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Total loss · Alabama
What to do in Alabama when the insurer's total-loss payout looks low — how ACV disputes and the appraisal clause work, and how an independent, appraiser-signed valuation documents what your car was worth.
Once you accept and cash the settlement or sign a release, the offer is usually final. If you think the payout is low, it's best to document your vehicle's value before you sign.
In Alabama, a total-loss settlement is based on the vehicle's actual cash value (ACV). If the offer looks low, you can question the valuation with your own documentation — an independent, appraiser-signed report gives your number credible support. We prepare the report and a general educational guide; you review everything and send it under your own name.
Most auto policies in Alabama include an appraisal clause — a built-in option on first-party claims to resolve a value disagreement. It only works before you accept the settlement or sign a release, and any formal appraisal proceeds with your own independent appraiser. Claimly provides the report and the educational guide; you make all decisions and send everything under your own name.
Not sure which applies?
Two situations, two products. Tell us which one fits and we'll point you to the right estimate.
Your vehicle was fixed but is now worth less because it has an accident on its history. That loss is diminished value.
Estimate diminished value →The insurer is paying you out instead of repairing — and the payout may be below what your car was actually worth. That's a total loss valuation.
Check what your car was worth →ACV dispute posture in Alabama: Commonly recoverable. If you haven't accepted the settlement or signed a release, you can generally question the insurer's valuation with your own documentation. The free estimate checks your specific situation.
Alabama generally allows roughly 2 years for a property-damage claim, but the practical deadline comes much sooner: once you accept and cash the settlement or sign a release, the offer is usually final.
Often, yes — especially before you accept. Your policy and state set the process, and an independent valuation gives you documented evidence to support a different figure.
A provision in many policies that lets you and the insurer each name an independent appraiser to resolve a value disagreement. It's a first-party option under your own policy.
It's generally best not to accept or cash the settlement before you've reviewed your options — once accepted, the offer is usually final.
Claimly Auto prepares an independent opinion of your vehicle's value. We do not represent you, do not contact your insurer, and do not negotiate your claim. Unless you separately purchase the Appointed Total Loss Appraiser service — an optional service with its own terms under which a certified independent appraiser serves as your appointed appraiser under your policy's appraisal clause — we do not participate in any appraisal proceeding on your behalf. This is not legal advice. The appraisal clause is a provision of your own insurance policy; read your policy and consult a licensed attorney for advice about your specific situation.
Get a free estimate in under 60 seconds. No account required, and we tell you honestly if you don't have a claim.