skip to Main Content

Totaled Car Accident: Everything You Need to Know

Totaled car means your car is deemed “totaled”, also known as a total loss.

The injury attorneys at Phoenix Accident and Injury Law Firm near you have significant experience in helping clients who have been in a totaled car accident. Our offices are conveniently located in nearby ChandlerPeoria, and North Phoenix, and we can meet in-person at our nearby offices, over the phone, or video call.  You can contact us for a free consultation, or read on to find out more.

By the way, we will also help with other problems that have cost you sleep, like getting a rental car very soon and finding a nearby doctor who can help you. Even the best legal team isn’t good enough if your quality of life isn’t sustainable while justice and compensation are on the way. The whole point of legal action is to regain quality of life, so we help you long-term as attorneys and short-term as your go-to people. Our familiarity with the local Phoenix courts makes us confident that we can help you get the best settlement possible.

Read Our Client Reviews

“I have been a client of… [Phoenix Accident and Injury] Law firm since 2007; after my first car accident here in Arizona. I sought legal help because of the major damage to my car and my injuries. … [Phoenix Accident and Injury] Law was a recommended referral though my employee assistance program. I scheduled my appointment with Christy to discuss my case; she immediately jumped to action; ensuring I received all the medical attention needed and when it was time to settle, she fought for a more than fair settlement.

When I was again rear-ended, about 3-years later, I did not hesitate to call … [Phoenix Accident and Injury] Law firm. The level of concern, compassion and professionalism are well above industry standard. I cannot thank … [Phoenix Accident and Injury] Law Firm enough for ALL the help they have given me. I will forever be a client!” – Crystal Scantlin (Read this Review on Google)

“I don’t have any experience with lawyers and such, but overall I had a good experience with them! I was rear ended and my vehicle was totaled back in September, so I called them because they were recommended by a friend. Once we moved into negotiations everything went by pretty quickly. I received letters as well as follow up phone calls and such.

We worked closely with Ariana in the beginning who was super sweet and then we worked with Shane who was extremely professional and explained everything to me very thoroughly and had no problem answering my dumb questions.” – Dakota Dyche (Read this Review on Google)

“I am so thankful for this law firm. I got into an accident with 2 other cars and was sued, even though it was determined that the accident was not my fault. The person who’s fault it was came after me anyway! The front of my car was completely smashed in and they only walked away with a small bumper dent. I lost a whole car that I had just got! … [Phoenix Accident and Injury] Law Firm made me feel welcome and heard. They also helped me win the case! I highly recommend them, you can tell that they love what they do because they give it their all.” – Britteny Bailey (Read this Review on Google)

“My partner and I, along with our 3 children, were in a car accident. I had found a wonderful chiropractor after the accident (Dr. Taylor) and he referred me to … [Phoenix Accident and Injury] Law Firm. I was actually shocked at the quick response. I had left a few voicemails on Goldberg and Osbourne, and never got a return call even!

The day I called… [Phoenix Accident and Injury] an associate came to my house that day to go over everything and I signed with them. I couldn’t believe she took the time to drive to my house, it was very helpful seeing as though my car was totaled. I was relieved to not have to deal with the harassing calls from the insurance companies, all I had to do is say call my lawyer.

What a relief. I was able to email and text any questions I had and always had a response within 24 hours. My dad is an attorney out of state, has been for decades, and he even called and talked to the associate I signed with, he said he felt very comfortable and also said they seem to be “very sharp”. Everything went smooth, our settlement was more than we expected. Everything was always explained and we knew exactly what was happening all the time.

We closed up with Carolyn Button who was prompt and thorough going over the paperwork and breaking everything down for us. Hope to not get into any more accidents, but without a question this is where I would go.” – Jesse Chanley (Read this Review on Google)

What Does It Mean to Have a Totaled Car?

Many people throw this term around, but may not know exactly what it means.  Some people may think that a car is a “totaled car” only if the car is crumpled beyond recognition. However, a car in a totaled car accident is considered to be totaled when the cost of the repairs exceeds the total cost of the car. This can, of course, happen if the car is destroyed. But, it can also happen with more minor damage particularly if your car is older.  

What Happens When Your Car is Totaled?

