“Total Loss” – Seeking Advice and Insights
Hi everyone! I’m 22 and don’t often post on Reddit, but I wanted to share my situation and hear your thoughts because I didn’t realize how complex and frustrating dealing with insurance could be.
About two weeks ago, I was driving home after class when I had a minor accident. I live in the Northeast, so the weather can be tricky. I own an SUV with recently checked tires from my local dealership, which assured me that they were in good condition and likely wouldn’t need replacement until next year. However, on the night of my accident, it was lightly raining and the temperatures were freezing, so I was driving slowly. Unfortunately, I hit some black ice and skidded into a guardrail. The primary damage was to my driver’s side headlight and door, with some cosmetic scrapes on the rear driver’s side door.
We consulted an estimator who noted that the only issue making my car not street legal was the left turn signal being out. He was able to undent my door for easier access and provided an estimate of $12,000 for the repairs. While that’s a significant amount, I was mainly focused on fixing the front end and not concerned with the minor dents. My SUV is a 2014 model that I just finished paying off, and being in my last semester of college, I’ve taken a leave of absence from my job.
The insurance company sent another inspector who concluded that my car was worth just over $11,000, thus declaring it a total loss. They won’t allow my family or me to repair the car to pass inspection; instead, they want to buy back the title. I think you all know how it works, but it’s incredibly frustrating.
I’ve been paying insurance on this car and have just cleared the loan, yet now I’m facing the idea that I can’t even fix it to make it street legal. The vehicle was in excellent condition before the accident, with no issues aside from the turn signal. I wish I could afford the repairs myself, but with my college workload, I am currently overwhelmed.
I rely on this car for commuting, and I’m really feeling stuck. Has anyone else dealt with a similar situation? I’d love to hear your experiences. While I completely understand the need for safety, I was happy with the car’s performance aside from some cosmetic damage. Thanks for listening!
I’m really sorry to hear about your situation. It can be incredibly frustrating to deal with insurance and the aftermath of an accident, especially when you feel like your car was still functional with just cosmetic damage.
Many people have faced similar dilemmas when it comes to their vehicles being deemed a total loss by insurance companies. One of the key factors they consider is the cost of repairs versus the actual cash value (ACV) of the car. In your case, it sounds like the estimate for repairs exceeded the value of your SUV, which is often why they opt for a total loss declaration, even when the car seems otherwise drivable.
It’s a common misconception that as an owner, you should be able to decide how much you’re willing to invest to fix your vehicle. However, insurance companies have policies in place meant to protect them from significant losses, and they often prioritize safety and the costs involved in repairs. While it feels incredibly unfair, they’re operating under their guidelines, which can sometimes seem disjointed from what feels logical or reasonable from a car owner’s perspective.
I would recommend reaching out to your insurance company for clarity on the next steps. Ask about how the valuation was determined and if there’s any possibility for negotiation based on your car’s previous condition and your willingness to fix it. Sometimes, being open about your situation—especially with college commitments—can lead to more understanding and perhaps options you hadn’t considered.
Also, if it’s an option, consider speaking to a trusted mechanic about the repairs. They might provide you with an alternative estimate or options for more affordable repairs. It could also be helpful to talk to a local consumer protection agency or advocate if you feel that the insurance company isn’t being fair.
Hang in there! You’re not alone in this, and many have navigated similar roads. Good luck!