Total Loss
Definition
When the cost to repair your vehicle exceeds a certain percentage of its value (usually 70-80%), the insurer declares it a total loss and pays you the car's pre-accident market value instead of repairing it.
Real-World MVA Example
Your car is worth $15,000 and the repair estimate is $12,000. The insurer declares it a total loss and writes you a check for $15,000 minus your deductible.
Related Terms in Insurance & Claims
Adjuster
An insurance company employee who investigates your claim, evaluates the damage, and decides how much the insurer should pay. Adjusters work for the insurance company, not for you.
At-Fault State
A state where the driver who caused the accident is financially responsible for the other party's injuries and damages. Most states follow this system.
Bad Faith
When an insurance company unreasonably denies, delays, or undervalues your legitimate claim. Bad faith can give you grounds to sue the insurer for additional damages.
Collision Coverage
An optional part of your own auto insurance policy that pays for repairs to your vehicle after a crash, regardless of who was at fault.
Comprehensive Coverage
An optional insurance coverage that pays for damage to your vehicle from non-collision events like theft, vandalism, hail, flooding, or hitting an animal.
First-Party Claim
A claim you file with your own insurance company under your own policy, such as collision coverage, MedPay, or uninsured motorist coverage.
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