Why is the appraisal amount different from the estimate that was submitted?
There might be differences in parts, prices or labor costs that were identified during the appraisal process.

Why is my vehicle a total loss? It looks like it can be fixed.
When the cost for repairs and salvage value exceed the value of the vehicle before the damage, it is declared a total loss.

Can I keep my vehicle if it is a total loss?
Yes. The value of the salvage will be taken into consideration in your settlement.

Is my totaled vehicle eligible for a title?
There are two types of titles for total loss vehicles that are five years old or newer.
Salvage Title – 75% - 90% damaged
Salvage titled vehicles have a title that is orange in color and depreciates the value up to 50%. The State requires vehicles with salvage titles to be inspected after repair, before a new registration can be issued.
Scrap Title – Over 90% damaged
Vehicles with a scrap title cannot be registered for license plates and are normally only used for parts.

How is the value of my vehicle determined?
The total loss evaluation process uses mileage, options and condition of the vehicle to determine the value. Auto policies pay actual cash value in a total loss situation. Actual cash value is what the vehicle would sell for in the owner’s front yard. It is often referred to as a private party value. Vehicles sold in a dealer lot may have higher values because of possible reconditioning, warranties, sales commissions and advertising that are also included in the price.

The valuation reports used by Farm Bureau Insurance’s Total Loss Appraisers are available to insureds and their agents for review.