Accidents can leave vehicles with varying degrees of damage. If an insurance adjuster determines that your car is a total loss after a crash, it means the cost to repair it is not feasible.

In Washington state, there's a specific formula for deciding whether a car is totaled, and as a car owner, you have the right to see these calculations as part of your settlement.

So, how do they calculate if a vehicle is totaled?

First, the adjuster calculates the actual cash value (ACV) of the car, which is its fair market value before the accident, not its original cost or replacement value. The ACV is then compared to the total repair costs and salvage value. If the sum of the salvage value and repair costs is greater than the ACV, the car is considered totaled.

After your car is totaled, the insurance company is required by law to pay you the ACV of the vehicle, minus any deductible. They must also cover sales tax, title, and licensing fees. If you disagree with the valuation, you can request a third-party appraisal if your policy allows it.

If you decide to keep the vehicle, you'll receive the ACV minus salvage value and any applicable deductibles.

If you have questions or concerns about this process, remember that we can guide you through it and ensure your rights are protected. Navigating the claims process can be complex, especially if you're still recovering from injuries. We're here to help.

Contact our office today to learn more: 206-447-1425.