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How can I get the claims adjuster to fix my car instead of totaling it?

Is there a way to change my claim adjuster's mind? A hail storm damaged my 1990 Oldsmobile Cutlass, but the damage doesn't look that bad and runs fine. It only has some dents and needs a new paint job. He said it is only valued at $952.00 and is totaled.

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Shannon Martin · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
“It is impressive that you have been able to keep a vehicle from 1990 in such good, drivable condition. You may not be able to convince your adjuster to make the repairs to your car, but you do have some options!
Car insurance
companies pay out comprehensive claims at
actual cash value
. Even though your car is in good condition, the adjuster has deemed the ACV at $952.
Depending on the hail damage, the average cost of hail repair and a paint job is $6,543, which is more than your car is worth.
Due to the significant disparity in the amounts, your insurance company will not fix your car.
The best course of action is to tell your claims adjuster that you will be rescinding your claim. This means that you will not accept the payout and will take your car back as is.
You can get the repairs done yourself once you have saved up the funds.
If you are unhappy with how your current insurance company has handled this claim, it may be time to shop for a new insurance company.
If you are looking for better service and a cheaper rate,
Jerry
can help! Jerry shops prices with over 50 different insurance companies and delivers the lowest rates straight to your phone in seconds. If you have any questions, you can text an agent, and they will text right back with assistance!”
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Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.

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