Most car accidents result in at least minor damage to your vehicle, but even accidents that seem minor can lead to big auto collision repair bills. Your car insurance company or the insurance agent of the other driver will make a determination as to whether your car will be repaired or totaled. Here’s what that means and how those decisions are made.
What does it mean when a car is “totaled?”
If your car is considered “totaled,” it means that the insurance company does not believe it is cost effective to have the vehicle repaired. Usually, this decision is made by determining the value of the vehicle at the time it was damaged in the auto collision, the estimated cost of repairs to return it to that state, and the value of the car after repairs. If repair costs will exceed the value of the vehicle, either in whole or by a percentage unique to the company, they will likely call it a total loss.
Can you do anything to change their mind?
If you really love your car, you might be wondering if there is anything you can do to influence their decision and get them to repair your car. You can petition your insurance company to keep the car. But if you do decide to keep the car, you may have to pay the insurance company what they’ll lose by not salvaging it.
Can you get a totaled car repaired?
Once you pay the insurance company the fee for keeping the vehicle, you will have to get it repaired to be able to drive it. You may still be able to get your insurance company to pay for the repairs because they have a legal responsibility to return you to the same financial position you were in before the accident.
If you need assistance getting your vehicle repaired after a collision, contact us today.
