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How can I get the insurance company to total my car?

I have been dying to get rid of this car but I can't afford another one yet. As luck would have it (ironic, I know), someone smashed into my car while it was parked and the damage looks pretty bad. Is there a way I can get the insurance company to total my car?

avatar
Shannon Martin · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
I have also been in a love/hate relationship with my car, so I understand entirely! That said, there isn’t a way to get the insurance company to total the car for you, but it may be totaled anyway.
Once you submit the claim, the claims adjuster will decide whether it is worth it to repair the car or issue a claim check for the vehicle’s actual cash value. Usually, a vehicle is
totaled
if the cost of repairs is around 70% of the vehicle’s value.
If this is the case, you will get a check to put towards the downpayment of a new car! If the car is repairable, there isn’t a way to change the adjuster’s mind. Insurance is heavily regulated and there are guidelines they have to follow for fairness.
Whether you get a new car or keep your old car, now would be a good time to see if you can save money on your insurance policy. Accidents risk raising your rates, so download the
Jerry
app to make sure you’re getting the best rate. Jerry compares rates with 50+ competitive insurance companies for free. The average Jerry driver saves $879 a year on car insurance!
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