Is My Car a Total Loss?

If you have experienced an automobile accident and are working with your insurance company to get your car repaired, you may, unfortunately, learn that your vehicle is totaled. In this case, your insurer will not cover the cost of repairs but will instead determine what your vehicle is worth and pay out that amount.

Signs Your Car May Be a Total Loss

When determining if your vehicle is a total loss, your insurance adjuster will take into consideration the amount of damage, the age of the vehicle, and the value of the vehicle in relation to the cost of repairs. Before you receive their final decision, you may be able to get an idea of what to expect if you observe any of the following:

  • Excessive fluids leaking from the vehicle.
  • The vehicle is not drivable because it won’t start parts of the vehicle are broken or bent, obstructing the driver’s view.
  • Your car has a low value in the Kelly Blue Book.
  • Estimated repair costs are higher than your vehicle’s Kelly Blue Book value.

While your insurance company could come back with an evaluation that is different than expected, if they determine your vehicle is a total loss, there are various reasons. A total loss indicates that the vehicle cannot be repaired safely, the repairs cost more than the vehicle’s worth, or the state law requires your insurer to name it as a total loss due to the amount of damage.

If your insurer determines your car to be a total loss after an accident, you will have to remove your license plate as well as your personal items, and you will give your keys to the claims adjuster.

What to Do If Your Car is Not a Total Loss

If your car is not a total loss, you can visit Freedom Collision for an estimate for your repairs. We work with many major insurance carriers and are prepared to help you get your vehicle back out on the road!

Our experienced and highly trained repair technicians have the skills and state-of-the-art equipment to get the job done. Contact us today to learn more!


Author: Freedom Collision Center


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