If a vehicle that was reported stolen is recovered and classified as salvage, this affidavit is used to document that the vehicle was previously stolen and has since sustained damage that categorizes it as salvage.

Together, these documents play an essential role in the process of managing and classifying salvage vehicles. It is crucial for owners to understand their obligations and ensure that all required documentation is completed accurately to avoid potential legal consequences.

Similar forms

  • Form MVR-4A: This document serves as a notification and request to retain a vehicle after the completion of a total loss insurance claim. Like the MVR-4C, it supports the vehicle owner's decision to keep a damaged vehicle and must be submitted to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for record-keeping.
  • Form MVR-4B: This form is similar as it also deals with the retention of salvaged vehicles. It highlights the vehicle's status and informs the DMV that the owner intends to retain the vehicle following a claim and includes the necessary owner and vehicle details.
  • Form MVR-1: This is an application for a North Carolina title. While it is typically used for transferring ownership of a vehicle, it shares the requirement to disclose the vehicle's condition and history, ensuring the buyer is informed if the vehicle has been previously declared a salvage.
  • Form MVR-4D: Also related to salvage vehicles, this document specifically addresses the notification requirements after a vehicle has been released from an insurance claim. It informs the DMV of the vehicle's current status, emphasizing the owner's retention of the vehicle post-claim.
  • Form FS-1: The DMV uses this form to facilitate the transfer of ownership and title of a vehicle. While it does not directly reference salvage status, it necessitates the seller to disclose any pertinent information about the vehicle’s previous use or damages, allowing for transparency during the transaction.

Dos and Don'ts

Completing the MVR-4C form accurately is essential for proper vehicle ownership documentation. Below are guidelines to follow when filling out this important form.

  • Do: Ensure all information is complete and accurate. Each field must be filled out completely to avoid delays.
  • Do: Use the full legal names of vehicle owners as required. Names should match identification documents to prevent discrepancies.
  • Do: Attach a copy of the vehicle title. This is necessary for the DMV to process your retained vehicle status correctly.
  • Do: Provide your correct contact information. This includes phone numbers and addresses, which are vital for communication.
  • Don't: Leave any sections blank. Incomplete forms may lead to processing delays or denials.
  • Don't: Forget to sign the form. An unsigned document will not be accepted and will require resubmission.

Follow these tips to streamline your experience and ensure compliance with North Carolina's vehicle registration requirements.

Misconceptions

Understanding the MVR 4C form is crucial for vehicle owners, especially those dealing with salvage vehicles. However, many misconceptions surround this form and its associated processes. Below are some common myths, along with clarifications to ensure accurate knowledge.

  • Myth 1: The MVR 4C form is optional for owners who retain a salvage vehicle.
  • This is incorrect. Completing and submitting the MVR 4C form is required for owners who decide to keep their damaged vehicles after an insurance claim.

  • Myth 2: Only insurance companies can fill out the MVR 4C form.
  • In actuality, vehicle owners must complete the MVR 4C form in full, including details pertaining to their vehicle and ownership, before submitting it to the insurance company.

  • Myth 3: Completing the MVR 4C form means the vehicle title will automatically change.
  • Not true. While the form is necessary for retaining a salvage vehicle, submitting it does not change the title. The vehicle's title will still reflect its salvage status and must be disclosed in the event of a sale.

  • Myth 4: The form needs to be submitted only if the vehicle was severely damaged.
  • This misconception is also incorrect. The MVR 4C must be completed regardless of the extent of the damage, as long as the owner retains the vehicle after making a claim.

  • Myth 5: A vehicle can be rebuilt without notifying the DMV.
  • False. If a salvage vehicle is rebuilt, the owner must apply for a new certificate of title, informing the DMV of the changes to its status.

  • Myth 6: Submitting the form results in additional insurance costs.
  • This is not necessarily true. While insurance providers may change policy terms based on a vehicle's salvage status, the mere act of submitting the form does not incur a cost on its own.

  • Myth 7: You can submit the MVR 4C form at any time after retaining your vehicle.
  • This is misleading. The form must be submitted within a specified time frame, typically within 10 days after the insurance payment, to ensure compliance with state laws.

  • Myth 8: The insurance company will handle all aspects of the MVR 4C process.
  • While insurance companies play a crucial role, vehicle owners are responsible for accurately completing and submitting the MVR 4C form. Insurance companies will then assist in the submission process but will not fill out the form on behalf of the owner.

  • Myth 9: State penalties for failing to submit the form are moderate.
  • This is a grave misconception. Failure to comply with the requirements can result in serious penalties, including misdemeanor charges and civil fines, underscoring the importance of submitting the MVR 4C form correctly and on time.

Key takeaways

The MVR 4C form is essential for any vehicle owner who wishes to retain a damaged vehicle after an insurance payout. Completing this form accurately ensures compliance with North Carolina's regulations regarding salvage or water/flood vehicles.

  • Complete Your Information Fully: Make sure to fill in all required fields, including the vehicle's title number and owner's details. Providing accurate information helps prevent delays in processing your form.
  • Attach a Copy of the Vehicle Title: You must include a copy of the vehicle title when submitting the MVR 4C form. This step is crucial, as it verifies your ownership and aids in the registration process.
  • Notify Your Insurance Company: The form indicates that the insurance company has paid a total loss claim but has not taken ownership of the vehicle. Ensure your insurance provider is aware of this to avoid confusion later.
  • Understand Salvage Vehicle Disclosure: If you plan to transfer ownership of the vehicle in the future, disclosing its salvage status is mandatory. This disclosure is important for any potential buyer’s awareness.
  • Submit Timely: After completing the form, submit it to the Division of Motor Vehicles within 10 days of receiving it back from your insurer. Timely submission ensures that the vehicle’s status is updated in the registration records.