7 Costly Mistakes People Make When Disputing a Total Loss Offer

Every year, millions of Americans have their cars totaled. Most accept whatever the insurance company offers. Those who dispute often make critical errors.

Mistake 1: Accepting the First Offer

People who dispute their first offer receive 15-40% more on average. Always request the written valuation report first.

Mistake 2: Getting Emotional

Emotion doesn't increase settlements—evidence does. Stay calm and professional.

Mistake 3: Using Kelley Blue Book as Your Only Evidence

Insurance companies don't use KBB. Find actual vehicles for sale on Cars.com, AutoTrader, and CarGurus.

Mistake 4: Not Documenting Vehicle Condition

Adjusters assume "average" condition by default. Gather maintenance records, receipts, and photos.

Mistake 5: Finding Only a Few Comparables

Find 5-7 comparable vehicles to show a pattern, not an anomaly.

Mistake 6: Waiting Too Long

Act within the first week. Comparable vehicles sell and your evidence becomes outdated.

Mistake 7: Not Knowing When to Escalate

Have an escalation plan: Counter-offer → Supervisor → Appraisal clause → State commissioner → Attorney.

The Right Way to Dispute

Don't accept the first offer. Request the valuation report. Find 5-7 comparables. Document condition. Write a professional counter-offer. Escalate if needed.

Tools like Car Dispute Tool cost around $49 and save hours of research.