What to Do if My Car is Totaled

What Does “Totaled” Mean?

When your car is declared a total loss, it means the cost to repair it exceeds the vehicle’s actual cash value (ACV). In Texas, insurance companies use this calculation to determine whether repairs are cost-effective. If your car is unsafe to drive even after potential repairs, it can also be totaled. Instead of covering repair costs, the insurer will typically pay you the ACV minus your deductible.

Steps to Take if My Car is Totaled

If your car is deemed a total loss, it’s important to know what comes next. According to Kelley Blue Book, here are the steps most drivers will follow:

• File a claim with your insurance company as soon as possible.
• Learn more about how to file an insurance claim properly. 
• Confirm the total loss decision by reviewing the insurer’s valuation report.
• Understand your payout, which is based on your car’s market value before the accident.
• Explore your options, such as accepting the settlement, negotiating, or keeping the car with a salvage title.
  
  

Each case is unique, but knowing these steps helps you move forward with confidence.

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What Are My Options After a Total Loss?

Once your car is totaled, you typically have two options: accept the insurance payout or negotiate if you feel the settlement doesn’t match your vehicle’s true value. In some cases, you may be able to keep the car, although it will carry a salvage title and may not be road-ready. Texas drivers should carefully weigh these choices to ensure they get the best outcome.

If you need guidance or a reliable repair estimate, our Gunn Collision Center in San Antonio is here to help. We’ll walk you through the process and answer any questions you may have about insurance claims and repair decisions. Please contact us online to learn more about our services.

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