Auto Insurance Claims: withdrawing claim, salvage title, steering colum

Question
I car was stolen and recovered. There were damages to the steering colum, window, door handle, and AC face panel. I reported a claim with my car insurance. The inspector labeled my car a total loss and want to keep my car. The only way they said I can get my car is if they give me a salvage title. I refuse to release the car to my insurance and dispute being a total loss. I also dispute having a salvage title. I had the repairs fixed on my car on my own and I want to withdraw my claim, but the insurance company refuses. I should of never reported the damages and just fix my car in the first place myself. I have a 1995 Honda Civic and I have been the sole owner. I have kept up with the maintenance and it is my car to keep.

Answer
Hi Nancy,
You don't need to withdraw the claim.  Since your insurance company was not willing to work with you to 'save' the car with such minor  damage, you had every legal right to go ahead and have the car repaired on your own.  
I feel sure that it probably cost less than the insurance company had estimated.
Now, you have a legal right to turn copies of the repair bills over to them and demand reimbursement for the full amount of your cost (less your deductible).
If your insurance company does not cooperate with you, then you need to file a complaint with the Department of
Insurance.
Just type 'yourstatename department of insurance' into your web browser and hit go.  This will bring up many sites in your state dealing with insurance.  Scroll through those sites until you find the one that states 'official site'
of the department of insurance.  Click on that site and scroll through and you will be shown the proper method of filing a complaint by e-mail and by phone.
It is the job of the insurance commissioner to provide you full assistance in resolving this issue with your insurance company.
Unlike a fault accident which would cause your rate to increase, a comprehensive claim will have no affect on your rate.
I trust this has been of help, please write again if I can be of more assistance.
Your feedback by rating my answer will be appreciated.
Sincerely,
Bennie
San Francisco Bay Area