Support Needed for Reliable Transportation Post-Accident

A little over a week ago, my 2007 Toyota Prius struck a deer while I was driving back up to the mountains following some late-afternoon errands in town - far enough to the side to avoid a full-on collision, and at a low enough speed that the damage seemed to be superficial. I was able to nurse the car the rest of the way to the house without issues, and spent the following week fundraising for repairs and arranging a tow ahead of what I expected would be a relatively short repair timeframe.

Unfortunately, the damage was more extensive than it appeared. Yesterday, the inspection company called to inform me that the frame had been damaged by the impact in a way that would cost more to repair than the car itself was worth - it was declared a total loss. Even if I were able to get it back, it would still require repairs that I can't afford, if I could even find a company willing to do the work.

I'm still looking for work post-university, and can't afford even a used car with my limited funds - so once again, I have to reach out to ask for help in getting through this trying time.

I've already taken a look at the options at the dealerships near me, and I expect that $50,000 should provide a decent choice of used vehicles - as long as it's in good condition, I'm not picky about the type of car, though a hybrid drive-train and All-Wheel Drive would be preferable. Factoring in taxes and fees, including GoFundMe's, I rounded it up to $55K.

I'm not expecting to hit that target, or even get close, but the more this fundraiser raises, the safer and more reliable I can afford my next car to be. I sincerely hope people will be willing to open their hearts to help someone in need!