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Can I get a second opinion if my vehicle is marked a total loss?
I was in an accident and my insurance says my car is a total loss. It doesn't seem like that much damage and I'd rather just get my vehicle repaired. Can I request a second opinion?
Emily Maracle · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
It can be frustrating when your insurance company doesn’t agree with you or declares your vehicle a total loss.
Unfortunately, your
car insurance
has the final say in determining if your vehicle is a total loss, you won’t be able to get a second opinion. However, there are some things you can do: If you want to repair your vehicle instead of receiving a payout, you may be able to negotiate with your insurance.
Typically they won’t pay out the entire
actual cash value
of your vehicle. Instead. they’ll only give you a portion and you’ll be responsible for completing all necessary repairs.Depending on where you live, you’ll have to register your vehicle as
salvaged
. Anytime a vehicle is marked a total loss but is repaired or rebuilt, your state’s DMV may require a salvage title.Another option: Work with the adjuster on your claim and ask them to review the damage again after providing them with reasoning as to why you feel your vehicle shouldn’t be marked a total loss. You can see if another repair or auto shop may quote you lower for repairs.
Keep in mind: The actual cash value of your vehicle needs to be more than the repairs. If your repairs cost more than your vehicle’s worth, this would deem it a total loss regardless.
Saving a car you’ve loved driving can take a lot of work, but it’s worth it if you have a lot of sentimental value invested in it. Best of luck!
View full answer
- Gregory R.
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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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