Reader’s Question:

I live in Koolaupoko, HI and have just been recently involved in a car accident. I think the vehicle will be declared a total loss but I would like to know is, how soon can I remove the total loss car from my insurance policy?

Pam

Koolaupoko, HI

Most insurance carriers will advise you that you should not remove a total loss car from your insurance policy until you are no longer using a rental car and your damaged car is no longer registered under your name. The car is usually no longer in your name at the end of the process of insurance settlement when you sign over the title to the insurance carrier and receive your check for the actual cash value (ACV) of the vehicle.

In many states, an insurance company will be able to remove the vehicle from your policy retroactive to the accident date when you are ready to take it off of your policy. You should discuss with your insurance provider at what point they would advise you to remove your coverages from the totaled car and if they can make the cancellation retroactive or not.

To know more about your total loss car or claims procedures you can speak with the insurance adjuster working your claim or you may try contacting the consumer division of the Hawaii Insurance Department.

Tags: automobile, car, car insurance, insurance