adjuster totaled our car

[lwcarey]

Our car was hit head on in a parking lot - the insurance adjuster and inspector determined the accident was the other person's fault. It is a 1984 car and so we didn't have collision (we are dealing with the other person's insurance company) the inspector totaled the car, but since it is so old - the blue book is such a small amount that we won't get enough money to buy another car that drives. We have spent a fair bit of money in the last year to keep this car running and it was in good condition. Last Wed we had a car that drives and now the insurance company is offering us $800 dollars! My husband, the driver had a sore neck after the accident and went to the doctor, but it is fine now. Our 7 week old son also doesn't seem injured. Someone mentioned small claims court as an avenue we might pursue - is that possible? We just need a car that runs. We live in California.

thanks for any advice.

 

[Juan Rodriguez]

When older cars are involved in accidents it is very easy for them to be totaled. Most state laws require that when the damages to a vehicle meet or exceed 80% of the actual cash value of that vehicle then it is deemed a total loss. Cars that can be SAFELY repaired can get a rebuilt title. Small claims court is an avenue if you have any damages to recover that aren't payable by the insurance. Because of the age of your car it is doubtful you could rcover much more in court to make it worth your time and money.