The insurance company who is liable for payment can decide that your vehicle is not worth repairing.

If the cost of the labor and parts exceeds the market value of your vehicle, the company can declare it a “total loss” and pay you the market value. Market value is determined by the fair market value of similar vehicles in your area, or from an independent source such as the Kelley Blue Book. If you want to keep the vehicle after it has been declared a total loss, you have the option to keep your vehicle and receive a salvage price on your car (as opposed to the Fair market value) from the insurance company. This usually comes with a salvaged title on your vehicle. I only recommend this option to those with a mechanic in the family, who can perform the repairs cheaply; or for those cars deemed a total loss, but due to the value of the vehicle the damage is minor in nature.