Suggestions for Dealing with a Total Loss Vehicle Claim
Steps you should take after your car is declared a total loss.
If you have been in an accident and your insurer deems your car a total loss, then you might not know what to do next. To help you facilitate the claims process, here are some of the steps you should take after your car is declared a total loss.
- Find Your Car Title
Your car title is needed to process a total loss claim, so it’s important that you know where this document is. If you cannot find your title, then file for a lost title at the DMV as soon as possible so you can finally begin the claims process.
- Find Out How Much Your Car is Worth
Do some research to get a general idea of how much your car is currently worth. Use resources like Kelly Blue Book to see what they value your make and model at. You should also look at similar vehicle listings in your area. This research should give you a good idea of what your insurer will value your car at.
- Determine How Much You Own on The Car
If you have a loan out on your car, then check to see how much you still owe. This will help you prepare in the event that your loan amount is higher than your car’s current value. If your loan exceeds your car’s value, then your insurance settlement will go to your lender, and you will be responsible for paying the remaining loan amount on your own.
- Complete Paperwork Quickly
Total loss claims require a lot of paperwork. For instance, you and your insurer will have to come to a written agreement on the value of your car. You will also have to sign ownership of the vehicle over to your insurer so they can process your claim and pay the settlement to you or your lender. Prompt completion of this paperwork will help you put the ordeal behind you as soon as possible.
Here are some of the steps you should take after your car is declared a total loss. Want to make sure that you are covered in the event of a total loss event? Then make sure you have the right auto insurance in place. For assistance with all your car coverage needs, contact the experts at Remland Insurance in Orange, California today.
