My car was totaled! Now what?

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1. What does ‘totaled’ mean?

   The insurance company will look at the value of your car vs. the cost to repair it. If the cost to repair the car is about the same or more than the value of your car, the insurance company will likely consider it totaled. Some companies might total your car even if the cost to fix it is lower. You can ask the insurance company what source it used to decide your car's value.

2. What if I think my car is worth more?

   If you think your car is worth more than what the insurance company decided, you can try to negotiate. Be prepared to show what the car would sell for in your area.

   • Get quotes from used car dealers.
   • View prices online and look for local ads for similar vehicles.
   • Document any special features or custom parts on your car.

3. Can I fix it?

   If you want to keep your car, let the insurance company know as soon as possible. The insurance company will subtract the car’s salvage value from the amount it was planning to pay you.

   The car also may be issued a salvage title. After it’s repaired, you’ll need to get a new title from the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles before you can drive it. Be aware that a vehicle that had a salvage title could be harder to sell or insure in the future.

Resources

• What if my insurance isn't paying enough?
• How can I avoid scams when I buy a used vehicle?
• Do I need to buy insurance when I rent a car?
• Do you need gap insurance for your car? How does it work?