What Happens if Your Car Is Totaled in Las Vegas?

car accidents in Las Vegas

A totaled car or total loss happens when the cost of repairing a vehicle exceeds the car’s market value. It can also mean that the car is beyond restoration. In many cases where there is a total loss, it’s usually because of an accident.

But a totaled automobile doesn’t necessarily equate to a significant accident. Sometimes, even a small crash can result in colossal damage to the vehicle. The bad thing about accidents is that they can happen at any time.

Worse, it can involve an innocent, meticulous victim. While we shouldn’t become jittery and anticipate misfortunes, we should know what to do when a car crash happens. And if your vehicle was totaled, you shouldn’t be confused about the steps to take.

Christian Morris Trial Attorneys can help if your car is totaled in Las Vegas. Our auto accident lawyers understand the roles of insurance companies and how to respond if the at-fault driver’s insurance company contests your claim or tries to pay you less than your car is worth.

How Do I Know That My Car Is Totaled in Las Vegas?

There’s a general rule regarding totaled cars. Your car is considered totaled when the cost of damage in the crash is higher than the vehicle’s value. We’ll give an example.

Let’s suppose that Clara’s car is worth $20,000. Clara gets into an accident, and her car gets wrecked. When she accessed the cost of repairs, she discovered that it was $40,000. The damage exceeds the total value of her automobile. Therefore, her car is a total loss. But this isn’t what obtains in Las Vegas, Nevada.

In Nevada, the cost of fixing the vehicle should be at least 80% of its market value. According to the law, it’s only then that the car can be said to be totaled. Going by this definition, Clara’s vehicle would still be a total loss if repair costs were $16,000.

What to Do If Your Car Is a Total Loss Due to an At-Fault Driver

What if your vehicle gets totaled after a crash with a negligent driver? When your automobile is a total loss due to another person’s carelessness, you have some options to choose from:

  1. File a claim with the negligent driver’s insurance.
  2. File a personal injury lawsuit.
  3. If you carry collision insurance, ask your insurance company to handle it.

If the negligent driver has enough property damage liability coverage, you can ask for damages from their insurance. You’ll need to file a claim with their insurance company with evidence to back it up. That’s why it’s essential to take pictures of the scene immediately after the crash.

Sometimes, the negligent driver’s insurance may not cover the property damage. If this happens, you may ask your insurance provider to cover the deficit. Alternatively, you can get an auto accident attorney in Las Vegas to file a lawsuit on your behalf. An experienced Las Vegas car accident lawyer at our firm can assist with your court case if the at-fault driver’s insurance company contests your claim or tries to pay you less than your car is worth.

However, regardless of which option you choose, you’d need to get an insurance adjuster. The adjuster’s job is to assess what would be a fair settlement for you. Usually, the adjuster comes up with a less than the real value you deserve.

Why You Need a Las Vegas Car Accident Lawyer

From the moment you’re involved in the crash, things happen too fast. With lots of decisions to make in such a limited time, you’re prone to mistakes. Sometimes, you don’t know what to do, and the insurance companies don’t help matters.

But with an experienced Las Vegas personal injury lawyer, you have nothing to worry about. From gathering evidence to negotiating with your insurance company, your attorney will handle it all. Since your legal advisors are familiar with the process, they’ll work fast to the best deadlines. They’ll also advocate for you in court if need be.

Get Help — Call Christian Morris Trial Attorneys Immediately!

If your vehicle is a total loss, you should immediately call the Las Vegas car accident lawyers at Christian Morris Trial Attorneys. With our experience, professionalism, and track records, your claim is in good hands with us. Schedule a free consultation today.