When a Car Is a Total Loss in Rhode Island
How Rhode Island decides a car is a total loss, salvage title rules, and how to complain about a claim.
Short answer: Rhode Island classifies salvage vehicles as Classification A (extensive damage, good for parts only) or Classification B (considerable damage but repairable); R.I. Gen. Laws §§ 31-46-1.1, 31-46-2
| Total loss rules | Rhode Island classifies salvage vehicles as Classification A (extensive damage, good for parts only) or Classification B (considerable damage but repairable); insurers evaluate and classify salvage, subject to Division of Motor Vehicles review. When an insurer sells a salvage vehicle, it must apply for a salvage certificate of title (DMV fee $50 charged to the insurer). Salvage title section: https://webserver.rilegislature.gov/Statutes/TITLE31/31-46/31-46-2.htm. No percentage-of-value total loss threshold was found in the sections read. |
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More Rhode Island car insurance & vehicle laws
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FAQ
When is a car a total loss in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island classifies salvage vehicles as Classification A (extensive damage, good for parts only) or Classification B (considerable damage but repairable); insurers evaluate and classify salvage, subject to Division of Motor Vehicles review. When an insurer sells a salvage vehicle, it must apply for a salvage certificate of title (DMV fee $50 charged to the insurer).
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.