Car Insurance Company Not Stepping Up to Help With your Totaled Car?

November 13, 2025 | Insurance Claims

Navigating the world of car insurance can be a major pain, especially when faced with a total loss situation. In this blog post, we’ll look at how to effectively dispute a car insurance total loss, ensuring you get the compensation you deserve rather than what the insurance company deems fair.

Understanding Total Loss in Car Insurance

When your vehicle is labeled a total loss, it means the insurance company has determined that the cost of repairs exceeds the vehicle’s actual cash value (ACV). This determination can be frustrating, especially if you believe your vehicle is repairable. Understanding the criteria that insurers use to declare a total loss is essential for any car owner.

Insurers typically consider factors such as the age, condition, and market value of your vehicle before making their decision. They may base their calculations on standard valuation tools, which can sometimes underestimate your vehicle’s worth. This is where knowledge and proper documentation come into play.

Key Factors in Total Loss Determination

• Repair Costs: If repair costs are higher than the vehicle’s ACV, it’s often labeled a total loss.
• Market Value: Insurers assess the market value using various tools, which may not reflect your vehicle’s true worth.
• Safety Considerations: If repairs compromise vehicle safety, insurers may deem it a total loss.

If your car insurance company is claiming your car is a total loss, but a professional mechanic said it could be fixed for a reasonable amount, which is your preferred way to handle things, here are a few tips to strengthen your claim.

How to Dispute a Total Loss

Disputing a total loss declaration may seem daunting, but it can be broken down into manageable steps. Here’s how you can approach the process:

1. Review the Insurance Company’s Assessment: Understand how they arrived at their valuation.
2. Gather Documentation: Compile all relevant vehicle records, repair estimates, and any other supporting documents.
3. Research Vehicle Value: Use resources like Kelley Blue Book to find comparable vehicle prices.
4. Submit Your Findings: Present your evidence to the insurance company and request a reassessment.

Gathering Your Vehicle Records

The first step in disputing a total loss is to gather all relevant records related to your vehicle. This documentation will support your argument that the vehicle is worth more than the insurance company claims.

Key documents include:

• Maintenance Records: Show regular servicing and any upgrades made to the vehicle.
• Repair Estimates: Obtain quotes from reputable mechanics to illustrate repair feasibility.
• Purchase Documents: Include original purchase price and any significant investments made into the vehicle.  Perhaps you had recently installed a new timing belt, air conditioning compressor or a new transmission, all that add value to your car.

Conducting Research on Vehicle Value

Understanding your vehicle’s market value is crucial in disputing a total loss. Utilize resources like Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds, or NADA Guides to gather data on similar vehicles in your area.

When conducting your research, consider the following:

• Condition: Compare vehicles of similar make and model in equivalent condition.
• Location: Market values can vary significantly based on geographical factors.
• Recent Sales: Look for recent sales of comparable vehicles to strengthen your case.  It’s amazing how much a good used vehicle is going for now, and the insurance company needs to see this, form YOUR perspective.

Getting Written Quotes from Mechanics

Obtaining written quotes from certified mechanics is a vital step in demonstrating the viability of repairs. These quotes should detail the necessary repairs and itemize costs, providing a clear picture of the repair process.

When selecting mechanics, consider the following:

• Reputation: Choose mechanics with strong reviews and certifications.
• Experience: Ensure they are familiar with your vehicle make and model.
• Detailed Estimates: Request itemized estimates that break down parts and labor costs.

You must get quote from professional and licensed mechanics, and not from ‘Uncle Bob’ out of his home garage.  Your repair quotes need to be from established and credible shops.

Submitting Your Findings to the Insurance Company

Once you’ve gathered all your documentation, it’s time to submit your findings to the insurance company. This step is crucial as it presents your side of the story and challenges their initial assessment.

Include a cover letter summarizing your argument and the key points of your evidence. Attach all relevant documents, including repair estimates, vehicle records, pictures and market research. Ensure your submission is organized; this clarity will help the adjuster review your case more effectively.

After submitting your findings, be prepared to wait for a response. The insurance company is required to review your appeal, but the timeline can vary. Keep a record of all communications for reference.  If the review is taking too long though, be the ‘squeaky wheel’ and get a timeline from them.

Negotiating with Your Insurance Company

Negotiation is a vital step in disputing a total loss declaration. When you receive a response from the insurance company, don’t accept their first offer. This initial offer is often lower than what you might deserve.

Be ready to present your case confidently. Reference the evidence you submitted and emphasize any discrepancies in their valuation. Remember, insurance adjusters may be under pressure to settle quickly, which can work to your advantage.

• Stay Professional: Maintain a calm and respectful demeanor throughout the negotiation.
• Be Persistent: Don’t hesitate to follow up if you don’t receive timely responses.
• Know Your Worth: Use your research to justify your valuation of the vehicle.

Filing a Complaint with the Department of Insurance

If negotiations stall or the insurance company remains unresponsive, consider filing a complaint with your state’s Department of Insurance. This step should be viewed as a last resort but can be effective in prompting the insurer to address your concerns.

Ensure your complaint is well-documented. Include all relevant details such as your policy number, a summary of the dispute, and copies of any correspondence. The Department of Insurance can investigate claims of bad faith and may pressure the insurance company to settle fairly.

Using Emotional Appeals in Your Argument

Incorporating emotional appeals can significantly enhance your argument during negotiations. When discussing your situation, emphasize the impact of being without your vehicle.

Share your story. Talk about the challenges you face daily without reliable transportation, such as commuting to work, picking up children, or running errands. This personal touch can resonate with the adjuster and may influence their decision.

Remember, insurance representatives are human too. They may be more inclined to help when they understand the emotional weight of your situation.

Final Thoughts and Next Steps

Disputing a total loss declaration can be a challenging process, but with the right approach, you can advocate effectively for yourself. Gather your documentation, research diligently, and engage in negotiations with confidence.

If you reach a satisfactory agreement, ensure you get everything in writing. If not, don’t hesitate to escalate the matter through formal complaints. Your perseverance can lead to a resolution that reflects the true value of your vehicle.

Remember, you are entitled to fair treatment from your insurance company. Stay informed, be assertive, and you’ll increase your chances of a favorable outcome in your claim.

If you and the insurance company can’t come to terms, consider speaking with an attorney about your case.  On a high-value car, a classic car or a valuable antique, this may be the only way to get what is rightfully yours.