Can you ask your insurance company to total your car? (Negotiate a Write-Off)
You can ask your insurance company to total your car if the repair costs exceed 50% of the car's actual cash value (ACV). Ultimately, you can tell the insurance company to total your car, but the insurance company gets to decide if it is a total loss.
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Brad Larson
Licensed Insurance Agent
Brad Larson has been in the insurance industry for over 16 years. He specializes in helping clients navigate the claims process, with a particular emphasis on coverage analysis. He received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Utah in Political Science. He also holds an Associate in Claims (AIC) and Associate in General Insurance (AINS) designations, as well as a Utah Property and Casual...
Licensed Insurance Agent
UPDATED: Oct 20, 2024
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Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.
UPDATED: Oct 20, 2024
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident car insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one car insurance company and cannot guarantee quotes from any single company.
Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from top car companies please enter your ZIP code above to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
On This Page
When your car is damaged in a major accident, and you file a car insurance claim, the insurance company assigns a claims adjuster to review your case and make an assessment of the total damage and repair costs for your car. The car insurance company will decide whether to total your car if the cost of repairs reaches a certain percentage of your car’s overall value.
In the event of an accident, you might be asking questions. What does it mean when an insurance company totals a car? Can I ask insurance to total my car?
We know it can be frustrating to find answers to questions like this, so we’ve done the research for you. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about a totaled vehicle, how insurance companies determine whether or not to total your car, and more.
Before we answer, “Can I ask my insurance company to total my car?” Make sure you have the right coverage for your situation so you’re prepared if your vehicle needs to be totaled by using your ZIP code to get a free quote on car insurance.
Summary Stats
| Summary | From the Experts... |
|---|---|
| Of the 50 states, 22 leave the total loss threshold up to the insurance companies to define (with some qualifications), while the remaining 28 (and District of Columbia) define set thresholds | Matthiesen, Wickert & Lehrer |
| You can negotiate your settlement with the insurance company | Nolo |
| You can keep your vehicle after its been declared a total loss | HG Legal Resources |
Can I ask my insurance company to total my car?
You’re probably wondering, “do I have to pay insurance for a totaled car” After an accident, you can ask your insurance company to total your car, but they have a specific formula and approach that determines whether or not they’ll actually do so. There is no best way to total a car for insurance purposes, as it is at the insurer’s discretion. In the next few sections, we’ll cover how insurance companies declare a total loss and what you can do to influence their decision.
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What value do insurance companies use to total a car?
Insurance companies often use a total loss formula (TLF) to determine whether or not to total a vehicle. Essentially, companies compare the estimated cost of repairs plus the salvage value (read our “How Car Insurance Companies Determine Salvage Value” for more information) to the actual cash value (ACV).
Insurance companies calculate the ACV of your vehicle by determining the price and value of your vehicle (often with sources like Kelley Blue Book).
Reach out to your claims adjuster to find out their estimated valuation for your vehicle. You’ll want to compare this estimated amount against the actual value of your car.
How much damage does it take for insurance to total a car?
To understand what amount of damage means a total loss, you’ll need to know your insurance carrier’s approach to the TLF, which you can speak to your claims adjuster and your insurance agent about. You’ll also need to be familiar with the laws in your state, which ultimately set the thresholds within which the insurance company must operate when determining total loss.
This table summarizes the total loss thresholds in every state.
