What if my car was totaled in a rear-end accident?

If you were rear ended, you may be wondering what will happen to your car. In many cases, the damage is minimal and can be repaired easily. However, in some cases, the damage is so severe that the car is considered a total loss. If your car was totaled in a rear-end accident, here’s what you need to know:

• What does it mean for a car to be totaled? When a car is totaled, it means that the cost of repairing the car is greater than the value of the car. In other words, it would be more expensive to fix the car than to buy a similar one.
• How is the value of the car determined? The value of the car is determined by factors such as the make and model of the car, the year it was manufactured, the mileage, and the condition of the car before the accident. An insurance adjuster will typically determine the value of the car based on the fair market value Be sure to explain any upgrades or enhancements you have made that could add value to the vehicle.
• What happens to the car after it is totaled? If your car is totaled, the insurance company will pay you the actual cash value of the car, minus any deductible. The insurance company will then take possession of the car and either sell it for salvage or scrap it.
• What if the insurance payout is not enough to cover the cost of a new car? If you are injured, that may be another means of recovering monetary compensation. You may be able to pursue a personal injury claim against the at-fault insurance party if you are hurt in the rear-end crash. 
• What if I still owe money on the car? If you still owe payments on the car, and the insurance company does not pay enough to cover the total you owe, you should inquire as to whether or not you have gap insurance. Gap insurance will cover the cost (i.e. the gap) between what you owe on the vehicle and what the insurance company pays you for the vehicle. 

If your car was totaled in a rear-end accident, it’s important to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney who can help you understand your options and protect your rights. The Ruth Law Team has a team of skilled attorneys who can guide you through the process and help you get the compensation you deserve. Call us at (888) 783-8378 today to schedule a free consultation.

You can also visit us by appointment at one of our Florida Law Offices, Minnesota Law Offices, or Georgia Law Offices.

Please note that the answers for each question may vary depending on the specific facts of your case, and it is always best to consult with an attorney to get more accurate information. Also, this is general information and not legal advice.