Car Auto Insurance Coverage, Quotes and Tips

If Your Vehicle is Totaled
An insurance company will “total” your vehicle if repairing it would cost more than it is valued. An insurance company will use a number of sources to value your automobile, including, but not limited to, the National Automobile Dealers Association Used Car Guide (“Blue Book”) or the CCC Information Services, Inc., guide.

The company’s suggestion, consequently, may not identify your car’s condition, special features or value on the local market. Companies must use a fair and sensible method to settle on the value of your vehicle. You have the right to know how the value was determined and you ought to be sure to give the insurance company all the information that might influence the value of
your car. It may come down to negotiations between you and the insurance company to arrive at an agreement on the worth of your vehicle. A company is more liable to raise its offer if you can show that your car would sell for a higher price in your area. Get quite a few used car dealers’ written price quotes for a comparable car. Newspaper used-car ads also can build your case.

Remember, an insurance company won’t reimburse you for the sentimental worth of your vehicle.