The insurance company says my car is a total loss. What now?
Hearing that your car is a total loss is stressful, especially if you still owe money on it or need it for work. You don't have to accept the first offer right away. These steps help you check whether it's fair.
What "total loss" means in Utah
The Utah Insurance Department describes a total loss as when the cost of repairs approaches or exceeds the car's actual cash value. Utah law does not set one fixed percentage, so each insurer applies its own rules.
Our free tool gives you a quick check: if repairs reach 80% of the car's value, it is likely to be treated as a total loss. That is only a guide, not a legal rule.
Step 1: Ask for the valuation report
Ask in writing for the report the insurer used. It should list the comparable cars, their prices, mileage and equipment, and any adjustments they made.
Step 2: Check the comparable cars
- Same year, make, model and trim.
- Similar mileage.
- Same equipment, like 4x4, engine size or package.
- Same type of title (clean, rebuilt or salvage).
- For claims under your own policy, Utah rule R590-190-11 allows cars available in the last 90 days, looking first in your local market and then in nearby areas.
Step 3: Make sure taxes and fees are included
Under the same Utah rule, a cash settlement for a total loss under your own policy must include applicable taxes, license fees and title transfer fees, so you can buy a comparable car. Check that the offer includes them.
Step 4: Send evidence if the offer is low
Send listings of similar cars, maintenance and upgrade receipts, and photos from before the accident. You can use our free tools to compare your car's value.
If you still owe money on the car
The payment usually goes first to your lender. If you owe more than the car is worth, gap coverage, if you have it, may pay the difference. Check your loan and insurance papers.
Personal items and a rental car
Take your personal items out of the car before it's moved to a salvage yard.
If the other driver was at fault, ask their insurance about a rental car. If our partner attorneys take your case, the rental car costs you nothing.
Do I have to accept the first offer?
No. You can ask how they got the number and send evidence if it's low. Read anything before signing: once you sign a release, you usually can't ask for more.
Can I keep my car if it's a total loss?
Sometimes. Ask your insurer how it works. The car may get a salvage title, which affects its value and what you need to do before driving it again.
What if I was also hurt?
Your car is only part of it. In Utah, PIP insurance usually pays medical bills first, no matter who caused the crash. Ask us for a free call to review your case.
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