Auto Insurance Claims: Totaled vs 65%, preferred shops, actual damages

Question
My son was recently hit when someone turned in front of him. Now his SUV is at a car dealership and they are telling us the damage is 10,000, and to be totaled, it has to be 75%.  $10,000 is only 65%.  Can we get another bid and is there anyway we can get this car totaled.  I don't
want him driving a car back and forth from college that is pieced back together.

Answer
Hi Gail,
I'm sorry to learn of your son's vehicle damage.  The adverse driver/insurance company is only responsible for paying the actual damages.
You certainly are entitled to secure as many more estimates as you desire, but I doubt if one of them will put the vehicle in the 'total loss' category.
I suggest that you deal with your own insurance company to have the vehicle repaired.  Most companies have preferred repair shops, and if you use one of the preferred shops, the work is guaranteed as long as you own the car.
I hope that you find this information to be of help.
Your feedback by rating my answer will be appreciated.

Sincerely,
Bennie
San Francisco Bay Area