Car owner has bad stroke, how do we drive/sell?

Question

The owner will never drive again, he has no powers of speech or communication. His wife does not drive. How can she sell the car or get someone else to drive it, owner cannot give permission?

Answer 1

You can use the BCA Sure Sell scheme. They will pick it up, sell it and give you the money after taking their cut. Very simple. Strictly speaking the wife needs to get a solicitor to have her appointed as attorney, but this takes quite a time and costs. I think for simply disposing of an unwanted car she would be ok to go ahead, but keep records of the transaction, and don't spend the money until the legal bit is sorted, other than on care for the patient

Answer 2

The wife should get power of attorney to deal with all his affairs, financial and otherwise.

Answer 3

as his accepted deputy she can sign everything for him because in his condition she has power of attorney

Answer 4

You could sell the vehicle through a dealership (though you won't get the best price), as they would happily pick up the car if you explain the situation.

Alternatively a private sale through a reputable publication eg autotrader, would mean you could sell the vehicle without having to drive it as the buyer would come to collect it.  Bear in mind that the owner will need to sign the vehicle regisitration document regardless of how the vehicle is sold.  If this is not possible contact the DVLA for advice.

Rememebr that the car owner may need to surrender their driving licence due to their condition.  The DVLA has full details on their website.