|
WHAT TO DO WHEN YOUR VEHICLE IS TOTALLED
Having your vehicle totaled can be a life disrupting event. Even without major injuries, there are still numerous headaches that confront you, from dealing with police reports or the other persons involved, to arranging temporary transportation, and negotiating with your insurance company. Not to mention a purchase of another vehicle.
But there are things that can be done to make the process less painful. Educating yourself on the real value of your car, understanding the insurance claim process and working with your insurer and car dealer are some smart steps you can take. Tips for dealing with a total loss situation:
Research the fair price for your vehicle using automotive market websites to see what a similar make, model vehicle with matching mileage would cost to replace. Make sure to get the average retail and average wholesale costs. In addition, supply documentation of improvements to your vehicle – like post-purchase additions such as a sun roof, brushguard, seat warmers, new wheels and tires, a new paint job or aftermarket electronics to make sure those improvements are considered in the evaluation process. These can increase the actual cash value of your damaged vehicle. Ask for explanations from your insurance company representative: Make sure that your claims adjustor takes the time to fully explain how they came up with the calculations about what they are going to offer you for your vehicle. Provide documentation of your research and improvements to support your case.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