Vehicle Total Loss Thresholds by State
| States | Total Loss Threshold |
|---|---|
| Alabama | 75% |
| Alaska | TLF |
| Arizona | TLF |
| Arkansas | 70% |
| California | TLF |
| Colorado | 100% |
| Connecticut | TLF |
| Delaware | TLF |
| District of Columbia | 75% |
| Florida | 80% |
| Georgia | TLF |
| Hawaii | TLF |
| Idaho | TLF |
| Illinois | TLF |
| Indiana | 70% |
| Iowa | 50% |
| Kansas | 75% |
| Kentucky | 75% |
| Louisiana | 75% |
| Maine | TLF |
| Maryland | 75% |
| Massachusetts | TLF |
| Michigan | 75% |
| Minnesota | 80% |
| Mississippi | TLF |
| Missouri | 80% |
| Montana | TLF |
| Nebraska | 75% |
| Nevada | 65% |
| New Hampshire | 75% |
| New Jersey | TLF |
| New Mexico | TLF |
| New York | 75% |
| North Carolina | 75% |
| North Dakota | 75% |
| Ohio | TLF |
| Oklahoma | 60% |
| Oregon | 80% |
| Pennsylvania | TLF |
| Rhode Island | TLF |
| South Carolina | 75% |
| South Dakota | TLF |
| Tennessee | 75% |
| Texas | 100% |
| Utah | TLF |
| Vermont | TLF |
| Virginia | 75% |
| Washington | TLF |
| West Virginia | 75% |
| Wisconsin | 70% |
| Wyoming | 70% |
As you can see, thresholds for total loss vary by state. For the states with a set threshold, the result of the TLF formula must be at or greater than the set percentage in order for a total loss to be declared.
Why won’t the insurance company total my car? Most likely because the TLF did not meet the threshold set by the state (or the insurance company, when the state doesn’t define a set percentage).
Can I negotiate with the insurance company?
If you think the cost of repairs that your car insurance company has set out is too low (which will affect whether or not your vehicle is declared a total loss), you are free to get another estimate on your own.
In general, the estimate you present to your insurance company is more likely to hold weight if it is an average of several auto repair shops in your area, at which point the insurer can’t say your repair estimate is unreasonable. (For more information, read our “Can my car insurance company make me use a specific car repair shop?“).
It’s important to know how to negotiate with car insurance loss adjusters about your car’s total loss settlement. Nolo provides the following tips:
- Do your research and know how much your auto insurance claim is worth
- Don’t immediately accept the first offer from the claims adjuster
- If the offer is low, ask for an explanation before providing your response
- Once you’ve outlined the facts, focus on the emotional arguments
- Conduct all settlement negotiations in writing (and get the settlement in writing as well)
You want to have a record of communications so you know the exact rationale for the settlement amount and why the insurer made the decision they did (declaring your vehicle a total loss or not). This is important to keep in mind when learning how to total a car with your insurance.
This negotiation is also key in how to get a new car after a total loss because it’s important to make sure you’re getting a fair settlement, which can help you afford a replacement vehicle.
Depending on how valuable your vehicle is, you may want to hire a lawyer to negotiate with the insurer so you can be sure you’re getting the best possible claim settlement in your situation.
Read more: Should I hire an attorney for my car insurance claim?
What happens if I’m the at-fault driver?
If you are at fault for a crash, your own car insurance policy will cover the physical damage to your vehicle. Depending on how the damage was incurred, either your comprehensive car insurance or collision coverage car insurance will apply.
If you are in an actual accident, your collision insurance would be the way you recover for the cost of the repairs, while if your vehicle was damaged in some other way (weather, vandalism, etc.) your comprehensive policy would cover the repairs.
The limits of your comprehensive insurance or collision coverage will determine how much your insurer is required to pay out on your claim. If the damage to your car is more than the limits of your policy, you’ll have to pay the remainder out-of-pocket.
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Dealing with Insurance Coverage Challenges
Navigating the complexities of insurance claims can be challenging, especially when dealing with specific scenarios where coverage might be denied. For instance, many policyholders find that insurance won’t total a car with frame damage, as insurers often deem it repairable despite the extent of the damage. Additionally, insurance won’t cover a car totally flooded if the policy excludes flood damage, leaving the owner to bear the cost. In such cases, it’s crucial to understand the terms of your policy and seek clarification from your insurer.