If you’re involved in a totaled car accident, there are a few steps you need to take. First, contact your insurance company to find out their valuation of the car as well as to conduct an inspection. Then, contact a mechanic to determine the price of repairs. You may need to get in touch with a personal injury attorney to pursue a claim if the accident was not your fault.  

Do You Still Pay Insurance after a Totaled Car Accident?

You do not have to pay insurance on a totaled car because the car is not drivable. However, if you have financed or leased your car, you should still be making those payments in order to keep your credit score in good standing. Be sure to save any receipts or invoices you may receive.  

What Are My Rights if My Car is Totaled?

If the insurance company says that your car is totaled, they will likely only give you a check for the market value of the car on the day it was totaled. That means that if you still owe money on your totaled car, you can be stuck paying for a car you no longer have after a totaled car accident. Additionally, your insurance company will likely take the body of the totaled car in order to recoup some of their loss.  

If You Need More Information, Take a Look at These Articles

Phoenix Junkyards Near You

If your insurance company does not want to take your car, here is a list of some junkyards where you can sell your totaled car.  

Complete Auto Recyclers 

Altra Collision Center 

Davis Metal and Salvage

Get Help Now 

At Phoenix Accident and Injury Law Firm near you, we have more than 15 years of experience helping clients obtain compensation for their personal injuries, including those from totaled car accidents in the Phoenix area. When you’re ready to talk, please contact our office to arrange a free initial consultation by phone or at our Chandler office, conveniently located near you.

If you have been in a totaled car accident, contact Phoenix Accident and Injury Law Firm in nearby Chandler, AZ to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney. We provide personal injury legal services to clients in your area including ChandlerGilbertMesaScottsdale, Tempe, and Peoria.

Practice Areas

Brenden Lewis
a month ago

So I suffered a tragic motorcycle accident leaving me injured and quite unhappy…… also the bike was totaled. This all star law team secured a large settlement for all my suffering. This process was very well advised by an aggressive and determined lawyer. All I can say is now I’m left a very happy man. Thank you karissa for working quick to bring my tragic story to a much warmer end. Just call them! You won’t regret it!

Shayianna Guyton
a month ago

They literally conversed with me every step of the way throughout my journey. Thank you guys

I was very pleased with my experience. They kept me informed the whole way through the process and checked on me through my treatment. Definitely would recommend

My dad was in a car accident and during those difficult moments, Phoenix Accident and Injury Law firm has been there for us. They care for their clients, will walk you through everything you need to know step by step, they follow up, very easy to reach and fast to respond. And one thing is for sure! they will fight for you! we felt safe with them! Me and the entire family thank them all so much for all their help! These people that works here are amazing!

Jenifer henke
a year ago

I was in an accident that resulted in getting whiplash and a concussion. I contacted Phoenix Accident and Injury Law Firm that day. Everyone was helpful (Rhea, Karissa, and Jeff) from the very beginning to the very end. They sent me to a physical therapy location that was pretty far away but the doctor and physical therapist were very kind so I did make the trek. They handled all aspects of my case in a timely manner and answered all my questions. They got the max amount possible, and from that, paid the medical bills and took their fair cut. I would not hesitate to recommend them to family or friends.

I would give ten stars if I could. This law firm is about as professional and friendly as it gets!! They stayed in constant contact with me and answered every question I had. I got a settlement that was higher than I expected and will definitely use this law firm again. I highly recommend hiring them to handle your legal issues!!

Fernando Lopez
a year ago

My experience with this team was superb, as they were ongoing with the case and making sure that the client gets what they deserve. I recommend anyone looking for a accident law group that this is the team you want to be representing you!!

Kimberly Legaspi
2 years ago

What can I say about the Thompson Law Firm? They are AMAZING!! It’s never fun when you need an accident lawyer because you are pretty much in a bad place. Shane and the staff have been wonderful, kept me informed at every step of this process. I would recommend Thompson Law Firm to anyone, in fact, I have referred several friends already!! Thank you Thompson Law Firm for everything you did for me!!!

Amanda Olney
2 years ago

These guys were absolutely amazing. They were very clear with me about what I needed to do on my end and I saw fast results. I just recommended them to a friend a week ago and he also dealt with my mother's case. I wouldn't see anyone else.

Malik
2 years ago

Karissa and Shane were amazing! They were there for any questions I had and checked up on me regularly. Highly recommend these guys!!

Karissa Murphy
2 years ago

Back To Top