Auto body repair & detailing: 2011 Camry front and rear impact, gap insurance, luck mark

Question
Recently had an accident that was a rear impact at 55mph, then pushed us into a car. The damage caused the airbag lights to activate, but not deploy.  The car has less than 6000 miles and im wanting the insurance to total it do to the unibody is twisted and damaged.  We will  have 3 dings on Carfax. 1 for rear wreck 2 for front wreck and 3rd for airbag deployment. To me, there is no way they can repair it back to its 100% safe condition. Not to mention, we will take a HUGE loss on trade.  I do have GAP insurance to cover the difference in the event they will total it.  How do you go about making sure the car is repairable and not totaled? It just seems like there is a lot of damage to the whole car, i.e. exhaust, safety xbars behind back seat are twisted, computer system, seat belts, the list goes on and on. Please help so we dont get SCREWED.

Answer
My advice is to get educated and advised about your entitlement to a diminished value claim. They insurer will be obligated to pay you a fee for your loss of value in the car after repairs are complete.
You must get involved with the shop in an effort to convince them that you are going to be a very unhappy customer if this car is repaired. You may also try to work a deal with the
Toyota dealer if they have a body shop to trade in the car as is. I have seen this many times and usually everyone comes out ahead. Get a new one. The dealer and their shop can negotiate on your behalf to get the car repaired.
Good Luck, Mark