For assistance with specific questions or claims, knowing the right contact numbers can be invaluable. If you are an Allstate customer and need immediate assistance, the Allstate customer service number available 24 hours can provide help. Similarly, AARP members can reach out to AARP auto insurance contact number for inquiries about their AARP car insurance policies. If you’re insured with Advantage General, the Advantage General contact phone number is the best way to get in touch for any issues or questions. Understanding these resources and having access to them can significantly ease the process of dealing with insurance-related concerns.
In scenarios involving damage assessments and repairs, having a reliable auto body shop is essential. If you need repairs, searching for an “Allstate auto body shop near me” can help locate authorized service centers. For those considering extra protection, Allstate auto replacement protection might offer additional peace of mind by covering the cost of a new vehicle. Additionally, Allstate car care services can maintain your vehicle’s condition, potentially reducing the likelihood of significant claims.
Should you need assistance with payments or billing, the Allstate billing phone number available 24 hours is a critical resource, ensuring that your financial arrangements are handled promptly and efficiently. Finally, understanding your policy’s provisions, such as the agreement to pay for car damages, is essential, especially in incidents where significant parts like airbags are deployed. In such cases, many wonder, “If the airbag deployed, is the car totaled?” Understanding your coverage can clarify whether repairs or a total loss declaration is more likely.
Navigating Car Insurance and Warranty Options
When evaluating car insurance and warranty options, understanding the various factors that influence these decisions is crucial. American Modern Insurance rating, for example, can provide valuable insights into the reliability and customer satisfaction associated with their policies. For those looking to safeguard their vehicles beyond standard insurance, an auto extended warranty can offer additional protection against unforeseen repairs and maintenance costs. It’s essential to compare different auto insurance companies to find the best coverage that suits your needs and budget. Whether you’re seeking car insurance for old cars or new ones, obtaining multiple car insurance quotes is a wise step to ensure you get the best deal.
In the aftermath of a total loss, buying a new car after a total loss can be a daunting process. It’s important to understand the options available, including the possibility of buying a total loss vehicle with a clean title. This option can sometimes offer cost savings, but it’s crucial to thoroughly inspect the vehicle and understand the history behind its clean title. Additionally, having comprehensive car policy coverage can make a significant difference in such situations, providing the financial support needed to replace or repair your vehicle.
Issues can arise after an insurance claim, such as when the car was not fixed properly after an insurance claim or if the car not repaired properly after an accident. In such cases, addressing these problems with your insurance company and the repair shop is necessary to ensure the vehicle is restored to its pre-accident condition. For those looking at warranty options, CarShield offers various plans and services. Knowing the CarShield address, CarShield Canada offerings and CarShield hours of operation can help you reach out for support and information about their warranties. By being well-informed about your insurance and warranty options, you can make decisions that provide both coverage and peace of mind.
Understanding Repair Costs and Diminished Value After an Accident
After an accident, assessing the cost to repair frame damage is a critical step in determining the overall repair expenses and the potential diminished value of a car after an accident. Frame damage can significantly impact a vehicle’s safety and resale value, making it essential to obtain accurate repair estimates. Seeking free auto body repair estimates near me can help car owners get a better understanding of the potential costs involved. Additionally, using the diminished value method allows you to calculate the reduced market value of your car post-accident, which can be crucial for insurance claims.
Insurance companies often consider the diminished value of a car after an accident when settling claims. It’s beneficial to get a free diminished value appraisal to support your claim and ensure you receive adequate compensation. Farmer’s Insurance claims adjuster plays a key role in evaluating these claims and determining the payout. For those with Farmers’ Gap insurance, it’s important to understand how it can cover the gap between the car’s value and the amount still owed on the loan if the car is totaled. Having comprehensive insurance coverage, including GAP insurance, can provide peace of mind in such scenarios.
For minor damages, an easy repair and detail service can quickly restore your car’s appearance. However, for more severe damages, consulting with your insurance provider is necessary. Knowing contact details such as the Economy Fire and Casualty Insurance phone number can facilitate communication and expedite the claims process. By staying informed and proactive, car owners can better navigate the complexities of post-accident repairs and insurance claims, ensuring their vehicles are adequately repaired and their financial interests are protected.
