How do insurers decide what a car is worth?

Insurers keep proprietary databases on car prices, similar to the Blue Book or the National Auto Dealers Association (NADA) Official Used Car Guide. The insurer’s valuation of your car is mostly based on its age. So, your car might be totaled if it’s thirteen years...

When is the right time to get a lawyer involved?

If negotiation doesn’t bring any results, you can try to resolve the matter either through arbitration or litigation. But before doing that, it may be worth asking a lawyer if he or she can help get a more favorable settlement informally. Arbitration, which is less of...

What happens to a totaled car?

When a car is severely damaged, it is usually taken to a salvage yard, auctioned off, and chopped up for parts. The insurance company keeps the money it got at the auction. If you decide you want to keep your car and repair it, you should be able to do so. Many...

What can I do to protect myself when I buy car insurance?

Buying insurance from a customer-friendly company is your strongest protection against hassles after an accident happens. When shopping for insurance, ask at what percentage of the vehicle’s worth a company will total a car. Some will total a car when damage exceeds...

What can I do if I disagree with the insurer’s valuation?

Insurers keep proprietary databases on car prices, similar to the Blue Book or the National Auto Dealers Association (NADA) Official Used Car Guide. The insurer’s valuation of your car is mostly based on its age. So, your car might be totaled if it’s thirteen years...