You have just been involved in a car accident and your vehicle has been damaged. You have reported your claim to the insurance company. Sometimes the insurance company will ask you to take the vehicle to one of their approved body shops. Although such shops may do a fine job, they usually follow the repair guidelines dictated by the insurance company. You have the right to use a body shop of your choice. Furthermore, you have the right to have the repairs done with the parts of your choice. You do not have to settle for after-market or salvage parts just because that is what the insurance company wants.
If your vehicle is totalled, then you are entitled to collect the “fair market value” of your vehicle. The fair market value is determined by many factors, such as the year, make, model, mileage, condition, etc. Some commonly recognized sources for car values include the NADA, and Kelley Blue Book. Another method is to search the local classified listings in your area for comparable vehicles being offered for sale.