Claims Process for Total Loss Vehicles
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I let you pick up my car?
When are you going to have it picked up?
What if I want to keep my car?
What if my car is not a total loss?
Can I rent a vehicle while my car is in the repair shop or is a “total loss?”
Why is my car a total loss?
A vehicle is a total loss when its damages cannot be safely repaired or when the cost to repair is not feasible given the vehicle’s value.
Why should I let you pick up my car?
Daily storage charges are adding up. We want to move your car to our storage-free facility. We will pay for reasonable storage, but if you do not allow us to move your car, you may be responsible for the additional storage fees.
When are you going to have it picked up?
Usually within 24 hours. That is why it is important that you contact the shop to release the vehicle. You will also need to remove all personal belongings and plates.
If the vehicle is at a residence, COPART will call first to make arrangements and then will usually pick up the vehicle within 2 to 3 business days.
Where are you taking my car?
To a free storage lot owned by COPART. They will pick it up and tow it to one of its lots. (lots are in Mendon, Billerica and West Warren)
What happens next?
Once the car arrives at COPART, our appraiser will complete his report and forward it to us.
We will call you when we’ve arrived at the value of your vehicle and explain the settlement process to you.
A settlement package will be sent to you with the necessary forms for you to complete and return to us with your title (if applicable).
When we receive the completed settlement papers and title, we will issue our payment.
What if I want to keep my car?
Under the terms and conditions of your policy, we have the right to take the vehicle in settlement of a total loss. In some cases, you may be allowed to keep your vehicle however Safety makes that decision on a case-by-case basis after reviewing the claim. If we allow you to retain the vehicle, it will be returned to you from the salvage yard after that decision is made. The vehicle still belongs to you during the settlement process and we cannot dispose of it until settlement is complete.
What if my car is not a total loss?
Very few vehicles are returned because of our careful up-front screening process.
Can I rent a vehicle while my car is in the repair shop or is a “total loss?”
If you have purchased “Substitute Transportation” (otherwise known as rental coverage) as part of your policy, you will be entitled to rent a vehicle, subject to the coverage conditions and maximum limits afforded by your policy, while your vehicle is being repaired.
If your vehicle is a total loss we will pay only the period of time reasonably required to replace your auto or your policy coverage limit whatever comes first.
Your Safety Claims Adjuster will gladly assist you with arranging for a rental car. The rental company may bill us directly for the charges covered under your policy.