What about the claims process?
Under your current policy, you’ll need to follow the process outlined by your insurer to file a claim. But if you’re shopping for new coverage, you should ask a licensed insurance agent about how a company you’re considering handles claims before you decide whether to purchase a policy from them. You can also ask car insurance companies how they negotiate settlements so you have an idea of their settlement and negotiation policies and tactics.
In addition to finding the most affordable coverage, you want to make sure that you are working with an car insurance company that honors its policies and is known for processing claims effectively. You’ll also need to take into account their reputation for customer service, as well as what options for coverage are available.
For example, some car insurance companies offer more discounts than others, which might actually lower your rates more than you might expect.
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What To Anticipate After An Accident
So you’ve been in an accident, you know your vehicle requires extensive repairs, and you’ve filed a claim. What’s next? How do you total a car? What is the easiest way to total a car? You’ll receive a notification from the company that a claims adjuster has been assigned to your case, and you should direct all of your questions about your claim to them.
But how do car insurance companies determine total loss? When does insurance write off a car? Is there a difference between how a car total loss not at fault situation and a car totaled at fault situation is handled? Read through the next few sections to find out the proper ways to total a car with insurance.
What types of insurance do you need for adequate coverage?
First of all, it’s helpful to have some understanding of the types of auto insurance coverage you might be dealing with and how they might help you if you’re involved in an accident or some other incident involving your car.
Liability insurance (bodily injury and property damage liability coverage) is required in most states, and it covers the other party’s damages in an automobile accident you caused.
Collision insurance pays for your repairs and injuries after an at-fault auto accident and comprehensive coverage pays for repairs after an incident not involving a collision. This includes damage from weather, natural disaster, and vandalism.
If you add gap insurance to your auto policy, your insurance provider will cover the difference between what you owe on your loan or lease and the value of your totaled car. If your car is not paid off, you should strongly consider adding gap coverage to your policy. You don’t want to be paying on an auto loan for a vehicle you no longer have. (For more information, read our “How do I find out if GAP insurance is included in my car lease?“).
Case Studies: Requesting Total Loss Assessment From Insurance Companies
Case Study 1: Extensive Damage After an Accident
John, the owner of a vehicle involved in a severe accident, filed a claim with his insurance company. The repair estimates for his car exceeded its current market value due to extensive damage. Concerned about the future reliability of his vehicle and potential safety issues, John wished to request his insurance company to assess the car as a total loss and provide a settlement.
Case Study 2: Irreparable Damage From a Natural Disaster
Sarah’s vehicle suffered significant damage during a severe storm. The insurance adjuster deemed the cost of repairing the car to be substantial, considering the extensive damage caused by the natural disaster. Sarah, aware of the potential long-term issues that could arise from repairing the vehicle, wished to request her insurance company to classify the car as a total loss and provide a settlement.
Case Study 3: High Repair Costs and Diminished Value
Mike’s vehicle was involved in an accident resulting in substantial damage. Upon receiving repair estimates, Mike discovered that the costs were disproportionately high compared to the car’s current market value.
Additionally, he learned that even after repairs, the vehicle’s resale value would be significantly diminished. Recognizing the financial implications of repairing the car, Mike requested his insurance company to assess it as a total loss and provide compensation accordingly.
Case Study 4: Salvage Title Considerations
Samantha’s vehicle was severely damaged in an accident. Although the repair costs were within the car’s market value, Samantha was concerned about potential safety issues and the future marketability of the vehicle due to its history of significant damage.
Wanting to avoid a salvage title designation, Samantha requested her insurance company to evaluate the car as a total loss and provide appropriate compensation.
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Car Insurance and Totaling Your Vehicle: What’s the bottom line?
The decision of whether to declare your car a total loss or to cover the cost of repairing it will be entirely up to the auto insurance company.
While you may not necessarily want to have your car repaired after a major accident and prefer to receive a settlement check for its value immediately after the accident; this decision will not ultimately be up to you.
