We know that filing a total loss claim for a car can be a complicated and stressful process, especially if you’re not yet familiar with the steps required to obtain the appropriate compensation. A total loss occurs when the cost of repairs exceeds the car’s value.
Let's take a look at the steps you need to take to file a total loss claim with your insurance company, including the appraisal of the damaged vehicle, the involvement of the claims adjuster and the insurance company, and the options available to drivers who do not have comprehensive coverage.
How to File a Total Loss Claim with Your Insurance Company
If, as a driver, you suffer a total loss accident without fault, that is, if another driver caused the accident, you can claim compensation from the insurance company of the at-fault driver. The claims process involves the participation of an expert assessor and the insurance company, as well as requiring the submission of certain documents.
Claiming for a total loss accident without fault involves the following steps:
- Notify the insurance company of the driver responsible for the accident.
- Participate in the expert assessor’s visit to assess the damage to the car.
- Obtain an assessment of the market value of the car.
- Submit the claim to the insurance company of the at-fault driver; this includes the assessment of the market value of the car and any other documents that may be required.
- Wait for the insurance company’s response and negotiate the corresponding compensation if necessary.
Documents to submit
To claim for a total loss accident without fault, the following documents are required:
- Accident report.
- Expert assessor’s report.
- Amicable accident statement, if any.
- Copy of the complaint filed with the police.
- Vehicle documentation, such as the registration certificate and technical data sheet.
- Invoices or estimates for the repairs needed to return the car to its condition prior to the accident.
- Assessment of the market value of the car.
How to File a Total Loss Claim with Your Insurance Company
If, as a driver, you suffer a total loss accident with fault, that is, if you are responsible for the accident, the claim for compensation will depend on the type of insurance policy taken out.
If you have fully comprehensive insurance, you can claim from your own insurance company, which will be responsible for assessing the damaged vehicle. The insurer will then negotiate the corresponding compensation with you, taking into account the market value, the risk surcharge and the value for affection. If the insurer states that there was bad faith, there will be no compensation.
On the other hand, if you have third-party insurance, you can definitively forget about compensation. The car will be declared a total loss and, if you want to repair it, you will have to pay for the repair with your own money.
What happens if you don't have comprehensive insurance?
If you do not have fully comprehensive insurance and you suffer a total loss accident, you will have to bear the repair costs of the car or the total loss of it. In this case, you will not receive compensation from the insurer.
If you do not have fully comprehensive insurance and suffer a total loss accident, you can choose from these options:
- Pay the repair costs of the car with your own money.
- Deregister the car and sell it to a scrapyard or breakers yard if it cannot be repaired.
In any case, the loss is significant. That is why it is important to carefully consider your options and make an informed decision.
Seek professional advice!
If your car has been damaged and you want to claim a total loss from the insurance company, at Carlos Baño León Abogados we can help you. We have the best professionals in Damage Law in Alicante, who can advise you on your claim; you can make a free online consultation. Contact us!
