My mother-in-law backed a rental car into a tree this summer which resulted in minor damage. The back bumper and taillight were damaged but now the rental company (Avis/Budget) claims it is a total loss? $17k worth of damages and they’re putting it to auction. She also drove it 75+ miles after the accident, so I don’t know how it’s a “total loss”.
Her insurance says she doesn’t have a rental car deductible but she’s worried her rates will increase. Any insights appreciated thanks!
MIL backed a rental car into a tree resulting in minor damage. Company says it’s a “total loss”?
byu/pro-laps inInsurance
Posted by pro-laps
7 Comments
Well, her rates are going to increase because she was in an accident and she’s going to have a property damage claim.
She should be worried, because they are. But they were going to increase regardless of whether she did 2K in damage or 17K.
Yes, it’s totaled.
Yes, her rates will go up.
Depend on state and the age/condition of vehicle, it is entirely possible to total loss on $17k repair.
Back bumper and taillight on a 1993 Toyota? Or a modern car?
Back up camera, proximity sensors, auto tailgate opener. Them bells and whistles add up fast.
Let her insurance handle it. That’s what she is paying for!!! Her insurance will ideally only pay what it needs to. No need to get involved in a damage investigation.
Total loss means the cost to repair the vehicle exceeds a percentage of the value of the vehicle, usually around 70% but the specifics depend on the state laws.
You didn’t mention the make or model but $17k is well within the realm for some vehicles.