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What happens to electric car batteries after a wreck?

I'm new to this electric thing so I'm planning for the worst. What happens to electric cars and their batteries after a wreck?

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Chanice Boyd · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Knowing what to do in the case of an emergency is the best way to stay safe. After a wreck, the battery in your
electric car
will likely get salvaged and repurposed by the appropriate parties. That is, if it’s still intact.
An electric car battery is composed of hundreds of lithium-ion cells. When these cells are fully charged they hold a large amount of energy. If the battery is damaged after a wreck, it’s likely to catch on fire.
If you find yourself in a wreck you should:
  • Exit your vehicle
  • Call and wait for emergency services to arrive
  • Contact your insurance
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