Need advice about insurance after an accident

[JayG]

Originally Posted by grantmr

Thanks JayG. My understanding is that insurers have a ratio of damage cost to write-off cost, I've seen figures mentioned of 50 to 90% but don't know what figure my insurer is using. With the values I've mentioned, $12k repairs is over 50% of the write-off ($21k).
Break-even for the insurer in a write off means that if they pay me the $21k, they must sell it as salvage for at least $9k, which isn't an unreasonable price given the car is sound except for exhaust and bumper.
So from my perspective, it's even odds on whether it's a fix or write off. I'm just trying to get forearmed on what my options and best strategy is. I've never dealt with insurance before.
I find out on Monday from the insurer I think.

Sounds like it is similar in Oz as in the USA.

Like I said, you can always negotiate with the ins company
Where did you get $9k as the minimum salvage sale price?

If they will give you $21k and sell it to you for $9k and the repairs are a lot less than the $12-14k they say, it could be a good deal for you