What is typically involved in a negeotiation with an insurance company after a car is totaled?

Question

I was recently involved in a car accident. I just received word today that my car is beyond repair.

The insurance agent told me today that there will be some "negotiations" with the total loss adjuster now that my car is officially a total wreck

What do these "negotiations" typically entail?

I checked on nadaguides.com and the value of my 2002 Toyota Camry with 99K miles is listed at $9850.

How much can I realistically expect that they give me for the value of my car after a total wreck?

Is it going to be the $9850 - (deductable)?

Anybody have any tips or suggestions for this situation? I've never done this before and I don't want to get taken advantage of by the insurance company.

Thanks!

Answer 1

But the problem arises - when will they pay you?

We agreed upon a price for my car June 18th 2008 - and I am in the 'awaiting paperwork' stage of the process.

STILL.

Answer 2

I was all set for a hassle, then the adjuster called and quoted full NADA retail.  I have Allstate.

Good luck.

Answer 3

In the UK, normally what happens from what I have been able to piece together is once they have decided on a valuation of the vehicle based on the market value of the vehicle they send out a total loss cheque minus the deductible.

However, any questions discuss with your agent who should be happy to oblige.

Answer 4

Is this claim through your own auto policy? If yes, You can expect the check to be for the Actual Cash Value of your car, less any deductions.

If your own policy, they will deduct the amount of your deductible.  If there was any damage on your vehicle that is not related to the accident, they will deduct that cost as well.

If you are making a 3rd party claim against someone elses policy, They will offer you the ACV. They would also deduct for any unrelated damages.  If they found you partially at fault (comparative negligence) they will deduct that from the settlement as well.

Otherwise, there really isn't anything to negotiate. You can't change the value of your car.