When a Car Is a Total Loss in Montana
How Montana decides a car is a total loss, salvage title rules, and how to complain about a claim.
Short answer: Most auto policies pay the actual cash value (market value immediately before the accident) for a totaled vehicle, typically determined by a market survey of comparable vehicles, and the insurer must give you copies of the information it uses. CSI Auto Insurance FAQs; MCA 61-3-211
| Total loss rules | Most auto policies pay the actual cash value (market value immediately before the accident) for a totaled vehicle, typically determined by a market survey of comparable vehicles, and the insurer must give you copies of the information it uses. When an insurer acquires a vehicle less than 15 years old that has been determined to be a salvage vehicle, it must apply for a salvage certificate, which the Motor Vehicle Division issues within 5 working days. Salvage certificate: https://mca.legmt.gov/bills/mca/title_0610/chapter_0030/part_0020/section_0110/0610-0030-0020-0110.html . |
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| Complaints about an insurer | File an insurance complaint with the Montana Commissioner of Securities and Insurance (CSI). Complaints must be in writing, using the online complaint form or a paper form. CSI Consumer Advocates answer questions at 800-332-6148 or 406-444-2040. |
More Montana car insurance & vehicle laws
- Minimum Car Insurance in Montana
- Driving Without Insurance in Montana
- SR-22 Insurance in Montana
- Transferring a Car Title in Montana
- All Montana car insurance & vehicle laws rules
FAQ
When is a car a total loss in Montana?
Most auto policies pay the actual cash value (market value immediately before the accident) for a totaled vehicle, typically determined by a market survey of comparable vehicles, and the insurer must give you copies of the information it uses. When an insurer acquires a vehicle less than 15 years old that has been determined to be a salvage vehicle, it must apply for a salvage certificate, which the Motor Vehicle Division issues within 5 working days.
How do you file a complaint against a car insurance company in Montana?
File an insurance complaint with the Montana Commissioner of Securities and Insurance (CSI). Complaints must be in writing, using the online complaint form or a paper form. CSI Consumer Advocates answer questions at 800-332-6148 or 406-444-2040.
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.