Total Loss

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Total Loss in Car Accident Cases – Bert McDowell Injury Law

Total Loss in Car Accident Cases in Connecticut

Contact Bert McDowell Injury Law at 475-231-3274 for legal help today.

What Does “Total Loss” Mean in Connecticut?

In Connecticut, like in many states, “total loss” is a term frequently used by insurance companies to determine whether a vehicle should be repaired or replaced after a car accident. A car is considered a total loss when the cost of repairs exceeds a certain percentage of its pre-accident market value, usually around 70-80%, depending on the insurance company’s policies. When this happens, the insurer typically pays you the car’s replacement value instead of covering repair costs.

If your car has been deemed a total loss, it’s crucial to understand your rights and options. Consulting with an experienced car accident attorney, like Bert McDowell Injury Law, can help you ensure that you receive fair compensation for your vehicle and any other damages incurred in the accident. Call us today at 475-231-3274 for assistance.

Defining Total Loss

A total loss occurs when a vehicle’s condition is beyond repair following an accident. In most cases, this means:

  • The car was scrapped or stripped for parts.
  • The vehicle is so extensively damaged that it is considered junk.

When faced with a total loss determination, you have legal options and rights. Navigating this process can be complex, but an experienced attorney can guide you through every step.

What Happens When a Vehicle Is a Total Loss?

In Connecticut, when an insurance company determines that your car is a total loss, you typically have two main options:

1. Accept a Cash Settlement

The insurance company will offer you the actual cash value (ACV) of your car. This amount should reflect the market value of your car before the accident, taking into account its make, model, year, mileage, and condition. Additionally, the payout should cover taxes, registration fees, and other costs associated with purchasing a replacement vehicle. Unfortunately, insurance adjusters sometimes overlook these additional costs. That’s where an experienced attorney can step in to ensure you get the full compensation you’re entitled to.

2. Get a Replacement Vehicle

In some cases, the insurance company may opt to replace your totaled car with a similar vehicle. The replacement car should match the make, model, year, mileage, and condition of your previous vehicle as closely as possible. However, most insurers prefer to provide a cash settlement rather than deal with the logistics of purchasing a replacement vehicle.

What Happens to Your Car After It Is Declared a Total Loss?

Once your car is deemed a total loss, it typically becomes the property of the insurance company. They may choose to sell it for salvage, dismantle it for parts, or scrap it entirely. However, if you wish to retain ownership of your car, even after it’s been declared a total loss, you may have the option to negotiate with the insurance company. This process can be tricky, but with the help of an attorney, you can explore your options.

What If You Obtain a Salvage Title?

If you decide to keep your totaled car, it will be issued a salvage title. In Connecticut, to legally drive a car with a salvage title, you must first repair it and have it inspected by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to ensure it meets safety standards. This process can be time-consuming and may involve additional costs, but it is possible with the right guidance.

Insurance companies may not always inform you about this option, so it’s essential to work with an experienced car accident attorney to protect your interests.

Why Choose Bert McDowell Injury Law?

If your car has been totaled in a Connecticut car accident, Bert McDowell Injury Law is here to help. We understand the frustration and financial stress that can come with dealing with insurance companies after a crash. Our team will fight to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve, including fair payment for your totaled vehicle, medical expenses, lost wages, and more.

Don’t let insurance adjusters undervalue your claim. Call Bert McDowell Injury Law at 475-231-3274 for a FREE consultation today.

Contact Us Today

Has your vehicle been declared a total loss? Are you unsure if you’ve received fair compensation for your car? Contact Bert McDowell Injury Law for expert assistance. Call us at 475-231-3274 or fill out our contact form to schedule your FREE consultation. Let us help you navigate the complexities of your car accident claim and get the justice you deserve.

© 2023 Bert McDowell Injury Law. All rights reserved.



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