You do have the right to have your car repaired at the shop of your choice, but the car insurance company is only responsible for paying for a reasonable repair cost for your car. We hope you’ve found this guide on how to total a vehicle with your insurance helpful.
Before you go, use your ZIP code to start comparing rates to make sure you are covered for a totaled car.
- https://www.kbb.com/articles/car-news/what-is-blue-book-value/#:~:text=The%20term%20%E2%80%9CBlue%20Book%20Value,industry%20in%20the%20United%20States.
- https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/negotiating-with-insurance-company-29765.html
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you request your insurance company to total your car?
Yes, you can request your insurance company to total your car if you believe the cost of repairs exceeds its value. However, the final decision is up to the insurance company, based on their assessment.
How to get your insurance company to declare your car a total loss?
To get your insurance company to declare your car a total loss, you need to provide evidence that the repair costs exceed a certain percentage of the car’s actual cash value. This typically involves getting repair estimates and providing detailed information about the damage.
Can a car be considered a total loss due to mechanical issues?
Yes, a car can be considered a total loss due to mechanical issues if the cost to repair those issues is higher than the car’s current market value.
Can a car be repaired if the airbags have been deployed?
Yes, a car can be repaired if the airbags have been deployed. However, airbag replacement is expensive, and depending on the overall damage, it might contribute to the car being declared a total loss.
Can a car be declared a total loss due to mechanical failure?
Yes, a car can be declared a total loss due to mechanical failure if the cost of repairs is higher than the car’s actual cash value.
Can a car be declared a total loss from a rear-end collision?
Yes, a car can be declared a total loss from a rear-end collision if the damage is extensive and the repair costs exceed the car’s market value.
Can a car be declared a total loss due to vandalism?
Yes, a car can be declared a total loss due to vandalism if the cost to repair the damages surpasses the car’s current market value.
Can I add a car to my insurance policy if it is not in my name?
It depends on the insurance company’s policies. Some insurers allow you to add a car to your policy even if it is not in your name, while others require the policyholder to have an insurable interest in the vehicle.
Can I purchase a car that has been declared a total loss?
Yes, you can purchase a car that has been declared a total loss, but it will typically come with a salvage title, indicating that it has been significantly damaged and repaired.
Can I file a claim on my car insurance if I hit a wall?
Yes, you can file a claim on your car insurance if you hit a wall. The claim will be processed under collision coverage, if you have it.
Do you pay a deductible if your car is declared a total loss?
Yes, you are typically required to pay your deductible if your car is declared a total loss. The deductible amount will be subtracted from the insurance payout.
Do you pay your deductible before or after the repairs are completed?
You generally pay your deductible after the repairs are completed or it is subtracted from the insurance payout if the car is declared a total loss.
How long does it take for accidents to be removed from your record?
Accidents typically remain on your driving record for three to seven years, depending on the severity of the accident and the state’s regulations.
How long does it take for an adjuster to make a decision?
The time it takes for an adjuster to make a decision can vary, but it typically ranges from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the complexity of the claim and the insurance company’s processes.
How long does it take for insurance to pay out for a total loss?
The payout process for a total loss claim usually takes between one to two weeks after the insurance company has made their assessment and valuation of the vehicle.
How long does it take for Progressive to issue a refund?
Progressive typically issues a refund within a few business days after processing your request, but it can take up to two weeks for the refund to be fully processed and received.
Can you contest your insurance company’s decision to total your car?
Yes, you can contest your insurance company’s decision to total your car if you believe the assessment is incorrect. This often involves providing additional evidence, such as repair estimates or an independent appraisal, to support your case.
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Brad Larson
Licensed Insurance Agent
Brad Larson has been in the insurance industry for over 16 years. He specializes in helping clients navigate the claims process, with a particular emphasis on coverage analysis. He received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Utah in Political Science. He also holds an Associate in Claims (AIC) and Associate in General Insurance (AINS) designations, as well as a Utah Property and Casual...
Licensed Insurance Agent
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.