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Photo of Victor C. Mitchener and Joseph H. Downer
"Photo of Victor C. Mitchener and Joseph H. Downer"

Victor C. Mitchener, Attorney

Joseph H. Downer, Attorney

What steps should you take if your car is totaled?

On Behalf of | Jun 17, 2025 | Motor Vehicle Accidents

Finding out that your car has been totaled after an accident can be overwhelming. Whether the crash was minor or severe, dealing with the aftermath brings a lot of questions. You may wonder what steps to take next, how to handle insurance, or what to do with your damaged car. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the process.

Assess the situation and ensure safety

After a crash, your first priority is to ensure everyone’s safety. Call emergency services immediately if anyone is injured and get medical help if necessary. Once everyone is safe, document the scene by taking photos of the damage, the location, and any other important details. This information will help when you speak with your insurance company.

Contact your insurance company

Next, reach out to your car insurance provider. Provide all the details about the accident. The insurer will send an adjuster to evaluate the damage and determine whether your car qualifies as a total loss. If the repair costs exceed the car’s value, the insurance company will likely classify it as totaled.

Understand your policy coverage

If the insurance company totals your car, it’s important to understand what your policy covers. With comprehensive or collision coverage, your insurer will pay for the car’s value, minus your deductible. If you only have liability insurance, the insurer won’t cover the cost of replacing your car. Be sure you know your rights based on your coverage.

Work with the insurance adjuster

The insurance adjuster will assess the damage and offer a payout based on your car’s market value before the accident. If you disagree with their evaluation, gather evidence like listings for similar cars in your area to support your claim for a higher payout.

Consider replacement options

Once the insurance company provides the payout, you can use the funds to buy a replacement vehicle. If the payout doesn’t cover the balance of your car loan, you’ll need to pay off the difference. Some people opt for gap insurance to cover the remaining balance in the event of a total loss.

Dealing with a totaled car can be stressful, but following these steps ensures you make informed decisions and get fair compensation.