Auto Insurance Claims: Totaled auto, salvage title, rear bumper

Question
The insurance company wants to total my auto because the repairs will be more than the value of the car.  The car can still be driven and the damage is to the rear bumper and back panel (it's a 93 escort).  I would like to keep it, as I do not want to buy another car at this time.  What do I tell the insurance company?

Answer
Hi Robert,

A vehicle is generally determined to be a total loss when the cost of repairs is at or above 75% of the vehicle's value. In some cases you can keep the car, but the insurance company will deduct from your settlement the amount they could have sold the salvage for. You will still have to sign over the title to them and they will apply for a salvage title. You will then have to get the vehicle repaired and present it to the state for inspection to see that it is road worthy. In most cases this process is just not worth going through. You'd be better off to take the money and buy another car.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh