When a car owner dies, several things can happen depending on the circumstances:
1. **Probate Process**: If the car owner had a will, the car may be distributed according to the instructions in the will as part of the probate process. If there was no will, state laws governing intestate succession will determine who inherits the car.
2. **Transfer of Title**: The car's title needs to be transferred to the new owner, whether it's a family member inheriting the car or someone else. This typically involves going through the appropriate government agency, such as the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), and providing the necessary documentation, such as a death certificate and proof of inheritance or ownership.
3. **Estate Administration**: If the car is part of the deceased person's estate, it may need to go through the estate administration process. This involves identifying and valuing all assets, including the car, paying off debts and taxes, and distributing assets to heirs or beneficiaries according to the will or state law.
4. **Sale or Transfer**: In some cases, the heirs or beneficiaries may decide to sell the car or transfer ownership to someone else instead of keeping it. This would involve following the appropriate legal procedures and transferring the title to the new owner.
5. **Insurance**: The executor of the deceased person's estate or the new owner of the car should contact the car insurance company to update the policy or cancel it if necessary.
Overall, the process can be complex and may vary depending on factors such as whether the deceased person had a will, the value of the estate, and applicable state laws. It's usually a good idea to consult with an attorney or legal advisor experienced in estate matters to ensure everything is handled properly.