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<h4 class="dechead">On One Hand: Definition of "Totaled"
A totaled car generally costs more to repair than it is worth. An example would be a car that is valued at $5,000, but would cost $6,000 to repair. Cars might be totaled after a car accident, after being inspected by the insurance company's mechanics. The value of a car that is totaled depends on the car itself, and it's value prior to being damaged.
On the Other: Understand the Value of Your Car
Prior to accepting a "totaled" offer from an insurance company, it is important to understand the value of the car. The totaled value is based on its state prior to the damage. Different elements, such as the age and condition of the vehicle are also considered. Make sure to have a fair appraisal of your vehicle before accepting any offer.
Bottom Line
Make sure to have a fair appraisal of your vehicle before accepting any offer for the totaled value of a car. If the offer is coming from an insurance company, a vehicle owner has the right to an independent appraisal of the car's value and cost for repairs, to ensure the offer is fair.
Source:
Resource:
Insurance Consumer Advocate Network
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