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How do you deal with insurance when your car is totaled?
I was in an accident last night, and I think my car is unfixable. How do you deal with insurance claims when your car is totaled?
Matthew Macgugan · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
I hope everyone was okay after your accident! Getting a payout for your vehicle should be easy if everything is in order with your insurance company.
When your insurance adjuster deems your car a total loss, they will offer you a
payout amount
based on your vehicle’s actual cash value (ACV) from just before the accident. You can use this value towards the purchase of a new vehicle.A vehicle is deemed a total loss when the cost to replace damaged parts, labor costs, and other costs associated with making the vehicle roadworthy exceed its current value.
Your claims adjuster should take care of the process for you. They will likely assess the vehicle and determine the damage costs before deeming it a total loss. If you feel like you’re being offered less than your vehicle is worth, you have the option to come back with a counteroffer. Do some research on the value of your vehicle using a site like
Kelly Blue Book
, and be sure to share your findings and counteroffer with your adjuster.After an accident, it’s common to see your insurance premium increase. If you need to shop for a new policy, check out the
Jerry
app—we’ll get you customized quotes from over 50 of the nation’s top providers to get a rate and coverage that matches your needs. And if you find a new policy that you prefer, we’ll even help you switch.Hope your claim goes well!
View full answer
- Gregory R.
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